10 Best Bookkeeping Software for Small Business in 2025 (Free & Paid Options)

If you’re running a small business in 2025, you already know that staying on top of your finances isn’t just a chore. It’s your foundation and that’s where the best bookkeeping software for small business comes into play.

Cloudester provides custom bookkeeping software tailored to small businesses. Their solutions are designed to make financial tracking simpler, smarter, and stress-free.

In this blog, we will explore the 10 best options, both free and paid, so you can find one that fits your workflow and budget.

What to Look for in the Best Bookkeeping Software for Small Business

Before we jump into the list, let’s get clear on what makes a bookkeeping tool actually helpful.

You want software that:

• Is easy to use, even if you’re not a finance expert.
• Tracks income and expenses without needing a calculator.
• Helps with invoicing, payments, and receipts.
• Offers cloud-based access so you can log in from anywhere.
• Keeps you ready for tax time, not panicked by it.

Some programs also double as accounting software, meaning they go beyond simple tracking and help with forecasting, payroll, and inventory. If you’re starting out, basic features might be plenty.

We will cover both bookkeeping software for small business and tools that blend into accounting packages for small businesses seamlessly.

Free Bookkeeping Software Options

If you’re watching your expenses (who isn’t?), start here. These free options are surprisingly capable.

1. Wave Accounting

Wave is one of the most popular free bookkeeping software for small business owners. It’s ideal for freelancers, solopreneurs, and side hustlers.

What you get:

• Unlimited income and expense tracking.
• Unlimited invoicing.
• Receipt scanning on mobile.

Why it works: It feels modern and simple, without stripping away the features you actually need. Plus, you can always add paid payroll if you grow.

2. ZipBooks (Starter Plan)

ZipBooks keeps things super simple with a clean dashboard and basic tools.

Perks:

• One connected bank account.
• Unlimited invoicing.
• Expense tracking.

Heads-up: You will need to upgrade for time tracking or team features.

This is solid online accounting software for US small businesses that don’t need complexity.

3. GnuCash

Prefer something you download and install? GnuCash is a long-trusted, open-source software.

What makes it stand out:

• Totally free with zero upgrades needed.
• Handles multiple currencies.
• Great for detail-oriented folks.

But be warned- this isn’t the prettiest software. Still, for those who love a spreadsheet, it delivers.

4. Akaunting

Akaunting offers a cloud-based tax and accounting solution that’s surprisingly full-featured for zero dollars.

You get:

• Online dashboard access.
• Multi-user setup.
• Expense and billing tools.

This is perfect if you want something modern but can’t swing a monthly fee yet.

5. Sunrise (by Lendio)

Sunrise is made for service-based businesses and freelancers.

Highlights:

• Clean user interface.
• Categorizes transactions.
• Built-in cash flow insights.

It’s not the most flexible, but it’s intuitive and helpful for staying organized.

Paid Bookkeeping Software Options

Looking to invest in something more robust? These best accounting software picks offer real power.

6. QuickBooks Online: Trusted Accounting Software for Small Business

You knew it would be here. QuickBooks is the #1 accounting software for small businesses, and for good reason.

Why it’s worth it:

• Syncs with banks, apps, and payroll.
• Full-featured reporting.
• Accountant-friendly.

Plans start at around $30/month, but even the Essentials plan gives you the tools most businesses need.

7. Xero: Cloud-Based Bookkeeping Software for Small Businesses

Xero has a strong following among business owners and accountants alike.

What stands out:

• Seamless integration with 1,000+ apps.
• Beautiful interface.
• Inventory and project tracking.

It’s especially good if you need team access or work internationally.

8. FreshBooks: Simple Bookkeeping Software for Solo Business Owners

Freelancers, this one’s for you.

Why we like it:

• Time tracking and client billing in one.
• Easy-to-read dashboards.
• Fantastic mobile experience.

FreshBooks is more about simplicity than deep accounting tools, but it nails the basics.

9. Sage 50cloud: Bookkeeping and Accounting Software for Growing Small Businesses

If you’re coming from desktop software, Sage 50cloud might feel familiar. But it now includes cloud-based access, too.

Features:

• Advanced reporting.
• Inventory management.
• Payroll integration.

More complex? Yes. But some small businesses need that structure.

10. Zoho Books: Budget-Friendly Accounting Program for Small Business

Zoho Books flies under the radar, but don’t underestimate it.

Why it’s great:

• Budget-friendly.
• Automation features (like payment reminders).
• Part of the full Zoho business suite.

If you already use Zoho for CRM or email, this is a no-brainer.

Quick Comparison Table

Choosing the Right Fit

Here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all winner.

If you’re just getting started, try Wave or ZipBooks. Need project tracking or CRM integration? Go with Zoho Books or Xero. Managing a team with lots of moving parts? QuickBooks or Sage 50cloud might be your best bet.

Cloudester often recommends starting small and scaling up. You can always migrate to a bigger system as your business grows.

Also Read: Modernizing Bookkeeping Processes: Cloudester’s Custom Solution

Final Thoughts

Don’t let your books be an afterthought. The right software can save you hours of stress, improve your cash flow, and even help you sleep better at night.

There are dozens of options out there, but these 10 are the best we’ve seen for 2025. Pick one that fits your budget, your work style, and your growth goals.

And yes, we mention Cloudester again here because we believe in helping real businesses find real solutions. If your books are still a mess in a spreadsheet, it’s time for an upgrade.