Accounting software for Swiss self-employed people in 2026

Choosing the right accounting software is crucial for business success for freelancers in Switzerland. It not only automates time-consuming administrative tasks but also ensures that all finances are managed in compliance with specific Swiss regulations regarding value-added tax (VAT), QR invoices, and AHV contributions. An efficient tool transforms accounting from a tedious chore into a strategic tool for better financial decisions.

This article presents and compares the five best software solutions – Magic Heidi, Infinity, Bexio, CashCtrl, and Banana Accounting – in detail to help you choose.

What makes a good accountant:

Decision criteria at a glance

Before we look at the individual programs, it's worth taking a look at the criteria that are particularly important for Swiss freelancers:

User-friendliness: The software should be intuitive and not require extensive accounting knowledge. A clear focus on the needs of solo entrepreneurs is a big plus.
Swiss compliance: Essential features include support for QR invoices, the correct calculation of Swiss VAT rates (standard 7.7%, reduced 2.6%), and the creation of the necessary reports for tax returns.
Feature range: Essential core functions include professional invoicing, simple expense management (ideally with receipt scanning), and bank reconciliation.
Value for money: Pricing models should be transparent and appropriate for a freelancer's income. Many providers have special plans for sole proprietors.
Flexibility and access: Cloud-based allows access from anywhere and on different devices, which is crucial for the mobile working style of many freelancers.

Magic Heidi

The specialized companion

Magic Heidi was developed explicitly for Swiss freelancers and consistently focuses on simplicity and a well-thought-out range of functions without unnecessary ballast.

Why it's ideal for freelancers: The software solves the specific problems of its target group: It saves time with AI-supported receipt scanning, creates accurate QR invoices at the push of a button, and performs complex VAT accounting in accordance with Swiss law. The interface is clean, mobile-friendly, and dispenses with accounting jargon.
Strengths at a glance:
- All-in-one solution: From quotes and invoices to expense management and VAT pre-registration, everything is integrated into a single application.
- Strong mobile experience: Full functionality is available on smartphones and tablets, making it extremely easy to capture receipts on the go.
- Clear focus: Since the software wasn't designed for SMEs with employees, freelancers feel 100% understood and taken care of.
Please note: This tool offers less extensive integration with third-party systems and is not suitable if you later require integrated payroll accounting for employees.
Price: It costs around CHF 30 per month, which, according to the manufacturer, offers about 30% better value than some larger competitors.

Infinity

The modern challenger with AI focus

Infinity positions itself as a modern, AI-supported alternative to established players and impresses with its well-thought-out design and high level of automation.

Why it's ideal for freelancers: Infinity was developed with an "AI-first approach." This means that artificial intelligence is deeply integrated into workflows. The software learns from your transactions, suggests automations, and recognizes receipts, whether via app, email, or import – even without manual reconciliation. This saves enormous amounts of time and reduces errors.
Strengths at a glance:
- Leading AI integration: Features such as "Live Accounting" (real-time accounting) and "Live Capture" (intelligent receipt recognition) automate a large part of the accounting process.
- Exceptional user-friendliness: The interface is modern and logically structured. Entries can be made even without understanding debits and credits, as Infinity makes the necessary entries in the background.
- Rapid product development: The Infinity team regularly rolls out new features and improvements, making the software very future-proof.
Please note: Modules such as warehouse management or integrated payroll accounting (in development) are still missing, but this is often not a problem for pure service providers.
Price: Starts at just CHF 24/month (billed annually) and includes two users by default, which is very fair for a partnership. The recommended "Pro" package with VAT accounting costs CHF 38/month.

Bexio

The established all-rounder

Bexio is one of the best-known cloud solutions for SMEs in Switzerland and offers a very comprehensive range of features that are also interesting for growing freelancers.

Why it's ideal for freelancers: For freelancers planning to expand their business, perhaps hiring their first employees, or whose work shifts toward project work and warehousing, Bexio offers a solid, mature foundation. The software is extremely robust and covers virtually every business need.
Strengths at a glance:
- Wide range of functions: In addition to core accounting, Bexio offers integrated modules for CRM, project time tracking, warehouse management, and payroll accounting.
- Extensive integrations: Numerous third-party applications can be connected via a marketplace, making the software very flexible.
- Strong support: Bexio offers free support via phone and chat, as well as a large knowledge base.
Please note: The user interface is considered outdated, and its operation requires basic accounting knowledge (debit/credit), which can be a hurdle for beginners. It is also comparatively more expensive.
Price: The Starter package starts at CHF 35/month for one user. Important features like project time tracking are only included in the "Pro" package for CHF 65/month.

CashCtrl

The free powerhouse

CashCtrl is a Swiss cloud software that stands out for its generous free version and a clear, user-friendly interface.

Why it's ideal for freelancers: For career starters or freelancers with a very tight budget, the permanently free basic version is an excellent starting point. It allows you to learn and manage basic accounting without any financial risk.
Strengths at a glance:
- Attractive free offer: The free version supports one user and already includes financial accounting, accounts receivable management, VAT, and initial reports.
- Easy to use: The interface is clear and structured, making it easy to use even for non-accounting professionals.
- Swiss development and hosting: All data is hosted in Switzerland, which is an important consideration for many from a data protection perspective.
Please note: Support is primarily available via email or form; there is no live chat. Furthermore, scalability may be limited for rapidly growing companies.
Price: Free (basic version) / CHF 24.60 per month for the PRO version including 5 users and advanced features such as API connections

Banana Accounting

The budget-friendly classic

Banana Accounting is a classic in Switzerland, established since 1990. It is primarily a desktop software with a spreadsheet-like interface, particularly suitable for adaptable users with basic accounting knowledge.

Why it's ideal for freelancers: The biggest advantage is the price. The software is extremely affordable and offers a truly free tier for basic accounting. Anyone who enjoys controlling every column of numbers and is comfortable with Excel will appreciate Banana.
Strengths at a glance:
- Excellent value for money: The free version is sufficient for many freelancers. The paid "Professional" version costs only about CHF 5.75 per month (billed annually).
- High flexibility: The table-based structure allows for customization and individualization of almost everything.
- Comprehensive Swiss compliance: Despite the low price, Banana supports all relevant Swiss regulations, including VAT administration and annual financial statements.
Please note: This is a desktop solution without true cloud functionality (which can complicate collaboration with the fiduciary) and lacks modern automation such as a direct bank feed or a mobile app for scanning receipts.
Price: Free (Free version) / CHF 69 per year for the Professional version (approx. CHF 5.75/month).

Direct comparison

The following table summarizes the most important features of the five software solutions for a quick overview:

Software	Ideal for	Price (monthly)	Key features	Greatest strength	Main disadvantage
Magic Heidi	Freelancers looking for a specialized, simple all-in-one solution	~ CHF 30	AI receipt scanning, QR invoice, mobile app, VAT	Focus on freelancer needs & ease of use	Limited integrations, no payroll accounting
Infinity	Tech-savvy freelancers who want maximum automation through AI	From CHF 24	AI "Live Accounting", receipt recognition, state-of-the-art UI	Leading AI & outstanding ease of use	No inventory management (currently)
Bexio	Growing freelancers who think and expand in an SME structure	From CHF 35	Comprehensive modules (CRM, projects, warehouse), marketplace	Very broad range of functions & strong ecosystem	Higher complexity & learning curve, more expensive
CashCtrl	Budget-conscious beginners and freelancers with basic requirements	Free (Basic) / From ~CHF 25 (Pro)	Free version, address management, reports	Generous free offer & clear structure	Limited support, limited scalability
Banana	Freelancers with a budget, Excel affinity, and basic accounting knowledge	Free (Basic) / From ~CHF 6 (Pro)	Spreadsheet interface, highly customizable, VAT	Unbeatable value & maximum control	Outdated design, no cloud, manual processes

Practical tips for selection

There's no such thing as the "best" software – it all depends on your individual needs. When making your decision, follow these steps:

Define your requirements: Ask yourself: Do I only need invoices and expenses? Do I plan to hire employees? How important is mobile access to me? Do I need to track projects and time?
Use trial versions: Almost all providers offer free trials or demos. These are essential to get a feel for the user-friendliness.
Think ahead: Choose software that will fit your business not only today, but also in one to two years. Switching always involves effort.
Evaluate the support: Consider how much support you need. Does the provider offer support via chat, phone, or only email?

Conclusion

Choosing the right accounting software is a strategic decision for every Swiss freelancer.

For maximum simplicity and freelancer focus, Magic Heidi is the first choice.
If you want to rely on modern technology and AI automation, Infinity should be your choice.
Bexio is the solution for those who are growth-oriented and need a comprehensive range of features.
CashCtrl offers an excellent, free entry point for budget-conscious beginners.
And Banana Accounting remains the affordable alternative for those familiar with a desktop solution and spreadsheet-based accounting.

No matter which tool you ultimately choose, investing in professional accounting software will give you back valuable time that you can reinvest in your core business and your passion.

Best accounting software for Swiss freelancers 2026