20 Best Quickbooks Alternatives Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best Quickbooks alternatives:
The best QuickBooks alternatives help churches simplify fund accounting, generate accurate donor statements, and train non-experts without frustration. These tools are built with ministry in mind—so your team can stay compliant, confident, and focused on people, not spreadsheets.
After serving in church leadership for over 20 years (and reviewing more than 30 accounting and donation tools), I’ve seen one issue come up repeatedly: QuickBooks just isn’t built for churches. One church I served in manually tracked donations in Excel because QuickBooks couldn’t generate giving statements. Another had to bring in a CPA just to train a volunteer treasurer. When they finally switched to a church-specific tool, the team could run reports in minutes, and donor receipts were automated. The time we spent in admin plummeted.
QuickBooks often forces churches to use workarounds, add-ons, or outside help just to handle basic ministry tasks. A better alternative can bring your finances in line with your mission, give your team tools they can actually use, and let you serve with integrity and transparency. That’s why this list matters.
What Is Quickbooks?
Quickbooks is a church management software that helps organizations handle their financial operations. It's commonly used by church leaders, accountants, and small business owners looking for an efficient way to manage finances.
Budget tracking, invoicing, and payroll features help with organizing financial data and making informed decisions. Overall, Quickbooks offers a reliable solution for managing your church's financial needs.
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We’ve been testing and reviewing church management software since 2019. As church managers ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
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Best Quickbooks Alternatives Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top Quickbooks alternative selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for automated expense reporting | 30-day free trial + free plan available | From $15/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for user-friendly features | 30-day free trial | From $6.30/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for integrated church management modules | Free plan available | From $12/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for minimal manual input | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for user privacy | Free trial + free plan available | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for free accounting | 14-day free trial | From $20/month | Website | |
| 7 | Best for church-specific needs | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for fund-specific accounting | Free demo available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for integrated solutions | 30-day free trial upon request | $35.13/account/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for free accounting | 30-day free trial + free plan available | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 11 | Best for nonprofit features | 15-day free trial | From $59.25/month | Website | |
| 12 | Best for complex, growing churches | Free demo available | From $99/user/month, plus a $999 base fee/month | Website | |
| 13 | Best for advanced fund accounting | Free trial available | From $607/user/year | Website | |
| 14 | Best for free accounting | Free plan available | From $0/month | Website | |
| 15 | Best for integrated solutions | Download free demo | costs from $395 | Website | |
| 16 | Best for affordable pricing | 14-day free trial | Basic plan costs $15/month, plus plan for $29/month and pro plan for $59/month | Website | |
| 17 | Best for real-time receipt management | Free demo available | From $11.99/user/month | Website | |
| 18 | Best for fund accounting | 30-day free trial | from $9/month | Website | |
| 19 | Best for project tracking | 30-day free trial | From $2.50/user/month (billed monthly) | Website | |
| 20 | Best for online giving and donation tracking | Free trial available | From $69.99/month | Website |
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ChMeetings
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Text In Church
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
One Church Software
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Quickbooks Alternatives Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best Quickbooks alternatives that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Ramp is a spend management platform that offers corporate cards, expense management, and accounts payable solutions. It's designed to help businesses manage their finances by automating tasks and providing insightful data.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: I picked Ramp because it automates expense reporting—you don’t have to manually enter or categorize anything. You can set up approval workflows that match your policies, and manage all your invoices and payments in one place. I also like how Ramp’s AI helps you spot overspending so you can keep your finances on track.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the ability to manage corporate cards, which allows you to issue cards to your employees with specific spending limits and track their usage in real-time. Another key feature is its accounts payable solution, which consolidates all your invoices and payments in one place for easier management. Additionally, Ramp’s AI-driven insights help you identify areas where you might be overspending, providing you with data to make informed financial decisions.
Integrations include NetSuite, QuickBooks, Xero, Amazon Business, American Airlines AAdvantage Business, Egencia, Gmail, Bank of America, US Bank, Microsoft Azure AD, Workday, and Okta.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive reporting features
- Ability to issue multiple virtual cards with customizable controls
- Automated expense reporting and receipt matching
Cons:
- Mostly focuses on accounts payable and spend management
- Could offer more advanced accounting features
New Product Updates from Ramp
AI-Powered Policy Agents by Ramp for Real-Time Expense Review and Fraud Detection
Ramp's new AI-powered Policy Agents review expenses in real time to flag fraud and out-of-policy spending, interact with employees, and recommend policy improvements. For more details, visit Ramp Announcements.
Freshbooks is an accounting software designed for churches, helping them manage invoicing, expenses, and financial tracking. It's mainly used by church staff and administrators to streamline their financial processes.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Freshbooks offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies accounting tasks for your team. It includes features like automated invoicing and expense management, reducing manual workload. Time-tracking capabilities help monitor project hours effectively. These user-friendly features make it a practical choice for churches seeking an easy-to-use accounting tool.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoice templates to match your church's branding, time-tracking tools to monitor project hours, and automated reminders to ensure timely payments. Expense categorization helps organize costs, while financial reporting provides insights into your church's finances.
Integrations include Gusto, Shopify, Stripe, PayPal, G Suite, Slack, Trello, Mailchimp, Zapier, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated reminders
- Time-tracking tools
- Customizable templates
- Automated invoicing
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Learning curve for complex tasks
- Basic reporting options
- No offline access
- Limited advanced accounting features
New Product Updates from FreshBooks
FreshBooks' Key Updates: Manual Bank Creation and More
FreshBooks introduced key updates that include manual bank account creation, historical transaction imports, improved bank connections, financial lock, and streamlined payroll management. For more details, visit FreshBooks Product News.
ChMeetings is a church management and accounting platform designed specifically for ministries and faith-based organizations. It combines fund accounting, budgeting, and donation tracking in one simple, intuitive system built for church treasurers and volunteers rather than corporate accountants.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: I picked ChMeetings because it’s purpose-built for churches rather than businesses, making it far simpler to manage donations, budgets, and restricted funds without the workarounds QuickBooks requires. It offers fund-specific tracking, donor reporting, and built-in church financial reports that promote transparency and trust. With free and accurate data migration, bank sync, and an intuitive, volunteer-friendly interface, ChMeetings helps ministries stay financially organized while focusing more time on their mission instead of bookkeeping.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include powerful fund accounting tools that let you allocate income and expenses to specific funds, maintain transparency, and ensure proper stewardship of church resources. The budgeting and expense tracking module helps ministries monitor spending in real-time and compare actual vs. planned budgets. With bank sync and smart imports, you can securely connect your church’s bank accounts, automate transaction categorization, and save hours of manual data entry.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, BlueSnap, Paystack, Twilio, MailChimp, SMS Global, Zeffy, and Clickatell.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly/accessible to non-accountants
- Integration with church management modules
- Purpose-built for church accounting
Cons:
- Limited native integration with heavy external reporting/BI tools
- Lack of advanced accounting and niche features
New Product Updates from ChMeetings
ChMeetings Adds Receipt Scanning, Budget Reports, and Group Chat Expansion
ChMeetings introduces new accounting and communication enhancements, including receipt scanning, improved budget comparison reports, and expanded group chat capacity. These updates simplify financial tracking and foster better team collaboration. For more information, visit ChMeetings's official site.
DualEntry is an AI-powered accounting platform built for growing organizations that need more advanced features. It’s a good fit for larger churches or ministries that handle high transaction volumes and want to automate repetitive accounting tasks.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: I chose DualEntry because it’s designed to handle complex accounting workflows with minimal manual input. It can automatically match transactions, categorize entries, and even handle complex revenue recognition processes. For churches dealing with multi-entity operations or international donations, DualEntry’s support for multiple currencies and real-time bank feeds can offer extra flexibility.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include AI-powered transaction matching, customizable general ledger setups, and live financial dashboards that keep you updated on your church’s financial health. DualEntry also offers direct CPA support and fast, CPA-led implementation.
Integrations include BambooHR, Bill.com, Brex, Deel, Google SSO, Gusto, HubSpot, Ramp, Rippling, Salesforce, Stripe Billing, and Stripe Invoicing.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced AI features help with complex accounting tasks
- Supports multi-entity and multi-currency operations
- Automated revenue recognition ensures compliance with standards
Cons:
- Customization options require careful setup
- As an ERP, it may offer more features than needed for simpler accounting needs
Zoho Books is an online accounting software tailored for non-profits, helping them manage finances and compliance. It's used by non-profit organizations to perform tasks like invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Zoho Books emphasizes user privacy, which is crucial for non-profit organizations handling sensitive financial data. It offers features like multi-user access, ensuring your team can collaborate securely. Automated workflows reduce manual effort, freeing up your time for mission-focused activities. With detailed financial reports, you can make informed decisions while maintaining privacy standards.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated recurring invoices to save time, expense management for tracking costs, and project management tools to oversee tasks. Inventory management ensures you keep track of supplies, while budgeting tools help plan your finances effectively.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Slack, Office 365, G Suite, Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, Zoho Inventory, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Budgeting tools
- Detailed financial reports
- Automated workflows
- Multi-user collaboration
- Strong privacy controls
Cons:
- Complex setup for new users
- Basic project management
- Limited offline access
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited customization options
ZarMoney is a cloud-based accounting software designed for churches and religious institutions, providing a comprehensive solution for financial management. It's used by non-profits, small businesses, and enterprises to handle accounting, invoicing, and payment processing.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: ZarMoney offers free accounting features, making it accessible for churches with tight budgets. Automated billing and online payments simplify your financial tasks. Detailed financial reporting gives you insights into your church's financial health. Role-based permissions allow secure multi-user access, ensuring your data remains protected.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated billing to reduce manual tasks, online payments for convenient transactions, and detailed financial reporting to monitor your church's finances. It also offers inventory management to track supplies and robust security measures to protect data.
Integrations include QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, Amazon, eBay, Square, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Secure data protection
- Role-based permissions
- Detailed reporting
- Automated billing
- Free accounting features
Cons:
- Limited offline access
- Learning curve for new users
- No mobile app
- Basic inventory features
- Limited customization options
IconCMO is a church management software that serves church organizations by providing tools for administration and accounting. It's mainly used by church staff to manage memberships, contributions, and communication.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: IconCMO offers church-specific features like member management, contribution tracking, and event scheduling, tailored for church operations. Its accounting system is designed to handle fund accounting, which is essential for churches. The platform provides a real-time view of church finances, helping you make informed decisions. This makes it a practical choice for churches looking for a solution aligned with their specific needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include member directory for easy management, attendance tracking to keep tabs on participation, and donation processing for streamlined contributions. Event scheduling helps organize church activities, while fund accounting ensures accurate financial management.
Integrations include QuickBooks, PayPal, Vanco, Constant Contact, Pushpay, Tithe.ly, Planning Center, Mailchimp, and Stripe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive member management
- Fund accounting support
- Easy event scheduling
- Real-time financial insights
- Church-specific features
Cons:
- Basic reporting features
- Learning curve for new users
- No mobile app
- Some features can be complex
- Limited customization options
ACS Technologies provides a comprehensive suite of church management solutions tailored specifically for religious organizations. Its tools are designed to enhance church operations, from financial management to member engagement, making it a valuable resource for churches of all sizes.
Why I Picked
One of the reasons I picked ACS as a QuickBooks alternative is its focus on fund-specific accounting. This feature allows you to manage and track designated funds separately, which is crucial for churches handling multiple donation streams. It ensures that every dollar is accounted for, and it aligns with the specific financial reporting needs of religious organizations. Additionally, ACS offers detailed and customizable reporting options, providing financial statements by fund, which is an advantage over QuickBooks for church financial operations.
Another standout feature of ACS is its integration with church management software, creating a unified system for financial and membership data management. This integration supports the unique operational needs of churches, making it easier for you and your team to manage both financial and community engagement tasks within one platform. It also emphasizes security with strict controls to maintain a secure audit trail, reducing the risk of fraud, which is vital for maintaining trust and transparency in your church's financial reporting.
Standout Features
Features include comprehensive donor management, which allows you to track giving patterns and engage with your congregation more effectively. The platform also offers mission trip management, enabling you to organize and track missions and volunteer activities seamlessly. Additionally, ACS provides community analytics tools that help you gain insights into your congregation's engagement, facilitating more informed decision-making and planning.
Integrations
Integrations include Realm Accounting, Verified First, BIS, Protect My Ministry, MinistrySafe, Intulse VoIP, Twilio, PocketPlatform, MortarStone Basic Analytics, SendGrid, eSPACE, and Events2HVAC.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive Reporting: The software offers robust reporting capabilities that users find beneficial for gaining insights into church operations.
- Church-Specific Features: ACS is designed with features that cater specifically to church management needs, making it a strong choice for religious organizations.
- Customer Support: Users often praise the helpfulness and responsiveness of ACS's customer support team, which is crucial for resolving issues quickly.
Cons:
- Complex Setup: Initial setup can be complex and time-consuming, as noted by several users.
- Outdated Interface: Users frequently comment that the interface feels outdated, which can make navigation challenging.
Elexio is a church management software designed to help churches with accounting, membership management, and event planning. It's used by church leaders and administrators to streamline their operations and enhance community engagement.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Elexio offers integrated solutions that cater specifically to church needs. It combines accounting, membership, and event planning in one platform, making it easier for your team to manage various tasks. The software's membership management feature helps you maintain detailed records of your congregation. Its event planning tools ensure smooth coordination of church activities, providing a unified approach to church management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include online giving to facilitate donations, volunteer management to organize church helpers, and customizable dashboards for quick insights. The communication tools enhance engagement with your community, while the reporting features provide detailed analytics.
Integrations include Mailchimp, PayPal, QuickBooks, Planning Center, Tithe.ly, Vanco, Stripe, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong communication tools
- Customizable dashboards
- Detailed membership records
- Integrated event planning
- Comprehensive church management
Cons:
- Requires internet connection
- Basic reporting features
- No offline access
- Steeper learning curve
- Limited customization options
Zipbooks is an online accounting software tailored for churches and small businesses, providing tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting. It's used by church administrators to manage finances efficiently and track donations.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Zipbooks offers free accounting solutions, making it an attractive choice for churches with limited budgets. It provides features like invoicing and expense tracking without the need for a paid plan. With smart tagging, you can organize transactions easily. The software's simplicity and cost-effectiveness align well with the financial needs of small church organizations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include smart tagging to categorize transactions, project management tools to oversee church activities, and time tracking for accurate billing. Automatic bank reconciliation ensures your accounts are up-to-date, while detailed reports offer insights into your church's financial health.
Integrations include PayPal, Square, Stripe, Gusto, Google Drive, Slack, Trello, Zapier, Google Sheets, and Asana.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed financial reports
- Automatic reconciliation
- Simple user interface
- Smart tagging system
- Free accounting access
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Learning curve for beginners
- No offline access
- Basic project management
- Limited advanced features
Aplos is a cloud-based software designed for nonprofits and churches, offering tools for accounting, donor management, and compliance reporting. It's primarily used by church administrators to streamline financial management and enhance donor engagement.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Aplos caters specifically to nonprofits with features like fund accounting that help manage designated funds effectively. Its donor management capabilities allow you to track contributions and communicate with supporters. The platform also offers compliance reporting, ensuring your church meets regulatory requirements. These specialized features make it a great choice for churches seeking a solution tailored to their unique needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include online giving to facilitate donations, event registration for easy planning, and custom reports to analyze financial data. Budgeting tools help manage finances, while the communication suite improves engagement with your community.
Integrations include QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Tithe.ly, Planning Center, Bloomerang, Vanco, DonorPerfect, Mailchimp, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable reporting
- Compliance reporting
- Strong donor management
- Effective fund accounting
- Specialized nonprofit features
Cons:
- No offline access
- Limited advanced accounting tools
- Basic reporting features
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited customization options
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP and accounting platform trusted by large nonprofits and ministries. Built to handle multiple programs, funds, and locations, it’s designed for churches managing complex operations and seeking strong financial oversight.
Why it’s a good QuickBooks alternative: NetSuite offers more than just accounting—it’s a full ministry management platform for churches that have outgrown entry-level tools. You can manage donations, budgets, grants, volunteers, and compliance all in one system. Its customizable dashboards and strong reporting tools help you keep a clear view of your finances and ministry impact.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include fund accounting, grant tracking, donation management, budgeting tools, volunteer coordination, and audit-ready reporting.
Integrations include Salesforce, PayPal, ADP, Microsoft 365, HubSpot, and many others through SuiteApps.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide integration options
- Customizable dashboards
- Built-in donor and grant management
- Strong financial reporting and compliance tools
- Scalable for large, multi-campus churches
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for non-finance users
- Overbuilt for small churches
- Long onboarding process
- Requires dedicated staff to manage
- High cost compared to basic platforms
Sage50 is accounting software designed to support churches with more advanced financial needs. With decades of experience in the nonprofit space, Sage offers tools for managing donations, designated funds, payroll, and budgets with a strong emphasis on stewardship and compliance.
Why it’s a good QuickBooks alternative: Sage50 stands out for churches that need detailed fund accounting, financial reporting, and donor tracking in one place. Its real-time financial data and customizable dashboards help church leaders stay organized and make informed decisions. With role-based permissions, audit-ready reports, and cloud access, it’s a reliable platform for churches that prioritize accountability and financial clarity.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include fund accounting, donor and gift tracking, budget planning, journal entries, automated bank reconciliation, and custom financial reports.
Integrations include Microsoft 365, Paychex, Avalara, and several donor management tools via API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud access for remote teams
- Role-based user access
- Real-time financial reporting
- Built for compliance and audit-readiness
- Strong fund accounting and budgeting tools
Cons:
- Interface feels dated compared to newer tools
- Designed more for finance teams
- Limited worship or event tools
- May require training for setup
- More expensive than basic platforms
Wave Accounting is a cloud-based accounting software designed for churches, providing a user-friendly interface and customizable features. It's primarily used by church organizations to manage financial tasks efficiently.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Wave Accounting offers free accounting solutions, making it accessible for churches with limited budgets. It provides invoicing, payroll services, and online donation processing without the need for complex setups. Expense tracking and financial reporting features ensure transparency in managing church funds. These capabilities help churches focus on community service rather than financial management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing for easy billing, payroll services to manage employee payments, and online donation processing to handle contributions. Expense tracking keeps your finances organized, while financial reporting provides insights into your church's financial health.
Integrations include PayPal, Etsy, Shoeboxed, Zapier, Google Sheets, Stripe, Mailchimp, Etsy, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based access
- Customizable features
- User-friendly interface
- Easy setup
- Free to use
Cons:
- Not suitable for large churches
- Limited integrations
- Basic reporting
- No phone support
- Limited advanced features
PowerChurch Plus is a comprehensive church management software designed for church staff and administrators. It helps with tasks like membership management, event planning, and financial tracking.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: PowerChurch Plus offers integrated solutions tailored for church operations. Its membership management feature allows you to keep detailed records of your congregation. Event planning tools help organize church activities efficiently. The software's financial tracking capabilities ensure accurate accounting, making it a valuable tool for churches seeking a unified solution.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include contribution tracking to manage donations, payroll processing for church staff, and customizable reports for detailed insights. Event scheduling helps plan activities, while attendance tracking keeps tabs on member participation.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Vanco, PayPal, Stripe, Shelby Systems, Church Windows, ACS Technologies, and Planning Center.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable reports
- Accurate financial tracking
- Efficient event planning
- Detailed membership records
- Comprehensive church management
Cons:
- Requires installation on devices
- No cloud-based option
- Basic user interface
- Steeper learning curve
- Limited mobile access
Flockbase is a church management software that serves churches by providing tools for accounting and administration. It's used by church staff to handle tasks like membership management, contribution tracking, and financial reporting.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative: Flockbase offers affordable pricing, making it accessible for churches with tight budgets. It includes features like membership management and contribution tracking, which are essential for church operations. The software provides easy-to-use financial reporting tools, helping you keep track of your church's finances. Its affordability and church-specific features make it an appealing option for budget-conscious organizations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include attendance tracking to monitor member participation, event management to organize church activities, and volunteer coordination to manage church volunteers. Customizable reports help you analyze data, while check-in systems ensure secure member management.
Integrations include QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Vanco, Shelby Systems, ACS Technologies, and Church Windows.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Contribution tracking
- Membership management
- Easy financial reporting
- Church-specific features
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited scalability
- No mobile app
- Basic customization options
- Limited advanced features
Best for real-time receipt management
Fyle is an AI-powered expense management software that simplifies collecting, coding, and syncing expenses in real time. You can track expenses just by texting a receipt—Fyle’s AI handles what comes next, with instant updates to major accounting systems.
Why it's a good Quickbooks alternative:I picked Fyle because it makes receipt tracking easy. Unlike traditional expense tools, Fyle lets you submit receipts directly via text, which can help your team capture expenses faster and more accurately. I also liked Fyle’s real-time credit card reconciliation, which shows spending as soon as employees swipe their cards—a major plus for churches that need up-to-date financial visibility. Additionally, Fyle’s automated policy checks help ensure expense compliance without manual reviews.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include text-based receipt tracking, real-time card reconciliation, AI-driven expense coding, budget tracking, and automated policy violation alerts. Fyle also offers a mobile app, multi-layer approval workflows, and virtual card issuance to help churches control spending.
Integrations include NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Xero, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Sage 300 CRE, TravelPerk, Bamboo HR, Gmail, Outlook, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Text-based receipt capture
- AI-powered expense categorization
- Real-time credit card reconciliation
Cons:
- Auto-filing speed may vary
- Limited customization for complex cases
ChurchTrac is a church management software designed to cater to the unique needs of churches, both large and small. It brings together a wide array of tools into one application, making it easier for churches to manage their community, events, and finances.
Why I Picked
I picked ChurchTrac as a QuickBooks alternative because it offers fund accounting, which is crucial for churches to track designated donations and ensure funds are used appropriately. This feature simplifies the complex accounting tasks that churches face, providing a clear view of where every dollar is going and how it's being used. Additionally, ChurchTrac's donation tracking helps you manage and acknowledge donations in various forms, which is vital for maintaining transparency with your congregation.
Another reason I chose ChurchTrac is its ability to generate detailed financial reports and manage church budgets. These features are essential for making informed financial decisions and ensuring the church's financial health is maintained. With ChurchTrac, you can easily create comprehensive financial reports that give you insights into your church's financial standing, helping you plan for future events or projects with confidence.
Standout Features
Features include event planning tools that help you organize and manage church events without a hitch. The member management system allows you to keep track of your congregation's details and engagement. Additionally, the built-in communication tools enable you to maintain contact with your church members through emails and text messages, ensuring everyone is informed and engaged.
Integrations
Integrations include Mailchimp, MinistrySafe, Stripe, SendGrid, Twilio, SongSelect, Planning Center, PayPal, Givelify, Vanco, Pushpay, and EasyTithe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The software is user-friendly, particularly for small to medium-sized churches.
- Customer support is highly praised for being responsive and helpful.
- Donation tracking is robust and easy to use, making it ideal for managing church contributions.
Cons:
- The user interface may feel outdated compared to newer software.
- Limited advanced customization options may not meet the needs of larger organizations.
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform designed to help small businesses manage their finances. It offers a comprehensive set of tools that make handling accounting tasks straightforward, positioning it as a solid alternative to QuickBooks.
Why I Picked
I picked Xero as a QuickBooks alternative because of its project tracking capabilities. This feature allows you to monitor project expenses and profitability, which is particularly beneficial if you're managing multiple projects and need to keep track of your financial performance. Additionally, Xero's inventory management helps you keep an eye on stock levels and manage orders, which can be a game-changer for businesses that handle physical products.
Another reason I chose Xero is its multi-currency support, which is a huge plus if your business operates internationally. You can deal with foreign currencies without hassle, making it easier to manage global transactions. The payroll functionality, integrated with Gusto, ensures your team gets paid accurately and on time, eliminating the need for separate payroll software.
Standout Features
Features include customizable reports that give you insights into your financial data, helping you make informed business decisions. Xero also offers a mobile app, allowing you to manage your finances on the go, which is perfect for busy entrepreneurs. The software's bank reconciliation feature ensures your financial records are always up-to-date, reducing the chances of errors.
Integrations
Integrations include Syft, Hubdoc, Stripe, Xero Inventory Plus, Shopify Integration by Xero, Xero Practice Manager, HubSpot, Xero Analytics Plus, Amazon, Shopify, and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities: Connects with various third-party applications
- Comprehensive features: Includes invoicing, payroll, and reporting capabilities
- User-friendly interface: Simplifies accounting tasks and is easy to navigate
Cons:
- Occasional performance issues: Reports of bugs and lags
- Limited customization options: Compared to competitors
Draftalizer link: https://draftalizer.com/app/drafts/95513?show_steps=true
Introduction
SteepleMate is a church management system designed to enhance ministry operations and build community engagement. It offers a range of features to help churches manage their people, finances, and communications.
Why I Picked
I picked SteepleMate as a good QuickBooks alternative because it offers financial management features that handle online giving, donation tracking, and financial reporting. These features are crucial for churches looking to maintain transparency and accountability in their financial dealings. Additionally, the preaching tools allow you to organize sermons and gather feedback, making it easier to improve outreach and enhance your ministry's impact.
Another reason I recommend SteepleMate is its robust people management tools. You can track member information, organize events, and manage communications, which helps in building a strong community. The ability to create church websites and manage mobile apps adds an extra layer of engagement, ensuring that your church stays connected with its members.
Standout Features - Descriptive Format
Features include academic support tools that help manage school programs, including attendance and tuition tracking, which can be invaluable for churches with educational initiatives. Customization options like kiosks, digital signage, and custom branding enhance your outreach efforts. Role-based access ensures that different users have secure and organized access to the features they need.
Integrations
Unfortunately, no integrations are available beyond QuickBooks, as per the information from the official website.
Quickbooks Alternatives Selection Criteria
When selecting the best Quickbooks alternatives to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points related to church management software products, like handling donations efficiently and managing volunteer coordination. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage donations and contributions
- Track member attendance
- Organize events and activities
- Maintain member directories
- Provide financial reporting
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Automate donation processing
- Integrate with social media platforms
- Offer mobile app access
- Provide custom reporting options
- Support multi-campus management
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Easy navigation
- Intuitive interface
- Quick data entry
- Customizable dashboards
- Accessibility on multiple devices
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to chatbots for guidance
- Use of pre-built templates
- Participation in webinars
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of live chat support
- Response time to inquiries
- Access to a comprehensive help center
- Availability of phone support
- Quality of email support
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexibility in pricing plans
- Features included in each plan
- Discounts for non-profits
- Satisfaction with pricing relative to features
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Comments on ease of use
- Feedback on customer support
- Suggestions for feature improvements
- Testimonials on reliability and performance
Related Reviews
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for here, check out these other tools that we’ve tested and evaluated:
Why Look For A Quickbooks Alternative?
While Quickbooks is a good choice of church accounting software, there are a number of reasons why some users seek out alternative solutions. You might be looking for a Quickbooks alternative because…
- You need better donation tracking
- Your team requires more customization
- You want integrated event management
- You're looking for mobile app access
- You need multi-campus support
- Your budget is limited
If any of these sound like you, you’ve come to the right place. My list contains several church management software options that are better suited for teams facing these challenges with Quickbooks and looking for alternative solutions.
Quickbooks Key Features
Here are some of the key features of Quickbooks, to help you contrast and compare what alternative solutions offer:
- Invoicing: Create and send professional invoices to your clients quickly
- Expense tracking: Keep tabs on your expenses for better financial control
- Bank feeds: Connect your bank accounts to track transactions in real-time
- GST & VAT tracking: Manage tax calculations and submissions accurately
- Inventory management: Track inventory levels to prevent stockouts
- Receipt capture: Upload and organize receipts to simplify expense reporting
- Mobile app: Access your financial data on the go with a mobile app
- Financial reporting: Generate detailed reports to understand your finances
- Payroll management: Handle employee payments and tax deductions easily
- Time tracking: Log work hours for accurate billing and payroll processing
Frequently Asked Questions About Quickbooks Alternatives
Can I move our records from QuickBooks to one of these alternatives without losing data?
Most church accounting software lets you import data from QuickBooks, but the process can take some time. Look for tools that offer import guides or support staff to walk you through the steps. You’ll usually need to export your records from QuickBooks in a format like CSV or Excel first. Double-check that your chosen software supports this before making the switch.
Are there any truly free church accounting options, or do they all come with hidden costs?
A few church accounting tools offer free versions, but most have limits on features or the number of users. Always read the fine print—sometimes “free” plans charge for support, giving statements, or extra storage. If your church is on a tight budget, compare what’s included in each free plan and watch out for upgrade fees down the road.
How easy is it to train a volunteer with no accounting experience to use these tools?
Many church-focused accounting platforms are designed for non-experts, with simple dashboards and step-by-step help. Some offer free training videos and email support. For small churches, pick a tool with clear instructions and a reputation for good customer service so your volunteers can get help when needed.
What’s the lowest-cost option that still keeps us compliant with tax and donor rules?
Look for software that includes fund accounting and donor management in their base price. Some low-cost tools, like Wave or ChurchTrac, are made for small churches and include features to help you stay compliant. Make sure the software can generate donor statements and basic financial reports—those are key for both compliance and transparency.
If our church grows, will we have to switch software again?
Many church accounting tools are built to scale as you add more members or ministries. Before picking a platform, check if it allows you to upgrade for more users or features without starting over. Ask about data export options too, just in case you ever need to move to a bigger system in the future.
What's Next?
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