The right billing and accounting software saves hours every week; the wrong one creates workarounds. Use this checklist to compare options.
1. Tax support for your country
Does it handle the taxes you deal with — GST in India, VAT in Thailand or Vietnam? Does it calculate the right tax type automatically and produce tax reports you can use? See GST invoice guide, VAT in Thailand and VAT in Vietnam.
2. Real accounting underneath
Look for double-entry accounting, a chart of accounts and the standard reports: Day Book, Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Trial Balance and ageing. See double-entry bookkeeping.
3. Inventory that fits you
Traders need stock tracking, lots and reorder alerts. Manufacturers also need a bill of materials and production entries.
4. Documents you actually use
Quotations, proforma invoices, tax invoices, credit and debit notes, payments and expenses. For goods movement in India, check e-Way Bill support.
5. Control and audit
Roles and menu access, an audit trail of who changed what, and a login history help you trust the numbers.
6. Multiple companies
If you run more than one business, check whether each needs a separate subscription. With Onyx Bills you can create up to three companies under one subscription.
7. Language and local fit
Can your team use it in their language? Onyx Bills supports English, Thai and Vietnamese.
8. Price and support
Compare monthly and annual pricing in your own currency, and check how you can reach support. See Onyx Bills pricing.
Questions to ask any vendor
- Can I export my data to PDF and Excel?
- How are updates to tax rules handled?
- What happens to my data if I leave?
- Who can see what in my company?
- Can I try it with real data before committing?
Frequently asked questions
Cloud or desktop software?
Cloud software works from any device and is updated centrally. Desktop software may work offline but needs backups and manual updates.
Should I pick one tool for billing and another for inventory?
Separate tools can work but need syncing. If you make products, a combined option such as Onyx Combo keeps billing and stock in step.
When is it time to move from spreadsheets?
When errors, duplicate entry or slow reporting start costing you time or money.
This guide is general information, not accounting, tax or legal advice. Rules and rates change, so confirm the current position with a qualified professional.