How much does bookkeeping software cost?
Bookkeeping software ranges from free to a few hundred dollars a month. Here's what you actually get at each level and how to avoid overpaying for features a small business never uses.
Free tiers
Some tools (including Simpler Ledger) offer a free plan that covers core bookkeeping for a single business — enough for many solo owners to keep tax-ready books at no cost.
Typical paid pricing
Most small-business bookkeeping software runs from around $10 to $30+ per month. Prices climb with the number of entities, users, and add-ons like payroll or inventory. Simpler Ledger's paid plans start at $9.99/month.
What drives the price
The big cost multipliers are features you may not need — full double-entry accounting, payroll, inventory, project management. If you just need to track income and expenses and produce tax-ready reports, a focused, affordable tool usually beats a full accounting suite on both simplicity and price.
Frequently asked questions
Is there free bookkeeping software?
Yes. Several tools offer a free tier for basic bookkeeping. Simpler Ledger is free to start for a single entity, with paid plans from $9.99/month when you need more.
What's the cheapest way to keep business books?
A free or low-cost bookkeeping app that imports your bank transactions is typically the cheapest reliable option — far less time than spreadsheets and far less money than a full accounting suite or a monthly bookkeeper.
Keep tax-ready books in minutes a week
Simpler Ledger imports your bank, files receipts, and builds Schedule C–ready reports. Free to start.
Start freeThis guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Consult a qualified professional about your situation.