Quick Overview
- 1#1: QuickBooks Enterprise - Comprehensive cloud and desktop accounting software with job costing, subcontractor invoicing, payroll, and AIA billing for contractors.
- 2#2: Foundation - Dedicated construction accounting platform offering advanced job costing, certified payroll, retainage management, and subcontractor compliance.
- 3#3: Sage 100 Contractor - Robust accounting solution for construction firms with features for change orders, progress billing, and subcontractor payment tracking.
- 4#4: Viewpoint Vista - Integrated ERP system providing financial management, job costing, and subcontractor lien waiver handling for mid-to-large contractors.
- 5#5: Deltek ComputerEase - Cloud-based construction accounting software focused on job profitability, subcontractor management, and real-time financial reporting.
- 6#6: CMiC - Enterprise platform combining project management and accounting with tools for subcontractor billing, cash flow, and compliance.
- 7#7: Procore - Construction management software with integrated financials for subcontractor payments, invoicing, and document management.
- 8#8: Knowify - All-in-one platform for subcontractors handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments in the field.
- 9#9: Buildertrend - Construction project management tool with built-in accounting for subcontractor scheduling, billing, and expense tracking.
- 10#10: Xero - Cloud accounting software with job tracking, invoicing, and bank reconciliation ideal for small subcontractors.
We evaluated tools based on subcontractor-specific features (including job costing, lien waivers, and retainage management), financial robustness, user experience, and value, prioritizing software that balances depth, usability, and affordability.
Comparison Table
This comparison table highlights top subcontractor accounting software tools, such as QuickBooks Enterprise, Foundation, Sage 100 Contractor, Viewpoint Vista, Deltek ComputerEase, and others, to guide readers in evaluating options that suit their unique operational needs. By examining features, usability, and key capabilities, it simplifies the process of selecting software optimized for subcontracting workflows, from job costing to client billing.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QuickBooks Enterprise Comprehensive cloud and desktop accounting software with job costing, subcontractor invoicing, payroll, and AIA billing for contractors. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Foundation Dedicated construction accounting platform offering advanced job costing, certified payroll, retainage management, and subcontractor compliance. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Sage 100 Contractor Robust accounting solution for construction firms with features for change orders, progress billing, and subcontractor payment tracking. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Viewpoint Vista Integrated ERP system providing financial management, job costing, and subcontractor lien waiver handling for mid-to-large contractors. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Deltek ComputerEase Cloud-based construction accounting software focused on job profitability, subcontractor management, and real-time financial reporting. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | CMiC Enterprise platform combining project management and accounting with tools for subcontractor billing, cash flow, and compliance. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Procore Construction management software with integrated financials for subcontractor payments, invoicing, and document management. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 8 | Knowify All-in-one platform for subcontractors handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments in the field. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Buildertrend Construction project management tool with built-in accounting for subcontractor scheduling, billing, and expense tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Xero Cloud accounting software with job tracking, invoicing, and bank reconciliation ideal for small subcontractors. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive cloud and desktop accounting software with job costing, subcontractor invoicing, payroll, and AIA billing for contractors.
Dedicated construction accounting platform offering advanced job costing, certified payroll, retainage management, and subcontractor compliance.
Robust accounting solution for construction firms with features for change orders, progress billing, and subcontractor payment tracking.
Integrated ERP system providing financial management, job costing, and subcontractor lien waiver handling for mid-to-large contractors.
Cloud-based construction accounting software focused on job profitability, subcontractor management, and real-time financial reporting.
Enterprise platform combining project management and accounting with tools for subcontractor billing, cash flow, and compliance.
Construction management software with integrated financials for subcontractor payments, invoicing, and document management.
All-in-one platform for subcontractors handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments in the field.
Construction project management tool with built-in accounting for subcontractor scheduling, billing, and expense tracking.
Cloud accounting software with job tracking, invoicing, and bank reconciliation ideal for small subcontractors.
QuickBooks Enterprise
specializedComprehensive cloud and desktop accounting software with job costing, subcontractor invoicing, payroll, and AIA billing for contractors.
Advanced Job Costing with customizable phases, real-time labor/material tracking, and profitability forecasting
QuickBooks Enterprise is a comprehensive accounting software solution optimized for subcontractors, featuring advanced job costing, progress invoicing, and time tracking tailored to construction projects. It supports AIA billing, inventory management for materials and equipment, certified payroll, and real-time financial reporting to track profitability across jobsites. With multi-user access and industry-specific customizations, it scales seamlessly for growing subcontractor businesses managing complex contracts and subcontractors.
Pros
- Advanced job costing with real-time profitability tracking
- Robust inventory management and AIA billing support
- Seamless integrations with construction apps like Procore and payroll systems
Cons
- High subscription costs, especially for multi-user setups
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets
Best For
Mid-sized to large subcontractors managing multiple projects who require scalable, feature-rich accounting with precise job-level financial control.
Pricing
Starts at ~$1,369/year for Silver (1 user), up to ~$2,363/year for Platinum; additional users ~$500-$800 each annually.
Foundation
specializedDedicated construction accounting platform offering advanced job costing, certified payroll, retainage management, and subcontractor compliance.
Advanced certified payroll engine with automatic union fringe calculations and multi-state compliance
Foundation by Foundation Software is a robust, construction-specific accounting platform designed for subcontractors and general contractors, offering deep job costing, payroll, and accounts payable/receivable capabilities. It excels in managing subcontractor-specific needs like retainage billing, change orders, certified payroll, and union fringe reporting. The software provides real-time WIP reports and multi-company support, making it ideal for complex construction financial workflows.
Pros
- Superior job costing and WIP reporting tailored for construction
- Comprehensive certified payroll and union compliance tools
- Strong subcontract management with retainage and change order handling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to traditional desktop interface
- Higher upfront costs and modular pricing structure
- Limited native mobile accessibility compared to cloud-first competitors
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors handling complex jobs with union labor and needing precise compliance and job cost tracking.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $5,000-$15,000 for base license plus modules, with annual maintenance around 15-20% of license cost; cloud options available.
Sage 100 Contractor
enterpriseRobust accounting solution for construction firms with features for change orders, progress billing, and subcontractor payment tracking.
Advanced job cost accounting with multi-level WIP reports and variance analysis
Sage 100 Contractor is a robust, on-premises accounting software tailored for construction firms, including subcontractors, offering job costing, project management, payroll, and financial tools. It excels in handling construction-specific needs like progress billing, retainage tracking, change orders, and certified payroll compliance. The platform provides detailed reporting and integrations with estimating and field management software to streamline subcontractor operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive construction-specific accounting including job costing and subcontract management
- Strong compliance tools for certified payroll and lien waivers
- Detailed real-time reporting and customizable dashboards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- On-premises deployment lacks cloud mobility and remote access
- Higher upfront costs and ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors requiring in-depth job costing and construction compliance features in an on-premises environment.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $5,000–$15,000 initial setup plus $2,000–$5,000 annual maintenance per user/modules.
Viewpoint Vista
enterpriseIntegrated ERP system providing financial management, job costing, and subcontractor lien waiver handling for mid-to-large contractors.
Advanced multi-dimensional job costing allowing unlimited segmentation for precise project profitability tracking
Viewpoint Vista is a comprehensive ERP system designed for construction companies, including subcontractors, providing robust accounting features like job costing, accounts payable/receivable, payroll processing, and general ledger management. It excels in handling construction-specific needs such as retainage billing, change orders, certified payroll, and multi-company consolidations. With integrations to field management and estimating tools, it supports end-to-end financial operations for mid-to-large subcontractors.
Pros
- Highly customizable job costing with unlimited cost codes and phases
- Strong compliance tools including certified payroll and lien waiver management
- Scalable for enterprise-level subcontractors with multi-entity support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup time
- Pricing is premium and not ideal for small subcontractors
Best For
Mid-to-large construction subcontractors needing enterprise-grade accounting with deep construction-specific features.
Pricing
Custom quoted; typically $20,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Deltek ComputerEase
specializedCloud-based construction accounting software focused on job profitability, subcontractor management, and real-time financial reporting.
Certified Payroll module with automated Davis-Bacon wage compliance and fringe benefit tracking
Deltek ComputerEase is a robust, on-premise accounting software tailored for construction subcontractors, providing comprehensive job costing, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and general ledger functionality. It excels in handling construction-specific needs like retainage billing, change orders, certified payroll for Davis-Bacon compliance, and subcontractor management with 1099 tracking. The platform supports multi-company operations and delivers detailed financial reporting for project profitability analysis.
Pros
- Specialized construction accounting with precise job costing and WIP reporting
- Certified payroll module ensures compliance with prevailing wage laws
- Strong subcontractor compliance tools including lien waivers and 1099s
Cons
- On-premise deployment lacks cloud flexibility and remote access
- Steep learning curve requires training for full utilization
- Customization often needs IT support or consultants
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors focused on detailed project accounting and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; perpetual licenses start around $10,000-$20,000 plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%.
CMiC
enterpriseEnterprise platform combining project management and accounting with tools for subcontractor billing, cash flow, and compliance.
Unified single-database platform that seamlessly links subcontractor payments and compliance directly to project job costing and ERP financials
CMiC is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform tailored for construction, featuring robust subcontractor accounting modules that automate invoice processing, payments, retainage management, and compliance tracking. It integrates subcontractor data with project management, job costing, and financial reporting for end-to-end visibility. Designed for mid-to-large construction firms, it supports lien waivers, certified payroll, and subcontractor portals to streamline vendor interactions.
Pros
- Deep integration of subcontractor accounting with full ERP and project controls
- Advanced compliance tools for lien management, retainage, and certified payroll
- Scalable reporting and analytics for multi-project environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation process
- High cost unsuitable for small contractors
- Interface can feel overwhelming for non-enterprise users
Best For
Mid-to-large construction companies needing integrated ERP for complex subcontractor accounting and project financials.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $100-$300/user/month with minimums starting at $50,000+ annually for enterprise deployments.
Procore
enterpriseConstruction management software with integrated financials for subcontractor payments, invoicing, and document management.
Automated payment applications tied directly to approved project progress and budgets
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with integrated financial tools designed to streamline subcontractor accounting processes like invoicing, payments, retainage, and lien waivers. It connects subcontractor financial data directly to project schedules, budgets, and documents for real-time visibility and collaboration. While powerful for integrated workflows, it functions more as an all-in-one construction solution rather than a standalone accounting tool.
Pros
- Seamless integration of subcontractor payments with project management and real-time data syncing
- Robust tools for lien waivers, retainage tracking, and compliance management
- Mobile app enables on-site invoice submissions and payment tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its broad platform complexity
- High cost makes it less viable for small subcontractors focused solely on accounting
- Limited depth in advanced accounting compared to dedicated tools like Sage or Foundation
Best For
Mid-sized to large subcontractors needing integrated project visibility alongside accounting for complex jobs.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $500–$1,500+ per month depending on users, projects, and modules.
Knowify
specializedAll-in-one platform for subcontractors handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments in the field.
Automated job costing dashboard with real-time variance analysis from estimates to invoices
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for subcontractors, focusing on job costing, estimating, invoicing, and project tracking to streamline financial operations. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for automated accounting sync, time tracking via mobile app, and real-time profitability insights. While not a full standalone accounting suite, it excels in bridging project management with subcontractor-specific financial needs like A/R collections and expense allocation.
Pros
- Robust job costing and real-time profitability tracking
- Deep QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting sync
- Mobile app for field time tracking and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Reporting lacks depth compared to dedicated accounting tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized subcontractors in trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC needing job-specific financial tracking integrated with QuickBooks.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Pro plan; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Buildertrend
specializedConstruction project management tool with built-in accounting for subcontractor scheduling, billing, and expense tracking.
Dynamic job costing that automatically pulls from schedules, timecards, and expenses for real-time financial insights
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform with robust accounting features designed for subcontractors, including job costing, invoicing, expense tracking, and payment processing. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for advanced bookkeeping while offering tools for project scheduling, time tracking, and client communication. While not a dedicated accounting software, it provides subcontractors with financial oversight tied directly to project workflows, making it suitable for those needing integrated operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of project management and accounting for accurate job costing
- Strong mobile app for on-site time and expense tracking
- Excellent subcontractor portal for change orders and payments
Cons
- Higher cost compared to dedicated accounting tools
- Steeper learning curve for non-project management users
- Relies on QuickBooks integration for full accounting depth
Best For
Subcontractors managing multiple projects who need accounting tied to scheduling and client communication rather than standalone bookkeeping.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $299/month for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
Xero
otherCloud accounting software with job tracking, invoicing, and bank reconciliation ideal for small subcontractors.
Projects dashboard for real-time job costing and profitability tracking on unlimited subcontracts
Xero is a cloud-based accounting software designed for small businesses, including subcontractors, offering invoicing, bank reconciliation, expense tracking, and payroll management. Its Projects feature enables job costing by allocating time, expenses, and materials to specific subcontracts, helping track profitability. It integrates with numerous apps for time tracking and CRM, streamlining subcontractor workflows, though it's more general-purpose than niche construction tools.
Pros
- Intuitive, modern interface with excellent mobile app
- Unlimited users and strong bank feeds for quick reconciliations
- Robust integrations with time-tracking and project management tools
Cons
- Projects module lacks advanced features like retainage or change orders for complex subcontracting
- Payroll and advanced reporting require add-ons at extra cost
- Not as specialized for construction compliance compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Subcontractors with simple to moderate job tracking needs who prioritize ease of use and cloud accessibility over deep industry-specific functionality.
Pricing
Starts at $20/user/month (Early plan) up to $70/user/month (Established plan); annual billing discounts available, with add-ons for payroll.
Conclusion
The review highlights a range of top-tier options, each with distinct strengths—from robust job costing to specialized subcontractor management. QuickBooks Enterprise emerges as the leading choice, offering comprehensive features that cater to diverse contractor needs, while Foundation and Sage 100 Contractor stand out as exceptional alternatives for those prioritizing compliance or advanced financial tracking. Together, these tools showcase the best in subcontractor accounting, ensuring efficiency and profitability.
Take the next step in streamlining your accounting: explore QuickBooks Enterprise to leverage its all-in-one capabilities, or consider Foundation and Sage 100 Contractor to align with your specific workflow requirements—your business will thank you for it.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison