Top 10 Accounts Payable System Software Comparison
By Dante Holloway | Published: 2025-03-16 | Category: Account Payable System Software
About Account Payable System Software
Accounts Payable (AP) system software automates the process of managing and paying short-term liabilities owed to suppliers and vendors. These systems streamline invoice capture, approval workflows, payment processing, and reporting, reducing manual effort and improving financial control.
Scoring Criteria
- → Automation Features
- → Integration Capabilities
- → User Experience
- → Payment Processing
- → Reporting & Analytics
- → Scalability
- → Customer Support
- → Pricing Value
The Best Account Payable System Software
#10
Melio
By Melio Payments Inc.
Simple AP/AR solution designed specifically for US-based small businesses, focusing on ease of use for paying bills and getting paid.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small business bill pay, Paying vendors via ACH/check, Receiving payments from customers, Accountant dashboards
Key Features
- ✓Free ACH Transfers: No fee for sending or receiving ACH payments.
- ✓Pay Bills with Credit Card: Allows paying bills via credit card (fee applies) even if vendor doesn't accept cards.
- ✓Simple Invoice Capture: Upload or snap photos of bills for processing.
- ✓Basic Approval Workflows: Simple user roles and payment approval options.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free Core Plan
Contact Vendor
- Unlimited users
- ACH payments
- Check payments ($1.50 fee)
- Basic integrations (QuickBooks, Xero)
Limitations: Transaction fees for card payments (2.9%) and expedited checks, Limited automation features
Accountant Dashboard
Contact Vendor
- Manage multiple clients
- Client collaboration tools
Limitations: Designed for accountants managing SMB clients
Pros
- + Extremely easy to use
- + Free for core ACH payment functionality
- + Flexible payment options (pay by card, vendor receives ACH/check)
- + Good for very small businesses
Cons
- - Limited automation and workflow capabilities
- - Reporting is basic
- - Not designed for complex AP needs or high volume
- - Primarily focused on US domestic payments
Verdict
"An excellent, cost-effective choice for US-based small businesses needing a simple, user-friendly way to manage and pay bills electronically."
#9
Ramp
By Ramp Business Corporation
Spend management platform known for corporate cards, expense management, and increasingly robust bill payment (AP) features, targeting startups to mid-market.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Unified spend management, Corporate cards with integrated controls, Automated expense reporting, Bill payments via ACH, check, card
Key Features
- ✓Integrated Bill Pay: Manage and pay bills alongside card spend and reimbursements.
- ✓Automated Invoice Processing: OCR data capture and AI-powered coding suggestions.
- ✓Smart Corporate Cards: Cards with built-in spend controls and automated receipt matching.
- ✓Savings Insights: Platform identifies potential duplicate subscriptions and savings opportunities.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free Tier
Contact Vendor
- Core platform
- Corporate cards
- Expense management
- Bill Pay (basic)
- Basic integrations
Limitations: Primarily funded via interchange fees
Ramp Plus
$12.00 / Monthly per user
- Advanced user roles
- Purchase orders
- Advanced integrations
- Custom controls
Limitations: Additional cost for premium features
Enterprise
$-1.00 / Custom
- Multi-entity
- Advanced security
- Premium support
- Custom implementation
Limitations: Quote-based
Pros
- + Often free core platform (funded by card interchange)
- + Modern, intuitive user interface
- + Excellent integration between cards, expenses, and bill pay
- + Focus on identifying savings
Cons
- - Bill pay features are newer and might be less mature than dedicated AP platforms
- - Heavily encourages use of Ramp corporate cards
- - International payment capabilities less extensive than some competitors
Verdict
"A compelling option, especially for startups and SMBs, offering a modern, integrated spend management platform with strong core AP features often at no direct software cost."
#8
Nvoicepay (Corpay)
By Corpay (formerly FLEETCOR)
Payment automation specialist focusing on optimizing and securing outbound payments for mid-market and enterprise clients.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Complex payment optimization, Payment fraud mitigation, Supplier enablement for ePayments, Integration with existing AP/ERP
Key Features
- ✓Intelligent Payment Optimization: Dynamically selects the optimal payment method (ACH, virtual card, check) for each supplier.
- ✓Supplier Enablement Services: Actively contacts and manages suppliers to transition them to electronic payments.
- ✓Comprehensive Payment Security: Advanced fraud detection and indemnification options.
- ✓ERP/Accounting System Integration: Connects with various systems to receive payment instructions.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Pricing
$-1.00 / Varies
- Payment automation
- Supplier services
- Security features
- Reporting
Limitations: Quote-based, Primarily focused on the payment execution part of AP
Pros
- + Excels at optimizing payment mix and maximizing rebates
- + Strong focus on payment security and fraud prevention
- + Handles supplier enablement effectively
- + Reduces burden of payment execution
Cons
- - Less focus on the front-end invoice capture and approval process compared to full AP suites
- - Can be viewed primarily as a payment service rather than a full AP solution
Verdict
"Highly recommended for organizations whose primary AP pain point is complex, high-volume payment execution, security, and supplier enablement."
#7
Oracle NetSuite AP Automation
By Oracle
Built-in AP automation features within the NetSuite ERP platform, offering seamless integration for NetSuite users.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: NetSuite-centric organizations, Automated invoice processing within ERP, Streamlined procure-to-pay cycle
Key Features
- ✓Native NetSuite Integration: AP functions are part of the core ERP system.
- ✓Automated Invoice Data Capture: Scans and extracts data from vendor bills.
- ✓Workflow & Approval Engine: Leverages NetSuite's workflow capabilities for routing.
- ✓Electronic Payment Processing: Supports various electronic payment methods through SuitePayments or partners.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Included Module/Add-on
$-1.00 / Varies
- Depends on NetSuite subscription level and add-ons purchased.
Limitations: Requires existing NetSuite subscription, Pricing tied to overall NetSuite cost
Pros
- + Seamless integration for existing NetSuite users
- + Unified data model within the ERP
- + Leverages NetSuite's robust reporting and workflow tools
- + Single vendor relationship
Cons
- - Only available to NetSuite customers
- - Features might be less advanced than best-of-breed standalone AP solutions
- - User experience tied to the overall NetSuite interface
Verdict
"The default choice for organizations heavily reliant on NetSuite ERP, providing tightly integrated AP automation within their existing system."
#6
SAP Concur Invoice
By SAP SE
Part of the broader SAP Concur ecosystem for travel, expense, and invoice management, targeted at mid-size to large enterprises.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Enterprise invoice management, Integration with SAP ERP, Global AP operations, Compliance and control
Key Features
- ✓End-to-End Invoice Automation: From capture and coding to approval and payment initiation.
- ✓Concur Expense Integration: Unified platform for managing both T&E and AP spend.
- ✓Mobile App: Allows invoice review and approval on the go.
- ✓Robust Reporting & Analytics: Detailed insights into AP processes and spend.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Concur Invoice Standard
$-1.00 / Varies
- Core invoice automation
- Mobile access
- Standard reporting
Limitations: Quote-based, Implementation fees apply
Concur Invoice Professional
$-1.00 / Varies
- Advanced features
- Custom configurations
- Enhanced integrations
Limitations: Quote-based, More complex setup
Pros
- + Deep integration with SAP ecosystem
- + Comprehensive feature set for large organizations
- + Strong reporting and analytics
- + Global capabilities
- + Combines well with Concur Expense
Cons
- - Can be expensive and complex to implement
- - User interface not always intuitive
- - Less flexible than some newer competitors
- - Payment execution often handled by ERP or third-party
Verdict
"A powerful choice for large enterprises already invested in the SAP ecosystem needing robust, scalable invoice management integrated with T&E."
#5
AvidXchange
By AvidXchange, Inc.
AP automation and payment solution focused on the mid-market, offering a combination of software and services.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Mid-market AP automation, Industry-specific solutions (Real Estate, Construction, HOA), Supplier payment services
Key Features
- ✓Multiple Invoice Submission Methods: Supports email, direct upload, and outsourced scanning services.
- ✓Purchase Order Matching: Automated 2-way and 3-way PO matching.
- ✓AvidPay Network: Large network for facilitating electronic payments to suppliers.
- ✓Industry Specialization: Tailored features for specific verticals like real estate.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.5 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Pricing
$-1.00 / Varies
- Invoice automation
- Payment automation
- PO Matching
- Integrations
Limitations: Quote-based, Pricing can depend on transaction volume and services used
Pros
- + Strong payment automation capabilities via AvidPay Network
- + Industry-specific expertise
- + Offers managed services options
- + Good PO matching features
Cons
- - User interface can feel dated compared to newer platforms
- - Pricing isn't transparent and can be high
- - Customer support reviews are mixed
Verdict
"A solid option for mid-market companies, particularly those in supported industries, looking for robust payment automation and PO matching."
#4
Airbase
By Airbase, Inc.
Comprehensive spend management platform combining AP automation, corporate cards, and expense reimbursements.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Unified spend management, Corporate card programs, Employee expense reimbursement, AP automation
Key Features
- ✓Integrated Spend Platform: Combines bill payments, corporate cards, and reimbursements in one system.
- ✓Advanced Approval Workflows: Customizable rules across all spend categories.
- ✓Real-time Spend Visibility: Consolidated view of company spending as it happens.
- ✓Direct ERP Integration: Deep integrations with NetSuite, QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, Xero.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
$-1.00 / Annually
- Core AP
- Guided Procurement
- Expense Management
- Basic integrations
Limitations: Quote-based, May have user/spend minimums
Premium
$-1.00 / Annually
- Advanced AP Features
- Purchase Order Management
- Advanced integrations
- Multi-subsidiary support
Limitations: Quote-based
Enterprise
$-1.00 / Annually
- Custom workflows
- Dedicated support
- API access
- Advanced security
Limitations: Quote-based
Pros
- + Holistic approach to spend management
- + Strong controls and visibility
- + Seamless integration between cards, expenses, and AP
- + Good fit for tech-forward companies
Cons
- - Can be more complex than standalone AP solutions
- - Pricing tailored to mid-market and larger companies
- - Less focus on global payments compared to Tipalti
Verdict
"A top choice for companies seeking a unified platform to manage all non-payroll spend, including AP, corporate cards, and expenses."
#3
Stampli
By Stampli, Inc.
AP automation software emphasizing collaboration and communication, integrating directly on top of existing accounting systems.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Collaborative invoice approval, AP process visibility, Integration with existing ERP/Accounting, Communication hub for AP
Key Features
- ✓Centralized Invoice Communication: Conversations happen directly on top of the invoice, involving relevant stakeholders.
- ✓Billy the Bot (AI Assistant): Automates coding, approval routing, and fraud detection.
- ✓Flexible Approval Workflows: Adapts to existing company processes.
- ✓Seamless ERP/Accounting Integration: Works closely with NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, SAP, etc.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Pricing
$-1.00 / Annually
- Core AP automation
- Unlimited users
- Standard integrations
- Billy the Bot AI
Limitations: Quote-based, Pricing often based on invoice volume
Pros
- + Excellent collaboration features
- + Intuitive user interface
- + Strong focus on integrating with existing workflows
- + Responsive customer support
- + Unlimited users often included
Cons
- - Payment processing (Stampli Direct Pay) is an add-on and might be less robust than dedicated payment platforms
- - Pricing not transparent
Verdict
"Best suited for companies prioritizing collaboration and communication within the AP process, offering a user-friendly layer over existing accounting systems."
#2
Tipalti
By Tipalti, Inc.
Comprehensive, end-to-end global payables automation solution targeting mid-market and enterprise businesses with complex AP needs.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Global mass payments, Multi-entity AP management, Supplier onboarding, Tax compliance (W-9/W-8)
Key Features
- ✓Global Payment Infrastructure: Supports payments in 196 countries and 120 currencies via multiple methods.
- ✓Self-Service Supplier Portal: Streamlines supplier onboarding, management, and communication.
- ✓Advanced OCR & Invoice Processing: Automated data capture and PO matching.
- ✓Tax Compliance Automation: Automated collection and validation of W-9/W-8 forms, 1099/1042-S preparation.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Platform Fee
$-1.00 / Monthly/Annually
- Core platform access
- Supplier management
- Invoice processing
- Global payments
Limitations: Requires quote, Minimum processing volume may apply
Pros
- + Handles complex global payments exceptionally well
- + Robust feature set including tax compliance
- + Highly scalable for growing/large enterprises
- + Strong supplier management features
Cons
- - Can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses
- - Interface can be complex due to extensive features
- - Primarily focused on payables, less on AR
Verdict
"Ideal for mid-market to enterprise companies with significant international payment volume, complex workflows, and multi-entity structures."
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#1
Bill.com
By Bill Holdings, Inc.
Popular AP/AR automation platform for SMBs and mid-market businesses, focusing on simplifying invoice processing and payments.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: SMB invoice management, Mid-market AP automation, Digital payments, Accountant collaboration
Key Features
- ✓Intelligent Invoice Capture: AI-powered data entry from invoices.
- ✓Automated Approval Workflows: Customizable multi-step approval routing.
- ✓Multiple Payment Options: Supports ACH, check, virtual card, and international wires.
- ✓Accounting Software Sync: Two-way synchronization with QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, etc.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essentials
$45.00 / Monthly per user
- Core AP/AR
- Standard approvals
- Basic integrations
Limitations: Limited users, Basic support
Team
$55.00 / Monthly per user
- Role-based access
- Custom approvals
- Sync with QuickBooks Premier/Enterprise, Xero
Limitations: Higher cost per user
Corporate
$79.00 / Monthly per user
- Full AP/AR automation
- API access
- Sync with NetSuite, Sage Intacct
Limitations: Designed for larger teams
Enterprise
$-1.00 / Custom
- Advanced controls
- Multi-entity support
- Dedicated support
Limitations: Quote-based pricing
Pros
- + User-friendly interface
- + Strong integration ecosystem
- + Extensive payment options
- + Widely adopted by accountants
Cons
- - Per-user pricing can become expensive
- - Reporting could be more robust
- - Support quality can vary
Verdict
"Excellent choice for SMBs and mid-market companies seeking a user-friendly, integrated AP/AR solution with strong payment capabilities."
Final Thoughts
The Accounts Payable software market offers diverse solutions catering to different needs. Leaders like Tipalti excel in global, complex payments for enterprises, while Bill.com provides a strong all-around solution for SMBs and mid-market. Stampli focuses on collaboration, Airbase and Ramp offer unified spend management, and solutions like Melio provide simple, cost-effective options for small businesses. Integration capabilities, payment flexibility, automation depth, and scalability are key differentiators.