10 Best Bench Bookkeeping Alternatives For Small Business 2025

The recent closure of Bench has left many searching for the best Bench bookkeeping alternatives for small businesses. Finding a reliable service is now more important than ever.

Whether you need help with tax filing, financial statements, or advanced accounting closure, the right bookkeeping service can make all the difference. From inexpensive bookkeeping tools to cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, there are plenty of options for businesses with unique needs. Popular names such as Pilot and Bookkeeper.com also feature highly in accounting reviews for their flexibility and pricing.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the 10 best alternatives to Bench for 2025. These options offer tailored solutions for small business owners, helping you navigate financial reporting and online bookkeeping with ease. Read on to find the perfect fit and secure your financial future.

What are Online Bookkeeping Services?

Online bookkeeping services help businesses manage their financial records over the Internet. Instead of hiring a local bookkeeper, you can use digital tools or services to handle tasks like tracking income and expenses, preparing financial statements, and managing tax filing.

These services are usually cloud-based, meaning you can access your data anytime, from anywhere. They are ideal for small businesses that need inexpensive bookkeeping solutions but don’t want to compromise accuracy.

Key Benefits of Online Bookkeeping

Accessibility: Manage your finances on the go with just an internet connection.
Automation: Many tools, like QuickBooks or Pilot bookkeeping, automate repetitive tasks, saving time.
Cost-Effectiveness: Online tools are often more affordable than hiring full-time bookkeepers.
Scalability: As your business grows, you can upgrade plans to include features like payroll or advanced financial reporting.

Why Look for Bench Alternatives?

Bench stopped working right before tax season, leaving its customers scrambling for help. It has allowed users to download financial records until March 7 and suggested they ask for more time to file taxes.

This shows why it is good to think about other options. Relying on only one service can be risky. A new provider should be stable and easy to use. It should also have good support if there are problems. Having backup plans can save businesses from trouble in the future.

Additionally, not every business has the same requirements. For example, a construction company might need job costing, while a freelancer might prefer a simpler and cheaper solution. This is why it’s important to look for alternatives that fit your specific requirements, offer stability, and provide excellent support. Choosing the right service can save businesses from disruptions and help them stay financially healthy.

Why Reliable Bookkeeping Matters

Good bookkeeping helps small businesses stay organized and grow. It ensures all your financial statements, like profit and loss reports, are accurate. This is important for making smart decisions and meeting deadlines for tax filing.

A reliable bookkeeping service helps:

Track income and expenses.
Prepare for audits or tax seasons.
Avoid errors that can lead to financial loss.

For small businesses, picking the right service can mean the difference between stress and success. Exploring alternatives to Bench gives you the chance to find something that matches your business’s unique needs and budget.

How to Choose the Right Bookkeeping Service for Your Small Business

Choosing the right bookkeeping service for your small business is essential for maintaining financial health and efficiency. Here are key considerations and steps to help you make an informed decision.

Key Features to Look For

When selecting a bookkeeping service, ensure it offers the core features your business needs. This includes tools for financial reporting, accounting closure, and tax filing. Look for services that can:

Generate accurate financial statements (e.g., income and cash flow reports).
Automate tasks like expense tracking and invoice management.
Provide online bookkeeping for easy access from anywhere.

For example, services like QuickBooks or Pilot bookkeeping excel in offering these features with user-friendly interfaces. Businesses that value convenience and efficiency should prioritize services that are cloud-based or include mobile apps.

Budget Considerations

Affordability is crucial for small businesses. Inexpensive bookkeeping options like basic accounting software or DIY platforms can work well for startups. However, you may need to invest more in bookkeeping services if your business has complex needs.

Think about:

Pricing plans: Are they flexible enough for your business size?
Hidden costs: Some platforms charge extra for additional users or tax support.

For example, while Bench might charge higher fees, alternatives like Wave or FreshBooks can offer more affordable plans.

Integration with Existing Tools

Choose a service that works well with the tools you already use. Integration with software like QuickBooks, payroll systems, or CRM platforms can save time and reduce errors. For example:

If you use an accounting software, ensure your bookkeeping service syncs smoothly.
If you manage inventory, find a service with real-time tracking features.

A service that integrates seamlessly ensures your workflow is uninterrupted, helping you focus on growing your business.

Top 10 Bench Bookkeeping Alternatives

Service	Key Features	Pros	Pricing
QuickBooks Live	Certified bookkeepers, month-end close assistance, custom chart of accounts, real-time collaboration.	Easy to use, expert support, time-saving, scalable, accurate books ready for tax filing.	$200-$600/month based on expenses.
Pilot	Dedicated accountant, accrual-based bookkeeping, tax services, custom reports, CFO services.	Specialized for startups, comprehensive services, scalable, integrates with QuickBooks/Xero.	Starts at $349/month, custom pricing.
Bookkeeper.com	Full-service bookkeeping, payroll, tax filing, financial planning, dedicated account managers.	Tailored for professional services, certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors, comprehensive service.	Starts at $399/month.
Merritt Bookkeeping	Automated bookkeeping, QuickBooks integration, monthly reports, tax reporting tools.	Affordable flat-rate, ease of use, reliable support.	$250/month.
InDinero	Accrual bookkeeping, tax compliance, financial forecasting, fractional CFO services, customized solutions.	All-in-one service, startup-friendly, advanced insights.	Starts at ~$75/month, custom pricing.
Less Accounting	Income/expense tracking, bank reconciliation, invoicing tools, tax reporting, integrations.	Simple, affordable, time-saving, intuitive platform.	Starts at $24/month, custom services.
Fiverr Bookkeeping	Freelance bookkeepers for reconciliation, tax prep, payroll, financial reporting.	Cost-effective, customizable solutions, scalable services.	$5-$500+/project, flexible pricing.
Zinance	Cloud-based bookkeeping, income/expense categorization, tax readiness, monthly financial reports.	Transparent pricing, user-friendly, small business focus.	Starts at $150/month.
FlowFi	Automated bookkeeping, real-time reporting, dedicated financial advisor, tax compliance support.	Tech-driven, personalized support, scalable options.	Starts at $299/month.
Bookkeeper360	Real-time bookkeeping, payroll/HR, CFO advisory, dashboards, tax compliance.	Scalable, comprehensive services, integrates with accounting platforms.	$399-$1,149/month, custom options.

QuickBooks Live Bookkeeping

QuickBooks Live Bookkeeping is a service designed for small business owners who want expert assistance with managing their books. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online, providing access to certified bookkeepers who help organize financial data, ensure accuracy, and handle month-end tasks. This service is ideal for businesses looking for a trusted partner to manage their bookkeeping while focusing on growth.

Features:

Certified Bookkeepers: Access to QuickBooks-certified experts for guidance and support.
Month-End Close Assistance: Professional help in reconciling accounts and closing books each month.
Custom Chart of Accounts: Tailored setup to match your business needs and industry.
Real-Time Collaboration: Communicate with bookkeepers via video calls and messaging.
Detailed Reports: Gain insights into financial health through accurate reporting.

Pros:

Ease of Use: Seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks Online for a streamlined experience.
Expert Support: Personalized assistance from experienced bookkeepers.
Time Savings: Offloads bookkeeping tasks, allowing business owners to focus on core operations.
Scalability: Suitable for small businesses with growing needs.
Accuracy and Compliance: Ensures books are error-free and ready for tax filing.

Pricing:

QuickBooks Live Bookkeeping pricing varies based on business size and complexity:

Starter Plan: $200/month – for businesses with up to $25,000 in monthly expenses.
Growth Plan: $400/month – for businesses with expenses between $25,001 and $150,000.
Advanced Plan: $600/month – for businesses with over $150,000 in monthly expenses.

Pricing includes access to dedicated bookkeepers and all core services, making it a comprehensive solution for small business owners.

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Pilot

Pilot offers bookkeeping and accounting services tailored to startups and growing businesses. The service connects clients with dedicated accountants to manage their financials, ensuring accurate reporting and a solid foundation for growth. Pilot’s team specializes in working with technology companies and provides advanced features like CFO services and tax support.

Features

Dedicated Accountant: Each client is matched with a personal accountant to handle bookkeeping and financial reporting.
Accrual-Based Bookkeeping: Pilot offers comprehensive accrual accounting to reflect a more accurate financial position.
Tax Services: Pilot provides tax compliance and filing services, including quarterly filings and year-end tax prep.
Custom Financial Reports: Clients receive tailored reports to help track performance, profits, and other key financial metrics.
CFO Services Add-Ons: For businesses in need of additional strategic financial insights, Pilot offers fractional CFO services.

Pros

Specialized for Startups: Expert understanding of the unique needs of fast-growing businesses.
Comprehensive Services: Includes both bookkeeping and tax services, as well as advanced financial insights.
Dedicated Support: Provides a personal accountant who can advise on business strategy and financial planning.
Scalable: Pilot’s services grow with your business, making it suitable for startups to large enterprises.
Seamless Software Integration: Integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Xero, offering a smooth transition from manual accounting to automation.

Pricing

Pilot’s pricing starts at $349 per month, but the cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of the business. Custom pricing is available for clients with more complex needs, especially those requiring CFO services or additional reporting.

Get Started with Pilot

Bookkeeper.com

Bookkeeper.com offers full-service bookkeeping solutions specifically designed for small to mid-sized businesses, including those in professional services. Their services are geared towards helping businesses maintain accurate financial records, streamline payroll processes, and ensure tax compliance. With a team of certified professionals, Bookkeeper.com supports businesses in industries like law, accounting, and consulting, offering tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.

Features

Full-Service Bookkeeping: Includes all aspects of bookkeeping, from transaction recording to financial reporting.
Payroll Management: Handles payroll services and ensures compliance with tax regulations.
Tax Filing Support: Provides assistance with preparing and filing business taxes, minimizing the risk of errors.
Financial Planning: Helps with budgeting, forecasting, and making financial decisions based on up-to-date financial data.
Dedicated Account Managers: Each client gets a dedicated bookkeeper to oversee their financials and offer personalized support.

Pros

Tailored for Professional Services: Provides specialized solutions for industries like law, consulting, and medical services.
Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors: Work with experts who are certified in QuickBooks, ensuring accurate bookkeeping and compliance.
Affordable Plans: Offers competitive pricing that suits small businesses in professional services.
Comprehensive Service: From bookkeeping to tax filing, it offers an all-in-one solution for financial management.
Scalable Solutions: Suitable for growing businesses, with flexible plans that can be adjusted to your needs.

Pricing

Bookkeeper.com offers various pricing plans based on the size of the business and the complexity of services required:

Bookkeeping Plan: Starts at $399/month – for small businesses with basic bookkeeping needs.
Tax Plan: Starts at $350/month – for preparation of Federal and State tax returns, tax planning.
Payroll Plan: Starts at $125/month – for comprehensive payroll solutions.

The pricing includes all core services such as bookkeeping, payroll, and tax filing, with customizable add-ons depending on specific business needs.

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Merritt Bookkeeping

Merritt Bookkeeping is an affordable, straightforward bookkeeping service designed for small businesses. It offers a simple, flat-rate pricing structure, providing a hassle-free solution for managing your books without the need for complex accounting software or tools.