Accounting software for small businesses presents special challenges. Your business has probably outgrown the paper ledger you were using, and now you need a system that will integrate all your data as well as grow with you. You also need a system that many of your employees can access, since everyone needs to be on the same page to make sales and billing efficient.

Choose to buy, download, install and maintain your own software or choose web-based software as a service for your office needs. Make sure you know how to reach customer service for issues that may arise. Look for the following when choosing small business accounting software solutions:

1. Purchase accounting software for small business as a full-service suite.

2. Choose online small business accounting software and access from anywhere.

3. Pick a small business accounting software package that includes customer support.

Action Steps for Small Business Accounting Software Success
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find small business accounting software vendors with full service programs

Many of the big names in the business provide full service accounting programs for small and medium-sized businesses. Look over the programs and ask for a free trial or demo before you buy, to make sure you get the services you need from the software application.

I recommend: Microsoft Office Accounting provides accounting software for your business. This program integrates with other programs you may be using and downloads in minutes to have you up and running fast. Process credit cards, email invoices or manage sales with this complete software application. MYOB offers software applications for both Windows and Macintosh. You can download a trial version and try it before you buy.

Select web-based accounting software for a small business and be maintenance-free

Instead of purchasing a software for your business computer, consider using one of the companies that provide software as a service for accounting. You do not need to worry about maintenance and any person can access the system from anywhere. Today, to keep the edge, business does not stop when employees go home for the day, so use software that allows access when you travel or even from home.

I recommend: Software Technology for Business offers "Integral Accounting" web-based software for as many users as you need. There are no extra charges for additional users so give it a try. SAP offers software accounting solutions to small companies. Instead of separate programs for each aspect of your business, they integrate everything into one easy-to-use program that is readily accessible to you from anywhere, anytime.

Locate a small business accounting application with live customer support

The software system you put in place may develop issues or you may just have general questions regarding usage. Make sure you can reach a live customer service person to answer your questions in a timely fashion, so your business does not stop while waiting for the answer.

I recommend: Intuit Quickbooks offers accounting software with customer service support by phone or email. Choose the program that works best for your company's needs. Peachtree by Sage offers accounting software with customer service available by phone, fax or email.

Tips & Tactics to Get the Most from Small Business Accounting Software

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure the small business accounting systems you choose can grow with your business. Also, find out if updated versions of the program cost you or if the company provides updates at no charge.