That's the point where a business should consider investing into an accounting package. Choosing a software in Sri Lanka isn't only about comparing features. It also needs to work properly with local requirements like VAT, SSCL, IRD compliant tax invoices and payroll. Just as important, you need a supplier who will answer the phone when you need help.
We've been working with Sri Lankan businesses since 1998. Over the years we've helped more than 5000 companies select and implement accounting software that suits their needs. We are the authorized QuickBooks reseller in Sri Lanka, and we also developed AccSoft ERP for businesses that need more advanced features. Due to this variation, it allows us to recommend the solution that genuinely fits your business instead of trying to sell the same thing to everyone.
In this guide, we'll explain the differences, what to look for before you buy, and how to choose a system that will continue to support your business as it grows.
Start here
Which accounting system fits your business?
You're a small business or startup
QuickBooks
At this level you would not need complex systems. A simple and reliable system containing double entry accounting, invoicing, expense tracking and financial reports, which even a non-accountant could run daily, would be enough.
Best for: service businesses, small traders, startups, professional firms, NGOs
We provide: genuine licenses, installation, training in English and Sinhala, ongoing support. 5,000+ installations island-wide.
Learn more about QuickBooks in Sri LankaYou're trading, distribution or manufacturing
AccSoft ERP
At first a product business would not need much from a system, but as the business grows, so does the manufacturing and branches. The business would need a system that can scale with it, so that tracking inventory across multiple locations, sales force automation, production costing, credit control and multi company consolidation would be easy. AccSoft ERP delivers all of this with IRD-compliant invoicing, SSCL and VAT handling built in, and an interface familiar enough that migrating from QuickBooks is painless.
Best for: distributors, wholesalers, manufacturers, any business, groups of companies
We provide: implementation by a CA-led team, master file and opening balance migration from QuickBooks/Xero/Tally/MYOB, customisation, local support.
Learn more about AccSoft ERPYou want access from anywhere
Cloud hosting
Cloud hosting removes the need for a server to be kept within the company, and removes the need for all the computers to be connected through one internet connection, which would allow the company to securely access the database from anywhere.
Learn more about cloud hostingThe comparison
Accounting software comparison for Sri Lankan businesses
Scroll sideways on smaller screens to see the full table.
| QuickBooks | AccSoft ERP | Xero / Zoho Books | Excel / manual books | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small–medium businesses | Suitable for most businesses | Small business | Very early stage only |
| Sri Lanka VAT & SSCL | Configurable, we set it up | Built in Native | Manual workarounds | Manual, error-prone |
| IRD-compliant invoices | Configurable | Built in Native | Limited | Manual |
| Inventory & multi-location | Basic | Advanced | Basic | No |
| Local support & training | Yes, at AccSoft since 1998 | Yes, developed here | - | |
| Payroll with EPF/ETF | Via AccSoft Payroll | Integrated option | No | Manual |
Before you sign anything
What Sri Lankan businesses should check before buying
IRD compliance
Can it produce tax invoices in the format IRD expects, with details shown correctly? Get this wrong and you would have to redo invoices during an audit.
SSCL handling
Many international packages can't apply SSCL on the correct base. Ask the vendor for a demonstration.
Local support
When your invoicing stops on the 31st, how easy is it to get the support required?
Training
Software fails when staff don't use it properly. Insist on structured training, in Sinhala if your team prefers it.
Room to grow
Migrating between systems is a pain. Throughout the years customers find it a pain to migrate between systems, therefore we recommend getting a system that can scale with the business, or one that has a very clear and clean upgrade path (QuickBooks to AccSoft ERP is one we've built deliberately).
Total cost
Subscription vs one-time license, per-user fees, hosting, support contracts. Be careful as to avoid any hidden cost.
The short version
Which one should you choose?
If you're a small business that mainly needs invoicing, expense tracking and basic reports, and you want your books to work from anywhere, QuickBooks Online is usually the right fit.
If you prefer working from a desktop, want full control over your data locally, or your accounting needs are more traditional, QuickBooks Desktop still works well, especially if you're not dependent on multi-user cloud access.
If your business has grown beyond standard accounting with inventory, multi-branch operations, manufacturing, or Sri Lanka-specific compliance needs like SSCL and IRD tax invoicing built directly into the workflow, AccSoft ERP is built for that level of complexity.
We work with all three, so our recommendation isn't based on what we want to sell, it's based on what actually fits your business.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best accounting software in Sri Lanka?
There is no single ERP system that suits every business, it mainly depends on the business size, type and requirements. QuickBooks suits most small businesses, whereas product based companies are better served with an ERP like AccSoft ERP. We offer both, so our advice starts with your business, not with a product.
What's the difference between QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop?
QuickBooks Online is cloud-based. You log in from any browser, updates happen automatically, and your accountant can access the books remotely. QuickBooks Desktop is installed on your own computer and works without an internet connection. Online is now Intuit's main product and where all new development goes; Desktop is being phased out worldwide.
How much does an accounting software cost in Sri Lanka?
Entry-level packages start from USD 4 per month, while ERP implementations are priced by modules and users. Contact us on 0777 554 225 for current QuickBooks and AccSoft ERP pricing. We'll give you a full cost picture including training and support, with no hidden add-ons.
Does QuickBooks work for Sri Lankan VAT and SSCL?
Yes, with correct setup. We configure VAT and SSCL handling as part of every installation, and our training covers producing IRD-compliant tax invoices. This local configuration is the main difference between buying a license anywhere and buying it from a local partner.
Can I move my existing data from Excel, Xero or Tally?
Yes. We regularly migrate businesses from Excel, Xero, Tally, MYOB and older systems into QuickBooks or AccSoft ERP, bringing across customers, suppliers, items and opening balances so you don't start from zero.
Is cloud accounting software safe for my business data?
Yes, when hosted properly. Our cloud hosting includes daily backups and secure access controls.
Do you provide training in Sinhala?
Yes. Our team is capable of training customers in English, Sinhala and Tamil, and any further additional support could also be provided in all three languages. We've found mixed-language training (Sinhala explanation, English software terms) works best for most teams.
Talk to us before you decide
Choosing an accounting software is a five-to-ten-year decision. Call 0777 554 225 or contact us for a free consultation, we'll help you decide, even if the answer is "stay on what you have for now."
AccSoft Solutions, Sri Lanka's most experienced accounting software partner. CA-led team. 5,000+ clients since 1998.