Quick Overview
- 1#1: Bill.com - Automates accounts payable processes with secure online bill payments, approvals, and integrations.
- 2#2: Melio - Provides free ACH and check bill payments for small businesses with easy vendor management.
- 3#3: QuickBooks Online - Offers integrated bill pay within comprehensive cloud accounting software for seamless AP management.
- 4#4: Xero - Enables online bill payments and approvals through its intuitive cloud-based accounting platform.
- 5#5: AvidXchange - Delivers AP automation with electronic bill payments tailored for mid-market businesses.
- 6#6: Plooto - Streamlines bill payments and approvals with secure ACH and international payment options.
- 7#7: Tipalti - Handles global mass payments and bill pay automation for scalable accounts payable.
- 8#8: MineralTree - Provides electronic bill payment solutions with invoice-to-pay automation for businesses.
- 9#9: Ramp - Combines corporate cards with bill pay and expense management for efficient payments.
- 10#10: AI rbase - Manages bills and payments through spend management software with approval workflows.
Tools were ranked based on features like automation depth, integration capabilities, ease of use, and overall value, ensuring alignment with varied business needs from AP management to global payment scalability.
Comparison Table
This comparison table features leading online bill pay software, including Bill.com, Melio, QuickBooks Online, Xero, and AvidXchange, to simplify choosing the right tool. Readers will learn about key features, pricing models, and integration strengths tailored to small businesses, freelancers, and larger enterprises, helping to streamline payment processes and match software to operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bill.com Automates accounts payable processes with secure online bill payments, approvals, and integrations. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Melio Provides free ACH and check bill payments for small businesses with easy vendor management. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 3 | QuickBooks Online Offers integrated bill pay within comprehensive cloud accounting software for seamless AP management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 4 | Xero Enables online bill payments and approvals through its intuitive cloud-based accounting platform. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | AvidXchange Delivers AP automation with electronic bill payments tailored for mid-market businesses. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Plooto Streamlines bill payments and approvals with secure ACH and international payment options. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Tipalti Handles global mass payments and bill pay automation for scalable accounts payable. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | MineralTree Provides electronic bill payment solutions with invoice-to-pay automation for businesses. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Ramp Combines corporate cards with bill pay and expense management for efficient payments. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | AI rbase Manages bills and payments through spend management software with approval workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Automates accounts payable processes with secure online bill payments, approvals, and integrations.
Provides free ACH and check bill payments for small businesses with easy vendor management.
Offers integrated bill pay within comprehensive cloud accounting software for seamless AP management.
Enables online bill payments and approvals through its intuitive cloud-based accounting platform.
Delivers AP automation with electronic bill payments tailored for mid-market businesses.
Streamlines bill payments and approvals with secure ACH and international payment options.
Handles global mass payments and bill pay automation for scalable accounts payable.
Provides electronic bill payment solutions with invoice-to-pay automation for businesses.
Combines corporate cards with bill pay and expense management for efficient payments.
Manages bills and payments through spend management software with approval workflows.
Bill.com
specializedAutomates accounts payable processes with secure online bill payments, approvals, and integrations.
AI-powered Bill Capture and two-way sync with accounting software for hands-free data entry and reconciliation
Bill.com is a leading cloud-based platform for automating accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) processes, enabling businesses to pay bills electronically via ACH, checks, wires, or virtual cards. It offers robust approval workflows, invoice management, and seamless integrations with popular accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, and NetSuite. The service also includes mobile bill capture, real-time reporting, and fraud detection for secure, efficient financial operations.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with major accounting tools for automatic sync
- Advanced approval workflows and mobile bill capture with OCR
- Fast, secure payment options including ACH with next-day processing
Cons
- Subscription pricing plus per-transaction fees can add up
- Steeper learning curve for complex workflows
- Customer support response times vary during peak periods
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses and accounting teams needing scalable AP/AR automation with strong integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $39/user/month (Essentials plan, billed annually); scales to $79/user/month (Corporate), plus payment fees (e.g., 2.9% for cards).
Melio
specializedProvides free ACH and check bill payments for small businesses with easy vendor management.
Free ACH bill payments combined with vendor choice of receipt method (ACH, check, or card)
Melio is a B2B payments platform tailored for small businesses to handle accounts payable seamlessly through online bill pay. It enables users to pay vendors via ACH, physical checks, or credit cards, with robust integrations to accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks. Key features include approval workflows, recurring payments, bill scheduling, and real-time payment tracking for efficient cash flow management.
Pros
- Free ACH payments from your bank account
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software
- Flexible payment methods including checks and credit cards for vendors
Cons
- Fees apply for checks ($1.50+) and credit card payments (2.9%)
- Primarily US-focused with limited international support
- Occasional delays reported with mailed checks
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking a cost-effective, integrated solution for vendor payments and AP automation.
Pricing
Free for ACH payments; $1.50+ per check; 2.9% for credit card funding; no subscription required.
QuickBooks Online
enterpriseOffers integrated bill pay within comprehensive cloud accounting software for seamless AP management.
Automatic matching and reconciliation of bill payments to accounting entries
QuickBooks Online is a comprehensive cloud-based accounting platform with integrated online bill pay functionality powered by Melio, enabling users to upload, approve, and pay bills electronically via ACH, checks, or virtual cards. It automates payment tracking and reconciliation directly within the accounting system, eliminating manual data entry. This makes it a strong choice for businesses managing both finances and vendor payments in one place, though it's not a standalone bill pay tool.
Pros
- Seamless integration with accounting records for automatic reconciliation
- Supports multiple payment methods including ACH, checks, and international wires
- Robust approval workflows and scheduling for efficient team management
Cons
- Requires a full QuickBooks subscription, which may be overkill for bill pay only
- Per-transaction fees (e.g., $0.50+ for ACH) can add up for high volume
- Limited customization compared to dedicated bill pay platforms like Bill.com
Best For
Small to medium businesses already using QuickBooks Online that need integrated bill pay without additional software.
Pricing
Essentials plan starts at $30/month (includes bill management); payments via QuickBooks Bill Pay incur fees like $0.50 ACH, $1.50 check, or 2.9% virtual card.
Xero
enterpriseEnables online bill payments and approvals through its intuitive cloud-based accounting platform.
Multi-user bill approval and scheduling with direct bank payment feeds
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software that includes comprehensive bill management and online payment capabilities tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. Users can create, approve, schedule, and pay bills directly within the platform, with bank integrations for automated reconciliation and electronic payments via partners like Melio or Plaid in supported regions. It combines accounts payable workflows with full accounting tools for streamlined financial operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with accounting, invoicing, and bank feeds
- Multi-user bill approval workflows
- Multi-currency support and automation for recurring bills
Cons
- Bill payments often require third-party integrations for full ACH/electronic options
- Limited advanced payment customization compared to dedicated AP tools
- Higher pricing tiers needed for unlimited bills and advanced features
Best For
Small businesses seeking an all-in-one accounting platform with solid bill pay functionality.
Pricing
Starts at $20/month (Early plan) up to $70/month (Ultimate plan) per organization; bill pay included in most plans but premium integrations may add costs.
AvidXchange
enterpriseDelivers AP automation with electronic bill payments tailored for mid-market businesses.
Seamless integration with over 200 accounting and ERP systems for true end-to-end AP automation.
AvidXchange is a comprehensive accounts payable (AP) automation platform specializing in online bill pay solutions for mid-market businesses. It automates the entire invoice-to-pay process, including data capture, approval workflows, and secure electronic payments via ACH, checks, virtual cards, and wires. With deep integrations into over 200 accounting systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Sage, it eliminates manual entry and enhances cash flow management.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 200+ accounting platforms
- Multiple payment methods including virtual cards for rebates
- Robust security, compliance, and fraud prevention tools
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive for small businesses
- Steep learning curve for advanced workflows
- Occasional delays in customer support response
Best For
Mid-sized businesses with high invoice volumes seeking full AP automation and accounting integrations.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $1.50-$3.50 per invoice or transaction, with tiered plans starting around $2,000/month for enterprise features.
Plooto
specializedStreamlines bill payments and approvals with secure ACH and international payment options.
Plooto Wallet for instant virtual card payments and reimbursements directly from the platform
Plooto is a cloud-based accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR) automation platform tailored primarily for Canadian businesses, enabling efficient online bill payments via EFT, ACH, checks, and virtual cards. It offers approval workflows, vendor management, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and Sage to streamline financial operations. The software also supports automated invoicing and payment collections, reducing manual data entry and errors.
Pros
- Robust integrations with major accounting software for automatic sync and reconciliation
- Multiple payment methods including EFT, checks, and Plooto Wallet for flexibility
- Strong approval workflows and vendor portal to enhance efficiency and security
Cons
- Primarily focused on Canadian market, limiting international usability
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or higher transaction volumes
- Occasional reports of slower customer support response times
Best For
Small to medium-sized Canadian businesses seeking to automate AP/AR processes with reliable domestic payment options.
Pricing
Starts at $39 CAD/month for Essentials (up to 3 users, 50 bills), $89 CAD/month for Premium (unlimited users, 500 bills), with Enterprise custom pricing; transaction fees apply.
Tipalti
enterpriseHandles global mass payments and bill pay automation for scalable accounts payable.
Global tax compliance automation with real-time withholding and e-filing across multiple jurisdictions
Tipalti is an end-to-end accounts payable (AP) automation platform designed for managing supplier onboarding, invoice processing, approvals, and global payments. It excels in handling mass payments across 196 countries and 120+ currencies, with built-in tax compliance for forms like 1099 and W-8/W-9. The software integrates with major accounting systems like QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Xero to streamline the entire payables workflow for businesses with complex, high-volume payment needs.
Pros
- Extensive global payment support in 196 countries and 120+ currencies
- Automated tax compliance and regulatory reporting (e.g., 1099, VAT)
- Robust integrations with ERP/accounting software for seamless AP automation
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Pricing is quote-based and opaque, often expensive for small businesses
- Overkill for simple domestic bill pay needs
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with international suppliers requiring automated, compliant mass payments.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $10,000-$50,000 annually, scaling with payment volume and features.
MineralTree
specializedProvides electronic bill payment solutions with invoice-to-pay automation for businesses.
Virtual card payments with built-in cashback rebates and real-time ERP syncing
MineralTree is a robust online bill pay software designed for accounts payable automation, allowing businesses to process payments via ACH, checks, wires, and virtual cards. It integrates deeply with ERP systems like NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage, and Microsoft Dynamics, streamlining invoice approval and payment workflows. The platform prioritizes security with PCI DSS compliance, fraud detection, and supplier onboarding features, making it suitable for mid-sized to enterprise organizations handling high-volume bills.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with major ERPs reducing manual data entry
- Multiple secure payment options including virtual cards with rebates
- Advanced approval workflows and fraud prevention tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be expensive for small businesses with low volume
- Customer support response times vary by plan tier
Best For
Mid-market businesses with complex AP processes needing ERP-integrated bill pay automation.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $500-$1,500/month for core plans, plus per-transaction fees (e.g., 0.5-1% for cards); custom for enterprises.
Ramp
enterpriseCombines corporate cards with bill pay and expense management for efficient payments.
Earning 1.5% unlimited cash back on bill payments through virtual corporate cards
Ramp is a spend management platform that offers integrated online bill pay functionality for businesses, allowing users to upload invoices, route them for approval, and pay vendors via ACH, check, wire, or virtual cards. It provides real-time expense tracking, customizable spending controls, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Xero. Designed for efficient accounts payable automation, Ramp combines bill pay with corporate cards to streamline overall spend management.
Pros
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all eligible spend including bills
- Intuitive interface with mobile app for quick approvals and payments
- Strong integrations with major accounting software for automated reconciliation
Cons
- Limited international payment support (primarily US-focused)
- Advanced controls may require initial setup time
- Fees for certain payment methods like international wires or checks
Best For
Growing mid-market businesses needing integrated bill pay with corporate cards and expense management.
Pricing
Free platform with no subscription fees (revenue from interchange); standard ACH free, wires/checks $25-$50 each.
AI rbase
enterpriseManages bills and payments through spend management software with approval workflows.
Visa-powered virtual cards for secure, controlled bill payments with real-time issuance and reconciliation
AI rbase is a comprehensive spend management platform that automates accounts payable processes, including online bill payments through invoice capture, approval workflows, and multiple payment methods like ACH, checks, wires, and virtual cards. It provides real-time visibility into spend, enforces policy controls, and integrates with ERP systems such as NetSuite, QuickBooks, and Xero. Ideal for mid-market and enterprise teams, AI rbase streamlines the entire procure-to-pay cycle beyond just bill pay.
Pros
- Robust automation for invoice processing and approvals
- Flexible payment options including virtual cards and global wires
- Seamless integrations with major accounting software
Cons
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for smaller teams
- Overkill for businesses needing only basic bill pay functionality
- Initial setup may require IT involvement for complex integrations
Best For
Mid-sized businesses looking for an integrated spend management platform with advanced AP automation and bill pay features.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on users, spend volume, and features; no public tiers available.
Conclusion
Evaluating online bill pay software reveals top tools that cater to varied business needs, with Bill.com leading thanks to its robust automation, secure integrations, and seamless accounts payable workflows. Melio stands out for free, flexible payments perfect for small businesses, while QuickBooks Online excels as a integrated solution within comprehensive cloud accounting platforms. Whether prioritizing full automation, cost-efficiency, or all-in-one management, these options deliver reliable performance.
Take the next step toward streamlined payments—try Bill.com, the top-ranked choice, to simplify your accounts payable process and boost operational efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison