The 12 most practical SaaS accounting software solutions

‍SaaS companies need specialized accounting software to handle recurring revenue, subscriptions, and billing. We tested the 12 best SaaS accounting software options to help you find the right fit for you.

Our guide shows you which accounting software for SaaS companies delivers the best results for various needs and budgets

12 best SaaS accounting software: At a glance

Here’s a quick look at the 12 platforms we’ll analyze.

What is SaaS accounting?

SaaS accounting manages finances for subscription businesses. You track monthly recurring revenue (MRR), deferred revenue, and ASC 606 revenue timing with these tools.

These platforms handle subscriptions, proration, credits, and usage fees that change every month. Purpose-built SaaS accounting tools make this work repeatable and auditable.

Common accounting problems in SaaS companies

Let’s zoom in on some of the most common issues SaaS businesses face.

Revenue recognition and compliance

You must recognize revenue under standards like ASC 606. Contracts, upgrades, and usage charges create complex deferred and recognized revenue schedules. You need precise data capture, clear rules, and complete audit trails.

Note: Revenue recognition can be tricky for SaaS companies. Get info on ASC 606 standards in your SaaS business by checking out our guide on ASC 606 for SaaS companies.

Recurring revenue and subscriptions

Plans change constantly. Customers upgrade, downgrade, pause, or cancel subscriptions. You must automate invoicing, proration, refunds, credits, and dunning. Your billing system and general ledger must stay synchronized.

Paying suppliers promptly

Cloud, data, and tooling invoices accumulate quickly. You need AP automation, vendor controls, and support for global payments. They help manage supplier relationships effectively.

Tracking key business metrics

Leaders need MRR, CAC, CLV, and cash metrics to make decisions. Clean usage and billing data must feed your accounting system for accurate metrics.

Note: Understanding your SaaS metrics starts with proper revenue management. Learn more about handling revenue operations in our guide to SaaS revenue management.

Types of accounting software for SaaS companies

Let's explore the main types of accounting SaaS software that can set you on a path to financial clarity.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems

ERPs centralize everything from core financials to subscription management. These platforms handle bookkeeping SaaS basics plus revenue recognition.

Note: Setting up your financial infrastructure correctly from the start is crucial. Learn how to structure your accounts properly with our guide to the SaaS chart of accounts.

Billing and subscription management software

You need accurate subscriptions, usage fees, credits, and taxes in your ledger. Billing platforms connect product usage to invoices, so finance teams trust the numbers.

Revenue recognition software

ASC 606 rules create complex schedules across fixed and usage fees. Dedicated tools automate these schedules and generate compliance reports.

Note: Revenue reconciliation is a critical component of accurate financial reporting. For tips on reconciling your revenue, read our post on SaaS revenue reconciliation.

Accounts payable (AP) automation and payment solutions

AP tools capture invoices, route approvals, pay vendors, and sync to the GL. These features reduce manual work and help you capture early-pay discounts.

Strategic finance platforms

SaaS finance software merges data from many sources. These hubs connect your ERP, billing system, and other tools for full visibility.

A mix of these solutions can equip firms with the tools to fix their accounting issues. The key is choosing solutions that play nicely with your tech stack and scale with your business.

12 best accounting software for SaaS companies

Accounting software for SaaS companies is key to process automation and compliance. Let's explore 12 of the best SaaS accounting software solutions.

1. QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online provides cloud-based accounting with extensive customization options. It’s good for small SaaS companies that need scalable accounting with lots of add-ons. QuickBooks Online leads the market for small business accounting.

The platform offers invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting. You can customize it through a massive app marketplace.

Key features

• App marketplace: Access hundreds of integrations for industry-specific needs.
• Mobile accounting: Manage finances anywhere with the mobile app.
• Automated workflows: Set up recurring invoices and payment reminders.
• Real-time reporting: Track cash flow and financial metrics instantly.

Pros

• The interface makes accounting accessible to non-accountants.
• You get extensive customization through the app marketplace.
• Strong support resources and an active user community help solve problems.
• Mobile app lets you handle accounting tasks on the go.

Cons

• Add-ons increase costs quickly for growing businesses.
• The company raises prices frequently.
• Lower plans limit user accounts.

Pricing

Plans start at $19/month for Simple Start. New customers often get 50% off for the first 3 months.

Bottom line

QuickBooks Online works best for small SaaS companies that want user-friendly accounting with room to grow. Starting at $19/month for the starter plan, it's accessible for startups. Plus, the app ecosystem lets you add features as needed, though costs can add up.

2. Xero

Xero delivers cloud accounting with unlimited users on all plans. It’s ideal for growing SaaS teams that need many people accessing the books. Xero stands out with unlimited user accounts and competitive pricing.

The platform includes invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and reporting. Over 1,000 third-party apps integrate with Xero.

Key features

• Unlimited users: Add your whole team without extra fees.
• 1,000+ integrations: Connect with tools you already use.
• Multi-currency support: Handle international transactions.
• Project tracking: Check profitability by project.

Pros

• All plans include unlimited user accounts.
• Competitive pricing delivers strong value.
• Clean interface simplifies navigation.
• Mobile app gets high ratings from users.
• Extensive integration options fit diverse needs.

Cons

• There’s no direct phone support available.
• The entry plan limits bills and invoices.
• There’s a learning curve for advanced features.

Pricing

Early plan costs $29/month. Standard costs $46/month, and Premium costs $69/month.

Bottom line

Xero is good for SaaS teams that need many users accessing accounting data. The unlimited users and strong integrations make it ideal for collaborative finance management.

3. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is a cloud-based SaaS accounting software. It’s well-suited for freelancers and very small businesses. FreshBooks focuses on core accounting tasks like invoicing, expense tracking, and time tracking. The platform prioritizes simplicity over advanced features.

Key features

• Time tracking: It’sbuilt into all plans for project billing.
• Client portal: Clients can view and pay invoices online.
• Expense receipts: Snap photos of receipts with the mobile app.
• Automated reminders: Follow up on overdue payments.

Pros

• Simple interface reduces learning time.
• Time tracking is in all plans.
• Get strong invoicing capabilities.
• Contact reliable customer support.

Cons

• Plans limit user accounts and clients.
• Lite plan lacks bank reconciliation.
• You have limited accountant access.
• It’s not suitable for complex accounting.

Pricing

Get Lite at $21/month. Plus costs $38/month, and Premium costs $65/month.

Bottom line

FreshBooks works for freelancers and very small SaaS businesses. Larger operations will likely outgrow it quickly.

4. Sage Intacct

Sage Intacct provides enterprise-grade ERP for sophisticated financial management. The platform is ideal for mid-sized SaaS companies with complex accounting requirements.

Sage Intacct offers full financial management, including core accounting, budgeting, planning, and reporting. The platform handles complex accounting scenarios that simpler tools can't manage.

Key features

• Multi-entity management: Consolidate financials across entities.
• Dimensional reporting: Analyze data across many dimensions.
• Revenue recognition: Automate ASC 606 compliance.
• Custom dashboards: Build role-specific views.

Pros

• Powerful reporting provides deep financial insights.
• It handles complex multi-entity accounting.
• Offers strong compliance and audit features.

Cons

• A complex setup requires significant training.
• It has higher pricing than most competitors.
• The interface feels dated.
• report customization limits.
• They have mixed customer support experiences.

Pricing

Custom pricing depends on company size and needs.

Bottom line

Sage Intacct suits mid-sized SaaS companies with complex accounting needs. Smaller businesses should start with simpler options.

5. Wave

Wave is a free cloud-based SaaS accounting software solution. Bootstrapped SaaS startups and solopreneurs on tight budgets will likely prefer it.

Wave provides free accounting, including invoicing, expense tracking, and receipt scanning. You only pay for payment processing and payroll add-ons.

Key features

• Free accounting: No monthly fees for core features.
• Receipt scanning: Expenses can be recorded with the mobile app.
• Basic reporting: Income and expenses are tracked easily.
• Payment processing: It has the ability to accept payments (for a fee).

Pros

• Completely free core accounting.
• User-friendly interface.
• Basic accounting needs covered.
• Receipt scanning included.

Cons

• It lacks advanced features.
• You have limited customer support.
• It won't scale with growing businesses.
• There’s no inventory tracking.

Pricing

Free Starter plan for basic accounting. The Pro plan at $19/month adds bank auto-import and multiple users.

Bottom line

Wave helps bootstrapped SaaS startups manage basic accounting for free. The Pro plan at $19/month adds bank connections and team access. You'll need to upgrade to other platforms as you grow.

6. Zoho Books

Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software. The platform is part of a broader Zoho suite of business applications. It’s best for SaaS companies already using other Zoho apps.

Zoho Books offers extensive features, including invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, and reporting. The platform shines the most when integrated with the rest of Zoho’s suite.

Key features

• Zoho integration: Frictionlessly connect with CRM, projects, and more.
• Automation rules: Custom workflows are available.
• Client portal: Customers can view statements and pay online.
• Multi-currency: It supports international transaction processing.

Pros

• Affordable pricing for its feature set.
• Wide range of capabilities.
• Excellent Zoho app integration.
• Reliable customer support.

Cons

• Overwhelming interface for beginners.
• Features are limited compared to competitors.
• Zoho ecosystem is required for the best value.

Pricing

The Standard plan costs $20/month. Get Professional at $50/month, Premium at $70/month, Elite at $150/month, or the Ultimate plan at $275/month.

Bottom line

Zoho Books makes sense if you use other Zoho tools. Otherwise, standalone options might serve you better.

7. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud ERP with a full general ledger for SMBs. It’s ideal when you want accounting tied to operations.

Key features

• General ledger: Get afull COA, journals, and GL setup in finance.
• Multiple companies: Manage and report across multiple companies.
• Purchasing and payables: Use built-in purchasing and AP workflows.
• Dimensions and reporting: Use dimensions and financial reports for analysis.

Pros

• Deep Microsoft ecosystem and partner network.
• Scalable from bookkeeping to light ERP.
• Mature approvals/reporting.

Cons

• Per-user pricing.
• Advanced setups that usually need a partner.

Pricing

The Essentials option costs $70/user/month (paid yearly). Get Premium for $100/user/month (paid yearly), or add team members for $8/user/month (paid yearly).

Bottom line

It’s a dependable SaaS accounting software core if you want GL + payables with room to grow into ERP.

8. FreeAgent

FreeAgent is an online accounting platform with invoicing, expenses, projects, time tracking, bank feeds, and sales tax.

Key features

• Invoicing: Makerecurring invoices, online payments, and multi-currency invoicing.
• Projects: Track income, costs, tasks, and profitability per project.
• Time tracking: Usebuilt-in time slips and invoice unbilled time.
• Bank feeds and banking: Import automatic transactions via Open Banking.

Pros

• Simple UI and fast onboarding.
• One transparent plan.

Cons

• Smaller U.S. app ecosystem vs. Xero.
• Not built for complex consolidations.

Pricing

The regular price is $22/month. The new customer promo is 50% off for 6 months (monthly) or the first year (annual).

Bottom line

FreeAgent is a straightforward accounting software for SaaS companies that need invoicing, projects, and time in one place.

9. Akaunting Cloud

Akaunting Cloud is a modern cloud accounting with plans that unlock double-entry GL (Premium+), bank feeds, and an app store.

Key features

• General ledger (Premium+): It supports COA, trial balance, balance sheet, and GL reports.
• Bank feeds (Premium+): There are direct bank connections and imports.
• Client portal (Premium+): Get shareable invoices and statements for clients.
• App marketplace: Add inventory, projects, payroll, CRM, POS, and more.

Pros

• Very affordable tiers.
• Modular, and you can scale with paid apps.
• Multi-company and multi-user options are available on higher tiers.

Cons

• The standard plan lacks double-entry GL. Choose Premium or higher for that.
• It’s a smaller ecosystem vs. other platforms.

Pricing

Standard costs $12/month ($8/month yearly). Premium is $36/month ($24/month yearly). You can also get Elite for $84/month ($56/month yearly) or Ultimate for $218/month ($145/month yearly).

Bottom line

A budget-friendly accounting software for startups to pick. Be sure to choose Premium+ for complete bookkeeping.

10. Patriot Accounting Software

Patriot Accounting Software is a cloud-based SaaS accounting platform. It offers core accounting features at budget-friendly prices. The platform integrates smoothly with Patriot's payroll services.

Key features

• Payroll integration: Directly connect with Patriot Payroll.
• Basic accounting: It supports invoices, expense tracking, and the ability to reconcile with banks.
• Unlimited support: Free customer support included.
• Simple interface: Easy to learn and use.

Pros

• Budget-friendly pricing for small businesses.
• Smooth payroll integration.
• Unlimited customer support included.
• Simple enough for beginners.

Cons

• No advanced features like multi-currency.
• No dedicated mobile app.
• Won't scale for growing companies.
• Limited customization options.

Pricing

Accounting costs $20/month, and Accounting Premium is $30/month. They offer a 30-day free trial and 50% off for 3 months on all their plans.

Bottom line

Patriot works for small SaaS companies that need simple accounting with payroll. Growing businesses will need more options.

11. Kashoo

Kashoo is another cloud-based accounting software that focuses on simplicity and ease of use. It has core features like invoicing, expense tracking, and bank reconciliation. Kashoo is known for its clean interface and mobile app.

Key features

• Mobile-optimized: There is full functionality on mobile devices.
• Clean design: Minimal, intuitive interface.
• Automatic reconciliation: Transactions are matched easily.
• Real-time sync: Current data is accessible anywhere.

Pros

• Simple and easy to learn.
• Clean interface that reduces confusion.
• Solid mobile app.
• Affordable annual pricing.

Cons

• No advanced features.
• Limited customer support.
• Not suitable for scaling.
• Few integrations available.

Pricing

TrulySmall costs $20/month, and you can upgrade to Kashoo’s main plan that costs $30/month.

Bottom line

Kashoo serves mobile-first users who want simple accounting. Companies with complex needs should look elsewhere.

12. Acumatica Cloud ERP

Acumatica is a Cloud ERP with full GL, AP/AR, cash management, and multi-entity capabilities. It’s licensed on a consumption (not per-user) model.

Key features

• General ledger: Integrated GL with flexible reporting.
• AP/AR: End-to-end payables/receivables with automation.
• Cash management: Centralized cash, bank rec, and transfers.
• Multi-entity & intercompany: Track and consolidate across related companies.

Pros

• Mid-market financials that scale.
• Open platform and broad modules.
• Unlimited-user approach via consumption licensing.

Cons

• Quote-based pricing requires scoping.
• Heavier implementation than SMB tools.

Pricing

They have quote-based pricing. Youpay for functionality/resources, not per user.

Bottom line

This one is a strong accounting software choice for a multi-company SaaS firm needing serious GL/AP/AR and open APIs.

Which SaaS accounting software should you choose?

The best accounting software for SaaS companies depends on your size, complexity, and growth stage. Here’s a quick glance at which one would suit you best.

Choose QuickBooks Online if you:

• Run a small SaaS business.
• Want extensive customization options.
• Need strong mobile capabilities.
• Value community support.

Choose Xero if you:

• Have multiple team members needing access.
• Want unlimited users without extra fees.
• Need strong third-party integrations.

Choose Sage Intacct if you:

• Manage complex multi-entity accounting.
• Need sophisticated reporting.
• Require enterprise-grade compliance.

Our final verdict

Most small SaaS companies should start with QuickBooks Online or Xero. These platforms balance features, price, and usability well. QuickBooks Online wins for its app ecosystem, while Xero excels with unlimited users.

Mid-sized companies with complex needs should evaluate Sage Intacct or specialized billing platforms. Companies experimenting with usage-based pricing need flexible solutions that separate usage data from pricing logic.

Where Orb fits (and why it matters to your accounting)

Orb is a billing platform that lets you design pricing that evolves with your product. Easily define clear pricing rules, unlock usage data, and generate auditable invoices. You can change pricing without engineering work.

Orb includes:

• Raw-event architecture: Orb ingests raw usage events at scale. This translates into highly accurate, granular invoices that offer event-level detail.
• RevGraph: Orb RevGraph combines usage, pricing, and product data to provide a single source of truth for finance, product, engineering, and leadership teams.
• Define billing metrics: Orb SQL Editor (or visual editor) lets you define new billing metrics and build pricing plans easily.
• Simulate before you ship: Orb Simulations uses your historical data to forecast how pricing affects revenue. Finance and product teams make better decisions.
• Data syncs: Direct integrations keep usage and revenue data synced across accounting tools, CRMs, and cloud marketplaces.

Recognition: Orb was named Best FinTech Startup (2025) by FinTech Breakthrough. Orb also appeared on the Cloud FinTech Awards shortlist in multiple categories.

Note: Accurate financial reporting depends on proper revenue recognition and reconciliation processes. Learn more about these critical processes in our guide to SaaS revenue recognition.

Explore Orb’s billing platform for your SaaS company’s accounting needs

You've seen the common accounting challenges SaaS companies face. Revenue recognition, recurring billing, and financial visibility all require specialized tools. We’ve also explored the best accounting software for startups.

Companies like Perplexity and Vercel trust Orb to build scalable billing infrastructure. Orb bridges the gap between your product usage and accounting workflows.

Orb helps your accounting team:

• Define billing metrics with SQL or visual editors
• Run simulations on historical data before launching pricing
• Reduce errors with event-level audit trails
• Keep all systems synchronized with direct integrations

Take control of your SaaS billing and accounting. Check out our pricing to find a plan that works for you.