When it comes to accounting software, web-based solutions make accounting easy for many businesses by putting the software on the Internet and hosting it elsewhere. Any business can tap in any time from any location and update their records. These software programs are generally more sophisticated than purchased counterparts, with modules for everything from accounts receivable to check writing. They are usually very easy to use so you do not have to have accounting experience. Just fill in the blanks and the software makes the complex calculations for you.

Choose the right web-based accounting program for your business. Check into existing programs that provide everything or use a service that integrates with your present program so you do not duplicate information you already have. Just import your present data into the new program to set up your new system. Choose a service that offers assistance if you do run into an issue. Look at the following and make the best choice for your web-based accounting package:

1. Choose web-based accounting software for your business needs.

2. Pick web-based accounting systems that integrate with your existing programs.

3. Get customer support for your web-based accounting.

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

Locate web-based accounting programs for your business

Choose web-based accounting programs with full services and implement the system. You can be up and running in almost no time with a full-service accounting department, no matter what size your business happens to be.

I recommend: Aplicor provides easy to use web-based accounting software that integrates your entire business from accounting to warehouse in one system. With your entire company on the same page, you process orders faster and you send the bills faster. Peachtree offers their "ePeachtree" software, which provides a web-based accounting solution that is always available. Access the software from anywhere, anytime for a low yearly cost.

Find web-based business accounting programs that integrate with your present programs

Don't scrap the accounting program you are already using. Instead, use web-based programs that integrate with your present program and continue with the programs you already know, while adding needed modules to your present system.

I recommend: Nola Pro offers web-based software that grows with your business and integrates with the programs you already use. There are no setup costs or maintenance fees, just a monthly fee to use the service. Intacct offers web-based accounting software that seamlessly integrates with the other programs you already use, such as your payroll software.

Use web-based accounting application that provides customer service to you

Some of the accounting software systems can seem daunting at times, so make sure the one you choose has live customer service support. Call, email or fax your questions for an immediate answer, so your business does not grind to a stop.

I recommend: Quickbooks offers accounting software to accountants and non-accountants alike. Their easy-to-use software remembers your entries and does complex calculations for you so you do not have to have experience to use it. Find support for your questions through email, online forums or their extensive knowledge base. Netsuite offers several products including billing and other accounting programs. They offer support to their customers via phone and email.

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

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember that with accounting software, web-based solutions use the Internet to transmit your sensitive information. Protect yourself with firewalls and virus protection programs to prevent a security breach.