What is an Accounting Proposal Software?
Accounting Proposal software is a specialized tool for streamlining the management and tracking of proposals and engagement letters. It helps businesses and professionals generate professional-looking proposals quickly and efficiently. With features like templates, collaboration tools, e-signatures, and handy analytics, it takes the hassle out of the proposal process for accountants.
In a nutshell, it helps accountants create professional and persuasive proposals faster, increasing the chances of sealing the deal and ultimately increasing the chances of winning contracts and deals.
Benefits of using a Proposal Software for Accountants
- Time savings: Proposal software streamlines the proposal creation process. Accountants can use templates, pre-designed layouts, and standardized content to quickly generate accounting proposals. This saves them valuable time, allowing them to focus on other critical tasks.
- Consistency and Professionalism: It ensures that all proposals maintain a consistent format and branding. This helps accountants present a professional image to clients, enhancing their credibility and trustworthiness.
- Personalization: It also allows accountants to customize proposals to meet the specific needs of each client. This personalization can help accountants demonstrate that they understand their client's unique financial situations and requirements.
- Invoicing and Billing: Ideally, it should also automate the invoicing and billing process. This ensures invoices are never missed and you are on top of your cash flow and receivables.
- Organization and Efficiency: It often includes document management features, making it easier to organize and store proposal-related files. This can help accountants stay organized and locate previous proposals when needed.
Key features to consider when choosing a Best Accounting Proposal Software
- Ease of Use: Is the software easy to use and navigate? Does it have an intuitive interface that minimizes the learning curve for your team?
- Engagement letters: Are you able to add engagement letters for accounting? Does the software have engagement letters as part of the software?
- E-signatures: Are e-Signatures in-built?
- Accounting Proposal Templates: Can you create and customize proposal templates to match your branding and client needs? Is it easy to add and edit content to tailor proposals for each client? Explore a sample bookkeeping proposal.
- Automated Invoicing: Can it create invoices automatically when the proposal is accepted?
- Payments / Billing: Does the software integrate with payment gateways or processors like Stripe or Gocardless to collect money easily?
- Renewals: Is the software in consideration automatically renew engagements?
- Engagement metrics: Can the software generate reports and analytics to track the success and effectiveness of your proposals?
- Accounting integrations: Does the software in consideration integrate with your favorite accounting softwares like QBO, Xero?
- Security: Does the software offer robust security measures to protect sensitive client data and proposals?
- Cost: What is the cost of software in question? Does it offer the right ROI?
Also, read the best alternatives for accounting practice management software. Learn also about project management software for accountants.
12 Best Proposal Software for Accountants and CPA firms - Reviews and Recommendations
1. Cone - Built specifically for accounting and bookkeeping firms - automates proposals, engagement letters, pricing tool, billing and payments in a single platform priced at $8-11 or £6.5-8.83 per user/month.
2. Qwilr - Generic proposal software, good at web proposals priced at $35-59 per user/month.
3. Proposify - Another generic proposal software, proposals look more like pdfs priced at $49 per user/month.
4. GoProposal - GoProposal is one of the accounting proposal software with good support for pricing at 60£ or $77 per user/month.
5. Pandadoc - Pandadoc is well known for their wide range of templates and document automation are priced at $19-49 per user/month.
6. HoneyBook - HoneyBook is popular among solopreneurs, but starts at $16-66 per month.
7. FreshBooks - One more proposal software at $13.75 per month.
8. Bidsketch - Bidksetch is a generic proposal software prices ranging from $29-119 per month.
9.Anchor - Anchor software which charges 5$ per transaction.
10.BrightPropose - BrightPropose is proposal software designed specifically for accountants priced at £60-180 per month.
11. Ignition - Ignition helps professional service businesses manage clients and automate billing and collections prices starting at 39$-399$.
12. Socket - Socket is more focused on UK market which simplifies proposals, streamlines client onboarding, and optimizes billing for accounting and bookkeeping firms.
Pro Tip: Learn how to write an effective bookkeeping services proposal.
1. Cone - Modern experience, robust platform and 90% cost savings(10$ or 8£ a user per month)
Cone's Proposal Software is the ultimate solution for accountants seeking a comprehensive and efficient platform to streamline their proposal, invoicing, and payment processes. This software is purpose-built for the needs of accounting and tax firms.
One of the standout features of Cone is its flexible proposal editor, allowing accountants to create stunning proposals tailored to their client's needs. The extensive library of premium proposal and engagement letter templates provides a solid foundation, while the fully customizable options ensure that every proposal reflects your unique style and brand. Also, it allows you to streamline your sales pipeline in the same platform - this ensures you never miss a lead.
With Cone, accountants can send customized proposals in under 10 seconds, saving valuable time while impressing clients with their professionalism. With its features designed to save time, boost revenue, and enhance professionalism, Cone empowers accountants to focus on their core services while leaving the administrative burdens like invoicing and payments collection to automation. The invoices are automatically created and managed by the software.
Whether you are a solo accountant or a small to medium firm or a large firm, Cone is the best accounting proposal software choice to optimize your proposals, invoicing, and payment processes, ensuring your success in the field.
Key Features:
- Unlimited proposals and clients unlike other competitors.
- CRM and sales pipeline management.
- Flexible editor to build proposals to meet any needs.
- Engagement letters.
- Automated Invoicing eliminates the risk of missing invoices.
- Seamless payment experience with extensive payment options, including direct debits, credit and debit cards, and ACH payment methods.
- Robust billing software.
- Automated renewal processes.
- Integrations with accounting software like Xero, QBO and Zoho Books.
Price:
Paid plans start at 8$/6£ per user/month.
It's the best choice when it comes to the price and value it offers.
Plans:
Essential - 8$/6£ per user/month
Growth - 11$/9£ per user/month
Pro-Tip: Learn more about accounting workflow management software.
2. QWilr
The Qwilr proposal tool makes it easy for accountants to create visually appealing, interactive, and up-to-date proposals that increase client engagement. This is crucial for creating a positive first impression with clients. Its features, such as e-signatures, analytics, and customization options, make it an ideal choice for accountants looking to stand out in their industry and offer an exceptional client experience.
Key features:
- Real-Time Updates.
- Detailed analytics, offering insights into how clients engage with the proposal.
- Secure Sharing.
- Salesforce integration.
- Page Analytics.
Price: For unlimited projects and access to premium features, users can subscribe to Qwilr Business- $35/month or Enterprise - $59/month.
3. Proposify
Known for its ability to streamline the creation and management of proposal documents, Proposify is a well-known cloud-based proposal software that helps businesses close deals more quickly. While its primary focus caters to traditional sales teams, it's crucial to note that Proposify's extensive feature set holds significant value for accounting firms as well. However, it's important to note that Proposify, while offering a wealth of benefits, may not be the most budget-friendly option, which might present challenges for smaller accounting businesses.
Key features:
- Extensive client-specific proposals
- Various content management tools
- Store approved content in one easy-to-access location
- Approval workflows
- Built-in E-Signatures
Price: Starting at $49 per month per user
4. GoProposal
GoProposal is an accounting proposal software that offers collaborative fee agreements and variable scope management, enabling accountants to work closely with clients to determine appropriate fees and adapt to changing scopes.
With a keen focus on this sector, GoProposal offers unique features that set it apart, making it an ideal choice for accountants.
Key features:
- Creation of Powerful persuasive Proposals
- Availability of Letters of Engagement feature
- Full Branding Suite
- Powerful Integrations with accounting platforms like Xero
Price: Starting at £60 i.e. approximately $76.85 US/month for up to 5 proposals.
5. PandaDoc
Crafting proposals and documents couldn't be simpler with PandaDoc's user-friendly interface. You can effortlessly customize documents, allowing you to tailor each document to your specific requirements. PandaDoc includes built-in e-signature capabilities, making it a breeze to finalize agreements and contracts with clients or partners. These templates cover a wide range of business needs, saving you the time and effort of starting from scratch.
Key Features:
- Offers over 750 templates.
- Rich media Drag-and-drop functionality.
- Real-time approvals, comments, and version-tracking functionality.
- CRM integration.
- Seamless document creation, management, and online signing.
Price:
- Essentials- $19 per month
- Business - $49 per month
6. HoneyBook
HoneyBook is often referred to as a company's ultimate control center, allowing users to manage every aspect of client relationships from the initial contact through payment. Its multifaceted features encompass invoicing, contract management, process automation, and seamless client onboarding. While HoneyBook is renowned for its versatility, it also extends its capabilities to proposal management, providing accounting professionals with a unique and efficient tool.
Key features:
- All-In-One Proposals approach by combining invoices, contracts, and payment options within a single proposal file.
- Ready-Made Proposal Templates.
- An innovative software aiming to minimize the administrative hurdles.
Price:
- Starter - $8/month
- Essentials - $16/month
- Premium - $33/month
7. FreshBooks
With over 30 million users, FreshBooks is a popular accounting and invoicing platform renowned for its reputation for being comprehensive and easy to use. This versatile platform encompasses a wide array of accounting functions, from expense tracking to payment management, time tracking, and robust reporting capabilities. In addition to these accounting essentials, FreshBooks also offers a proposal functionality that aligns perfectly with the needs of accountants. FreshBooks emerges as a solid choice for accountants who desire an all-in-one solution that covers not only bookkeeping and invoicing but also seamlessly integrates proposal management into their accounting ecosystem
Key features:
- Custom Proposals complete with images and attachments.
- Direct client engagement by allowing prospects to comment on proposals within the application.
- An all-in-one software from invoicing to accounting.
- Online approvals and e-signatures for proposals.
Price: Starting at $4.25 per month for up to five clients, with three higher pricing tiers($13.25 per month)
8. Bidsketch
With its commitment to simplicity, usability, and cost-effectiveness, Bidsketch stands out as a Cloud-Based Solution for dedicated proposal management. For accountants, Bidsketch means spending less time on document creation and more time on client interactions.
Distinctive features:
- E-Signature Integration.
- Flexible Branding matching an accountant's firm identity.
- Full Analytics and Integrations with tools like Salesforce, Zapier.
Price: Plans start at $29/month
9. Anchor
Anchor is a billing automation platform that will help make it easy for freelancers to get paid by their clients. It takes care of it from the proposal stage up to the invoicing, payment collection, and in some versions, synchronization to accounting software such as QuickBooks.
Key features:
- Send quick, mobile-accessible proposals built to convert.
- Manage evolving terms, scope, and pricing easily.
- Automate or handle manual, recurring, and one-time billing.
- Accept payments via ACH or credit card with fee options.
- Assign roles and permissions to team members.
- Monitor financial health and track activities.
- Keep a detailed log of changes for transparency.
- Sync data automatically with QuickBooks.
Anchor Pricing
Anchor offers simple, transparent pricing with no subscription fees or hidden costs. It charges $5 per user per transaction.
10. BrightPropose
BrightPropose is proposal software designed specifically for accountants. It helps firms create professional, branded proposals quickly and efficiently. It eliminates the complexity of fee setting by using built-in calculators to price services accurately for profitability.
Key features:
- Customize proposals, emails, and engagement letters to match your firm’s branding.
- Use ready-made templates to generate proposals within minutes.
- Built-in calculators ensure consistent, profitable pricing for services.
- Convert proposals into engagement letters with a single click.
- Sync client data and tasks with BrightManager for efficient management.
- Enable clients to review and accept proposals digitally with secure e-signatures.
BrightPropose Pricing
- Basic - €60 per month or €720 per year
- Essentials - €120 per month or €1440 per year
- Advanced - €180 per month or €2160 per year
11. Practice Ignition
Ignition helps professional service businesses manage clients and automate billing and collections, making every business process much easier. Ignition lets you capture your bids and proposals online in an easily shareable format that will help you win contracts and get paid promptly. Smart workflows work perfectly well and connect with tools like Xero, QuickBooks, Zapier, and others to improve efficiency.
Best Features
- Branded Online Proposals: Impress clients with easy-to-sign proposals and secure payment details upfront.
- Automated Billing & Payments: Minimise cash flow delays by automating invoice generation and payments.
- Revenue Tracking: Manage your earnings efficiently with easily understandable revenue reports.
- Seamless Integrations: Integrate it with others such as Xero, QuickBooks, Zapier, and many other companies to help make tasks easier.
- Smart Automation: Minimise the time you spend handling mundane aspects such as renewals and agreements through the use of our platform.
Pricing
- Solo: $39 (annually) or $49 (monthly)
- Core: $99 (annually) or $149 (monthly)
- Pro: $199 (annually) or $249 (monthly)
- Pro+: $399 (annually) or $499 (monthly)
It also offers a 14-day free trial.
12. Socket
Socket simplifies proposals, streamlines client onboarding, and optimizes billing for accounting and bookkeeping firms. By automating workflows and ensuring accurate, dynamic pricing, Socket helps you save time and eliminate errors while delivering a professional client experience.
Best Features:
Dynamic Pricing Calculators: Build customized service lines with intelligent pricing tools that leverage client metrics like transaction volumes and employee headcount to ensure consistent, accurate pricing.
Branded Proposals: Create tailored, complex proposals with embedded e-signatures for a smooth client approval process. Make quick adjustments mid-period and manage renewals effortlessly.
Engagement Letters: Embed engagement letters directly into proposals. Use Socket’s ready-to-go templates or upload your own to create sophisticated service schedules.
Billing Management: Whether recurring billing, manual invoicing, or catch-up fees, Socket supports your preferred approach. Integrate with Xero or export data for customized billing workflows.
Workflow Automation: Automate repetitive tasks and connect seamlessly with tools like HubSpot, Zapier, and other work management systems.
Pricing
- Starter: £55
- Standard: £115
- Pro: £185
- Enterprise: Let's Chat
Socket offers a 30‑day Free Trial.
Pro Tip: Do explore different client accounting software options for other technology stack for your accounting practice.
Why Cone Stands out as the Best Proposal Software for Accountants?
1. Cost-Effective Solution(10$/8£ a month, per user): Unlike other competitors, which range from $70-$100 or 70£ per user/month, Cone offers its comprehensive services at just $10 or 8£ per user/month. This pricing model makes Cone an accessible choice for accounting firms looking to enhance their operations without breaking the bank.
2. Modern, professional proposals: Cone differentiates itself with a flexible proposal editor that empowers accountants to create proposals exactly as they envision. This tool allows for the crafting of impressive proposals that serve as a critical first touchpoint to engage and impress potential clients.
3. Robust Billing and Invoicing: With an integrated robust billing and invoicing system, Cone supports multiple payment gateways(like Stripe, GoCardless), allowing firms to use their existing payment processors without incurring additional transaction fees.
4. Pricing tool: Cone includes a pricing tool using which you can price one-off or recurring services based on multiple pricing factors like quality of books, number of transactions etc.
5. White label e-mail: Cone allows you to connect your own e-mail domain so that proposals and engagement letters can be sent from your own e-mail address.
6. Unlimited proposals and clients: Unlike other competitors which adds limits on proposals and clients, Cone offers unlimited proposals and clients.
Get Ahead with Cone Today:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to write an accounting proposal?
To write an effective accounting proposal - clearly outline services, about your accounting firm, clients needs, scope, timelines, pricing, engagement letter(or terms), next steps after the proposal is signed. Consider using a proposal software like Cone to automate accounting proposals.
2. What does a GoProposal do?
GoProposal is one of the accounting proposal software available on the market which helps in pricing and proposing services for client engagement.