Is your accounting firm drowning in admin work instead of focusing on clients? You’re not alone. Many firms find it hard to keep pace with ongoing tasks while also adapting to client demands. This is where cloud-based business management software can be a serious game-changer to assist accountants in working smarter, not harder, to improve collaboration.
Did you know that 57% of accounting firms plan to invest in AI in accounting, and 54% plan to invest in automation tools over the next 12 months? This indicates a marked shift toward smarter, integrated solutions that streamline a firm’s operations in addition to strengthening relationships with clients. The right choice of software for accounting firms ensures an enhancement in workflow, automation, and ease of client management.
When it comes to practice management software, Canopy is a popular choice among accountants. But is it the right fit for your firm? In this blog, we’ll break down Canopy’s features, pricing, and top alternatives to help you decide.
What is Canopy Accounting?
Canopy is a cloud-based software for accounting practice management that has an array of functions, such as client relationships, document management, workflow automation, and billing to improve accounting workflows and processes. It features a user-friendly interface and integrates well with tools like QuickBooks for accounting professionals, making it popular among accountants.
Top Features of Canopy Accounting Practice Management Software
Canopy is designed to simplify firm management by offering a suite of powerful tools for accountants. Below are its key features that make it a preferred choice for accounting professionals:
- Client Management: Centralized client database with communication tracking
- Document Management: Secure storage, file sharing, and e-signatures
- Workflow Automation: Task tracking, custom workflows, and automated reminders
- Time & Billing: Time tracking, invoicing, and payment collection
- Mobile App: Access client data, documents, and communications on the go
- Integration: Built-in integrated email accounting practice management software
Also Read: Check out our guide on the best tax practice management software to streamline your workflow.
Is Canopy Accounting Right for Your Firm?
Choosing the right accounting software is crucial for streamlining operations and improving efficiency. Is Canopy the right fit for your firm?
Canopy is ideal for:
- Small to mid-sized accounting firms needing an all-in-one solution
- Tax professionals looking for document management and secure client communication
- Growing firms seeking automation and workflow efficiency
Pro Tip: Before investing in any software, ensure it aligns with your accounting firm tech stack for seamless integration and efficiency.
Canopy Accounting - Pricing & Plans
Canopy offers flexible pricing plans tailored for small and growing firms, ensuring seamless practice management.
Plans for Small Firms
1. Starter Plan: Client Engagement & Document Management
Pricing:
- $540/year ($45/user/month, billed annually)
- $60/user/month (billed monthly)
Features:
- Client intake & proposals
- Email integration
- Secure client portal
- Document management & eSignatures
- Internal file storage
- Permissions & access control
2. Essentials Plan: Complete Practice Management
Pricing:
- $792/year ($66/user/month, billed annually)
- $88/user/month (billed monthly)
Features:
Includes all Starter features plus:
- Task & project tracking
- Automated workflows
- Time tracking & invoicing
- Payment collection
- Pre-built reporting dashboards
Plans for Growing Firms
1. Standard Plan: Recommended for Small Firms
Pricing:
- $150/month for unlimited users
Features:
- Client portal & mobile app
- CRM & email integration
- Engagements & proposals with eSignature
- Custom branding
Add-ons:
- Document Management: $36/user/month
- Workflow: $32/user/month
- Time & Billing: $22/user/month
2. Pro Plan: Recommended for Growing Firms
Pricing:
- $175/month for unlimited users
Features:
Includes all Standard features plus:
- Custom roles & reports
Add-ons:
- Document Management: $36/user/month
- Workflow: $40/user/month
- Time & Billing: $31/user/month
You can also read the detailed Canopy pricing and its comparison with competitors for a better understanding of the software.
3 Best Alternatives to Canopy Accounting
Canopy is a reliable software for accountants, but it does have some challenges. Users say that its top cons include frequent bugs, limited customization, and issues with file management. Luckily, there are many alternatives to Canopy that do not have these problems. Choosing an alternative to Canopy depends on your firm's needs, budget, and preferred features for efficiency. If Canopy doesn’t fit your needs, here are three top alternatives:
1. Cone:
Cone is a comprehensive accounting practice management software designed for firms that need seamless workflow automation, proposals and efficient task management all in a single platform starting at 5$ per user/month.
Top Features:
- Proposals: Create stunning, automated proposals and engagement letters in seconds.
- Project management: Proposal templates, deadlines, and automation help to streamline workflows.
- Workflows - Cone helps you collaborate with your team, assign emails, create tasks, and organize messages by client.
- Client Portal: Provide a smooth means of sharing documents and payments, plus communication channels for clients.
- Integrated Email: Manage emails efficiently with e-sign capability.
- Billing: Invoice automation, allowing multiple payment methods, and syncing accounting software.
- Automation: Save time with smart automation for workflows, tasks, and invoicing.
- Security: Enterprise-grade security ensures your firm’s data remains safe.
Pricing
- Starter: $5 (annually) | $8 (monthly)
- Essentials: $11 (annually) | $16 (monthly)
- Growth: $17 (annually) | $24 (monthly)
Try for free today!
2. Karbon
Karbon is a cloud-based accounting practice management software built to improve collaboration and project visibility.
Karbon's Top Features:
- Smart analytics and reporting to optimize workflows and improve decision-making
- Shared task lists, client communication tracking, and email synchronization
- Manage workloads with detailed progress tracking, templates, and automation
- Helps monitor billable hours and improve efficiency
- Centralized database to store client interactions, documents, and history
Karbon Pricing:
Team: $59 (billed annually) or $79 (billed monthly)
Business: $89 (billed annually) or $99 (billed monthly)
Enterprise: Custom
Read the full details on Karbon pricing plans here.
3. TaxDome
TaxDome is an all-in-one practice management solution ideal for tax professionals and accounting firms looking for affordability without sacrificing functionality.
TaxDome’s Top Features:
- Encrypted file sharing with clients for compliance and security
- Built-in CRM with automated reminders and notifications
- Legally binding electronic signatures to streamline approvals
- Set up accounting automation ideas for tax preparation and compliance
- Cost-effective pricing structure makes it ideal for small and growing firms
TaxDome Pricing:
Essentials: $700/user/year
Pro: $900/user/year
Business: $1,100/user/year
All these prices are subject to a three-year commitment. You can read the complete TaxDome pricing plans here.
Why Choose Cone?
The right accounting software will ensure that you optimize your accounting workflow and manage clients seamlessly. Cone's accounting practice management software, in this case, covers all aspects.
It works because it has:
- Affordable pricing for small firms - starts at 5$ per user/month
- No need for separate proposal software
- Automated billing and invoicing
The selection of the best accounting software answers the need for efficient scalability and client satisfaction. Although Canopy, Karbon, and TaxDome each have certain great features, Cone has the best suite for workflow automation, invoice automation, e-signature integration, and an all-in-one seamless proposal-to-payment system.
Start your Cone’s free trial today!