Thanks for replying to that. I have never looked at the difference between the two versions (QB Pro vs. QB Accountants). Do you know what they are?
I knew most businesses used QB Pro I was thinking it would be easier doing bookkeeping for several clients with the accountant version. I have never set (or worked) remotely with QB. Is it difficult or pretty straight fwd if a person is computer literate?

Thanks
LoriLee

You can set up multiple clients on QB Pro. I don't use the accountant's version because it includes an annual subscription fee. I only have one client with an employee and I can hand calc her payroll (a combination of an on-line payroll calculator and an excel spreadsheet) in under 2 minutes.

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Lily Chambers, The Virtual Office Goddess, LLC
Author "How to Do Your Own Small Business Bookkeeping"

I use QuickBooks Accountant version simply because it gives me the ability to pull up any kind of QB file, contractors, retail merchants, manufacturing and wholesale, non profit, etc. I bought my first edition in 2006. There's no annual subscription that I know of, but there is for Payroll. The accountant version also gives some perks like remote access. I have one client with payroll, but no employees at the moment. You can have up to 3 per payroll subscription.

I'm seriously considering the QB Pro Advisor subscription that upgrades the software annually, and other benefits like training, and referrals. It's rather pricy, but buying the software on an annual basis is pricy. It is a business expense, and one that I'll gladly pay. I've been using QB since 1997 when my accountant recommended it for another business venture.

Originally Posted by LoriLee

Lanel, You menetioned you use QB Accountant version. My question is can you upgrade from QB Pro to the version? I am just starting my VA business and will not be offering full bookkeeping services right at first but will be adding in within the first 3 - 6 months. I don't want to pay more than necessary but if it saves in the long run I'd rather just purchase the accountant version right off. Correct me if I am wrong. The only way to do full charge bookkeeping for clients remotely/virtually is with the accountants version??? thanks LoriLee

Yes, you can upgrade to the Accountant's version. If you are just getting started invest in Pro and you'll be fine. As your business grows you'll know when you need the added benefit of Accountant's version. Is it worth it? I think so. But, not necessary. You can definitely run a bookkeeping company with just Pro.

Accountant's version is not the only way to do remote bookkeeping. Anything's possible if you find a solution to what might be considered a problem.

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Lanel Taylor, CVA ~ Virtual Bookkeeper
Taylored Office Solutions
Custom fit solutions for all your office needs.

I also use QuickBooks. I use 2007 pro for my personal finances, online for one of my clients and 2008 Pro for one client. I have used many different accounting programs over the years, but I always come back to QuickBooks. I have found it to be the most user-friendly and their forum is wonderful if you have questions.

Everyone has some wonderful ideas and suggestions for programs. I hope you are able to find the one that works the best for you.

Stacy

I use Simple Start for one client, but usually QB Pro for most others. Simple Start is extremely basic and great for a small start up company that doesn't have a ton of expenses. The thing I really don't like about SS is that you can't create sub-accounts. If you start growing and adding COA items, your reports become lengthy.

Pat Z

I use QuickBooks. This last year I started using QuickBooks online for my clients. It's easy to use and affordable. I've found their support very good.

Sue Canfield
Awesome Assistant

Quickbooks for me too. It has a lot of features and is user friendly. If you look under customer tab, it has a tab for entering time. Once you enter your time for the day, week or whatever, when you go to invoice your client, your start a new invoice and there is a tab at the top of your new invoice Time/Costs. if you click on that, another box comes up and you click on the tab Time or costs and if there is anything that you posted for that client, you can now enter that onto the invoice. Pretty slick.....

I also find their support to be very good. There are also many forums that are able to help when you have a difficult transaction such as trading services or bartering. Also what I like about quickbooks is that many other programs are compatiable with it and that is a very big concern to me. I am actually using the program for a project that I am working on with a client right now. They wanted all data put into an excel spreadsheet. There are about 1000 invoices with about 10 different products on them and they are want these invoices placed on a spreadsheet because they are going to be selling the business. I convinced them that once I place the info in quickbooks, I will be able to run any report they need. I can them import it into excel as a spreadsheet. But I couldn't run many types of reports. But with quickbooks the sky is the limit....

Hi
I use Microsoft Accounting 2008 and so far I'm happy enough with it. Saying that, I'm looking into Zoho as I've heard good things.

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Diane Murray, Scotland
www.theadministrator.co.uk

I would definitely recommend QuickBooks. My clients have been very impressed with the various reporting capabilities and ease of use. It is a wonderful program!

Thanks,
Cecilia

I've tried PeachTree but went back to QuickBooks. Not sure if its because I'm more experienced using QB or what but I find it very user friendly.

I use QB's Pro as well. I have used Peachtree, OneWrite, Microsoft Office Accounting, & Quicken Home & Business. I like QB's the best as it is very user friendly.

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Darcee Sellers
www.yoursavvyva.com

Hello, Group

Is it just Quickbook pros that I should look for? I was at a Staples last night and they had a whole isle full of Quickbook items....I was at a lost as to what to purchase. I am just getting started, so I do not have any type of bookkeeping software. Also will Quickbooks take care of my tax info? Or should you go directly to an accountant for that? So many questions...

Thanks everyone,
Rachael

Good to know that QB has a good reputation. Can you start with Simple Start and then upgrade to the PRO version or do you think it's best to start out right with the PRO version?