Low Cost Business Finance Software

If you are starting your own small business, low cost business finance software is probably on your acquisition list. Accounting, budgeting, future projections, and keeping track of all your clients can be a daunting task if you try it by hand, but business finance software can run in the hundreds in price. There are low cost options out there. They are low on price, but not low on the features you need. Here are some tips to keep the cost of your business finance software low, but your usage high.

Tip #1: Free can be good, if you are into simple.

Many business finance software providers have built programs that they allow you to use for free. They are downloadable from the internet and you can be up and running with them in a few hours if you know what you are doing. If you are into simple, and have simple needs, then the free versions of business finance software may suit your needs perfectly. The downside to the free version is the cost of support when you get stuck. Free versions don't typically come with the helpful hints, tutorials and wizards to get you started, and support can make paying for an upgrade save you money in the long run.

Tip #2: If free doesn't cut it, try the basic version first.
Business finance software comes in tiers. The bottom tier is typically free, the next tier up would be the basic version. Basic versions of business finance software are typically all a small, home-based business needs to get things done right. If you have questions, most software providers have forums on their website where you can research or post a question to be answered by other users. Some of the basic version software even comes with email support. Look for the amount of help you think you are going to need based on your finance experience. Prices vary, so find one that fits your budget.

Tip #3: Name brand equals fewer problems.
Although buying from the big brands usually means a bigger price tag, this is not always the case with business finance software. The few extra dollars you may pay goes to better support for the product you are buying and the peace of mind that tells you your software is going to perform correctly. With the tiered software packaging that all name brand providers have also make is easier for any budget to get what they need to help their business run smoothly.

Tip #4: Buy user friendly.
The real cost of your business finance software purchase comes after the fact. Most software program providers will want you to download updates and upgrades as often as possible. Each update and upgrade generally comes with a price tag attached, not to mention you have to pay for the support for each purchase you make, or pay per call. Charges for support of your business finance software can add up quickly. If you buy a user friendly version of software, you are less likely to need to purchase support, and updates will be minimal.

Tip #5: Don't buy directly from the software provider.
When you are purchasing your business finance software, don't purchase directly from the software provider. You will always be charged full price. Vendors and outlets get a discount when purchasing from the provider and generally will pass the savings on to you. You can always find the software you want for cheaper than the provider will sell if to you for.