Accounting software

How do you choose the best accounting software?

Are you looking for the best accounting software of 2026? When choosing accounting software it is important to take various factors into account. The most important ones are below:

1. Outsourcing or doing it yourself: Decide whether you want to do the bookkeeping yourself or outsource it. Many accounting packages offer options for working together with an accountant.
   
   
2. Integrations with other systems: Check whether the accounting software can integrate with systems such as webshop software or POS systems. This saves time and reduces errors.
   
   
3. Features: Determine which features you need in accounting software. Think of bank integrations, scanning receipts, VAT returns, a digital archive, invoicing options, CRM and mileage tracking. Read this blog if you want to know what the most important features of accounting software are.
   
   
4. Costs: The prices of accounting software vary. Make a list of programs that meet your requirements, compare their features and then look at the costs.
   
   
5. Trial accounts and demos: Try out accounting software or request a demo to see whether it meets your needs. Every business has different needs, so make sure you choose accounting software that fits your specific situation.

Do you want to know more about how to choose the best accounting system? Then read this blog.

What is easy accounting software?

Finding easy accounting software depends on who uses it: a freelancer, an accountant or an SME. Accounting software focuses on specific target groups. For example, freelancers want to be able to keep their books simply without complicated terms, whereas accountants are precisely looking for that.

Below is an overview of some easy-to-use accounting software:

Easy accounting software for freelancers:

• AFAS SB
• E-boekhouden
• Rompslomp
• Jortt

Easy accounting software for SMEs:

• Twinfield
• Exact Online
• Cash by Visma
• AFAS ERP

Is there free accounting software?

Yes, free accounting software exists. Many starting entrepreneurs choose Excel, for example. Other free accounting software options are also available. However, these often have certain limitations. Many software companies offer a free basic version (freemium) to attract customers. This free version usually has limited functionality, such as a maximum number of invoices that may be sent or a limited number of bank transactions that can be processed, before payment is required.

Here are some examples:

• E-boekhouden: first 15 months free, then paid.
• Rompslomp: only for creating invoices and quotations.
• Gekko: options for invoicing, up to 3 quotations, and 5 iDEAL payments.
• Tellow: up to 3 invoices per month, manual VAT return instead of automatic,
automatic recognition and processing of 20 receipts.
• Digi BTW: only for sending invoices.

Accounting software for freelancers

Accounting software is often one of the first software tools a freelancer buys. For a freelancer, choosing the right accounting software is crucial, but it depends heavily on your specific needs.

There are some general must-have features: automatic bank integration, scanning and recognising receipts and invoices, automatic booking suggestions, VAT returns linked to the Dutch Tax Administration (Belastingdienst), and a digital archive.

Beyond that, specific features can vary. An invoicing module is essential if you send invoices often, while recurring invoicing is handy for repeat customers. Payment links on invoices speed up payments, and a CRM module helps you manage customer relationships. Other options are quotation management, automatic payment reminders, mileage tracking and inventory management.

In the next blog "The best accounting software for freelancers" we have put together an overview of which accounting features matter for each type of freelancer.

What does accounting software cost per month?

The monthly costs of different accounting software can vary considerably, depending on the provider and the features offered. Below you will find an overview of what you can expect to pay per month for accounting software.

Cost of accounting software for freelancers
For self-employed entrepreneurs there are basic accounting packages available that usually cost between €10 and €25 per user per month. These packages offer all the functions you need to keep your finances in order without extra complexity.

Cost of accounting software for SMEs and large companies
If your company needs more advanced features, such as automatic bank integrations or advanced invoicing options, you can expect prices to start at around €30 to €50 per user per month. These systems offer more extensive support and features that are essential for larger organisations.

Freemium options (free)
Some providers offer a free entry-level model, which can be ideal for new entrepreneurs or small businesses with minimal accounting needs. These freemium models can be a good way to start without upfront costs, and you can upgrade to paid features later as your business grows.

Always compare what each provider has to offer and consider which features are crucial for your business. Price alone does not always give a full picture of the value, so take a close look at the features and any extra costs for add-ons or additional users.