October 11, 2024
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10 min read

15 best software for Accounting firms in 2024

In this article, we cover a comprehensive overview of the best software solutions designed for accountants, CPAs, and bookkeeping firms. We will explore different types of accounting software like practice management software, billing software and tax preparation software etc. Each section will highlight key features, benefits, and user experiences, helping readers choose the right software to streamline their operations and enhance their practice. Additionally, we will include comparisons, user testimonials, and information on trial options to assist in making informed decisions.
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Quick Overview of The Best Software For Accountants

Practice Management Software for Accountants
  • Cone
  • Karbon
Payroll Software for Accountants
  • Gusto
  • QuickBooks Payroll
Best 1099 Software for Accountants
  • Track1099
  • 1099etc.com
Time and Billing Software for Accountants
  • Cone
Bookkeeping Software for Accountants
  • Xero
  • QuickBooks Online (QBO)
Auditing Software for Accountants
  • Caseware
  • Diligent
Client Portal Software for Accountants
  • Cone
Tax Software for Accountants
  • Lacerte
  • Drake
  • TurboTax
CRM Software for Accountants
  • Cone
  • Hubspot

Introduction to The Best Software For Accountants

Like any other industry, the accounting industry has also transformed significantly. Tasks that could require heavy manual labor, such as doing account reconciliations, preparing financial statements, and ensuring compliance, can now all be done much faster with the help of the right software for accountants.

Using accounting software is like having a personal assistant that reminds you of the due dates of the documents to be submitted, validates your numbers, and ensures that the business complies with the existing tax laws. It means just that—more time is available to work on what really counts – business development or serving clients instead of worrying about the compliance or the missed entries.

According to research, the global accounting software market could be worth  $735.94 billion by 2025. It is not about the number but how the industry is moving towards an efficient workflow process. And so it's also the best time for you to integrate the best software into your accounting firm.

This blog will discuss the various types of accounting management tools, key features to consider, and how to select the most appropriate option for your requirements.

Type Of Software Used By Accounting Firms

Practice Management Software: Practice management software enables efficient accountants in managing the affairs of the firm in order to serve the client better, managing  their task list, deadlines, and customer communication.

Payroll Software: Payroll software for accountants maintains books of financial operations and ensures compliance with tax laws and regulations. For instance, works such as withholding taxes, determining wages, and payment of that salary.

1099 Software: 1099 software is designed for the financial companies and the accountants to prepare, file, and distribute the 1099 forms. . It improves efficiency and reduces the chances of errors.

‍Bookkeeping Software: The bookkeeping software regulates organizational financial daily activities, spending, and accuracy of records. Few software programs also help in the preparation of the bookkeeping proposal template.

Time and Billing Software: Accounting organizations that wish to optimize operations, precisely track billable hours, and effectively handle client invoicing must invest in time and billing software. These tools help accountants optimize their workflow.

Also Read: 10 Best Accounting Practice Management Software for UK Accountants and Bookkeepers in 2024

Client Portal Software: Client collaboration software  encourages creating a higher level of collaboration by simplifying and securing the document and communication sharing between accountants and clients.

‍Auditing Software: By automating several process steps and guaranteeing standard compliance, auditing software helps accountants do comprehensive and accurate audits.

Tax Software: The intricate process of preparing taxes is made simpler by tax software. Professionals can use it to manage data, compute taxes, and make sure returns are filed on time.

CRM Software: To manage customer interactions, streamline operations, and enhance user experience, accountants and accounting firms utilize CRM software. Learn more about the best CRM platform for Accountants.

List of Best Software For Accountants - Deep dive

Practice Management Software for Accountants

Cone

Cone accounting practice management software delivers a robust practice management software at an unbeatable price starting at 5$ per user/month. It offers proposals, engagement letters, task/project management, workflows automation, CRM, e-mail management, billing and invoicing all in a single platform.

Try now!

Features of Cone

  • Affordable Pricing: Cone’s pricing starts at just $5 per user/month, which is much lower than the market average of $50 per user/month. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features.
  • Task Automation: The software automates appointment scheduling, and deadline tracking reducing manual effort and error.
  • Email management: Cone's unified inbox allows you to manage all client emails in one location.
  • Integrated Billing: Cone also includes functionality to help make the invoicing process easier.

Pro Tip: Use this guide to write effective bookkeeping proposal to win more clients.

Pros and Cons of Cone

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Design: The Cone's intuitive interface makes it easy for users to navigate and effectively utilize the software.
  • Unified proposals and practice management: Cone unifies proposals and practice management capabilities into a single platform.

Pricing

Annual Billing:

Starter - $5 or £4

Essential - $10 or £8

Growth - $15 or £12

Monthly Billing

Starter - $7 or £6

Essential - $13 or £11

Growth - $20 or £16

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Karbon

Karbon accounting practice management software shines in collaboration and workflow automation, making it a strong choice for larger teams that require robust project management tools. Learn more about Karbon alternatives for accountants.

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Best Features of Karbon

‍Collaborative Task Management: This practice management software for accountants encourages users to work on the tasks together, see where the task is at a glance, and easily manage workflow.

Client Communication Tracking: The software tracks clients' communications through emails and phone calls.

Workflow Automation: Karbon automates workflow to manage deadlines, assign tasks, and ensure nothing falls behind.

Document Sharing: Be assured of document security as the platform provides a document sharing facility, where you can easily share files with your clients or peers.

Performance Reporting: Karbon offers in-depth performance reports that can give you key insights into your team's productivity, project timelines, and firm efficiency.

Pros and Cons of Karbon

Pros:

  • Excellent Collaboration Tools: Karbon’s collaboration has the best features, allowing teams to work better together and manage projects more openly.
  • Intuitive Interface: The clean and intuitive design of software is a key aspect of its usability, which helps teams get used to this platform very quickly.
  • Customizable Workflows: Firms can customize workflows to their processes, providing efficiency and adaptability increases.

Cons:

  • Relatively High Cost: Karbon is a premium solution with a hefty price tag, its pricing may be prohibitive for smaller businesses.
  • Limited Offline Capabilities: The majority of the software's features depend on a steady online connection, which makes it unusable in places with erratic internet connectivity.
  • Overwhelming Feature Set for Smaller Firms: Smaller businesses may not use the platform's capabilities, hence the large feature set may be too much for them.

Also Read: Quick Breakdown and Comparison of

Pricing

Karbon offers flexible pricing plans to meet the needs of accounting firms:

Team: $59/month per user if paid annually or $79/month per user if paid monthly

Business:$89/month per user if paid annually or $99/month per user if paid monthly

Enterprise: Custom Pricing

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Payroll Software For Accountants

Gusto

Gusto online payroll and HR software is designed to help small businesses manage payroll, human resources (HR), and employee benefits all in one place. It makes it easy to pay employees, handle taxes, and offer benefits like health insurance.

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Best Features of Gusto

Automated Payroll Processing: The tool offers automated payroll processing, from tax withholdings and wage calculations to direct deposits. It ensures timely payments for contractors and employees.

Tax Filing and Compliance: The tool brings compliance through handling the state-federal-local tax filings for taxes. It has time tracking synced with payroll.

Employee Benefits Administration: Companies that offer their employees retirement benefits, health benefits, and many other benefits can use Gusto for its administration.

Employee Self-Service: Gusto includes an employee self-service web portal, which they may use to help employees handle their pay stubs, tax forms, and personal data.

HR and Onboarding Tools: Gusto provides document management, performance reviews, and tools for onboarding new employees.

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Pros and Cons of Gusto

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Interface: Gusto makes navigation easy and the ability to perform payroll operations effective.
  • Excellent Customer Support: Gusto provides effective and efficient customer service via email, phone, and chat.
  • Seamless Integration: Gusto integrates seamlessly with accounting and business software programs such as Xero, QuickBooks, and time-tracking applications.

Cons:

  • Limited Customization: Although Gusto's features are extensive, there aren't many choices for modification.
  • Higher Cost for Larger Businesses: The cost structure of Gusto is fine for small firms, but it gets costlier as plans scale.
  • Limited Reporting Features: Gusto has limited features in terms of designing advanced analytics or reporting with more insights into payroll.

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Pricing

Gust offers three plans:

  • Simple: $40 per month plus $6 for each individual.
  • Plus plan: $60/month adds $9 for each individual
  • Premium plan: $135 monthly + $16.50 for each individual

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QuickBooks Payroll

QuickBooks Payroll provides access to individuals' particulars, year-to-date earnings, time off, paychecks, W-2 forms, etc. It is the most reliable tool as it connects accountants to their clients. Pro Tip: For an in-depth comparison, read Simplifying Finances: Xero Vs. Quickbooks For Small Businesses.

Best Features of QuickBooks Payroll

Automated Payroll Processing: QuickBooks automates payrolls by making required calculations and payments. It does auto-computation of direct deposits, deductions, and taxes.

‍Employee Self-Service Portal: You can get W-2s, pay stubs, and other payroll information with QuickBooks Payroll. It means reducing administration overheads and increasing transparency.

Tax Filing and Compliance:  The software generates payroll tax forms and calculates federal, state, and local taxes to eliminate penalties and errors.

Time Tracking Integration: Companies can enter their employee working hours on timesheets directly into the system for payroll purposes and connect QuickBooks to time tracking applications.

Deductions Management: Employers can track benefits like health insurance, retirement accounts, and other job deductions using Quickbooks Payroll.

Pros and Cons of QuickBooks Payroll

Pros:

  • Ease of Use: A basic accounting knowledge is sufficient to use QuickBooks payroll. The software is easy to use and navigate for anyone.
  • Comprehensive Tax Management: The software upholds and tracks filing and payments of federal, state, and local taxes, keeping businesses current with existing tax laws.
  • Integrated with QuickBooks: Offers a single platform for managing employee payrolls, accounting, and financial reporting.

Cons:

  • Cost: Even with extra features and services, QuickBooks Payroll is very costly for small businesses and start-ups with minimal capital.
  • Limited Customer Service: complaints about their customer service include that it take them long hours to pick up calls or resolve complex issues.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While in QuickBooks Payroll, the advanced features include training those new to payroll functions.

Pricing

QuickBooks Payroll has flexible pricing plans.

  • Simple Start: $15
  • Essentials: $30
  • Plus: $45
  • Advanced: $100

You can also try it for free for 30 days.

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1099 Software For Accountants

Track1099

Track1099 is cloud-based software designed to be user-friendly and has a complete suite of features integrated with various accounting platforms.

Best Features

E-filing and Compliance: Track1099 is the most compliant with the latest IRS rules.

Bulk Data Import and Management: Accountants can import huge data quickly and easily from Excel or any other accounting software.

Integration with Accounting Software: Track1099 integrates with popular accounting software, like QuickBooks, to reduce mistakes and faults.

Secure Delivery of 1099 Forms: 1099 forms are automatically and securely sent to the contractor's email, saving time and cost.

Automated Filing and State Reporting: The software can help file automatically with the IRS and various state agencies.

Pros and Cons of Track1099

Pros:

  • User Interface Designed with Intuition: The UI is intuitive and helps users navigate with minimal technological knowledge.
  • Full Support for Various 1099 Forms: Helps in processing the different 1099 forms Data processed by this software may include data from different 1099 forms.
  • Cost Effective: Selecting this software is affordable to the pocket of small and medium-sized accounting firms.

Cons:

  • Limited Flexibility: Users need fine-detail functionality, and they might find that the level of customization offered is quite limited.
  • Internet Dependency: Being a cloud-based solution, Track1099 requires that one has reliable internet access.
  • User Learning Curve: New users may feel discomfort when accustomed to the system.

Pricing

Track1099 has a simple pricing structure:

  • First 15 forms are $2.99 each
  • Next 150 forms: $2.19 each
  • Frrm 166-500: $1.25 each
  • For 500+ forms, $0.60 each

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1099etc.com

1099etc.com is full payroll and information return software for accountants and tax practitioners who require a highly reliable and feature-rich application to take care of their clients' 1099 filings.

Best Features

Multiple Form Filing: Support for various forms like 1099-MISC, 1099-INT, and other IRS forms.

‍Data Import/Export: The software has good data import and export functionality, easing users' workload by transferring needed data from Excel or other accounting systems.

‍Batch Printing: This feature helps save time for accountants who wish to print 1099 forms in bulk for various clients.

‍Secure E-Filing: The software directly files to the state, making it easier for users to fulfill state requirements.

‍Client Management: An integrated system for managing several clients under one accountant's account is well-designed into the system.

Pros:

  • Full-Form Support: The system is flexible and effective for accounting firms handling diverse returns.
  • Cost-Effective for High Volume Filings: Free technical support adds value to the overall package.
  • Offline Capabilities: Offline functionality allows users to work on forms without an internet connection.

Cons:

  • Outdated User Interface: While functional, the interface is somewhat outdated compared to newer solutions.
  • Steep Learning Curve: Because of the many features, users could first encounter a high learning curve.
  • No Direct Integration: There is no direct integration between the program and other well-known accounting software.

Pricing

1099.etc’s price is based on the year:

  • 2024 W2/1099 Forms Filer is $89
  • 2023 W2/1099 Forms Filer is $44.50.

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Time and Billing Software for Accountants

Cone

Cone is a flexible time and billing software for accountants to accommodate the demands of professional service providers such as accounting companies. It provides an intuitive user interface for project administration, billing, and time tracking.

Best Features

  • Time Tracking: Cone allows accountants to track their time accurately, whether working on client projects or internal tasks. The software provides detailed time reports that help firms analyze productivity and ensure accurate billing.
  • Invoicing: With Cone's invoice automation capability, users may create bills straight from recorded time entries. As the program allows for personalized invoice templates, maintaining consistency becomes simple.
  • Project Management: Cone offers project management tools that let businesses manage budgets, define goals, and monitor the status of client projects. This function is required to ensure that the projects will proceed as planned and cost estimates will be controlled.
  • Client Portal: Cone has developed a secure client portal that clients use to access their invoicing and project status. This feature enhances client relationships and transparency.
  • Expense Tracking: This feature allows users to input the expense and correlate it to a specific project or client for easy expense tracking.

Pros and Cons of Cone

Pros:

  • Easy Navigation: Accountants use the software for efficient time and billing management.
  • Comprehensive Reporting: Firms analyze performance, track project profitability, and make data-driven decisions.
  • Client Transparency: Clients get information about the project's progress and the billing, improving their experience.

Cons:

Steeper Learning Curve: Despite being user-friendly, new users may require some time to become acquainted with the software.

Pricing

Essential

  • $8 or 6.5£ per user/month (annual billing)
  • $11 or 9£ per user/month (monthly billing)

Growth

  • $11 or 9£ per user/month (annual billing)
  • $15 or 12£ per user/month (monthly billing)

Sign up for free now!

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Bookkeeping Software for Accountants

Xero

Xero is flexible accounting and bookkeeping software for accountants. It guarantees productivity by enabling you to work from any location, as it is cloud-based software. You can generate and distribute online invoices with Xero, which contributes to a consistent cash flow.

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Best Features of Xero

Team Management and Workflow: Xero lets you assign access roles to your team members, ensuring only authorized users can view certain accounts. The master administrator holds the keys to the most critical aspects of the practice.

Data Management: Xero offers a secure platform for managing documents. The ‘Ask’ feature allows you to request documents from clients securely, ensuring data privacy.

Explore Feature: This tool helps you analyze clients by their platforms, banks, and industry, offering insights into where to focus training and marketing efforts.

Forecasting and Budgeting: You can better prepare for future growth using the forecasting and budgeting capabilities included in Xero's higher-tier subscriptions.

Bank Reconciliation: Xero makes bookkeeping more effective by enabling you to reconcile bank transactions while on the road.

Pros and Cons of Xero

Pros:

  • Cloud-Based Convenience: Anywhere with an internet connection can access your info.
  • User-Friendly Interface: It is simple to use and has an intuitive design.
  • Advisor Connectivity: Easy communication and cooperation with outside.

Cons:

  • Learning Curve: Users may need time to fully understand functionalities.
  • Pricing Changes: Recent price increases and built-in payroll may affect value.

Pricing

Xero subscriptions are as follows:

  • Starter Plan: $14.50 per month.
  • Standard Plan: $23 per month
  • Premium Plan: $31 per month

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QuickBooks Online (QBO)

QuickBooks bookkeeping, an accounting software, is used extensively by both small and large businesses. Accounting professionals can handle client accounts on a cloud-based platform with the aid of QuickBooks Online Accountant.

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Features of QuickBooks Online

  • Team Management and Workflow: The dashboard displays all clients and team members, allowing easy navigation and management of accounts.
  • Document Management: QuickBooks offers a simple and transparent way to share documents with clients, reducing the need for manual work.
  • Accounting Tools: The Accountant Toolbox provides quick access to essential accounting processes, such as transaction reclassification and bank reconciliation .
  • Bank Transactions: Automatic bank feeds and customizable rules simplify the management of transactions.
  • Training Programs: QuickBooks ProAdvisor resources offer training opportunities and certifications to help you grow your skills and client base.

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Pros and Cons of QuickBooks Online

Pros:

  • Ease of Use: Learning to use QuickBooks is simple and intuitive.
  • Integrations: It has good interoperability with both external apps and other systems.
  • Reporting: Provides strong accounting reports.

Cons:

  • Limited Features: Lacks industry-specific features like eCommerce or barcode scanning.
  • System Instability: Users occasionally experience crashes.

Pricing

  • Simple Start: $9 per month
  • Essentials: $13.50 per month
  • Plus: $19 per month
  • Advanced: $38 per month

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Auditing Software for Accountants

Caseware

Caseware auditing software for accountants is designed as a long-term commitment to your accounting efficiency. It provides a paperless reporting environment, boosting productivity and promoting innovation.

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Best Features

Controlled access: This auditing software for accountants guarantees that only individuals with the proper authorization can access sensitive and private information about the company's clients.

Risk Management: Businesses can identify and reduce quality risks to help users plan and create countermeasures by including this procedure in their overall quality management strategy.

Intuitive user experience: To help users finish activities fast and precisely, a well-designed user interface should also include clear and simple instructions.

Cloud-based: Employees can easily obtain high-quality information from anywhere in the world since, for instance, they are accessible from any location with an internet connection.

Automated Reminders: Automated reminders help ensure that quality tasks are completed on time, strengthening the systems of quality management.

Pros and Cons of Caseware

Pros:

  • Streamlined communication: Track and locate all communications with ease and transparency.
  • Documents Collaboration: Collaborate on documents with your clients in real-time without confusion, upgrading outdated versions and sending updates to each other.
  • Accurate Request Tracking: It automatically records requests and their status and makes it simple for clients and colleagues to respond.

Cons:

  • Learning curve: There may be a learning curve for users who are not familiar with the program.
  • Limited customer support: While Caseware does offer customer support, it may not be as extensive as other financial software providers.

Pricing

For pricing details, customers can contact the sales team.

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Diligent

Diligent delivers a robust solution that automatically collates your data and produces up to 80 pre-configured audit-ready reports, presenting a single source of truth for your organization.

Best Features

Risk Management: Users can optimize performance, accelerate growth, and monitor risks throughout your organization.

Audit and Control Management: With Diligent Audit, you can give your board and C-suite comprehensive visibility, strategic insights, and the power of AI, so nothing slips through the cracks.

Governance and Board Management: Users' boards have a comprehensive understanding of business performance, market trends, and changing risks.

Ethics - Compliance Management: Cut down on the time, expense, and danger involved in developing, maintaining, and guaranteeing that your company's policies are understood.

Management of Diversity and Sustainability: This auditing software for accountants gives the knowledge they need to proactively handle shareholder pressure, reduce governance risks, and stay competitive.

Pros and Cons of Diligent

Pros:

  • Secure Information Sharing: Allows seamless and secure access to information.
  • Customer Service: High-quality support and the ability to reuse templates.
  • Comprehensive Features: Suitable for company secretaries and high-level governance.

Cons:

  • Web vs. One-Click Versions: The web version lacks some features available in the one-click version.
  • Limited Filters: The issue tracker has a limited number of filters, such as ‘Date Identified.’

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Pricing

Pricing details can be requested by contacting their sales team through their website.

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Client Portal Software for Accountants

Cone

The software offers a user-friendly interface, ensuring accountants can manage client interactions efficiently and securely.

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Best Features

All-in-One Efficiency: Cone combines project management, billing, and proposal software into one platform starting at just $5 per user/month. This offers significant savings compared to using separate tools like Asana/ClickUp, Harvest, and PandaDoc, which can cost over $100 per user/month.

Customizable Client Portals: Allows businesses to design unique portals that showcase their identity and aesthetic for every client.

Effortless Billing: Manage payments, facilitate reconciliations, and generate expert invoices to simplify billing.

Real-time Collaboration: The software collaborates easily and allows users to communicate with clients in real time.

Pros and Cons of Cone

Pros:

  • Enhanced Security: Offers superior security features that guard customer information from hacks.
  • Time Efficiency: Routine chores are automated, helping accountants emphasize growth.
  • Client Satisfaction: Increased client happiness leads to a smooth and customized experience.

Cons:

  • Learning Curve: At first, new users may find it difficult to navigate the software.

Pricing

Annual Billing:

Starter - $5 or £4

Essential - $10 or £8

Growth - $15 or £12

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Monthly Billing

Starter - $7 or £6

Essential - $13 or £11

Growth - $20 or £16

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Tax Software for Accountants

Lacerte

Lacerte is a robust tax preparation software designed to handle complex tax scenarios efficiently.

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Best Features

Comprehensive Tax Forms: Lacerte covers over 5700 federal, state, and local forms, which makes it rather fit to provide for any given tax filing situation.

‍Data Import and Integration: Lacerte enables the pulling of data from other sources such as QuickBooks, and Excel which makes the process of entering data less prone to errors.

Advanced Error Checking: Some of the highly developed options of the software include checking for possible errors and problems to be filed.

eSignature Integration: Its eSignature integration enables clients to electronically sign tax documents, expediting the approval process.

Client Organizer: The client organizer is useful for gathering necessary tax information.

Pros and Cons of Lacerte

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Handles tax situations, making it ideal for firms dealing with complex cases.
  • Reliable Support: Offers excellent customer support, including training resources and live assistance.
  • Integration Capabilities: Lacerte integrates well with other Intuit products such as QuickBooks which is advantageous in an all-around approach.

Cons:

  • Costly: Lacerte is considerably costly and is very expensive when compared with other tax software in the market thus unrealistic for small firms.
  • Steep Learning Curve: Lacerte has many features that initially may take new users more time to get familiar with the software.
  • System Requirements: Lacerte system requirements are quite high proving that they need a good computer system, thus it can be a challenge for some firms.

Pricing

Pricing varies depending on the number of returns and modules selected. Users can request a quote from the team.

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Drake

Drake Tax is an ideal tax software for accountants that is affordable, recognized, and easy to work on, especially for small to mid-size industry accountants.

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Best Features

Multi-State Tax Preparation: Supporting tax filings in all 50 states makes Drake versatile for firms with clients across multiple locations.

‍Integrated Payment Solutions: Offering built-in payment processing, firms can collect fees directly from clients' tax refunds.

Paperless Office: Drake includes document management features that facilitate a paperless workflow.

Tax Planner: Plays tax planning aspects to declare and minimize taxes of clients in the subsequent years of its management.

Custom Reports: Enables individuals to prepare reports that are relevant to the firms’ needs.

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Pros and Cons of Drake

Pros:

  • Affordability: Drake is affordable; it is even more expensive for small companies, which makes it even more appealing.
  • Ease of Use: Drake, which is prominent for its friendly interface in the design of it, ensures that it eases tax preparation.
  • Reliable Performance: Always swift and efficient, even during the busiest time of the year.

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Cons:

  • Basic Interface: While functional, the interface lacks the modern look and feel of pricier software.
  • Limited Advanced Features: While sufficient for most firms, it may lack some advanced features needed by larger firms.

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Pricing

Single User:

Drake Tax Pro - $2,045

Drake Tax 1040 - $1,675

Pay-Per-Return - $349.99

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Multiple User:

Drake Tax Pro - $2,345

Drake Tax 1040 - $1,875

Pay-Per-Return - $349.99

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TurboTax

TurboTax is tax software that users can purchase for tax returns per their needs. The software is also easy to use and very helpful, especially when it comes to filing taxes.

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Best Features

Audit Support: Comprises audit assistance and information to assist clients, avoiding IRS audits.

Step-by-Step Guidance: Has a clear structure of the procedures followed during tax preparation, making it easy to use for the preparer as well as to understand by the client.

Deduction Finder: Performs the function and looks for deductions and credits that can help diminish tax for the clients.

Mobile Accessibility: Enables the use of taxes on mobile devices by allowing users to work on their taxes from their mobile phones.

Live CPA Assistance: Provides means for engaging CPAs and taxation specialists to get current advice on different issues.

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Pros and Cons of TurboTax

Pros:

  • User-Friendly: Ease of use is applicable for the users who know about taxes and for the people who don’t have the slightest idea regarding taxes.
  • Flexible Access: Accessible on both the desktop and mobile versions of the site as well as the online application.
  • Comprehensive Resources: This supplier offers comprehensive information about the products and services and quality customer service.

Cons:

  • Pricing: As compared to other available software, it is comparatively pricey, especially if you want to get more elaborate functionalities.
  • Limited Business Features: It is very useful to those people but may not offer all the tools required by a large company.

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Pricing

TurboTax has the following plans:

  • Starter Plan - $0 to $129
  • Assisted Plan - $89 to  $219
  • Full service Plan - Starting at $129.

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Learn about more how to start a bookkeeping business, if you are starting one.

CRM Software for Accountants

Cone

Cone provides tools to manage client relationships, track interactions, and ensure smooth communication within a firm.

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Best Features

Client Management: Cone centralizes all customer data, which makes it simple for accountants to handle clients' needs.

CRM: It helps manage customer interactions and makes all tasks and documents easily accessible.

‍Client Portal: This enables clients to upload documents, check the progress of each assignment, and engage the appointed accountant.

‍Document Management: Stores and organizes client documents, helping users access financial records and statements.

‍Customizable Workflows: Enables firms to build and integrate services such as preparation of tax returns, audits, and other accounts services.

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Pros and Cons of Cone

Pros:

  • Tailored for Accountants: This CRM software for accountants offers features that cater to accountants' unique workflow needs.
  • Enhanced Client Communication: It improves communication and ensures timely responses.
  • Secure Document Handling: It offers robust security features to protect sensitive financial information.

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Cons:

  • Learning Curve: Some users may initially find customization options difficult.

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Pricing

Annual Billing:

Starter - $5 or £4

Essential - $10 or £8

Growth - $15 or £12

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Monthly Billing

Starter - $7 or £6

Essential - $13 or £11

Growth - $20 or £16

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HubSpot

HubSpot is one of the most popular CRM systems providing users an opportunity to work efficiently and effectively. It offers powerful tools that are useful for accounting practices.

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Features of HubSpot

Contact Management: It includes communication logs, notes, and to-dos, in an easily navigable interface.

Email Tracking: Keeps records of when clients open the emails or click on links so accountants can follow up for more business at the appropriate time.

Task Automation: This program helps with reminder messages, follow-ups on potential sales, or even updating the clients' information.

Reporting and Analytics: Takes detailed records of activities with clients, the sales funnel, and organizational performance.

Integration with Accounting Tools: It is easy to sync with accounting tools such as QuickBooks and Xero.

Pros and Cons of HubSpot

Pros:

  • User-Friendly: A friendly user interface indeed saves a lot of time in terms of setting up the tool with little or no technical knowledge.
  • Scalable: Recommended for small firms and large practices with functionality scalability for your growing business.
  • Free Version Available: Provides an option for a free version with the basic customer relationship management functions that can suit small law firms or those new to customer relationship management software.

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Cons:

  • Generic Features: Some of these components may not be particularly useful for the intended consumer of the application, the accounting firm, and might need to be adapted.
  • Costly Upgrades: Advanced features, particularly in the paid plans, can be expensive as your firm grows.
  • Limited Customization: While HubSpot has certain features that allow for customization it seems that compared to other industry-based solutions such as Cone it is not as open.

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Pricing

Hubspot provides various plans for different services.  

  • Free Tools is a free, forever plan.
  • Starter at $15 per month per seat
  • Starter Customer Platform at $15 per month per seat
  • Marketing Hub Professional at $800 per month
  • Marketing Hub Enterprise at $3,600 per month

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How To Choose the Best Software for Accountants?

Know about the following considerations while selecting the right accounting software.

  • Identify Your Needs: Determine the software's features, from invoicing and expense tracking to industry-specific features.
  • Set a Budget: Consider your pocket, knowing that advanced features can cost more.
  • Explore Options: Research the market and list some potential software solutions.
  • Try Demos and Free Trials: Test your top choices with free trials or demos to know the software better.
  • Read Reviews: Study the online reviews to learn about previous users' experiences and potential issues with the software.

Wrapping Up!

Selecting the right software is crucial for accountants. They look to optimize their practice, streamline operations, and enhance client service. With tools like Cone, accountants can manage everything from CRM to billing, ensuring efficiency and accuracy. By investing in robust accounting software, accountants can reduce manual work, improve client relationships, and drive their business forward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is Online Accounting Software?

Online accounting software is cloud-based and helps with invoicing, billing, estimating expenses, and time tracking.

  1. How is Accounting Software helpful?

Accounting software offers many benefits to organizations. It ensures accuracy in records and performs various functions, such as creating and sending invoices, forming quotes and estimates, etc.

  1. Is there a difference between cloud and desktop accounting software?

Yes, there is. Desktop accounting software requires installation on your computer, storing data on that device. Cloud accounting software stores your data in the cloud.

  1. What to consider when choosing accounting software?

Research is essential when choosing accounting software. Key factors include who will use the software, the need for several user accounts, and more.

  1. Do you need training to use accounting software?

Accounting software features to be user-friendly, so special training isn’t usually required.

  1. Should I invest in accounting software?

Even if you’re organized, accounting software can be useful. Manual bookkeeping is prone to errors, but software like Cone can help you track expenses and generate reports efficiently.