Save money with an out-of-the-box accounts payable program

When you buy account payable software from a store, you typically buy an out-of-the-box system that can cost between $50 to $200 for the basic version. Once you have the program, you take it to your office and install it on your computer. With this type of system, you won't have to worry about hidden fees, upgrades or other costs, which makes this option the most budget-friendly one.

I recommend: Peachtree by Sage offers several systems including a complete accounting system with accounts payable processing features. It is one of the main providers for store-bought accounting software. Intuit, more commonly known as QuickBooks, is another industry leader that provides multiple versions of its AP software, including Mac-compatible versions.

Bump up the price margin to get more features for your accounts payable system

If a basic program doesn't have enough features for you, consider upgrading to a more expensive one. Out-of-the-box versions can cost from $200 to $500 for the more advanced series, usually denoted by the name of the version. If you are upgrading, the version might cost less, but when you add the initial purchase price, you'll probably be within the $200 to $500 range.

I recommend: Upgrade your version of Microsoft Office Accounting or purchase the Pro version for more features. Microsoft designed the AP software to work in conjunction with your other MS Office applications. View the various levels of Goldenseal Business Software available from Turtle Creek Software. The complete version costs more than $600.

Reduce upfront costs with online accounts payable software

With a web-based program, the providing company hosts all the software on its server, which means you don't need to use your own hard drive. Often these services cost less per year than buying out-of-the-box A/P software, but you have to pay the yearly rate for the duration of the time you use the company. If you use the service over a period of years, you may wind up paying more for the service in the long run than if you had purchased a program outright.

I recommend: TrackerSuite.Net offers web-based expense tracking and other accounting programs. The more features you add, the higher your monthly payment. Verian hosts its Invoice Manager on its server, but it also lets you download the system onto your computer if you feel more comfortable holding your own information.