COUNT Review 2025: Pricing, Features, Pros & Cons, Ratings & More
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
COUNT: Top Accounting Software
4.35 / 5
Featured Accounting Software Alternatives for COUNT
Custom
No
regulatory compliance, automation, cloud access
Editor's Take
NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed to streamline business processes for organizations of all sizes. Key features include financial management, order management, inventory control, and procurement. It also offers advanced analytics and real-time reporting, making it ideal for decision-making. Pros include scalability, extensive customization, and seamless integration with other NetSuite modules like CRM and eCommerce. However, it can have a steep learning curve, and pricing may be high for smaller businesses. NetSuite ERP is best suited for growing companies needing a robust, all-in-one platform to manage complex operations across multiple departments.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$129 per month
Demo available
Automated invoice processing, global payments, tax compliance management
Editor's Take
Tipalti is an automation-focused financial management platform designed to streamline global payables for businesses. Its key features include automated invoice processing, global payments in multiple currencies, tax compliance management, and real-time payment reconciliation. The platform also integrates with accounting tools like NetSuite and QuickBooks, enhancing financial workflows. Pros include its ease of use, scalability for growing companies, and robust automation capabilities that reduce manual work. However, Tipalti’s complexity may be overkill for smaller businesses with simpler payables processes. Tipalti is ideal for medium to large enterprises managing high volumes of international payments and seeking to optimize financial operations.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Editor's Take
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
COUNT Review
What is COUNT?
COUNT is a cloud-based accounting platform designed to streamline financial management for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers real-time financial tracking, automated invoicing, expense management, and comprehensive reporting tools among other features. Our COUNT review uncovered a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily monitor cash flow, manage budgets, and generate financial statements.
Additionally, COUNT integrates with various third-party applications, enhancing its functionality and adaptability to diverse business needs. Its secure cloud infrastructure ensures that financial data is accessible anytime, anywhere, while maintaining high standards of data protection. Overall, this COUNT review revealed that the accounting system provides an efficient and reliable solution for businesses seeking to optimize their accounting processes.
What's new in COUNT?
During our COUNT review, we discovered that the solution has recently unveiled a series of updates designed to revolutionize how businesses manage their accounting processes. These enhancements are focused on streamlining workflows, improving accessibility, and providing advanced tools for financial management. Among the standout features is the introduction of AI-powered automation, which tackles repetitive accounting tasks such as transaction categorization and duplicate detection. By integrating predictive analytics, COUNT enables users to gain actionable insights, reducing manual effort and fostering informed decision-making.
A key improvement is the revamped invoicing system. With this update, users can create and customize invoices efficiently, supported by features like automated reminders, recurring billing, and integrated inventory tracking. This ensures that payments are managed effectively, allowing businesses to focus on growth. Additionally, in our COUNT review, the enhanced accounts payable workflow introduces bill creation and processing automation, saving time and simplifying financial operations for growing organizations.
This COUNT review has also allowed us to experience the solution's prioritization of real-time insights with tools like Project Insights and MRR/ARR tracking. These additions empower businesses to precisely monitor financial performance, offering an up-to-date financial health overview. The platform’s real-time syncing with bank accounts and credit cards ensures that data remains current and accurate, making financial reporting seamless.
Lastly, our COUNT review has shown us that it is startup-friendly with its new pricing model. Because of this, businesses or schools with monthly revenues or expenditures below $15,000 can get free access. This initiative ensures that emerging businesses can leverage advanced accounting tools without financial strain, while more mature companies benefit from competitive pricing as they scale. Together, these updates solidify COUNT’s position as a leading solution for modern, tech-savvy accounting needs.
Featured Accounting Software Products
Custom
No
regulatory compliance, automation, cloud access
Editor's Take
NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed to streamline business processes for organizations of all sizes. Key features include financial management, order management, inventory control, and procurement. It also offers advanced analytics and real-time reporting, making it ideal for decision-making. Pros include scalability, extensive customization, and seamless integration with other NetSuite modules like CRM and eCommerce. However, it can have a steep learning curve, and pricing may be high for smaller businesses. NetSuite ERP is best suited for growing companies needing a robust, all-in-one platform to manage complex operations across multiple departments.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$129 per month
Demo available
Automated invoice processing, global payments, tax compliance management
Editor's Take
Tipalti is an automation-focused financial management platform designed to streamline global payables for businesses. Its key features include automated invoice processing, global payments in multiple currencies, tax compliance management, and real-time payment reconciliation. The platform also integrates with accounting tools like NetSuite and QuickBooks, enhancing financial workflows. Pros include its ease of use, scalability for growing companies, and robust automation capabilities that reduce manual work. However, Tipalti’s complexity may be overkill for smaller businesses with simpler payables processes. Tipalti is ideal for medium to large enterprises managing high volumes of international payments and seeking to optimize financial operations.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Editor's Take
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$29 per month billed annually, free plan available
14 days
employee scheduling, time tracking, task management
Editor's Take
Connecteam is a mobile-first workforce management platform designed to help businesses streamline communication, scheduling, training, and operations for deskless and remote teams. Ideal for industries like retail, hospitality, construction, and healthcare, Connecteam offers an intuitive, all-in-one solution for managing employees from any location, ensuring that teams stay connected, engaged, and productive.
With features for employee scheduling, time tracking, task management, and real-time communication, Connecteam enables managers to coordinate tasks and monitor progress with ease. The platform also includes tools for onboarding and training, allowing businesses to standardize knowledge-sharing and compliance while tracking employee progress. Through customizable workflows, forms, and reporting, Connecteam provides valuable insights into team performance and operational efficiency. For organizations looking to improve team coordination, enhance communication, and empower deskless employees, Connecteam delivers a flexible and user-friendly solution that supports growth and efficiency.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$21 per user per month
30 days
Customizable Invoices, Expense Tracking, Time Tracking
Editor's Take
FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting and invoicing software designed for freelancers, small businesses, and self-employed professionals. It simplifies financial management with features like invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, and automated payment reminders. FreshBooks also offers robust reporting tools to provide insights into cash flow and profitability. With its mobile app, users can manage finances, track billable hours, and collaborate with clients on the go. Integrating seamlessly with payment gateways and other business tools, FreshBooks helps businesses save time and stay organized.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
By quote
Demo available
Tax management, employee self-service, analytics
Editor's Take
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform designed for medium to large businesses. It offers a suite of tools that streamline HR, payroll, talent management, time and attendance, and benefits administration. Known for its scalability and ease of use, ADP Workforce Now allows businesses to automate routine tasks, maintain compliance with changing regulations, and optimize workforce management.
Key features include robust payroll and tax management, employee self-service options, and integrated reporting and analytics. The platform also offers mobile access, allowing employees and managers to handle HR tasks on the go. ADP Workforce Now’s integration capabilities with third-party applications and its strong focus on data security make it a trusted solution for managing complex HR operations.
For businesses seeking a reliable, all-in-one HCM solution that enhances efficiency, ensures compliance, and scales with growth, ADP Workforce Now is an excellent choice.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Custom
No
Accounts payable, receivable, general ledger, cash management
Editor's Take
Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management software designed to help businesses streamline their accounting processes. Key features include accounts payable and receivable, general ledger, cash management, and advanced reporting with real-time financial insights. It also offers multi-entity and global consolidations, making it suitable for businesses operating across multiple locations. Pros include its strong integration capabilities with other business tools, scalability, and in-depth reporting features. However, the software may require a learning curve and customization for optimal use. Sage Intacct is ideal for growing small to mid-sized companies looking for robust, scalable financial management and automation solutions.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$39 per month plus $5 per employee per month
Yes
Yes
Editor's Take
Paychex is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) solution that offers payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance services for businesses of all sizes. With its robust set of features, Paychex automates payroll processing, tax filing, and benefits administration, helping businesses save time and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. It also provides tools for managing employee benefits, time and attendance, and workforce analytics.
Key features include automated payroll, tax compliance, employee onboarding, benefits management, and a self-service portal for employees to access pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits information. Paychex integrates with various accounting and HR software, making it a versatile solution for businesses with complex needs. The platform is also scalable, catering to both small businesses and large enterprises with customizable features and services.
For businesses seeking a comprehensive solution to manage payroll, HR, and benefits efficiently, Paychex offers a trusted platform that enhances workforce management while ensuring compliance and reducing administrative burdens.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
How much does COUNT cost?
COUNT: Top Accounting Software
4.35 / 5
For accountants managing a school’s finances, understanding the cost of accounting software is crucial for effective budget planning. COUNT pricing offers a flexible and affordable structure designed to meet the needs of organizations of all sizes. Whether your school is operating on a limited budget or requires advanced features as it grows, COUNT provides scalable options, including free access for smaller entities and competitively priced plans for larger institutions. By aligning its cost structure with your financial requirements, COUNT ensures that managing your school’s finances remains efficient and budget-friendly.
Here is a breakdown of the COUNT pricing plans:
Free
- $15k monthly expense or revenue limit
- 1 bank feed connection
Growing - $29/month or $290/year
- $200k monthly expense or revenue limit
- 3 bank feed connections
- Reduced payment fees
Pro - $99/month or $990/year
- Unlimited monthly expense or revenue limit
- Unlimited bank feeds
- Reduced payment fees
- Remove COUNT branding on estimates & invoices
In addition to its core features, COUNT offers an optional People Features add-on, designed to enhance operational efficiency through tools for time tracking, expense management, and employee management. This add-on is available for just $8 per month per employee, making it an affordable solution for schools looking to streamline staff-related processes. With these capabilities, COUNT addresses your accounting needs and supports the broader management of your school’s operations, ensuring seamless integration across financial and administrative tasks.
What sets COUNT apart?
In a comprehensive COUNT review, one standout feature is its AI-powered automation, which sets it apart from other accounting software. By automating complex accounting tasks—such as transaction categorization, duplicate detection, and predictive analytics—COUNT saves time and reduces the risk of errors. This allows users to focus on strategic decision-making rather than tedious manual work.
Another defining factor is COUNT’s flexibility in subscription plans, which cater to businesses and organizations of all sizes. Schools, in particular, can benefit from its tailored pricing structure, including free access for startups with limited revenues and competitive rates for growing institutions. Seamless integrations with third-party applications and real-time syncing with bank and credit card accounts ensure smooth operations and up-to-date financial data.
Finally, COUNT’s advanced reporting tools, such as MRR/ARR tracking and Project Insights, provide users with in-depth financial analysis. These features empower schools and businesses to make informed decisions, making COUNT a robust and user-friendly choice for accounting.
COUNT Core Features
COUNT: Top Accounting Software
4.35 / 5
The core of COUNT lies in its powerful, user-centric tools designed to simplify and enhance financial management. COUNT features include AI-driven automation, real-time reporting, streamlined invoicing, and advanced accounts payable workflows, all tailored to meet the needs of businesses and organizations like schools. These features save time and improve accuracy and efficiency, enabling users to focus on strategic financial planning. On top of that, these are accounting software features that you would want to have. With seamless integrations and intuitive design, COUNT offers a comprehensive solution that adapts to the unique demands of its users, making it a reliable choice for effective accounting.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with an intuitive dashboard that provides a clear overview of the institution's financial health. Regardless of their accounting expertise, this enables users to navigate the platform's various functionalities easily.
- Cloud-Based Accessibility: Offers the flexibility to access financial data anytime, from any device, ensuring convenience for remote work and real-time collaboration among team members.
- Automated Receivables and Payables Management: Streamlines the management of accounts receivable and payable with features like cash flow visualization and one-click reminders, improving financial operations efficiency.
- Comprehensive GST Tracking: Includes a dedicated GST dashboard that helps businesses maximize Input Tax Credit (ITC) and minimize GST liabilities by offering complete visibility into compliance and vendor risk profiles.
- Detailed Reporting Capabilities: Provides monthly reporting options such as Profit & Loss statements, balance sheets, and ratio analysis to deliver critical insights into business performance and support informed decision-making.
- Collaboration Features: Built-in tools that can rival the best collaboration software enhance communication with finance teams, auditors, and consultants, ensuring better visibility and streamlined document sharing.
- Versatile Data Export Options: Allows users to generate account statements in multiple formats, including PDF and Excel, for easy sharing with stakeholders.
- Strong Technical Support: Delivers robust support to assist users promptly with issues or guidance, ensuring smooth operation and effective use of the software.
Benefits of Using COUNT
Managing finances in educational institutions such as schools and academies comes with unique challenges. COUNT benefits stand out by providing tailored solutions that simplify accounting tasks, improve financial accuracy, and enhance operational efficiency. With features designed to meet the specific needs of educational organizations, COUNT enables administrators to focus on their primary goal—delivering quality education—while leaving complex financial management in capable hands. Below are some key benefits of using COUNT that we encountered in our COUNT review for schools and academies:
Simplified Financial Management
COUNT’s intuitive interface and AI-driven tools reduce the complexity of managing accounts, budgets, and payroll for schools. Automated categorization and reporting features ensure that financial data is organized, accurate, and easy to access, saving time and minimizing errors.
Cost-Effective Pricing for Educational Institutions
With free access for smaller organizations and affordable pricing plans as institutions grow, COUNT ensures that schools can access high-quality accounting solutions without straining their budgets. Flexible pricing makes it a practical choice for institutions of any size.
Real-Time Financial Insights
Financial software is important for businesses to manage their finances. COUNT demonstrates that with real-time reports and analytics. These are tailored to track key financial metrics, such as budget utilization and expense trends. Schools can make informed decisions based on up-to-date financial data, improving fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Enhanced Collaboration
COUNT’s collaboration tools allow finance teams, administrators, and auditors to work seamlessly. Document sharing and role-specific access streamline workflows, ensuring efficient communication and reducing administrative burden.
Time-Saving Automation
With automated invoicing, accounts payable, and GST tracking, COUNT minimizes manual tasks, allowing school administrators to focus on strategic initiatives. Features like recurring billing and reminders further enhance operational efficiency.
Data Security and Compliance
When our software team did the COUNT review, we felt secure because the cloud infrastructure protects sensitive financial data against unauthorized access. Additionally, compliance tools help schools meet regulatory requirements, giving administrators peace of mind.
What business types use COUNT?
In this COUNT review, we explore the types of businesses that benefit the most from using COUNT and highlight industries or scenarios where it may not be the best fit. Designed to cater to organizations of various sizes, COUNT offers flexibility and powerful tools that suit a wide range of industries. However, its features and pricing structure make it more ideal for certain businesses than others. Below is a breakdown of where COUNT excels and where it might not be the optimal choice:
Best for:
- Small to medium-sized businesses: COUNT’s scalable pricing and robust features make it perfect for SMBs looking to streamline their accounting processes without investing in expensive enterprise-level solutions.
- Educational institutions (schools, academies, and training centers): Features like invoicing, expense tracking, and real-time insights align with the financial management needs of schools and other learning organizations.
- Startups and early-stage businesses: Free access for businesses with monthly revenues or expenditures under $15,000 makes COUNT ideal for startups managing tight budgets.
- Non-profit organizations: Tools like automated reports and real-time tracking allow nonprofits to manage grants and budgets efficiently.
- Professional service providers: Industries such as legal, consulting, and IT benefit from COUNT’s invoicing and expense management features tailored to project-based billing.
Not the best for:
- Large enterprises: While COUNT offers robust functionality, it may lack the advanced customization or extensive integrations required by large, complex organizations.
- Retail and e-commerce with extensive inventory needs: COUNT does include inventory tracking, but businesses with highly complex inventory requirements might find specialized ERP solutions more suitable.
- Manufacturing industries: For businesses requiring detailed production tracking or in-depth cost analysis, dedicated manufacturing software may be a better choice.
This versatility makes COUNT an excellent solution for many small and mid-sized organizations, particularly in the education sector. Still, there are COUNT pros and cons to be weighed, which means testing within the organization is a must. Additionally, larger or more specialized industries might consider alternatives for their unique needs.
Best 5 alternatives to COUNT
ADP Workforce Now
3.9 / 5
ADP Workforce Now emerges in this discussion as a potential contender in the realm of HCM software, hinting at a unified platform designed to streamline various workforce-related functions. The provided source hints—albeit without extensive details—at a solution that aims to bring together essential human capital management tools under one roof, catering to the diverse needs of organizations. While specifics are sparse in the source material, the overview suggests that ADP Workforce Now is positioned to offer an integrated approach that supports HR and payroll functions alongside other key operational areas. This high-level glimpse into the product invites prospective users to consider its promise of consolidating core processes and enhancing overall workforce management.
Connecteam
4.55 / 5
Connecteam is positioned as a comprehensive solution within the realm of workforce management software, designed to address common challenges in managing modern teams. Its overview hints at a platform that integrates multiple operational functions into one cohesive system, aiming to simplify the complexities of scheduling, communication, and task coordination. The description, though broad in its scope, suggests that Connecteam has been crafted to support organizations in optimizing their workflows without overwhelming them with unnecessary details. For those in search of a flexible and robust tool to streamline team management, Connecteam appears as a promising candidate worth exploring.
Tipalti
4.55 / 5
Tipalti appears as an accounts payable automation solution that promises streamlined payment processes, even though the provided source does not furnish detailed specifics. The limited information hints at its role in simplifying complex financial workflows for businesses managing numerous vendor payments. Prospective customers evaluating accounts payable automation software might infer that Tipalti focuses on enhancing efficiency and reducing administrative complexities. However, with the absence of more granular data from the source, only a broad impression of its intended benefits can be gleaned at this time.
Sage Intacct
4.7 / 5
Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management platform that empowers businesses with real-time access to vital financial data, allowing teams to operate remotely without losing any system capabilities. Its customizable dashboards deliver immediate financial insights, enabling leaders to make well-informed decisions quickly and confidently. The software is especially beneficial for organizations with complex or international operations, as it supports multi-entity consolidations and multiple currencies with ease. Additionally, Sage Intacct automates key accounting tasks and integrates smoothly with other business tools, enhancing efficiency while ensuring data accuracy and robust security.
Paychex
4.35 / 5
Paychex stands out as a versatile payroll software solution, designed with an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation even for users without technical expertise. Business owners appreciate its mobile accessibility, which allows payroll management and vital information retrieval on the go. The platform supports efficient payroll operations, enabling runs with just a couple of clicks, and offers multiple time-tracking options to suit diverse business needs. Additionally, Paychex integrates advanced analytics and robust security measures, streamlining administrative tasks by consolidating data entry into a single, user-friendly system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
COUNT offers features tailored to the needs of schools and educational institutions, including simplified budgeting tools, automated invoicing for tuition and fees, expense tracking, and real-time financial reporting. Collaboration tools ensure administrators and finance teams can work seamlessly, while secure access controls safeguard sensitive data. Additionally, COUNT provides free access for small institutions with limited revenues, making it an affordable option for educational organizations.
COUNT stands out with its AI-powered automation, real-time financial insights, and simplified accounts payable and receivable processes, making it particularly appealing to small and mid-sized institutions. Compared to QuickBooks, COUNT offers more automation and tailored pricing for startups. While NetSuite provides more extensive ERP capabilities for large enterprises, COUNT is easier to use and more budget-friendly for smaller organizations like schools. COUNT’s focused tools also reduce the complexity that may come with using more comprehensive solutions like NetSuite.
Yes, COUNT supports integrations with popular tools and systems to enhance functionality. These COUNT integrations include real-time syncing with bank accounts and credit cards, enabling seamless transaction updates. It also integrates with payroll systems, inventory management tools, and other essential third-party apps, ensuring that users can manage their financial and operational tasks efficiently from a single platform.
COUNT prioritizes data security with its cloud-based infrastructure, which includes encryption and compliance with industry standards. Features such as role-based access controls and regular data backups ensure that sensitive financial information remains protected. These security measures make COUNT a reliable choice for schools and organizations handling confidential financial records.
Related
20 Best School Accounting Software for 2025
15 Best Bookkeeping Software for 2025
