Xero
April 1, 2023

Why use Xero?

Kyle Bonerath
Accountant & Registered Tax Agent

Why Xero is the best accounting software for businesses in Australia

Inundated by options in your search for the perfect cloud-based accounting software? You're not alone! With so many platforms accessible, finding a solution that matches all of your criteria can be overwhelming. Plus, with complex feature lists which only an accountant would comprehend, it's difficult to determine which one will give you the best results.


Don't worry - we've got you covered! If you're just starting a business or changing up your software, Xero is the answer for all of your needs. At Bonerath & Co, we absolutely adore Xero and rely on it to assist our clients with their businesses. And there's a reason why: It surpasses every other option available in the market today! Here's what makes it so exceptional...

1. More accountants and bookkeepers use Xero

If you're contemplating hiring an accountant or bookkeeper, the likelihood is that they will be knowledgeable in Xero. Using a program your professional is already familiar with can save cash and time as they'll understand it inside and out, enabling them to utilize advanced features for improved business outcomes. Maximize the potential of your experts - invest in Xero now and reap all its benefits!


By using the same software, you and your accountant will be able to connect without delay. You won't need to waste time setting up a new system or waiting for them to get started, saving both of you valuable energy and money. Seamless accounting provides maximum value for your budget - it's an advantage that truly benefits any business.


2. Versatile integration options

To keep your business running smoothly and efficiently, you need more than just accounting software - the other software you use should also be able to integrate with it. Fortunately, Xero offers one of the most extensive integration options out there! This gives your company an incredible edge against its competitors.

As the leading market provider, Xero has enabled developers of all types of business software to integrate with it. To make your search for these integrations easier, Xero created a comprehensive app store where you can quickly access and add apps to your account. It's just another way that Xero simplifies things for business owners!


3. Automation features save time

Artificial Intelligence and automation have become a fixture in our lives, from the software we use to account management. Xero stands out as a leading provider of AI-powered accounting solutions that can help you optimize your business operations.

Automating bank reconciliations and short-term cashflow forecasting with Xero saves you time spent on manual data entry while giving you more comprehensive information. And this is just the start of how Xero's commitment to AI technology can streamline your business management even further.

In the meantime, there are plenty of helpful automation features accessible to take care of numerous mundane tasks. These include invoice notifications, banking regulations setup, bill entry and a multitude of other functionalities.

4. Payroll

When it comes to managing your staff, Xero's payroll software is an absolute must-have. It not only keeps you compliant with the STP rules but also makes employee management a breeze - giving you access to pay schedules, taxes and superannuation balances all in one place. Not only does its simple design make for quick navigation between menus, but it also offers powerful features such as a mobile app that enables employees to request leave or view their payslips from anywhere at any time. All this combined with no doubt why Xero has become the leader of the market!

Xero's payroll software is jam-packed with features - so many, in fact, that they would take a separate article to cover them all. Whether you are a startup looking for the payroll-only plan or require automatic online processing and STP reporting; whatever it may be, rest assured: Xero has an your business covered.

5. Plenty of online help

Are you sick and tired of having software issues only to turn to Google for an answer - only to be frustrated by finding nothing? Don't worry, Xero makes sure that isn’t the case. As a widely used platform with plenty of support online, you can rest assured that when facing any problem, there's always a guide available right at your fingertips.

If you're just getting started with Xero, there are plenty of training programs to help you understand the various features. Additionally, if you've been using another system previously and want to switch over quickly and easily, set-up services are available for smooth integration into Xero. With these professional teams managing the transition process for you, it couldn't be more straightforward!

If you would like your Xero file set-up by a professional, come have a chat with us.

6. Xero support is handy

When you can't find the answer on your own, Xero is there to help. They offer an extensive library of guides and tutorials online as well as experienced support staff available through email who are ready to assist with any issue quickly and effectively. Don't be stuck in a bind without answers - let Xero provide the solution!

You can also consult with your bookkeeper or accountant if they are well-versed in Xero. Chances are, they have likely dealt with this issue before and will be able to guide you through the troubleshooting process.

7. A package to suit your budget

Xero has 5 different pricing packages that can help you tailor Xero to your needs. Let’s run through each pricing tier.

  • Starter: Are you a small business or freelancer looking to get started with the Xero suite? Then Starter is your ideal plan. With this package, you can easily send quotes and up to 20 invoices, enter as many as 5 bills, and manage payroll for 1 employee.
  • Standard: Xero's Standard Plan is their go-to plan and offers you a variety of helpful features. You can create unlimited invoices and quotes, quickly reconcile your bank accounts, manage 2 people on payroll and more - all in one place.
  • Premium: The Premium plan gives you all of Xero’s main features, including those from the standard package, plus automated superannuation and multiple currencies. This plan also offers multiple levels, where you can increase the number of employees that you can include in payroll.
  • Ultimate: If you’re a larger business or have complex needs, the ultimate plan is for you. Not only do all of its features match those included in our premium plan but it also provides project tracking and Xero's advanced insights. Plus, as your company grows it can easily adjust to suit up to 200 employees - making this package simply perfect for any sizable enterprise.
  • Payroll Only: With this plan, you can provide for up to four employees at the minimal cost of only $10 a month. If your small business employs just a few people, then this tier is ideal for ensuring your company remains compliant with STP while still staying within the budget.

With Xero as your core finance system, you get real control over every element of running your business, from basic bookkeeping right through to efficient online invoicing, live bank feeds and detailed financial reporting.

Conclusion

If you are looking for new accounting software, it is hard to look past Xero. It offers an excellent set of features in a well-designed package. With over 3.5 million subscribers in more than 180 countries it is safe to say that a lot of businesses agree.

If you are switching to Xero and want to learn the ins and outs, come have a chat with the Xero experts at Bonerath & Co.

How we can help?

If you need more advice on this issue, please contact our team.

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