Are you a small business owner who is looking for ways to streamline your operations? If so, you may be wondering if accounting software is essential for your business. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the size and nature of your business.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the reasons why accounting software can be beneficial for small businesses and provide tips on how to choose the right software for your needs.
What is Accounting Software?
Accounting software is a type of computer program that helps businesses manage their financial records. This software can be used to track income and expenses, prepare invoices, generate reports, and more.
There are many different accounting software programs available on the market, so it is important to choose one that meets the specific needs of your business.
In this day and age, a lot of popular accounting software is cloud-based. This means that businesses can access their financial records from any internet-connected device.
Cloud-based accounting software is often more affordable than traditional software since there’s no need to purchase and install expensive software on each computer in your office. There's also the added benefit of flexibility and scalability since you can adjust your subscription as needed.
Why use Accounting Software?
There are many reasons why small businesses use accounting software. Perhaps the most obvious reason is that it can save you a lot of time.
If you are manually keeping track of your financial records, this can be a very time-consuming and error-prone process. Accounting software can automate many of the tasks that are associated with bookkeeping, such as invoicing, tracking expenses, and generating reports. This frees up your time so that you can focus on other aspects of running your business.
Another reason to use accounting software is that it can help you keep track of your finances in a more organised way. When all of your financial information is stored in one place, it is easier to track trends and spot potential problems. This can give you valuable insights into how your business is performing and where you can make improvements.
Using accounting software can help you save money in the long run. This is because it can help you avoid costly mistakes, such as forgetting to bill your clients, missing payments or overlooking tax deductions.
The most popular and widely used cloud accounting programs today integrate with a number of other software, such as CRM software, project management software, eCommerce platforms, and more. This gives businesses greater control over their affairs and enables them to manage their finances and operations in a more holistic way.
Do I Have to Use Accounting Software?
From April 2022, all VAT registered businesses have to use accounting software to complete and submit their VAT returns - so if you are VAT registered, or likely to become so in the future, this is something to consider. If you are not yet VAT registered, moving to software ahead of time will help make the administration involved easier.
From April 2024, all sole traders and landlords (with a turnover of over £10,000), will also have to submit quarterly returns through accounting software as part of Making Tax Digital. If you fall into this category, we advise you to look to move to software for the year prior, to ensure a smooth transition.
Choosing the Right Accounting Software
Now that you know some of the reasons why your small business might benefit from using accounting software, you may be wondering how to choose the right program for your needs. There are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision.
First, consider the specific needs of your business. Make a list of the features that are most important to you and your company. Then, research different software programs to see which ones offer the functionality that you need.
It is also important to consider the scalability of the software. As your business grows, you will likely need to add more users and increase your subscription. Choose a software program that can accommodate your future needs.
Finally, be sure to compare the costs of different software programs. Some programs may have a higher upfront cost, while others charge a monthly subscription fee. Consider your budget and choose the option that makes the most financial sense for your business.
It's always best to consult your accountant when choosing an accounting software because they will have a good understanding of your business needs, and may have specific programs that they work exclusively with.
Does Accounting Software Eliminate the Need for an Accountant?
In short, no.
While accounting software can automate many of the tasks that are typically performed by an accountant, there are still some things that only a human can do.
For example, your accountant can interpret your financial data and convey information to you in a way that accounting software simply cannot. However, using accounting software does save time for your accountant, allowing them to act as an advisor rather than a number cruncher.
Summary
Small businesses can benefit greatly from using accounting software. This software can automate many tasks, such as invoicing, tracking expenses, and generating reports. In addition, using accounting software can help you keep track of your finances in a more organised way and save you money in the long run. When choosing an accounting software program, be sure to consider the specific needs of your business, the scalability of the software, and the costs. And don't forget to consult your human accountant, either!
At Atholl Accountancy Limited, we can advise you on the best software to meet your accountancy needs, and can also train you to use accounting software! If you’d like to find out more, we’d be very happy to chat through options with you. Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
