Sage
Sage offers various different packages; the cheapest is Sage One Start for sole traders at a monthly cost with 24 hour help available. The basic package allows you to import information directly from the bank which will update your accounting records and submit VAT returns to HMRC.
A separate payroll package must be purchased if you have employees.
If you have multi users or multi currency transactions you must purchase a more expensive package.
Sage is probably the most widely used accounting package for small businesses and training courses are offered in the use of the software by many training organisations.
Prices start from £2.50 (plus VAT) per month, increasing to £5 per month (plus VAT) after three months. Payroll prices start from £2.50 (plus month) per month (for up to 15 employees), increasing to £5 (plus VAT) per month after three months.
Quickbooks
QuickBooks offer various packages at increasing monthly costs, the basic package is designed for sole traders who are not VAT registered. Information can be transferred directly from the bank and there are facilities to keep a track of mileage and customise your invoices. Online and telephone support is available.
If you need to prepare VAT returns, manage payroll, have multiple users or deal in foreign currencies you will need to upgrade to a more expensive package.
The more expensive packages integrate the accounting and payroll facilities without the need to purchase separate software.
Prices start from £1.80 (plus VAT) per month (increasing to £6 (plus VAT) per month after six months); payroll is £1 (plus VAT) per month per employee.
Kashflow
Kashflow offer different packages at a monthly cost with 24 hour help. The starter package has a limit on the number of invoices (10) and banking transactions (25) that can be used each month. The invoices can be customised, information can be transferred directly from the bank and VAT returns can be completed.
If you have staff, the payroll package is separate and the more expensive package must be purchased if you have multi-currency transactions.
Prices start from £5 (plus VAT) per month and for accounts and payroll £15 (plus VAT) per month.
Xero
Xero offer packages at differing amounts per month with online help available. The starter package has a limit on the monthly transactions, invoices (5), bills (5) and bank transactions (20).
All packages offer VAT online and the bank transactions can be automatically transferred, but only the most expensive package can be used for multi currency transactions. For an additional monthly cost a payroll package can be added.
Prices start from £5 per month (increasing to £10 per month after three months) and payroll starts from £5 per month (for up to 5 employees).
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