Fast Software, the Best Software (2019)

In the fast-paced world of modern finance, speed and efficiency aren't just desirable – they’re essential. Whether you're a freelancer managing your income, a small business owner juggling expenses, or an individual aiming for financial freedom, the right software can make or break your progress. 2019 saw a surge in innovative financial tools, but which ones truly delivered on the promise of speed and usability? This article dives into the best finance software of 2019, analyzing their features, performance, and suitability for different needs. While time has passed, many of these options remain powerful and relevant today.

§Why “Fast” Finance Software Matters

Before we jump into specific recommendations, let's address why speed is so critical in finance software.

Time is Money: This cliché rings especially true in finance. The faster you can process invoices, reconcile accounts, and generate reports, the more time you have to focus on growing your wealth or your business.
Reduced Errors: Manual data entry is slow and prone to mistakes. Fast software often automates these processes, minimizing errors and ensuring accuracy.
Real-Time Insights: Quick access to financial data empowers you to make informed decisions. Waiting for reports to generate can mean missing crucial opportunities.
Improved Productivity: Streamlined workflows and intuitive interfaces boost overall productivity.
Scalability: As your business grows, you need software that can handle increasing volumes of transactions without slowing down.

§The Top Contenders: A Breakdown of 2019's Best

Here’s a look at some of the leading finance software options available in 2019 (and still competitive today), categorized by their primary focus.

§1. Accounting Software: For Businesses of All Sizes

Accounting software forms the backbone of any business’s financial management. In 2019, these were the frontrunners:

QuickBooks Online : A perennial favorite, QuickBooks Online continued to dominate the market with its comprehensive features, scalability, and extensive integration options. It's known for its robust reporting capabilities and user-friendly interface (though some find it can become complex with advanced features). It excels at invoice creation, expense tracking, and payroll management. Speed was significantly improved with updates throughout 2019, particularly in report generation.
Xero : Xero offered a compelling alternative to QuickBooks, particularly for businesses seeking a cloud-based solution with a strong focus on collaboration. It’s known for its clean interface and excellent bank reconciliation features. Xero's automated bank feeds were a major time-saver for many users.
FreshBooks : Designed specifically for freelancers and small businesses, FreshBooks shines with its intuitive invoicing and time tracking features. While not as feature-rich as QuickBooks or Xero, it's remarkably easy to use and offers excellent value for solo entrepreneurs.

§| Feature | QuickBooks Online | Xero | FreshBooks |

|-------------------|-------------------|------|------------| | Pricing | Variable | Variable | Variable | | Ease of Use | Moderate | High | Very High | | Scalability | High | High | Moderate | | Bank Rec. | Excellent | Excellent| Good | | Invoicing | Excellent | Good | Excellent | | Payroll | Available | Add-on| Limited |

§2. Budgeting Software: Taking Control of Personal Finances

For individuals and families, budgeting software can be a game-changer. 2019 brought us some truly powerful tools:

Mint: (Free) A popular, free option, Mint automatically tracks your income, expenses, and financial accounts, providing a clear overview of your financial health. Its budgeting features are straightforward, and it offers personalized insights and recommendations. While it's ad-supported, the convenience and free price point make it a winner for many.
YNAB (You Need A Budget): (Paid) YNAB takes a more proactive approach to budgeting, focusing on assigning every dollar a specific purpose. It’s known for its "four rules" of budgeting, which emphasize intentional spending and building financial awareness. YNAB requires more effort upfront, but its users report significant improvements in their financial habits.
Personal Capital: (Free + Paid Options) Personal Capital focuses on wealth management, offering tools for tracking net worth, analyzing investments, and planning for retirement. It also provides a budgeting feature, but its strength lies in its investment tracking and financial planning capabilities.

§3. Tax Software: Streamlining Tax Season

Tax season can be a dreaded time for many. These software options helped to simplify the process in 2019:

TurboTax : TurboTax remained the market leader, offering a guided tax preparation experience with a variety of features and support options. Its intuitive interface and extensive knowledge base made it a popular choice for both simple and complex tax returns. Continuous improvements to its search functionality boosted speed.
H&R Block: A familiar name in tax preparation, H&R Block offered both software and in-person services. Its software was known for its accuracy and helpful guidance.
TaxAct: A more affordable option, TaxAct provided a streamlined tax preparation experience for users with simpler tax situations.

§4. Investing Software: Making Smart Investment Choices

§For those looking to manage their investments, these platforms were key in 2019:

Robinhood: Popularized commission-free trading, making it accessible to a wider audience. Speed of execution was a significant draw.
Webull: Similar to Robinhood, offering commission-free trading and a mobile-first experience.
TD Ameritrade (now part of Schwab): A well-established brokerage with a comprehensive platform and a wealth of research tools.

§Factors to Consider When Choosing Software

Selecting the right finance software depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Your Business Type/Personal Situation: Freelancer? Small Business? Individual? Different software caters to different needs.
Budget: Free options are available, but paid software often offers more features and support.
Ease of Use: Choose software that you (and your team) find intuitive and easy to navigate.
Integrations: Does the software integrate with your existing tools (e.g., bank accounts, payment processors)?
Scalability: Can the software grow with your business?
Security: Ensure the software employs robust security measures to protect your financial data.
Customer Support: Reliable customer support is crucial if you encounter any issues.

§Beyond 2019: The Future of Fast Finance Software

The trend toward faster, more automated finance software continues. We’re seeing advancements in:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-powered features are automating tasks like invoice processing, expense categorization, and fraud detection.
Machine Learning (ML): ML algorithms are providing more personalized financial insights and recommendations.
Cloud Computing: Cloud-based solutions offer greater accessibility, scalability, and collaboration.
Mobile Accessibility: More and more finance software is optimized for mobile devices, allowing you to manage your finances on the go.

§Conclusion

The best finance software of 2019 – and still viable choices today – empower individuals and businesses to take control of their finances with speed and efficiency. By carefully considering your needs and priorities, you can choose the right tools to streamline your financial processes, reduce errors, and achieve your financial goals. Don't hesitate to leverage free trials and demos to find the perfect fit.

§Disclaimer

This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service through one of these links, we may receive a commission. This does not affect the price you pay. We strive to provide honest and unbiased reviews, and our recommendations are based on thorough research and analysis. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about the financial software that's right for you.