Wave

Wave offers the basics without a subscription fee, making it appealing if you want to start accounting without upfront costs. The free tier covers invoicing and core accounting, and you can add payment processing or payroll when you need them. H&R Block's ownership provides some assurance of the platform's staying power, though that relationship is primarily in the background.

The zero-cost entry point works best for freelancers early in their business who want to test-drive accounting software without commitment. You'll handle your own invoicing, track expenses, and generate reports for tax time. The optional features remain paid add-ons, so you only pay for what you actually use.