Setting up online accounting software

Setting up and running online accounting software for a small business can be a great way to streamline financial processes, save time, and improve accuracy. It can make keeping the books faster and easier and that means more time to concentrate on your business. It also means less mistakes and wasting time trying to track down those mistakes.

It also gives you real time access to your accounting from any device at any time. It will also provide lots of ways to look (really, really look) at your business and it’s cash flow. Allowing you to examine what you spend and what you make. That means you can identify where you can save money but also where you can make more money.

You should look at all of the available options. Consult with people who you know are already using cloud based accounting software. Check out their websites. Many of them provide free use for a set period. So you can “try before you buy”.

Wealthpath accountants use and recommend XERO (we are Bronze XERO partners). You will find that XERO is the most popular solution in Australia and there are many good reasons for that. But check them all out and make up your own mind. Once you have settled on what you want to use you will not want to change (far too hair pulling!) So consider what is best for you right now – but also in the future when you grow as a business.

Here are some tips and advantages to consider:

Advantages of Online Accounting:

  • Accessibility: Online accounting software can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to manage finances remotely.
  • Automation: Online accounting software can automate many manual processes such as data entry, reconciliation, and invoicing.
  • Scalability: Online accounting software can grow with your business, making it easy to add features or expand capabilities as needed.
  • Collaboration: Online accounting software can allow multiple users to access financial data and work together in real-time.
  • Capabilities: Most cloud base accounting services have third party “add ons” that can be added when you need them. These are often quite specific apps that can be particularity suitable for your business or industry.

Tips for Setting up and Running Online Accounting Software:

  1. Choose the RIGHT Software: Research and compare different online accounting software options to find one that meets your business needs and budget.
  2. Think about the future: Think about your future accounting needs but also what apps or capabilities you might not need now – but might need in the future.
  3. Set up Bank Feeds: Connect your bank accounts to the software to automatically import transactions and reconcile accounts.
  4. Customise Settings: Configure the software to fit your business’s specific accounting needs, including chart of accounts, tax settings, and invoicing templates.
  5. Regularly Review and Reconcile: Check and reconcile accounts regularly to ensure accuracy and catch any errors or discrepancies.
  6. Protect Data: Implement security measures to protect sensitive financial data, including strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular backups.

Overall, online accounting software can provide small businesses with many benefits, including improved efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration. By following best practices and tips, small business owners can set up and run online accounting software effectively and confidently.

Setting this up can be quite simple. Especially in the beginning when your needs are probably simple. But if you need help – Wealthpath Accountants can set up, provided advice, help and training as you require. Please contact us if you would like a chat about your needs.

If you would like some advice on all of this, please call us on 1300 268 800