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If you want to see all options, the full Small Business Accounting Software category is available here.

Small Business Accounting Software for Professional Practices
Albert Richer

When it comes to selecting the best small business accounting software for professional practices, research insights paint a clear picture. Customer review analysis shows common patterns, with users frequently mentioning the importance of user-friendly interfaces and robust customer support. Notably, QuickBooks Online consistently earns high marks in customer reviews for its comprehensive features and flexibility, making it a top contender in industry roundups. Meanwhile, FreshBooks often stands out for its invoicing capabilities and is frequently suggested for service-based businesses, which may support smoother cash flow management. Market research indicates that small businesses prioritize affordability alongside functionality, with many consumers reporting that they favor software options that offer tiered pricing. For instance, Zoho Books is often highlighted for its competitive pricing structure, appealing to budget-conscious professionals. When it comes to selecting the best small business accounting software for professional practices, research insights paint a clear picture. Customer review analysis shows common patterns, with users frequently mentioning the importance of user-friendly interfaces and robust customer support.

Similar Categories
1
Expert Score
9.8 / 10
632
130
COMPREHENSIVE TOOLS
CLIENT MANAGEMENT

Canopy Practice Management

Canopy Practice Management
View Website
Designed explicitly for accounting professionals, Canopy provides a comprehensive suite of tools to help manage clients, tasks, billing, and documents all in one place. With its cloud-based platform, it addresses the industry's need for remote accessibility, streamlined communication, secure document management, and efficient workflow.
Designed explicitly for accounting professionals, Canopy provides a comprehensive suite of tools to help manage clients, tasks, billing, and documents all in one place. With its cloud-based platform, it addresses the industry's need for remote accessibility, streamlined communication, secure document management, and efficient workflow.
COMPREHENSIVE TOOLS
CLIENT MANAGEMENT

Best for teams that are

  • Tax and accounting firms needing modern practice management
  • Practices wanting integrated CRM and client portals
  • Firms specializing in tax resolution services

Skip if

  • Firms looking for a general ledger or tax prep engine
  • Small businesses seeking basic bookkeeping tools
  • Solo practitioners needing a low-cost, basic task list

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Canopy stands out primarily for its direct IRS integration, which automates the tedious process of pulling client transcripts—a massive time-saver for tax professionals. Research indicates that while its modular pricing can be complex, it offers firms the flexibility to pay only for the specific tools they need, such as the highly-rated client portal or tax resolution features. Based on documented security certifications like SOC 2 Type II, it is a highly secure choice for modern firms.

Pros

  • Direct IRS transcript integration
  • Modern, intuitive user interface
  • Modular pricing flexibility
  • SOC 2 Type II certified
  • Robust client portal features

Cons

  • Complex modular pricing structure
  • Reporting features lack depth
  • Extra fees for tax resolution
  • File management can be clunky
  • Limited customization in organizers
2
Expert Score
9.6 / 10
724
69
INVOICE MASTERY
CLOUD ACCESSIBILITY

Akaunting: Open-Source Accounting Solution

Akaunting: Open-Source Accounting Solution
View Website
Akaunting is a robust, free, and open-source online accounting software specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. Its features such as payments, invoicing, and expense tracking cater directly to the unique financial management needs of small professional practices.
Akaunting is a robust, free, and open-source online accounting software specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. Its features such as payments, invoicing, and expense tracking cater directly to the unique financial management needs of small professional practices.
INVOICE MASTERY
CLOUD ACCESSIBILITY

Best for teams that are

  • Tech-savvy businesses wanting an open-source solution
  • Users preferring a modular, app-based feature structure
  • Companies comfortable with self-hosting options

Skip if

  • Businesses requiring guaranteed 24/7 phone support
  • Users uncomfortable with technical setup or maintenance
  • Enterprises needing a fully integrated ERP out of the box

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Akaunting stands out for its modular, open-source architecture that puts data ownership back in the hands of the user. Research indicates it is particularly valuable for tech-savvy small businesses that prefer self-hosting to avoid vendor lock-in. While the core features are basic, the extensive App Store allows for a highly tailored experience, provided users are willing to manage the associated costs and maintenance.

Pros

  • Free self-hosted core version
  • Modular App Store with 100+ add-ons
  • Modern and intuitive user interface
  • Supports multi-currency and multi-company
  • Active open-source community (9.5k+ GitHub stars)

Cons

  • Double-entry accounting requires paid add-on
  • Poor customer support ratings on Trustpilot
  • Updates reportedly break functionality
  • No live chat support available
  • Many integrations have monthly fees
3
Expert Score
9.6 / 10
470
29
EFFICIENT WORKFLOW

Drake Tax Software

Drake Tax Software
View Website
Drake Tax is an all-in-one comprehensive tax preparation software designed specifically for professional practices. It offers swift calculations, accuracy checks, and a host of customizable options that allow for seamless workflow and increased productivity.
Drake Tax is an all-in-one comprehensive tax preparation software designed specifically for professional practices. It offers swift calculations, accuracy checks, and a host of customizable options that allow for seamless workflow and increased productivity.
EFFICIENT WORKFLOW

Best for teams that are

  • High-volume tax professionals seeking affordability
  • Small to mid-sized firms needing fast, reliable filing
  • Preparers wanting pay-per-return or unlimited options

Skip if

  • Individuals looking to file their own personal taxes
  • Firms needing a modern, sleek user interface
  • Practices requiring complex multi-state corporate returns

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Drake Tax is the 'workhorse' of the industry, consistently winning the Journal of Accountancy's overall rating for 13 consecutive years due to its reliability and value. Research indicates it offers a rare combination of comprehensive form support (1040, 1120, 1065, etc.) and a highly efficient, keyboard-driven workflow that power users adore. While the interface is dated, the transparent pricing model—significantly lower than competitors like Lacerte—makes it a top choice for high-volume firms prioritizing speed and ROI.

Pros

  • Lightning-fast keyboard-driven data entry
  • Highly competitive and transparent pricing
  • Comprehensive federal and state form support
  • Integrated document management and portals
  • Consistently top-rated in industry surveys

Cons

  • Dated and non-intuitive user interface
  • Online version requires desktop bridge
  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Limited third-party live integrations
  • Recent decline in support quality
4
Expert Score
9.4 / 10
619
113
SECURE & RELIABLE

Karbon: Accounting Practice Management

Karbon: Accounting Practice Management
View Website
Karbon is a top-tier practice management software specifically designed for accounting firms. It promises to enhance productivity, strengthen client relationships, and drive profit. It particularly addresses the industry needs with its organized workflows, team collaboration tools, and client task management features.
Karbon is a top-tier practice management software specifically designed for accounting firms. It promises to enhance productivity, strengthen client relationships, and drive profit. It particularly addresses the industry needs with its organized workflows, team collaboration tools, and client task management features.
SECURE & RELIABLE

Best for teams that are

  • Accounting teams prioritizing collaboration and workflow
  • Firms needing email integration within project management
  • Practices wanting visibility into team capacity and tasks

Skip if

  • Solo practitioners not needing complex team coordination
  • Firms looking for actual tax preparation software
  • Users wanting a built-in billing and general ledger system

Expert Take

Karbon stands out in the accounting industry for its comprehensive approach to managing an accounting practice. It not only streamlines workflows but also fosters team collaboration and efficient client task management. Its integration with email platforms and robust performance reporting make it an indispensable tool for accounting professionals. The software's commitment to boost productivity and profitability is well reflected in its feature set.

Pros

  • Workflow automation
  • Client task management
  • Collaboration tools
  • Email integration
  • Performance reporting

Cons

  • No free trial
  • May require training for complete utilization
  • Pricing not transparent
5
Expert Score
9.3 / 10
575
119
TAILORED SOLUTIONS
EXPENSE TRACKING PRO

AccountEdge: Small Business Accounting

AccountEdge: Small Business Accounting
View Website
AccountEdge is an accounting software solution that is tailor-made for small businesses. It is particularly useful for professional practices that require a robust, easy-to-use, and reliable desktop accounting system. Its capability to work on both Mac and Windows makes it versatile for different user preferences.
AccountEdge is an accounting software solution that is tailor-made for small businesses. It is particularly useful for professional practices that require a robust, easy-to-use, and reliable desktop accounting system. Its capability to work on both Mac and Windows makes it versatile for different user preferences.
TAILORED SOLUTIONS
EXPENSE TRACKING PRO

Best for teams that are

  • Businesses preferring robust desktop-based software
  • Companies with complex inventory and time-billing needs
  • Users wanting ownership of data without subscriptions

Skip if

  • Users requiring a fully cloud-native, browser-based tool
  • Mac users on newer OS versions without virtualization
  • Businesses needing real-time multi-user cloud collaboration

Expert Take

Our analysis shows AccountEdge remains a powerhouse for product-based small businesses that require ERP-level inventory features—like serial number tracking and kit assembly—without the enterprise price tag. Research indicates it offers a rare combination of deep double-entry accounting and local data sovereignty. While it lacks the modern automation of cloud-native rivals, its flat-fee payroll and robust feature set make it a high-value choice for experienced desktop users.

Pros

  • Advanced inventory with serial tracking
  • Local data ownership and control
  • Unlimited payroll for flat $20/mo
  • Deep double-entry accounting features
  • Low base subscription cost ($20/mo)

Cons

  • Bank feeds cost extra ($5/mo)
  • Phone support costs extra ($10/mo)
  • No native mobile app available
  • Dated flowchart-style interface
  • Remote access requires extra subscription
6
Expert Score
9.2 / 10
467
170

Accounting CS

Accounting CS
View Website
Accounting CS caters specifically to the needs of professional accountants in small businesses. It integrates write-up, trial balance, payroll, and financial statement analysis, providing a comprehensive solution for managing finances and compliance. The software is designed to streamline accountancy tasks while ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Accounting CS caters specifically to the needs of professional accountants in small businesses. It integrates write-up, trial balance, payroll, and financial statement analysis, providing a comprehensive solution for managing finances and compliance. The software is designed to streamline accountancy tasks while ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Best for teams that are

  • Professional firms handling high-volume payroll and write-ups
  • Users of the Thomson Reuters CS Professional Suite
  • Accountants needing complex trial balance capabilities

Skip if

  • Small business owners doing their own bookkeeping
  • Firms seeking a modern, cloud-native user interface
  • Users on a tight budget or needing simple workflows

Expert Take

Our analysis shows that Accounting CS is the powerhouse choice for firms deeply embedded in the Thomson Reuters ecosystem. While it lacks the modern UI of newer SaaS entrants, research indicates its integration with UltraTax CS and robust write-up capabilities are unmatched for complex compliance work. It excels where lightweight cloud tools fail—handling intricate multi-entity structures and after-the-fact payroll with professional-grade precision.

Pros

  • Deep integration with UltraTax CS ecosystem
  • Comprehensive write-up and trial balance features
  • Handles complex multi-entity payroll/accounting
  • Robust after-the-fact payroll compliance
  • Enterprise-grade security and audit trails

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Performance lags/slowness reported by users
  • Dated, non-intuitive user interface
  • Expensive compared to cloud-native rivals
  • Requires custom quoting (no transparent pricing)
7
Expert Score
9.1 / 10
722
47
CROSS-PLATFORM USE
ADVANCED SECURITY

Sage for Accountants

Sage for Accountants
View Website
Sage for Accountants is a comprehensive SaaS solution tailored for accountancy professionals and bookkeepers. It provides all-inclusive tools from proposals to advisory, perfect for handling small business accounting requirements effectively.
Sage for Accountants is a comprehensive SaaS solution tailored for accountancy professionals and bookkeepers. It provides all-inclusive tools from proposals to advisory, perfect for handling small business accounting requirements effectively.
CROSS-PLATFORM USE
ADVANCED SECURITY

Best for teams that are

  • Accounting practices managing multiple clients on Sage
  • Firms needing centralized compliance and client management
  • Bookkeepers requiring advanced batch processing tools

Skip if

  • Small business owners managing their own books
  • Firms exclusively using non-Sage general ledgers
  • Users seeking a simple, single-entity accounting tool

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Sage for Accountants excels by unifying practice management, compliance, and advisory workflows into a single ecosystem. Research indicates it is particularly strong for firms prioritizing robust compliance and security, backed by ISO 27001 certification. While the interface may feel traditional, the integration of powerful tools like GoProposal and AutoEntry offers significant operational efficiency for growing practices.

Pros

  • Comprehensive client management ecosystem
  • Strong Making Tax Digital compliance
  • Integrated proposal and advisory tools
  • Volume-based 'Sage Points' discounts
  • Enterprise-grade security (ISO 27001)

Cons

  • Interface can feel dated
  • Steeper learning curve than Xero
  • Smaller third-party app marketplace
  • Mixed customer support quality
  • Add-on costs for full features
8
Expert Score
9.0 / 10
608
158
USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN

Xero Small Business Accounting

Xero Small Business Accounting
View Website
Xero's online accounting software is a comprehensive solution designed specifically for small businesses, including professional practices. It expertly addresses industry needs by managing cash flow, tracking expenses, automating invoicing tasks, and accepting payments seamlessly.
Xero's online accounting software is a comprehensive solution designed specifically for small businesses, including professional practices. It expertly addresses industry needs by managing cash flow, tracking expenses, automating invoicing tasks, and accepting payments seamlessly.
USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN

Best for teams that are

  • Growing SMBs needing unlimited user access
  • Businesses valuing strong automation and app integrations
  • Companies needing robust inventory and multi-currency tools

Skip if

  • Micro-businesses seeking a completely free solution
  • Users preferring a highly guided, wizard-style setup
  • Freelancers with very low transaction volumes

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Xero stands out for its 'beautiful business' design philosophy, making complex accounting tasks accessible to non-experts. Research indicates that while it lacks the native US payroll of some competitors, its seamless integration with Gusto and over 1,000 other apps allows for a highly flexible tech stack. We particularly value that Xero includes unlimited users on all plans, a feature that significantly improves collaboration for growing teams compared to the per-user pricing models of its main rivals.

Pros

  • Unlimited users on all pricing plans
  • Over 1,000 third-party app integrations
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface
  • Hubdoc automated data capture included
  • ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certified

Cons

  • No inbound phone support available
  • Entry plan limited to 20 invoices
  • No native US payroll (requires Gusto)
  • Basic inventory lacks serial tracking
  • Reporting less customizable than competitors
9
Expert Score
8.7 / 10
403
61

Wave Small Business Accounting

Wave Small Business Accounting
View Website
Wave is a cloud-based accounting software specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. It is an easy-to-use solution that allows businesses to manage cash flow, track income, expenses, payments, and invoices, while making tax time easier. It is secure, reliable, and helps in organizing financial data in a simple way.
Wave is a cloud-based accounting software specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. It is an easy-to-use solution that allows businesses to manage cash flow, track income, expenses, payments, and invoices, while making tax time easier. It is secure, reliable, and helps in organizing financial data in a simple way.

Best for teams that are

  • Micro-businesses and freelancers with a zero budget
  • Solopreneurs needing basic invoicing and banking integration
  • Users with simple tax situations and no employees

Skip if

  • Growing businesses needing inventory or project management
  • Users requiring phone support or advanced reporting
  • Companies needing multi-user permissions and audit trails

Expert Take

Our analysis shows Wave remains a top contender for micro-businesses due to its robust double-entry accounting core that is genuinely free for the Starter plan. Research indicates that while the recent move of bank feeds to the paid Pro plan ($16/mo) impacts its value proposition, it is still significantly more affordable than competitors like QuickBooks Online. We appreciate the backing of H&R Block, which adds a layer of stability and trust often missing in free software tools.

Pros

  • Truly free invoicing & accounting (Starter)
  • Unlimited users included in Pro plan
  • PCI-DSS Level 1 security certified
  • User-friendly interface for non-accountants
  • Multi-business support in one account

Cons

  • No live support for free users
  • Bank auto-imports require paid plan
  • No native time tracking features
  • Inventory management is very basic
  • Not HIPAA compliant
10
Expert Score
8.4 / 10
533
131
FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE

FreshBooks Small Business Accounting

FreshBooks Small Business Accounting
View Website
FreshBooks Small Business Accounting is a comprehensive SaaS solution specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. It simplifies financial management, tracks expenses and manages invoices, meeting the specific accounting needs of small businesses.
FreshBooks Small Business Accounting is a comprehensive SaaS solution specifically designed for small businesses and professional practices. It simplifies financial management, tracks expenses and manages invoices, meeting the specific accounting needs of small businesses.
FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE

Best for teams that are

  • Freelancers and service-based solopreneurs
  • Businesses prioritizing easy invoicing and expense tracking
  • Users needing a simple, non-technical interface

Skip if

  • Large businesses with complex inventory needs
  • Companies requiring advanced double-entry accounting
  • High-volume retail businesses with point-of-sale needs

Expert Take

Our analysis shows FreshBooks effectively bridges the gap between basic invoicing and full-scale accounting for service-based entrepreneurs. Research indicates its standout value lies in the seamless integration of time-tracking with invoicing, allowing freelancers to bill accurately without manual data entry. Based on documented features, it prioritizes usability over complex functionality, making it ideal for owners who want to manage finances without an accounting degree.

Pros

  • Intuitive interface designed for non-accountants
  • Built-in time tracking and mileage logging
  • Highly rated mobile app (4.5/5 stars)
  • Excellent customer support (4.8/5 rating)
  • Automated recurring invoicing and payment reminders

Cons

  • Strict client limits on lower-tier plans
  • Additional cost of $11/month per user
  • Basic inventory management capabilities
  • No batch invoicing shortcuts available
  • Lite plan lacks double-entry accounting reports

Product Comparison

Product Has Mobile App Has Free Plan Has Free Trial Integrates With Zapier Has Public API Live Chat Support SOC 2 or ISO Certified Popular Integrations Supports SSO Starting Price
1 Canopy Practice Management
Yes No No No Yes Yes Not specified Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Microsoft 365 Yes $99/month
2 Akaunting: Open-Source Accounting Solution
Web-only Yes N/A No Yes No Not specified Limited integrations No Free
3 Drake Tax Software
No No Contact for trial No No Email/Ticket only Not specified Custom integrations only No $330 for 15 returns
4 Karbon: Accounting Practice Management
Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Not specified Slack, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace Yes Contact for pricing
5 AccountEdge: Small Business Accounting
No No Yes - 30 days No No No Not specified Limited integrations No $149
6 Accounting CS
No No Contact for trial No Enterprise API only Email/Ticket only Not specified Custom integrations only No Contact for pricing
7 Sage for Accountants
No No Contact for trial No Enterprise API only Yes ISO 27001 Microsoft 365, Salesforce, Stripe Enterprise plans only $56.08/month
8 Xero Small Business Accounting
Yes No Yes - 30 days Yes Yes Yes ISO 27001 Stripe, PayPal, HubSpot Yes $11/month
9 Wave Small Business Accounting
Yes Yes No Yes No Email/Ticket only Not specified PayPal, Etsy, Shoeboxed No Free
10 FreshBooks Small Business Accounting
Yes No Yes - 30 days Yes Yes Yes Not specified Slack, Google Workspace, Stripe No $15/month
1

Canopy Practice Management

Has Mobile App
Yes
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
No
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
Yes
Live Chat Support
Yes
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Microsoft 365
Supports SSO
Yes
Starting Price
$99/month
2

Akaunting: Open-Source Accounting Solution

Has Mobile App
Web-only
Has Free Plan
Yes
Has Free Trial
N/A
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
Yes
Live Chat Support
No
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Limited integrations
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
Free
3

Drake Tax Software

Has Mobile App
No
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Contact for trial
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
No
Live Chat Support
Email/Ticket only
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Custom integrations only
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
$330 for 15 returns
4

Karbon: Accounting Practice Management

Has Mobile App
Yes
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
No
Integrates With Zapier
Yes
Has Public API
Yes
Live Chat Support
Yes
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Slack, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace
Supports SSO
Yes
Starting Price
Contact for pricing
5

AccountEdge: Small Business Accounting

Has Mobile App
No
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Yes - 30 days
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
No
Live Chat Support
No
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Limited integrations
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
$149
6

Accounting CS

Has Mobile App
No
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Contact for trial
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
Enterprise API only
Live Chat Support
Email/Ticket only
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Custom integrations only
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
Contact for pricing
7

Sage for Accountants

Has Mobile App
No
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Contact for trial
Integrates With Zapier
No
Has Public API
Enterprise API only
Live Chat Support
Yes
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
ISO 27001
Popular Integrations
Microsoft 365, Salesforce, Stripe
Supports SSO
Enterprise plans only
Starting Price
$56.08/month
8

Xero Small Business Accounting

Has Mobile App
Yes
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Yes - 30 days
Integrates With Zapier
Yes
Has Public API
Yes
Live Chat Support
Yes
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
ISO 27001
Popular Integrations
Stripe, PayPal, HubSpot
Supports SSO
Yes
Starting Price
$11/month
9

Wave Small Business Accounting

Has Mobile App
Yes
Has Free Plan
Yes
Has Free Trial
No
Integrates With Zapier
Yes
Has Public API
No
Live Chat Support
Email/Ticket only
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
PayPal, Etsy, Shoeboxed
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
Free
10

FreshBooks Small Business Accounting

Has Mobile App
Yes
Has Free Plan
No
Has Free Trial
Yes - 30 days
Integrates With Zapier
Yes
Has Public API
Yes
Live Chat Support
Yes
SOC 2 or ISO Certified
Not specified
Popular Integrations
Slack, Google Workspace, Stripe
Supports SSO
No
Starting Price
$15/month

Similar Categories

How We Rank Products

Our Evaluation Process

In the 'How We Choose' section for small business accounting software tailored for professional practices, the evaluation methodology emphasizes key factors such as software specifications, feature sets, customer reviews, and overall ratings. Critical considerations specific to this category include the ability to manage invoices, track expenses, generate financial reports, and integration with other financial tools, which significantly influence the selection process. The rankings were determined by analyzing a comprehensive dataset that compared specifications and features across ten products, evaluated customer feedback and ratings from multiple sources, and assessed the price-to-value ratio to ensure a well-rounded and objective comparison of the best options available for professional practices.

Overall scores reflect relative ranking within this category, accounting for which limitations materially affect real-world use cases. Small differences in category scores can result in larger ranking separation when those differences affect the most common or highest-impact workflows.

Verification

  • Products evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis of industry standards for small business accounting software.
  • Rankings based on analysis of specifications, customer reviews, and expert recommendations in professional practices.
  • Selection criteria focus on key features such as usability, integration capabilities, and customer support tailored for small business accounting.

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Score Breakdown

0.0 / 10

What This Award Means