Quick Overview
- 1#1: Karbon - All-in-one practice management platform for accounting firms with AI-powered workflows, time tracking, and client billing automation.
- 2#2: Canopy - Comprehensive practice management software for tax and accounting professionals featuring time tracking, invoicing, and workflow tools.
- 3#3: Jetpack Workflow - Workflow automation and time tracking solution designed to boost productivity and billing accuracy in accounting firms.
- 4#4: Financial Cents - Accounting practice management tool with real-time time tracking, profitability analytics, and streamlined billing processes.
- 5#5: Senta - Cloud-based CRM and practice management for accountants including time recording, task management, and automated billing.
- 6#6: Practice Ignition - Client onboarding and billing automation platform that integrates time tracking for efficient accounting practice revenue management.
- 7#7: TimeSolv - Professional time billing and practice management software with robust invoicing and reporting for CPAs and accountants.
- 8#8: Bill4Time - Mobile-friendly time tracking and billing software tailored for professional services firms including accounting practices.
- 9#9: Practice CS - Enterprise-grade practice management system from Thomson Reuters with advanced time entry, billing, and staff scheduling for accounting firms.
- 10#10: CCH Axcess Practice - Integrated practice management solution offering time tracking, billing, and workflow automation for mid-to-large CPA firms.
We evaluated these solutions based on core features (automation, integration, and task management), user experience (intuitive design, scalability), and overall value (cost-effectiveness and impact on practice growth).
Comparison Table
Navigating CPA time and billing software can be complex, but this comparison table simplifies the process by focusing on tools like Karbon, Canopy, Jetpack Workflow, Financial Cents, Senta, and more. Readers will discover how each tool handles time tracking, invoicing, reporting, and integration, allowing them to identify the best fit for their practice's unique needs. With clear insights into key features and differences, this guide streamlines the decision-making process for choosing software that enhances efficiency and client management.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Karbon All-in-one practice management platform for accounting firms with AI-powered workflows, time tracking, and client billing automation. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Canopy Comprehensive practice management software for tax and accounting professionals featuring time tracking, invoicing, and workflow tools. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Jetpack Workflow Workflow automation and time tracking solution designed to boost productivity and billing accuracy in accounting firms. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Financial Cents Accounting practice management tool with real-time time tracking, profitability analytics, and streamlined billing processes. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Senta Cloud-based CRM and practice management for accountants including time recording, task management, and automated billing. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Practice Ignition Client onboarding and billing automation platform that integrates time tracking for efficient accounting practice revenue management. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | TimeSolv Professional time billing and practice management software with robust invoicing and reporting for CPAs and accountants. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Bill4Time Mobile-friendly time tracking and billing software tailored for professional services firms including accounting practices. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Practice CS Enterprise-grade practice management system from Thomson Reuters with advanced time entry, billing, and staff scheduling for accounting firms. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | CCH Axcess Practice Integrated practice management solution offering time tracking, billing, and workflow automation for mid-to-large CPA firms. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.9/10 |
All-in-one practice management platform for accounting firms with AI-powered workflows, time tracking, and client billing automation.
Comprehensive practice management software for tax and accounting professionals featuring time tracking, invoicing, and workflow tools.
Workflow automation and time tracking solution designed to boost productivity and billing accuracy in accounting firms.
Accounting practice management tool with real-time time tracking, profitability analytics, and streamlined billing processes.
Cloud-based CRM and practice management for accountants including time recording, task management, and automated billing.
Client onboarding and billing automation platform that integrates time tracking for efficient accounting practice revenue management.
Professional time billing and practice management software with robust invoicing and reporting for CPAs and accountants.
Mobile-friendly time tracking and billing software tailored for professional services firms including accounting practices.
Enterprise-grade practice management system from Thomson Reuters with advanced time entry, billing, and staff scheduling for accounting firms.
Integrated practice management solution offering time tracking, billing, and workflow automation for mid-to-large CPA firms.
Karbon
specializedAll-in-one practice management platform for accounting firms with AI-powered workflows, time tracking, and client billing automation.
Workflow automation that links email communications, tasks, and time entries into a single billable pipeline
Karbon is a practice management platform designed specifically for accounting firms and CPAs, offering integrated time tracking and billing tools within a centralized workflow system. It enables users to log billable hours against tasks and projects, automate approval processes for time entries, and generate detailed reports for invoicing and profitability analysis. With native integrations to Xero, QuickBooks, and other accounting software, Karbon streamlines the transition from time capture to billing, reducing manual data entry and errors.
Pros
- Seamless time tracking embedded directly into client workflows and tasks
- Powerful reporting and analytics for billable hours, utilization, and firm profitability
- Strong integrations with major accounting platforms for automated billing
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams, potentially high for small firms
- Full billing functionality often requires third-party integrations
- Initial setup and workflow customization has a moderate learning curve
Best For
Mid-sized to large CPA firms needing an integrated workflow system with robust time tracking and billing capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $79/user/month for Solo (1 user), $99/user/month for Team plans (minimum 3 users), billed annually; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Canopy
specializedComprehensive practice management software for tax and accounting professionals featuring time tracking, invoicing, and workflow tools.
AI-driven time tracking that automatically captures and categorizes billable hours from emails, calls, and tasks across the platform
Canopy is an all-in-one practice management software tailored for CPAs and accounting firms, featuring advanced time tracking, automated billing, and invoicing tools. It integrates time entry with workflow management, client portals, and document automation to streamline operations from time capture to payment collection. The platform supports various billing models like hourly, flat fee, and progressive billing, making it ideal for tax and audit practices.
Pros
- Robust time tracking with automatic logging and mobile app support
- Flexible billing options including flat-fee and recurring invoices with integrated payments
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and tax software like UltraTax
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo practitioners or very small firms
- Some advanced features locked behind higher-tier plans
- Steep initial learning curve for full customization
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms and accounting practices needing integrated time tracking, billing, and workflow management.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month for Essentials plan; Premium and Enterprise tiers range from $89-$149/user/month with custom quotes available.
Jetpack Workflow
specializedWorkflow automation and time tracking solution designed to boost productivity and billing accuracy in accounting firms.
Vast library of CPA-specific workflow templates for tax, audit, and advisory services
Jetpack Workflow is a workflow management platform tailored for CPA firms, integrating time tracking and billing features to streamline task assignment, deadlines, and client engagements. It allows users to log billable hours directly against tasks, generate time reports, and integrate with accounting software for invoicing. While strong in workflow automation, its time and billing tools support efficient firm operations without needing multiple apps.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built accounting workflows
- Seamless time tracking with mobile app support
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and billing tools
Cons
- Billing capabilities are solid but less advanced than dedicated invoicing software
- Pricing scales per user, which can be costly for larger teams
- Steeper learning curve for customizing complex workflows
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms needing integrated workflow management with reliable time tracking and basic billing.
Pricing
Starts at $45/user/month (Team plan), with Solo at $39/month and custom Enterprise options.
Financial Cents
specializedAccounting practice management tool with real-time time tracking, profitability analytics, and streamlined billing processes.
AI-powered profitability insights that deliver real-time metrics on staff utilization, project margins, and firm performance.
Financial Cents is a cloud-based practice management software designed specifically for accounting firms and CPAs, focusing on time tracking, automated billing, workflow automation, and client management. It enables users to track billable hours in real-time, generate invoices seamlessly, and gain insights into firm profitability through customizable dashboards and reports. With integrations to popular tools like QuickBooks and Xero, it streamlines operations for efficient time and billing management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal learning curve
- Robust time tracking and automated billing features
- Real-time profitability reporting and dashboards
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options
- Integrations are solid but not as extensive as some competitors
- Pricing can add up for larger teams
Best For
Small to mid-sized CPA firms seeking an user-friendly all-in-one solution for time tracking, billing, and basic workflow management.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (billed annually) for the Starter plan, up to $99/user/month for the Elite plan with advanced analytics and unlimited clients.
Senta
specializedCloud-based CRM and practice management for accountants including time recording, task management, and automated billing.
Visual no-code workflow builder that automates time tracking approvals and billing workflows
Senta is an all-in-one practice management platform tailored for accounting firms and CPAs, offering robust time tracking, automated billing, and invoicing capabilities. It integrates client management, workflow automation, and document handling to streamline operations from time entry to payment collection. With seamless integrations to tools like QuickBooks and Xero, Senta helps firms capture billable hours accurately and improve profitability through efficient billing processes.
Pros
- Powerful workflow automation for billing processes
- Strong integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero
- Comprehensive client portal for time approvals and payments
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Higher pricing for smaller firms
- Limited native reporting compared to dedicated billing tools
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms seeking integrated practice management with strong time tracking and billing automation.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month for Starter plan (billed annually), up to $149/user/month for Enterprise with custom options.
Practice Ignition
specializedClient onboarding and billing automation platform that integrates time tracking for efficient accounting practice revenue management.
Intelligent Proposal Builder that combines customizable templates, e-signatures, and instant payment links for frictionless client conversions
Practice Ignition is a client engagement and onboarding platform tailored for accounting firms, focusing on automating proposals, engagement letters, and billing workflows. It enables CPAs to create professional proposals with built-in e-signatures, automate recurring billing, and integrate with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks for seamless invoicing and payments. While it excels in value-based and subscription billing, it relies on integrations for detailed time tracking rather than offering native hourly time logging.
Pros
- Highly automated proposal and engagement letter workflows with e-sign and payment collection
- Strong support for recurring and subscription billing ideal for modern CPA practices
- Seamless integrations with Xero, QuickBooks, and other accounting tools
Cons
- Lacks robust native time tracking, requiring third-party integrations for hourly billing
- Pricing scales quickly with client volume, which may strain solo practitioners
- Limited reporting depth compared to dedicated time and billing specialists
Best For
Mid-sized accounting firms transitioning to fixed-fee or subscription-based billing models who prioritize client onboarding efficiency.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Ignite plan for up to 50 active clients), $249/month (Accelerate for up to 200), and custom enterprise pricing; billed annually with a free trial.
TimeSolv
specializedProfessional time billing and practice management software with robust invoicing and reporting for CPAs and accountants.
Integrated trust and retainer accounting with IOLTA compliance and real-time reconciliation
TimeSolv is a cloud-based practice management software tailored for accounting and legal professionals, specializing in time tracking, billing, invoicing, and expense management for CPAs. It offers features like automated billing rules, online payments, trust accounting, and customizable reporting to streamline workflows. The platform integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks, Xero, and other accounting tools, making it suitable for firms handling client retainers and compliance needs.
Pros
- Comprehensive time and expense tracking with mobile app support
- Strong QuickBooks and Xero integrations for seamless accounting
- Advanced trust accounting and detailed reporting capabilities
Cons
- User interface appears dated and less intuitive
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can be high for very small or solo practices
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms needing robust trust accounting, billing automation, and integrations with accounting software.
Pricing
Starts at $39.95/user/month (Solo, billed annually) up to $59.95/user/month (Pro); custom Enterprise pricing available.
Bill4Time
specializedMobile-friendly time tracking and billing software tailored for professional services firms including accounting practices.
Deep QuickBooks integration that syncs time entries, expenses, and invoices bidirectionally for effortless accounting reconciliation.
Bill4Time is a cloud-based time tracking and billing software designed for professionals like CPAs, lawyers, and consultants to streamline time entry, expense tracking, invoicing, and payments. It offers robust client and project management tools, customizable reports, and seamless integrations with accounting platforms such as QuickBooks Online and Desktop. The platform supports mobile time tracking and automated billing workflows, making it suitable for firms handling billable hours efficiently.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for automatic syncing of time and invoices
- Intuitive mobile app for on-the-go time tracking and approvals
- Customizable invoicing with recurring billing and online payments
Cons
- Reporting features lack depth for complex multi-client analysis
- Higher-tier plans required for advanced trust accounting and LEDES billing
- Customer support can be slow during peak times
Best For
Small to mid-sized CPA firms seeking affordable, straightforward time tracking and billing with strong accounting software integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $19/user/month (Solo plan billed annually), with Pro at $39/user/month and Business at $59/user/month; 30-day free trial available.
Practice CS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade practice management system from Thomson Reuters with advanced time entry, billing, and staff scheduling for accounting firms.
Direct synchronization of billed time and trial balance data with UltraTax CS for automated tax return preparation.
Practice CS by Thomson Reuters is a robust practice management software designed specifically for CPA firms, focusing on time tracking, billing, and invoicing to streamline financial operations. It enables efficient management of billable hours, accounts receivable, staff scheduling, and client engagements with customizable workflows. The platform integrates deeply with other Thomson Reuters tools like UltraTax CS, providing end-to-end support for accounting practices from time entry to tax preparation.
Pros
- Deep integration with Thomson Reuters tax and accounting suite for seamless data flow
- Advanced customizable billing rules and reporting for detailed firm analytics
- Comprehensive time entry with audit trails and productivity tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High cost that may not suit small firms
- Limited native mobile app support for on-the-go time entry
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms already using Thomson Reuters products that need integrated time, billing, and tax workflows.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and modules, typically starting at $4,000-$6,000 annually for small teams and scaling to tens of thousands for larger firms.
CCH Axcess Practice
enterpriseIntegrated practice management solution offering time tracking, billing, and workflow automation for mid-to-large CPA firms.
Deep native integration with the CCH Axcess suite for unified tax, audit, and practice management
CCH Axcess Practice is a cloud-based practice management platform from Wolters Kluwer, specifically tailored for CPA firms to handle time tracking, billing, invoicing, and client management. It streamlines workflows by integrating time entry with project management, accounts receivable, and profitability reporting. The software supports flexible billing methods like fixed fee, hourly, and progressive billing, making it suitable for professional services firms.
Pros
- Seamless integration with CCH Axcess Tax and other Wolters Kluwer tools
- Robust reporting for time analysis and firm profitability
- Cloud-based accessibility with strong security and mobile support
Cons
- High subscription costs that may not suit small firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Customization options are limited without add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms invested in the Wolters Kluwer ecosystem needing integrated time and billing with tax workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $150-$300 per user per month depending on modules and firm size.
Conclusion
When evaluating top CPA time and billing software, the reviewed tools offer robust solutions tailored to diverse firm needs. Karbon emerges as the clear winner, thanks to its all-in-one practice management platform and AI-powered workflows that streamline time tracking, billing, and client management. Canopy and Jetpack Workflow follow closely, with Canopy’s comprehensive features for tax and accounting professionals and Jetpack’s automation boosting productivity for billing accuracy. Each tool brings unique strengths, but Karbon sets a high standard for integrated efficiency.
Ready to elevate your practice? Start with Karbon to experience AI-driven time tracking, automated billing, and seamless client workflows—try it today to transform how you manage time and grow your firm.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison