The Aftermath of the Accounting Software Price War

Numbers and Nonsense

In June 2024 I wrote that Australia may be facing a Accounting Software Price war with all major players raising their fees but Xero raising fees 3 times in the last 2 years. Well two weeks into July it looks like it hasn’t happened as I have not been inundated with clients asking for alternatives. 

So you are all really busy out there or you haven’t seen your new Xero Subscription Invoice yet…. Or maybe both? After all, your bookkeeper is probably on less than 6 hours sleep and can’t recall what their family’s names are right now. Anyway just a friendly reminder of some alternatives to Xero when the bank feed comes through in the next few days. 

QuickBooks Online

MY absolute favourite I have always been more Team Green than Team Blue. Packed with all that Xero has plus a few other things with the legacy of an International Company that have been making accounting software since well forever (google says 1983, did we use software then?) at a stupidly cheaper price. I have heard that it doesn't have as many apps… true it doesn’t need that many. In Australia it is embedded with one of the best payroll platforms in Australia (Employment Hero), it has great job tracking and a half decent inventory and my favourite car mileage tracking through its app. Any small business has to consider accounting needs. Intuit has now released QBO Advanced ion Australia which is the QBO ERP equivalent so it is time for Australia to contemplate a greener future in my opinion. 

FreshBooks

Aimed freelancers and small businesses, FreshBooks excels in its user-friendly invoicing and expense tracking features. Its time-tracking and project management tools make it a standout choice for service-based businesses. Plus, its mobile app ensures you stay connected on the go.

Wave

Perfect for startups and micro-businesses, Wave offers free accounting, invoicing, and receipt scanning services. Its straightforward and accessible platform helps manage your finances without breaking the bank. The added payroll and payment processing features provide a holistic solution for small business owners.

Zoho Books

Zoho Books is part of the extensive Zoho ecosystem, making it a powerful option for businesses already using Zoho products. It offers comprehensive accounting features, including inventory management and project tracking, all within a user-friendly interface. Its automation capabilities streamline your financial processes, saving you time and effort.

Sage Business Cloud Accounting

Sage provides a solid accounting solution with features tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. It excels in cash flow management, invoicing, and compliance reporting. Sage’s scalability ensures that it grows alongside your business, adapting to your evolving needs.

Hrny

Aimed at self employed people to take the guesswork out of tax compliance. Taking an absolute beating on social media at the moment for GST being incorrect and its support being diabolical.

Easy Business App

feels like the quiet sleeper at the moment. Only heard of it less than two months ago now using it for a payroll client AND heaps of chat in the Bookkeeping industry. Really low fees pay for the bits you use not everything else. Has Invoing, expenses and payroll. Worth a look. 


Is Price alone a reason to move? For me no; switching to a new accounting software can seem daunting, time consuming and costly (more than the subscription), but the benefits can outweigh the initial hassle. Improved features, better user experiences, and cost savings are just a few reasons to consider making a change. Just please read this blog knowing you have options.  By exploring these Xero alternatives, you can find the perfect fit that aligns with your business goals and enhances your financial management.

The right accounting software can make a significant difference in your business operations. Whether you’re looking for more advanced features, better integration with other tools, or simply a more cost-effective solution. Take the time to assess your business needs and try out a few options to see which one fits best. Your perfect accounting partner could be just a switch away!

And as always questions are only an email away. I live for software drop me a line any time…