{"id":5043,"date":"2026-08-07T14:08:01","date_gmt":"2026-08-07T13:08:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=5043"},"modified":"2026-08-07T14:24:21","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T13:24:21","slug":"choose-accounting-software","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/choose-accounting-software\/","title":{"rendered":"How to choose accounting software:\u00a05 steps\u00a0before you decide"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/technology-innovation\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Technology &amp; Innovation<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to choose accounting software: 5 steps before you decide\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTo choose accounting software, start by identifying your business needs, legal and tax obligations, essential accounting tasks, technical requirements, and budget. The best option should give you room to grow as your needs change. \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-07T14:08:01+01:00\">7 August, 2026<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to choose accounting software:\u00a05 steps\u00a0before you decide\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/choose-accounting-software\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/keirthomasbryant\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/06\/keir-short-hair-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/06\/keir-short-hair-350x350.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/06\/keir-short-hair.jpg 760w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 40px) 100vw, 40px\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Keir Thomas-Bryant<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find accounting solutions for all types of companies, and most will cover the basics of recording income and expenses. But the right software should fit the way your business&nbsp;operates&nbsp;now, while supporting the way your business may grow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your choice should account for practical details such as your legal and tax obligations, the tools you already use, the reports you need, and the total cost as your requirements change.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before comparing providers, use these five steps to understand what your business needs from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/accounting-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">accounting software<\/a>\u00a0and what to check before you buy.<\/p>\n\n\n<section id=\"key-takeaways\" class=\"wp-block-sage-key-takeaways\"><div class=\"sage-key-takeaways__inner\"><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-h-3-font-size\">Key takeaways<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Start by\u00a0identifying\u00a0what your business needs <\/strong>from accounting software, including your current accounting tasks, business model, team\u00a0size,\u00a0and future growth plans.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check that the software fits your legal and tax status<\/strong>, including requirements around VAT, payroll, Making Tax Digital, data protection,\u00a0and reporting.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Make sure the solution covers accounting basics<\/strong> such as bank feeds, reconciliation, invoicing, payment reminders, expense tracking,\u00a0reports,\u00a0and dashboards.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Assess technical capabilities<\/strong> such as integrations, cloud access, mobile use, usability, support,\u00a0training,\u00a0and the provider\u2019s approach to future technology.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Compare the full cost before you commit<\/strong>, including pricing tiers, add-ons, payroll, support, implementation, data\u00a0migration,\u00a0and other\u00a0possible fees.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s\u00a0what\u00a0we\u2019ll\u00a0cover:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-step-1-identify-what-your-business-needs-from-accounting-software\" data-level=\"2\">Step 1:&nbsp;Identify&nbsp;what your business needs from accounting software<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-step-2-check-that-the-software-fits-your-legal-and-tax-status\" data-level=\"2\">Step 2: Check that the software fits your legal and tax status<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-step-3-check-that-the-solution-covers-accounting-basics\" data-level=\"2\">Step 3: Check that the solution covers accounting basics<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-step-4-check-how-small-business-accounting-software-fits-your-tech-setup\" data-level=\"2\">Step 4: Check how small business accounting software fits your tech setup<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-step-5-check-the-full-cost-before-you-commit\" data-level=\"2\">Step 5: Check the full cost before you commit<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-choose-the-best-accounting-software-for-your-business\" data-level=\"2\">Choose the best accounting software for your business<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-frequently-asked-questions-0\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently&nbsp;asked&nbsp;questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-step-1-identify-what-your-business-needs-from-accounting-software\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Step 1:\u00a0Identify\u00a0what your business needs from accounting software<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you choose accounting software, start by mapping out what your business&nbsp;actually needs&nbsp;the software to do.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That means looking at how your business&nbsp;operates&nbsp;day to day as well as the financial tasks, tax responsibilities,&nbsp;and reporting needs that come with it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A sole trader offering services\u00a0may need simple invoicing, expense tracking, bank\u00a0feeds,\u00a0and support for tax submissions.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A product-based business\u00a0may need inventory management, purchase orders, stock reporting,\u00a0and e-commerce integrations.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A growing limited company\u00a0may need more advanced reporting, user permissions, payroll, payments, accountant\u00a0access,\u00a0and stronger controls.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also think about how your needs may change. If you plan to hire staff, register for VAT, expand into new markets, add e-commerce&nbsp;channels,&nbsp;or introduce more complex reporting, your accounting software should be able to scale with you.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everyone hopes their business will grow, and as it does,&nbsp;what\u2019s&nbsp;required&nbsp;from you as the owner will become more sophisticated too, including the need to know more about business management.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good accounting software should be able to accompany you on that journey, with\u00a0additional\u00a0packages by the same software vendor sometimes coming into play as your business develops new requirements, such as<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/payroll\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u00a0payroll\u00a0<\/a>or payments processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-consider-the-long-term-stability-of-the-provider\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider the long-term stability of the provider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carlreader.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Carl Reader<\/a>&nbsp;is known as&nbsp;\u201cThe Startup Coach\u201d&nbsp;and is the author of&nbsp;<em>The Startup Coach<\/em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>The Franchising Handbook<\/em>. He has some wise words when it comes to examining the credentials of the company behind the software.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cLook at whether the software provider is going to be around in 10 years\u2019 time. Look at how well capitalised the company is,\u201d Reader says. \u201cHas it got the funds to be able to compete going forward? Has it got the staffing,&nbsp;infrastructure,&nbsp;and systems that you would expect to allow it to continue going forwards?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cAnd in 10 years, will it be the same company,&nbsp;or is it likely that they might be acquired or pivot their business model, which might mean an uncomfortable transition?\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">10 things to look for in small business accounting software<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Using the right technology can give you the time and space to make your business a success. This guide offers 10 points to consider when looking for the right accounting software for your company.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-20bdb5ca-e469-46ca-aff9-2d563f2d983b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your free guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"999\" height=\"666\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/06\/SAGE_MSA_051217_BB_268_All-Uses.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/06\/SAGE_MSA_051217_BB_268_All-Uses.jpg 999w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-make-financial-data-accessible-to-the-right-teams\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Make financial data accessible to the right teams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reader&nbsp;also sees value in tools that make data easy to find and share. He adds: \u201cBusinesses should be run on a grounding of a solid understanding of the financial data by all teams. The more that people understand how their actions contribute to the bigger picture, the better.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This underlines how far we are from the old days, when financial data was something closely guarded by those who \u201cneeded to know\u201d.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a modern, forward-thinking business, financial data is shared with those who need it,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it\u2019s&nbsp;shared instantly. For example, a sales team might have access to a dashboard showing insights into the company financials that will help with its progress.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This kind of culture is one that promotes success and growth,&nbsp;and at its heart is the right accounting software. The ability to create bespoke dashboards or reports is a necessity, as is the ability to easily share them with key stakeholders.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best finance software takes a democratic approach when it comes to financial data. Not all data should be shared, of course, but allowing the right people to know the right information can truly revolutionise a business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask the software vendor the following before&nbsp;purchasing:&nbsp;\u201cIs my accounting software designed only for finance professionals,&nbsp;or is it for the whole business? And how easy&nbsp;does it make it to share key data with stakeholders within the business?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-step-2-check-that-the-software-fits-your-legal-and-tax-status\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: Check that the software fits your legal and tax status\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Different businesses have different legal and tax responsibilities, so the right accounting software should match your status and obligations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, you may need&nbsp;different features&nbsp;depending on whether you are a:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sole trader<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limited company<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>VAT-registered business<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contractor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Charity\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nonprofit\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business selling internationally\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may also need support for tax submissions, payroll, pensions, data protection, digital records, or reporting rules that apply to your business. Ultimately, covering these areas makes compliance easier to manage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-reducing-the-admin-burden-of-compliance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Reducing the admin burden of compliance\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adam Prince is vice president of product management,&nbsp;compliance&nbsp;and migration at Sage. Talking specifically about accounting software, he says: \u201cRemaining compliant has never been more important.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cTax, employment law, data protection,&nbsp;and more must be high on the list for anybody running a business of any size and are all pushed by the pace of digitisation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cBut the right software helps you get it right without stress or having to sweat the details.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s&nbsp;tough being in business,&nbsp;but especially so if&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;a new business owner,&nbsp;when there are legal requirements&nbsp;seemingly coming&nbsp;from all sides.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most obvious is ensuring you take care of tax, because a business that is unable to pay its tax is&nbsp;essentially bust. Another common compliance area is payroll and pensions, where the rules can be&nbsp;complex&nbsp;but software can quickly simplify the workload.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And then&nbsp;there\u2019s&nbsp;the need to keep your data&nbsp;secure&nbsp;so you&nbsp;don\u2019t&nbsp;fall foul of data protection laws.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good accounting software will certainly help you stay on the right side of the law by providing functions and features that make it easier for you to remain compliant.&nbsp;Essentially, the&nbsp;folks behind the software will have done the hard lifting for you and thought through the processes, making it easier for you to fulfil the requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-the-making-tax-digital-programme\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Making Tax Digital programme\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another reason to check whether accounting software fits your tax obligations is the UK\u2019s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/making-tax-digital\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Making Tax Digital<\/a>&nbsp;(MTD)&nbsp;programme, which encourages businesses to&nbsp;submit&nbsp;tax information online. MTD for income tax&nbsp;is becoming&nbsp;mandatory in phases, starting with individuals registered for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/making-tax-digital\/self-assessment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Self Assessment<\/a>&nbsp;with self-employment or property income and qualifying income over \u00a350,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the rules apply to your business, you may need compatible software to keep digital records and send updates to the tax office,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-revenue-customs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HMRC<\/a>. MTD is already relevant for VAT, so it is worth checking whether your software can support both your current obligations and future reporting requirements.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-step-3-check-that-the-solution-covers-accounting-basics\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Step 3: Check that the solution covers accounting basics<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you know your business needs and compliance requirements, check whether the software handles day-to-day accounting basics well.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At a minimum, this may include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Importing bank account information automatically.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helping reconcile transactions.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Generating invoices and receipts.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sending payment reminders.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tracking accounts receivable.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Managing expenses.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Producing useful reports.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Giving you clear visibility of cash flow and financial performance.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Any accounting software should include a dashboard that makes key financial information easy to see&nbsp;at a glance. Instead of running a separate report every time you need context, you can view live information on cash flow, invoices,&nbsp;payments,&nbsp;and overall business performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This makes it easier to spot trends, respond to issues earlier,&nbsp;and make decisions based on current data rather than waiting for periodic reports. Bespoke&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/interactive-dashboards-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">dashboards or reporting<\/a>&nbsp;can also help different teams see the information most relevant to their work, while giving the business a broader view of financial performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">10 things to look for in small business accounting software<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Using the right technology can give you the time and space to make your business a success. This guide offers 10 points to consider when looking for the right accounting software for your company.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-20bdb5ca-e469-46ca-aff9-2d563f2d983b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your free guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"999\" height=\"666\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/06\/SAGE_MSA_051217_BB_268_All-Uses.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/06\/SAGE_MSA_051217_BB_268_All-Uses.jpg 999w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-step-4-check-how-small-business-accounting-software-fits-your-tech-setup\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: Check how small business accounting software fits your tech setup<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accounting software may be powerful, but it\u00a0has to\u00a0fit into the way your business already works, without adding friction to your day-to-day processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-integration-with-your-existing-tools\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Integration with your existing tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check whether the software integrates with the tools your business already uses, such as bank accounts, e-commerce platforms, payment providers, point-of-sale systems, payroll tools, CRM&nbsp;software,&nbsp;or expense management apps.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Strong integrations can reduce manual data entry, lower the risk of&nbsp;errors,&nbsp;and make it easier to keep financial information consistent across the business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/accounting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cloud-based accounting software<\/a>\u00a0can also make it easier to access financial data from\u00a0different locations, collaborate with your\u00a0accountant,\u00a0and keep the system updated without manual installs.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-a-user-friendly-interface\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">A user-friendly interface<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for a clear interface, simple navigation,\u00a0and straightforward workflows for common tasks such as sending invoices, reconciling transactions, checking cash\u00a0flow,\u00a0and running reports. If the software feels difficult from the start, it may slow your team down or limit how often people use it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-support-and-training-resources\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Support and training resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even intuitive software should come with reliable support and training. Before choosing a provider, check what help is available during setup and beyond.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This may include live chat, phone support, help articles, video tutorials, webinars, onboarding guidance,&nbsp;or access to certified accountants and advisers. Good support can make the difference between software that your business adopts properly and software that creates more questions than it answers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-keeping-one-eye-on-the-future\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keeping one eye on the future<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As well as meeting your current technical needs, the software should show that it can adapt as accounting technology continues to evolve.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Roger Knecht is the president of Utah-based training organisation&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/universalaccounting.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Universal Accounting Center&nbsp;<\/a>and is an authority on how accounting software can&nbsp;benefit&nbsp;businesses of all sizes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the topic of upcoming technologies and their impact on businesses, he says: \u201cAccounting software is helping the business owner be more present in their business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cWith the use of&nbsp;Artificial&nbsp;Intelligence (AI), we are just in the&nbsp;first phase of this evolution&nbsp;to give business owners the accounting information they need in a way they can use and understand it to make better-informed decisions.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When comparing accounting software, look at whether the provider is investing in features that reduce manual work, improve accuracy, surface useful insights,&nbsp;and make financial information easier to act on.&nbsp;It\u2019s&nbsp;also worth asking whether the vendor has a progressive approach to core technologies such as cloud access, mobile use, integrations, security,&nbsp;and digital compliance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-step-5-check-the-full-cost-before-you-commit\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 5: Check the full cost before you commit<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The total cost of the software could differ from the headline price for&nbsp;a number of&nbsp;reasons. For example,&nbsp;it\u2019s&nbsp;common for accounting software to have different pricing tiers depending on:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Number of users<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Features included<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transaction volume<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Number of\u00a0entities managed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrations required\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Payroll functionality\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Support level\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some providers may also charge extra for add-ons, implementation, data migration, training, payment processing, advanced&nbsp;reporting,&nbsp;or&nbsp;additional&nbsp;storage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before choosing a provider, check what is included in the base price, what you may need to pay for later, and whether the software&nbsp;remains&nbsp;affordable as your business grows. The cheapest&nbsp;option&nbsp;may not be the best value if it lacks&nbsp;important features, but an expensive platform may also be unnecessary if your needs are simple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-choose-the-best-accounting-software-for-your-business\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose the best accounting software for your business<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the best accounting software for your situation is a matter of understanding your business needs rather than comparing providers on features alone. Your legal status, tax obligations, day-to-day accounting tasks, existing tools, team access&nbsp;needs,&nbsp;and budget should all shape the decision.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right solution should help you manage your finances more clearly, stay on top of compliance, reduce manual\u00a0work,\u00a0and give your business room to grow. Take time to check these areas before you commit so your eventual choice supports you as your business changes over the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-sage-faq\">\n\t\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions-0\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently\u00a0asked\u00a0questions<\/h2>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-items\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-c360f3d2\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-what-software-do-most-accountants-use\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What software\u00a0do\u00a0most accountants use?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many accountants use widely adopted cloud accounting platforms such as Sage, Xero,\u00a0and QuickBooks, though the right choice often depends on the accountant\u2019s practice, client base,\u00a0and location. If you work with an accountant, ask which platforms they support before choosing software, as this can make it easier to share records, collaborate on tax submissions,\u00a0and avoid moving data between systems.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-7ebee2f9\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-how-much-does-accounting-software-cost\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does accounting software cost?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accounting software prices vary depending on the features you need. Basic plans for sole traders or freelancers are often available at lower monthly prices, while more advanced plans that include payroll, inventory management, multi-user access, or detailed reporting cost more. Before comparing prices, check what is included in each plan and whether\u00a0you&#8217;ll\u00a0need paid add-ons as your business grows.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-be268c37\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-can-i-switch-accounting-software-later\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I switch accounting software later?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Most businesses can move from one accounting platform to another, although the process may involve exporting financial records, importing historical data, reconnecting bank feeds, and checking opening balances. If you expect to outgrow your current software, choosing a provider with migration tools or support can make changing systems easier.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-sage-faq-item\" id=\"faq-item-eba72cfa\">\n\t<div class=\"faq-item-question\">\n\t\t\n<h3 id=\"h-do-i-need-accounting-software-if-i-already-use-spreadsheets\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need accounting software if I already use spreadsheets?\u00a0<\/h3>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"faq-item-answer\">\n\t\t\t\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spreadsheets can work for\u00a0very small\u00a0businesses with simple finances, but they often become difficult to manage as transactions increase. Accounting software automates tasks such as bank reconciliation, invoicing, expense tracking, reporting, and tax record keeping, helping reduce manual work and the risk of errors.\u00a0<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/workplace-technology\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWorkplace technology\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-32237 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-people-leadership category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-bookkeeping tag-efl tag-productivity tag-workplace-technology business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media card-post__media--video\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/DLAG-blog-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"AFC Wimbledon shows how a fan-owned club can unite charities, businesses, volunteers and supporters across Southwest London\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/DLAG-blog-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/DLAG-blog-768x512.jpg 768w, 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read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/afc-wimbledown-dlag-efl\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tThe businesses behind AFC Wimbledon: How one badge unites a community\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tAFC Wimbledon shows how a fan-owned club can unite charities, businesses, volunteers and supporters across Southwest London.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post 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srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/Female-coaching-JPEG-YSYN-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/Female-coaching-JPEG-YSYN-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/09\/Female-coaching-JPEG-YSYN-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__play-video\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" class=\"card-post__play-icon svg-icon\" width=\"28\" height=\"28\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 33 36\"><path d=\"M3.947.936C1.889 1.016 0 2.661 0 4.878v27.11c0 2.956 3.36 4.896 5.999 3.463l24.965-13.555c2.715-1.474 2.715-5.451 0-6.925L6 1.416a3.96 3.96 0 0 0-2.052-.48Zm.032 2.6c.232-.001.475.058.713.187L29.66 17.28c.986.535.986 1.774 0 2.309L4.692 33.144c-.952.517-1.999-.088-1.999-1.155V4.878c0-.533.261-.95.642-1.17.19-.11.411-.171.644-.172\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M5.25 3C3.74 3 2.5 4.24 2.5 5.75v12.5C2.5 19.76 3.74 21 5.25 21h14c1.51 0 2.75-1.24 2.75-2.75V5.75C22 4.24 20.76 3 19.25 3zm0 1.5h14c.699 0 1.25.551 1.25 1.25v12.5a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25 1.25h-14A1.24 1.24 0 0 1 4 18.25V5.75c0-.699.551-1.25 1.25-1.25m.25.75a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5H6a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm13 0a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5h.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm-8.25 2.751A1.248 1.248 0 0 0 9 9.251v5.5c0 .442.231.849.613 1.074.389.231.846.237 1.239.021l5.001-2.751c.396-.219.646-.639.646-1.094s-.25-.876-.646-1.095l-.001-.001-5.002-2.751a1.25 1.25 0 0 0-.601-.153zM5.5 8.25a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5H6a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm13 0a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5h.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm-8 1.423L14.731 12 10.5 14.328zm-5 1.577a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5H6a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm13 0a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5h.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm-13 3a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5H6a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm13 0a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5h.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm-13 3a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5H6a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5zm13 0a.5.5 0 0 0-.5.5v.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5.5h.5a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5v-.5a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5z\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-22T09:00:00+01:00\">22 September, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">6 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tHow trust in the numbers is helping AFC Wimbledon develop the next generation of female coaches\u00a0\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-29900 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-technology-innovation tag-bookkeeping tag-business-finances tag-freelancers tag-payments tag-work-life-balance tag-workplace-technology business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/sole-trader-ai\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/04\/concerned-tradesman-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A tradesperson using AI on their mobile phone to be notified of a late payment\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/04\/concerned-tradesman-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/04\/concerned-tradesman-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/04\/concerned-tradesman-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-04-30T09:00:00+01:00\">30 April, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tEven sole traders can use AI: How to get paid faster and slash admin\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-28899 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-hr-processes-medium-businesses tag-hr-process tag-hr-payroll-benefits tag-midsized-business tag-payroll tag-workplace-technology business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/the-hr-and-payroll-leaders-report\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-684x384.jpeg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-684x384.jpeg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-768x518.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/03\/The-HR-Payroll-Leaders-Report-CTA-Image-1200x810.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-03-10T10:30:05+00:00\">10 March, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">1 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tThe HR and Payroll Leaders&#8217; Report: How 1,000 professionals are adapting to change\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-28978 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-technology-innovation category-trends-insights tag-ai tag-data-analytics tag-digital-transformation tag-finance-futurists tag-state-of-small-business tag-workplace-technology business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/make-ai-useful-small-business\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261586981-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261586981-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261586981-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1261586981-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-03-05T14:56:33+00:00\">5 March, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">3 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tMake AI useful. Fix one workflow in 30 days\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>To choose accounting software, start by identifying your business needs, legal and tax obligations, essential accounting tasks, technical requirements, and budget. The best option should give you room to grow as your needs change. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":280,"featured_media":16282,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"11","sage_membership_post_content_type":"article","sage_membership_post_featured_video_id":"","sage_membership_post_video_type":"trailer","sage_membership_post_featured_video_duration":"","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[125],"business_type":[4],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[77,109],"coauthors":[369],"class_list":["post-5043","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-technology-innovation","tag-workplace-technology","business_type-small-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Keir Thomas-Bryant","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-645973033.jpg","imagine_tags":{"77":"Accounting software","109":"Small business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice UK","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5043","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/280"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5043"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5043\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31862,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5043\/revisions\/31862"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/16282"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5043"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=5043"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=5043"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}