Recommended tools I use with clients in the Netherlands — not a full comparison
Why this matters?
There is a wide offering for bookkeeping for starters and non-profits, depending on:
- how much time you spend on bookkeeping;
- how easy your VAT filing is;
- how confident you feel about your numbers.
👉 The right bookkeeping tool saves time.
👉 The wrong one creates ongoing friction.
What actually matters?
When choosing a bookkeeping software, focus on these:
- Automation → bank import, categorization, receipt scanning (biggest time saver)
- VAT & ICP → especially if you invoice EU clients
- Multi-currency & languages → critical for expats with international clients
- Cost transparency → automation and bank connections are not always included
- Language → some tools are Dutch-only
- Payroll (for BV and employees) → often separate
Quick comparison (practical view)
- Moneybird → best for expats & international businesses
- Jortt → most automatic, but Dutch-focused with basic payroll included
- e‑Boekhouden → cheapest start, more manual over time, offers membership admin (non-profit)
- SnelStart / Exact → better with a bookkeeper
- Excel → only for very simple setups (no VAT, under KOR)
What I recommend in practice
✅ ZZPers (freelancers)
👉 Default: Moneybird
Best if you:
- work internationally
- want automation + simplicity
- want invoices in multiple currencies/languages
- includes bank account with online payment provider (Ayden) that is particularly beneficial with international clients
Alternatives:
- Jortt → if you want almost zero admin (Dutch required)
- e‑Boekhouden → if you prioritise low cost
✅ Bookkeeping in the Netherlands for Small BV (1 DGA)
👉 You will not only need bookkeeping, but also payroll. Most bookkeeping software does not include the payroll module by default. If you work with an accountancy office – they will choose for you. Therefore the below considerations are only relevant if you want to be closely involved, or possibly do your own bookkeeping and/or payroll.
Option 1 — Jortt PlusBest for simple Dutch-speaking BVs for, which
- need bookkeeping + basic payroll included (does not handle 30% ruling)
- have no more than a 100 clients per VAT period. Note, that ICP reporting is manual.
Option 2 — Moneybird + payroll (e.g. Employes)Best for, expats, entrepreneurs with international clients, or when the DGA is under the 30% ruling.
Other options:⚠ SnelStart / Exact Online
- these are more complex, need a level of bookkeeping knowledge
- usually only makes sense with a bookkeeper
👉 If you anyway work with a bookkeeper: Choose your bookkeeper first, then follow their tool.
✅ Bookkeeping for Non-profits or churches
Non profits have different aspects to consider. Most non profits (and churches) have many small transactions (donations), and generally work with volunteers who may not be experts in accounting. For these reasons I consider software with high level of automation and a simple setup essential.
Option 1 — Moneybird
- best for automation
- good English interface, suitable for international teams
- straightforward reports (P&L and Balance)
Option 2 — e‑Boekhouden
- includes member administration
- only Dutch interface
- very basic reporting (only yearly, no monthly P&L view)
Option 3 — SnelStart / Exact
- more expensive and customizable, but automation is not included in the basic packages
- needs accountancy knowledge
- better reporting (with accountant)
Final thought
There is no “best tool”.
👉 Only:
- the right level of automation
- the right level of complexity
- the right fit for your situation
And one honest rule:
👉 A cheap tool becomes expensive
👉 when it costs you time
Sources:
Use online payment methods. Get paid faster. | Moneybird
Eenvoudig online boekhouden & factureren | e-Boekhouden.nl
Boekhoudprogramma verenigingen & stichtingen | e-Boekhouden.nl
Scan & Herken en Mail & Herken | e-Boekhouden.nl
The above is based on my own personal experience with the listed software, this is not advertising.
