Xero review

Xero is the main alternative to QuickBooks and the stronger choice for bank reconciliation and cash flow forecasting. Every plan includes reconciliation, Smart Document Capture, real-time reports, W-9 and 1099 management, sales tax, online invoice payments and free domestic ACH bill payments. Early costs $27 per month after a deep three-month discount and adds a 30-day cash flow forecast, but it caps you at 20 invoices and five bills, which many businesses will pass quickly. Growing, at $59, removes those limits and adds automated bill entry, performance dashboards, financial health scorecards and a 60-day forecast. Established, at $97, adds advanced tools and analytics. Payroll comes through Gusto. There is no free plan, and Xero's US accountant network is smaller than Intuit's. For a business that values clean reconciliation and forward-looking cash views, it is a strong pick.

Who it is for

Small businesses that want strong reconciliation and forecasting, and firms with an accountant who uses Xero.

Price

Early $27 per month after a 3-month discount; Growing $59; Established $97.

Then $27 per month An easy financial foundation - track cash flow with the essentials.
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 4, 2026.

Key features

• Bank reconciliation and Smart Document Capture on every plan
• W-9 and 1099 management and sales tax
• Cash flow forecasts, 30 days on Early and 60 days on Growing
• Automated bill entry and custom dashboards on Growing
• Free ACH bill payments and Xero Payroll powered by Gusto

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Core accounting features on every plan, including 1099s
• Strength: Free expert setup help
• Strength: Domestic ACH bill payments are free
• Weakness: Early caps you at 20 invoices and 5 bills
• Weakness: No free plan
• Weakness: Growing at $59 is where most businesses will land

Key facts

• Early plan limits: 20 invoices and 5 bills
• Payroll: Xero Payroll, powered by Gusto
• Paid tiers: Early, Growing, Established

Where it ranks

Xero is No. 3 in our Best Accounting Software verdict.