The Best Bookkeeping Software for Creators-Led Small Businesses in 2025

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Let’s be real.

If you’re a creator running a small business, bookkeeping probably isn’t your favourite thing.

It’s messy. It’s time-consuming. And let’s not even talk about tax season.

But ignoring it? That’s risky.

You can’t build a solid business without keeping your finances in check.

So here’s the question: What’s the best bookkeeping software to help you get this done in 2025 without driving you up the wall?

Let’s talk about it.

Why Creators Need Bookkeeping Software

If you’re a podcaster, photographer, designer, or content creator, you know the struggle.

• Clients want invoices yesterday.

• Payments trickle in (or don’t).

• Expenses pile up without warning.

• Tax prep feels like a mountain you’re forced to climb.

Bookkeeping software solves these headaches.

The right tool saves you time, keeps you organised, and helps you avoid surprises when it comes to cash flow or taxes.

What To Look For in Bookkeeping Software

Before we get into the best options, let’s break down what matters:

1. Ease of Use

If you need a degree to use it, skip it.Simple dashboards, intuitive navigation, and a clear layout are a must.

2. Invoicing Features

Can it help you create invoices in minutes?Does it track who’s paid and who hasn’t?

3. Expense Tracking

Your software should help you stay on top of your spending.Ideally, it should sync with your bank accounts.

4. Tax Support

Whether you’re in the UK or elsewhere, tools that prep for VAT or other taxes can save you headaches.

5. Cost

You’re running a business, not burning money.Look for something reasonably priced.

The Top 5 Bookkeeping Software for Creators in 2025

1. JoinOtto

Why it’s great:JoinOtto was made for creators. It’s designed for podcasters, photographers, musicians, and others juggling gigs, invoices, and expenses.

Here’s what stands out:

• Smart Invoicing: Create, send, and track invoices all in one place.

• Expense Tracking: See where your money’s going without spreadsheets.

• Tax Prep: Helps you get VAT-ready if you’re in the UK.

• Simple Pricing: No hidden fees or unnecessary bells and whistles.

Real talk:JoinOtto feels like it “gets” creators. It’s not bloated with features you’ll never use. It just works.

2. Xero

Why it’s great:Xero is a solid choice for small businesses of all kinds.

Creators love it for its:

• Invoicing tools: Customise templates, send reminders, and get paid faster.

• Expense tracking: Automatic bank feed syncing makes life easier.

• Add-ons: Integrates with apps like Stripe or PayPal.

Heads up:It’s powerful but might take a minute to get used to.

3. QuickBooks Online

Why it’s great:QuickBooks has been around forever, and it’s still a go-to for many.

Here’s what’s good:

• Invoicing: Professional templates and payment tracking.

• Expense Management: Automatically categorises your spending.

• Tax Support: Keeps track of VAT and other requirements.

The catch:It’s robust but can feel overwhelming if you’re only after the basics.

4. FreshBooks

Why it’s great:FreshBooks is perfect if you’re more focused on invoices and time tracking.

What creators love:

• Time Tracking: Great for freelancers billing hourly.

• Custom Invoices: Send professional-looking invoices quickly.

• Expense Features: Snap photos of receipts and track spending.

The downside:Limited accounting features compared to others.

5. Wave Accounting

Why it’s great:Wave is free and designed for smaller operations.

Here’s why it works for creators:

• Free Invoicing: No fees, no fuss.

• Expense Tracking: Link your accounts and let Wave do the work.

• Reports: Basic financial reports for insights.

The trade-off:You’ll get fewer features than paid options, but for smaller setups, it does the job.

My Experience

When I first started using bookkeeping software, I wasted hours testing stuff that didn’t fit.Some were too complex.Others didn’t have the features I needed.And a few just felt clunky.

Eventually, I landed on JoinOtto.

It’s made for creators like us—people juggling projects, clients, and everything else.And that simplicity? It’s priceless.

FAQs

1. How much does bookkeeping software cost?

It depends. Some options like Wave are free, while others like Xero or QuickBooks can range from £10–£50 per month.

2. Do I need bookkeeping software if I’m just starting?

Absolutely. Starting with good habits sets you up for success later.

3. Can these tools handle taxes in the UK?

Yes, most of them support VAT and other tax requirements. Check features to confirm.

4. Which is best for invoicing?

JoinOtto and FreshBooks excel at invoicing, offering easy templates and tracking.

5. Is free software good enough?

For simple setups, Wave works well. But if you need more features, a paid tool might be better.