5 Best Client Portals Software for Accountants in 2024

Written by Kevin Frei
September 6, 2024

There are many project management tools that can keep your project organized and on track, but most do not have a convenient way to involve your client in the project. That’s where a project management software with client portals can be a game changer.

What is an Accounting Client Portal?

Client portals for accountants are secure online platforms or interfaces that facilitate communication, file sharing, and collaboration between accountants or accounting firms and their clients. These portals are specifically designed to streamline the exchange of sensitive financial information, documents, and data in a secure and organized manner.

Features to Look for in a Accounting Client Portal

Here are some essential features for client portals used by accountants:

Secure user authentication. Implement robust authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication, to ensure only authorized users have access to the portal.
Confidential file sharing. Enable secure file uploads, downloads, and sharing of financial documents, tax returns, statements, and other sensitive accounting information. Encryption should be used to safeguard data during transfer and storage.
Communication tools. Provide secure messaging and discussion functionalities for direct and real-time communication between accountants and clients. This facilitates queries, discussions, and sharing additional financial information securely.
Document management. Organize files into categories or folders, offer version control, and provide search capabilities for quick access to specific documents or information.
Access control and permission. Allow accountants to manage different levels of access, ensuring that sensitive financial data is only accessible to authorized individuals.
Task and workflow management. Offer features to assign tasks, track progress, and manage workflow among accountants and their clients. This includes setting deadlines, tracking revisions, and managing document approval processes.
White-labeling. Allow customization of the portal with the accounting firm’s branding for a professional and consistent appearance.
Integration capabilities. Support integration with accounting software, financial management systems, or other tools commonly used by accountants to ensure seamless data transfer and workflow continuity.

5 Best Client Portal Software for Accountants in 2024

Here are the best client portal software for accounting professionals and their clients:

1. Ahsuite

4.7 out of 5 (87 Reviews)

Ahsuite’s client portal software caters to accountants, offering a single platform for managing clients, secure file sharing, and efficient communication. With customizable client portals, easy access to financial documents, and advanced security features, Ahsuite streamlines workflows and enhances collaboration between accountants and their clients.

on Ahsuite’s secure website

$8-29 per month

Pricing

Free

Intro Offer

Pros

Comprehensive task management features
Seamless content embedding for various media types
Dedicated team password manager
Work journals for transparency and accountability
Built-in group messaging for effective communication
Customizable white-label client portals

Cons

2. SmartVault

4.3 out of 5 (93 reviews)

SmartVault offers a feature-rich platform with an emphasis on security. It uses 256-bit AES encryption for data protection, ensuring secure storage and sharing. The cloud-based architecture permits remote access, facilitating real-time collaboration.

on SmartVault’s secure website

$25-50 per user/month

Pricing

$25 per user/month

Intro Offer

Pros

Cons

3. ShareFile

4.2 out of 5 (1,421 reviews)

ShareFile offers a custom-branded client portal where accountants can engage with their clients on specific documents or tasks. It also has a Document Request & Collection feature and Workflow Automation for efficient processes. With unlimited e-signatures and Secure Document Management, accountants can collaborate safely and effectively.

on ShareFile’s secure website

$17.60-75 per user/month

Pricing

$17.60 per user/month

Intro Offer

Pros

Offers secure file sharing and collaboration
Time-saving with automated workflows
Custom-branded client portal for personalized interaction
Allows unlimited, legally-binding e-signatures at no extra cost
Safe and efficient document management

Cons

4. Content Snare

4.8 out of 5 (46 reviews)

Content Snare is a cloud-based content software that securely facilitates data collection, information sharing, and organization between providers and their customers. With a centralized document approach, this solution is designed to help you and your crew ask customers for information needed to deliver services.

on Content Snare’s secure website

$35-215+ per month

Pricing

$35 per month

Intro Offer

Pros

Client-centric, every feature makes it easy to receive feedback.
Customizing forms is easy and aesthetically pleasing.
Minimizes back-and-forths with customers.
You can follow the client’s progress in filling out forms.
Automated reminders are great for engaging customers.

Cons

5. Copilot

4.8 out of 5 (166 reviews)

Copilot offers encrypted communication, file sharing, document approvals with DocuSign-like functionality, and billing management. It enables seamless client communication, payments, contracts, and more.

on Copilot’s secure website

$39-139 per user/month

Pricing

$39 per user/month

Intro Offer

Pros

Cons

Summary

There you have it, a rundown of the best client portal software for accountants in 2024. We’ve covered essential features, advantages, disadvantages, and pricing to help you make an informed decision. Upgrading from email communication to a client portal can significantly improve your accounting practice. Whichever software you choose, it will enhance organization, efficiency, and client satisfaction.