Finding the right accounting software isn't just a tech decision. It's a mission-critical investment. Nonprofits face unique challenges when it comes to managing finances: fund accounting requirements that for-profit systems don't address, grant management complexities, and stakeholder reports that need to tell your financial story with accuracy and transparency. When you choose software designed specifically for nonprofit needs, you're not just checking a compliance box—you're able to work smarter, demonstrate outstanding stewardship, and ultimately create more bandwidth to focus on what really matters: the communities you serve.
The right accounting solution doesn't just organize your numbers—it amplifies your impact. If you're trying to decide between Aplos or QuickBooks for your nonprofit accounting needs, this guide will help you make an in-depth comparison. Let's get started!
Aplos takes the complexity out of nonprofit finances, giving you a straightforward system that understands the unique way nonprofits and faith-based organizations need to track and report their money.
What makes Aplos shine is its laser focus on true fund accounting principles. You'll track every dollar across multiple funds with ease, create board-ready financial reports in seconds, and maintain the rock-solid compliance your organization needs. It's like having a CFO and tech guru that speaks nonprofit fluently—delivering the professional-grade accounting you need without requiring a PhD to use them.
QuickBooks is the Swiss Army knife of business accounting software that is designed to help businesses of all sizes track income and expenses, process payroll, manage invoices, and handle tax preparation. It offers cloud-based and desktop options with tiers that scale with your business.
QuickBooks excels at general business accounting, but it wasn't built specifically for nonprofits or fund accounting. While QuickBooks can be customized for nonprofit use, you'll need workarounds and add-ons to achieve what Aplos delivers natively.
Native fund accounting capabilities in a purpose-built system can significantly reduce accounting complexity while strengthening your ability to operate with financial transparency. Here's how Aplos and QuickBooks compare when it comes to fund accounting functionality:
Strategic budgeting helps nonprofit leaders balance funding restrictions with organizational priorities, ensuring every dollar advances your mission while maintaining transparency. Here's how Aplos and QuickBooks compare when it comes to budgeting functionality:
Nonprofit-specific reporting ensures compliance, accurately tracks restricted funds, and generates the specialized reports needed for board governance and donor transparency. Here's how Aplos and QuickBooks compare when it comes to reporting functionality:
Every year, thousands of nonprofits make the switch from QuickBooks to Aplos to access critical fund accounting tools that nonprofits depend on for accurate financial tracking and reporting. Here’s what Aplos customers have said:
With the right fund accounting solutions and intentional fund management practices, you can transform your nonprofit’s finances for the better. We'd love to talk to you about how Aplos can improve the way you do accounting. Reach out to us today to start the conversation!