I'm currently setting up as a Bookkeeper and I'm looking at being completely digital. I need to be able to access the software on my laptop as well as mobile, and I would like my clients to be able to upload their transactions via an app. I will only be offering basic bookkeping VAT returns and tax returns for sole traders at first. No payroll yet but I will expand to this over the next year or so.
Can anyone recommend a cloud software for all of this? It's a bit of a mind field when all software company websites show is single self-employed fees, packages, etc.
Also, any other advice regarding being 100% digital is welcome.
You realise it takes longer for a client to scan and upload a document than it would take for them to enter the data?
Getting the client to do all the work is admirable and you would (or should) never hit a situation where there is no supporting documentation for a transaction....But.... As many here will attest, it doesn't go down with the client anywhere near as well as the software companies trying to sell you the solutions would have you believe.
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
I have a client who refuses to do his invoices on QB's because he likes his 'word' template! So I end up inputting them all, but at least that way I can check they are correct with the VAT etc.
The adverts on TV make out the client can do a lot themselves, this is utter rubbish, it just simply doesn't happen as they are far too busy and the whole point of them hiring you in the first place is to get you to do it. So although everything digital in theory should work, it just simply doesn't!
This is not good news to me. As a reader of other forums as well, my impression was that those using digital software found it much easier.
I have a client who inputs her own invoices/receipts but it's becoming more and more of a burden, not helped by the fact that half of them are on email! She says she simply hasn't got time to do it anymore
I'm looking at possibly using Dext, or alternatively Capium as a means to get all the info to me for me to do it and get her to pay the additional cost. I'm planning to move everything across to Capium from April this year, if things go to plan.
They have an app that the client can photo receipts on, but if it's the case that client's don't welcome it, then it may not give me what I was hoping for.
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John
Any advice given is for general guidance and professional advice should be sought applicable to your circumstances.
With Xero, your client can email the invoice to Xero, who will do their best to create a realistic draft invoice.
I do agree with Leger, Dext and Capium are good solutions that will automate as much of this process as possible.
That reads as though Xero do your bookkeeping for you? Isn't that the same as saying if you email your data to Microsoft they'll build your spreadsheet for you?
Think that you might want to rephrase your response as it currently doesn't make sense.
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
We use streem connect so we can download transactions whenever we want them. not sure if that is what you mean but removes the headache of clients having to actually upload docs themselves
I think the OP was looking for something that allows them to receive documents from their clients, not just bank feeds, most cloud software allows you to use bank feeds, although the one I use charges £1.80 + VAT a month per client. (the software is cheaper though)
-- Edited by Leger on Saturday 13th of August 2022 05:28:52 PM
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John
Any advice given is for general guidance and professional advice should be sought applicable to your circumstances.
