But today, you don’t need to be a master of the chart of accounts to stay on track. Online accounting tools have revolutionized financial management for the self-employed and small businesses. Simple, connected, automated: they save you time, minimize errors and help you stay compliant at the click of a button.
In this comprehensive guide, we reveal the best solutions on the market, the key criteria to consider, and concrete advice on how to choose the right accounting tool for your business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your management, this guide is for you.
Why adopt an accounting tool?
Save time (and clarity)
The right tools automate the most time-consuming tasks: bank synchronization, VAT calculations, balance sheet generation. In just a few clicks, you get a clear overview of your cash flow and tax obligations. So you can concentrate on what really matters: your business.
Reduce the risk of errors
With well-designed software, there’s no more forgetting to enter data or making approximations: everything is structured, validated and guided. You gain in reliability and considerably reduce the risks of control or adjustment. Some tools even alert you to anomalies or inconsistencies.
Ensure your legal compliance
Many tools comply with French legislation: VAT anti-fraud law, FEC export, secure archiving, RGPD… You can collaborate more easily with your chartered accountant or the authorities, without any headaches. Some also include automatic generation of tax returns.
What types of accounting tools are available?
For auto-entrepreneurs and freelancers
For VSEs and SMEs
Tools such as QuickBooksSage Business Cloud or Pennylane are aimed at more mature structures. They offer complete management: chart of accounts, VAT, balance sheet, manual entries, multi-users, and sometimes even a direct link with an accounting firm. They are designed for gradual ramp-up.
All-in-one solutions
Platforms such as Axonaut, Sellsy and Henrri go beyond accounting. They also integrate CRM, invoicing, reminders and sales management. Ideal for centralizing your management tools on a single interface and avoiding multiple subscriptions.
Comparison of the best accounting tools
|
Tool
|
Ideal for
|
Key functions
|
Assets
|
Price (excl. VAT)
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Freelance / BNC
|
VAT, balance sheet, URSSAF
|
Ultra-simple, auto
|
12/month
|
|
|
Freelance
|
Invoices, time savings, URSSAF
|
Native freelance
|
11/month
|
|
|
VSE / SME
|
Quotations, VAT, exports
|
Intuitive, comprehensive
|
10/month
|
|
|
SME / Startup
|
Accounting + finance
|
Integrated expert
|
On request
|
|
|
SMES
|
Accounting ++
|
Reliable, structured
|
25/month
|
|
|
VSE / Agency
|
CRM + Accounting
|
All-in-one, fluid
|
49 €/month
|
|
|
Self-employed, VSEs
|
Accounting + taxation
|
Cabinet compta+
|
49 €/month
|
|
|
Self-employed contractor
|
Account + Accounting
|
Mobile, all-in-one
|
7.90/month
|
Expert advice on the right choice
Take advantage of free trials: test ergonomics, speed and automation.
Ask your chartered accountant: some tools are more widely accepted or already in use in firms.
Look beyond the price: a €10/month solution may be more expensive if it wastes your time.
Read customer reviews: forums, App Store, Trustpilot… feedback is invaluable.
FAQ
No, but it's highly recommended. It secures your management and saves you considerable time.
Yes, many offer the option of importing old data, invoice histories and contacts.
Yes, most solutions offer collaborative access or FEC-compatible export.
Yes, like Henrri, perfect for beginners or structures with a very limited budget.
Conclusion
Managing your accounting should no longer be a source of stress. With the right tools, it becomes a real time-saver. The right software understands you, adapts to your way of working, and automates a maximum number of tasks without complicating your life.
Whether you’re a freelancer, running a very small business or managing an SME, there’s a solution to suit your pace, constraints and budget. Take the time to test, compare and listen to feedback from users like yourself.
Discover our comprehensive selection of the best accounting tools and find the one that will simplify your daily life in just a few clicks.
