What is client accounting software?
Client Accounting Software (CAS) is the broader term for accounting tools that accounting professionals use to manage their clients' bookkeeping and accounting. As accounting firms increasingly offer bookkeeping as a managed service, CAS platforms help them serve many clients efficiently.
How CAS works
In a CAS model, the accounting firm handles bookkeeping tasks on behalf of the client - categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, and producing financial reports. The client gets access to view their financials but does not do the day-to-day bookkeeping. Note.now supports this model through its accountant access features.
The shift toward CAS has been one of the biggest changes in the accounting industry over the past decade. Cloud accounting software made it possible for accountants to do work for clients remotely, in real time, without physically collecting records. For clients, it means more up-to-date financial information and a closer relationship with their accountant. For accounting firms, it creates recurring revenue streams that are more predictable than annual tax engagements.
Popular CAS platforms
QuickBooks Online Accountant, Xero HQ, and Botkeeper are popular platforms for managing multiple client accounts. Note.now gives accountants free access to their clients' books, making it a natural fit for firms offering client accounting services.
When selecting a platform for a CAS practice, look for: the ability to switch between client books from a single dashboard, standardised chart of accounts templates you can apply to new clients, and bulk reporting tools that let you run the same report across multiple clients. These efficiency features determine how many clients a single accountant can manage profitably.
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