7 Best Accounting Software for Virtual Assistants (2026)
We compared 5 top tools for this category. FreshBooks is our #1 overall recommendation, boasting a 4.8/5 rating and excelling at hourly billing. If you are looking for an alternative specifically for free essentials, Wave is a highly capable runner-up.
FreshBooks
Perfect for tracking time across multiple clients. You can start a timer for 'Client A', work for an hour, and instantly convert that into a detailed invoice that shows exactly what you did.
Runner Ups
Wave
Free EssentialsMaximize your margins. Since VAs often have low overhead, Wave's free invoicing and accounting software allows you to keep 100% of your earnings (minus payment fees).
- Free forever
- Professional invoice templates
- Simple expense tracking
- No time tracking in-app
- Customer support is paid
Starting at
Free
HoneyBook
Retainer PackagesGood for VAs who offer packages. If you sell '10-hour blocks' or monthly retainer packages, HoneyBook manages the contract, payment, and renewal automatically.
- Automated autopay for retainers
- Contract + Invoice in one
- Visual project pipeline
- Transaction fees apply
- Reporting is light
Starting at
$16/mo
Bonsai
Contracts & ProtectionOffers peace of mind with contracts. Bonsai has ironclad contracts specifically for VAs and freelancers, ensuring you get paid even if a client tries to ghost you.
- Vetted contract templates
- Automated late fees
- Client portal
- Slightly pricey for starters
- Banking integration varies
Starting at
$24/mo
QuickBooks Solopreneur
Tax DeductionsFor tax time. VAs often work from home, and this tool helps you maximize your home office deduction and track mileage if you run errands for local clients.
- Home office deduction tracking
- Quarterly tax estimates
- User-friendly mobile app
- Cannot upgrade to full QBO
- Limited invoicing features
Starting at
$15/mo
Related Comparisons
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about choosing the right software.
Based on our analysis of 5 options, FreshBooks is the best overall choice for virtual assistants, earning a 4.8/5 rating. Key strengths include Seamless time-to-invoice workflow and Retainer management features. For a different focus, Wave (4.6/5) is a strong alternative specializing in free essentials.
FreshBooks (4.8/5, $17/mo) is best for hourly billing, while Wave (4.6/5, Free) excels at free essentials. FreshBooks takes the top spot overall, but Wave is the better pick if your priority is specifically free essentials.
Yes, 1 tool(s) in this comparison offer a free plan or freemium tier: Wave. Among them, Wave stands out for virtual assistants thanks to its focus on free essentials.
Key criteria for virtual assistants include: hourly billing, free essentials, retainer packages. Our #1 pick FreshBooks leads in hourly billing, while HoneyBook (4.7/5) is a noteworthy option for retainer packages. Consider your specific workflow needs and budget to narrow down the best fit.
In this comparison of 5 tools, pricing ranges from Free (Wave) at the low end to premium enterprise tiers. 1 tool(s) offer free plans. For the best balance of features and value, we recommend FreshBooks at $17/mo.