Choosing accounting software

I'm pleased to report that I got my new licence about a week ago, and already have one definitie client, together with one or two more likely ones. I have just been setting up a new computer at home, and am wondering what would be the best accounting software to install. I think there are some versions of Sage which allow multiple accounts (which could be used for work for different clients). Sage is pretty expensinve, but it could be a good investment.
Has anyone got any ideas?
Has anyone got any ideas?
Comments
Solar Accounts. Multi company, perfect for typical small clients. Free 60 day trial.
Don't bother with Sage, over priced, bloated software, it really isn't necessary, unless you really like it and want to line their fine-grade silk pockets.
20% discount here
http://www.solaraccounts.co.uk/offer/FARR4976
Good luck!
Agreed
I have to say it is absolutely fabulous. So quick and easy to use. Cannot fault it.
do any of these packages offer decent payroll features, i.e. payslip,P60,P45 and P11d generation?
i've been looking at quickbooks that has this stuff and is also compatible with online filing with HMRC - at the minute i think this is the one i'll go with pending licence approval but have no experience with them. At work I'm used to sage which i feel is too expensive for a new MIP.
For payroll I would recommend payroll manager, very easy to use and good value for money. Good luck
Guys, I sympathise with u all!! I m also on the verge of going MIP. I have been dithering over which Package to go for. I have come to the conclusion that sage is worth going for. Why?
1- professional
2- multi features pack
2- better plate form for next generation of accounting packages
4- good image from Accountants you seek sub contracts work on behalve of their customers.
peace.!!!
While this might be true for some people, it really isn't true for many more than you'd think.
Here are a sample of threads on Sage vs VT, along with others on what accountants really think of Sage:
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/anyanswers/sage-or-vt
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/anyanswers/sage-are-useless
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/anyanswers/sage-vs-vt
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/anyanswers/why-negativity-against-sage
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/anyanswers/why-sage-why-do-accountants-books-kept-sage
It's worth reading (even skim reading) through these to get away from the misconception that many accountants like sage. In my experience, most modern accountants really aren't bothered with it. Some like it, but plenty don't!
Thank you for some of the ideas raised here. I'll certainly investigate VT and Solar.
One connected question - bear in mind I'm completely new to working as a MIP - how often will a client have particular software which they've been using for some time and want the MIP to use? Or is it usually the MIP's choice?
£199 is for the full suite which presumably your clients wouldn't need.
Hi guys, i am looking for the right software too. Although never heard of VT or Solar before, wont mind considering these. dont like Sage.
Both are great, well worth a look.
Avoid MYOB products (now CCH) at all costs. That is what I unfortunately have to use at work and it's absolutely full of problems. You have been warned.
I've never found Quickbooks or Tasbooks to be very helpful either.
CCH? I though they were taken over by Mamut?
Either way, I agree. MYOB is very difficult. I have a lot of MAC users and it was very popular as a cross-platform piece of software. Glad it's gone to be honest!
No, they were definitely taken over by CCH. The accounts software is now called CCH Accounts Production.
MYOB was the latter and indeed was bought by Mamut (to much grumbling, I believe!).
Accounts production software (such as VT, CCH, Digita etc) takes a TB and turns it into a set of statutory accounts.
Accounting/bookkeeping software will have reporting functions but the PL/BS are rarely in statutory format for Ltd Companies (and often unsuitable for sole traders/partnerships either, in terms of accountant-produced year end accounts).
No. You need something else for that, like FTax or TaxCalc.
More expensive products that are integrated, like Digita or Iris, will have modules that do both.
Anyway, here is the takeover of MYOB's accounting arm by CCH.
http://www.accountingweb.co.uk/item/181514
The other part of their business may well have been taken over by someone else since, I don' know.
thanks
dan