18 years of helping Indian businesses
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About Bench

Bench does your small business books for you. We sync directly with your accounts to deliver tidy, accurate and tax-ready books.

Learn more about Bench

Pros:

I appreciate the quick access to messaging back and forth with my bookkeeper, making notes about transactions, and they referred me to Gusto for an integrated payroll service.

Cons:

My issues have been with smaller banks making it difficult to link accounts to Bench, but this is less about Bench, and more about the banks’ software.

Bench ratings

Average score

Ease of Use
4.6
Customer Service Software
4.5
Features
4.4
Value for Money
4.3

Likelihood to recommend

8.2/ 10

Bench has an overall rating of 4.5 out 5 stars based on 309 user reviews on Capterra.

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Filter reviews (309)

Samantha
Samantha
Owner in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Individual & Family Services, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Huge help for an entrepreneur

5.0 4 years ago

Pros:

Bench was critical in helping me with catch up books for tax time. Being able to upload reports easily from my bank and various credit card processors made things so much easier, and the bookkeepers learned quickly how to categorize the transactions. I'm not sure when I would have caught up on my historical books without Bench. Going forward from there has been very easy as well. I've been able to link the reports to my card processing software and bank, and get updates as they have questions. So simple! I find the monthly reports easy to understand and its given me a much clearer picture of my numbers.

Cons:

The only challenging initial integration was with Paypal- myself and the Bench team member had a hard time linking everything. We resolved it and I didn't have that issue with other accounts. I do wish that this software integrated with my invoicing system, so I could easily see where the profits were coming from. However, I use that system's reports to get a good idea of what's bringing in income.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Hi Samantha, Thank you so much for taking the time to share this review! We're happy to hear that we were able to help get your bookkeeping up to date. We're excited to keep providing a simple and easy bookkeeping experience moving forwards!

Jesse
Principal Designer in US
Architecture & Planning, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Good Quality; Probably too Much for a Smaller Company

4.0 2 years ago

Comments: I like the product, but am unsure of the value for smaller firms with fewer expenses.

Pros:

I like the ease of use. There is a lot of info that is consolidated well, and the customer service is quick.

Cons:

Overall the service works well, but for a small company with relatively few expenses, the $300/mo pricing is a bit steep. I feel that a tiered rate based on expense quantities would be valuable to smaller companies wishing to offload the accounting work, but can't justify the cost.

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

Thank you for your feedback. We strive to offer competitive pricing to reflect the value of the services we provide, including access to a dedicated team of in-house bookkeepers and our proprietary software that automates many bookkeeping tasks. Most recently, we launched Real-Time Data from your connected financial accounts. This means you get a snapshot view of all your money in and money-out, out whenever you need it, even before your books are closed, allowing you to focus on what's most important - focusing on your business.

Michelle
Owner in US
Food & Beverages, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source
Source: SoftwareAdvice

Stay away from Bench.co !!

2.0 11 months ago

Comments: Was great for years. 2022 to 2024 has been a sad decline for them and its left is starting from scratch since their system won't integrate into any other programs

Pros:

Bookkeepers were friendly but they didn't have the support to follow through on topics discussed in calls

Cons:

Quality has plummeted in the last two years. Customer service team is the absolute worst i have ever encountered. We have asked to speak to [sensitive content hidden]'s supervisor, but he won't. She is rude, condescending and knows nothing about bookkeeping

Michael
Michael
Managing Partner in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Professional Training & Coaching, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Its easy and worth it.

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: The sales and onboarding team was amazing. [SENSITIVE CONTENT] is a champion.

Pros:

Reconciliation and ongoing communication through the chat is priceless. The teams are fast and handling things in real time is valuable to the process.

Cons:

I'd hoped my monthly statements would be pulled automatically once I linked my accounts.

Bench Accounting Response

3 years ago

Hi Michael, we're so happy to hear you had such a great experience with our sales and onboarding team! I'll be sure to pass it along to the team, I know they will be thrilled! We're excited to keep providing the support you need so you can continue to grow your businesses.

Paul
Paul
PMHNP in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Mental Health Care, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Affordable yet Robust Bookkeeping

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: I have been satisfied with Bench, and it takes a lot off my mind.

Pros:

The staff at Bench are responsive and helpful. The software is user-friendly. The price is less than most of its competitors.

Cons:

The bank integration does not always function right with the credit union I use.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

So glad to hear we've been able to take some stress off your plate, Paul! Thank you for being with us!

Don
Owner in US
Automotive, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

DO NOT USE BENCH

1.0 last year

Comments: The worst experience. They will steal from you and provide no services.

Pros:

Nothing. They do not know what they are doing. There customer service is horrible.

Cons:

This is a very incompetent company. They have charged me thousands for services that they have not performed. I have used them for almost a year. I have tried to cancel them and they keep charging me. When you call, no one answers in any department. The voice mail states that they will call you back with in 1 business day. My rep ([sensitive content hidden]) makes appointments and will not hold the appointment time. You sit there and wait for them and they never call.

Bench Accounting Response

12 months ago

Dear Don, We sincerely apologize for the frustrating experience you've had with our services. This is certainly not the level of service we aim to provide. We take your feedback seriously and would appreciate the opportunity to investigate and address your concerns. Our customer success team will be reaching out to resolve the issues you've encountered promptly. We understand the importance of reliable and transparent service, and your feedback is invaluable in helping us improve. We are committed to ensuring a better experience for our customers, and we hope to have the chance to regain your trust. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Retail, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source
Source: GetApp

Frustrated -

1.0 11 months ago

Cons:

I never leave reviews but we are really frustrated , hoping someone will pay attention to our account after continuously messaging and emailing customer service. Our books from last year are still not wrapped up. We have continually asked emailed, texted without a resolution. This is going to extend our tax bill and planning.

Amber
CEO in US
Marketing & Advertising, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source
Source: SoftwareAdvice

Warning: Do Not Use Bench Tax Services

1.0 2 years ago

Comments: I use it because I've already paid for the tax return to be filed with them for 2022 and don't want to have to pay twice to have it filed. I will never use them again for a tax return and feel their ability to offer this service should be revoked as I have never worked with a more unprofessional tax service.

Pros:

After months of back and forth with their accounting team I was finally put with an account manager who knows what they are doing and can communicate effectively

Cons:

They are incapable of filing an accurate tax return. It is now August and they are still figuring out how to file my 2022 return. Each time they send anything over there are multiple errors they need to fix. Their response times are abysmal and their team has little to no knowledge about actual tax compliance and filling.

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

Hi Amber, thank you for taking the time to continue to share your feedback with us. We're sorry to hear about your experience and are currently looking into it. A member of our Client Success team is in active communication with you regarding this situation, and if you have any additional questions or concerns, please let us know.

John
John
Owner operator in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Retail, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Better Suited to Larger Companies

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: Bench is useful and helped me to navigate the early days of my company, but I could've saved a lot of money doing some of the data correlation myself and hiring a tax expert directly.

Pros:

I like that Bench can customize the experience and give you almost any list of metrics.

Cons:

Bench is more expensive than other options I've tried, but much of that is my fault. Their pricing is based on working with much larger companies.

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

Hi John, we're so happy to be supporting you and your business during the growth of your company. We strive to offer competitive pricing to reflect the value of the services we provide, including access to a dedicated team of in-house bookkeepers and our proprietary software that automates many bookkeeping tasks.

Kacie
FNP, IBCLC, CEO in US
Health, Wellness & Fitness, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Really Disappointing

1.0 last year

Comments: Poor. I do not feel that I am getting my money worth.

Pros:

I thought I would enjoy seeing where my business expenses were going, but so far I am not able to tell what is going on.

Cons:

No turn around on items I need categorized. No follow up. Slow to respond.

Bench Accounting Response

12 months ago

Dear Kacie, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We're truly sorry to hear about your disappointment with our service. Providing clarity and efficiency in managing business expenses is indeed a top priority for us, and we regret that we have fallen short of your expectations. Rest assured, your feedback is invaluable to us, and we are actively working to address the issues you've raised. We are committed to improving our responsiveness and communication channels to ensure that all our clients receive the attention and support they deserve. We genuinely value your business, and we are committed to earning back your trust and confidence. A member of our Client Success Team will be following up with you shortly. Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to resolve these issues.

Brent
Financial Planner in US
Financial Services Software, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

A great value of service for taking care of bookkeeping

5.0 5 years ago

Comments: Great experience and helpful service. Awesome value since an in-person CPA would be double the cost.
Bench was especially around tax time when it comes to working with me to get my numbers buttoned up.

Pros:

The iOS app is simple and easy to use. I appreciate the quick access to messaging back and forth with my bookkeeper, making notes about transactions, and they referred me to Gusto for an integrated payroll service

Cons:

Some of the features like their Pulse tab of real time bank account syncing and electronic PDF statement syncing are glitchy.

Pierpaolo
Digital Marketer in US
Information Technology & Services, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Handling Accounting Professionally With Bench

5.0 10 months ago

Pros:

Using Bench is very useful when it comes to accounting. It is affordable and well equipped

Cons:

It handles very well and no issues with at all.

Jose
Owner in US
Transportation/Trucking/Railroad, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Family

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: Like family

Pros:

The all ways there when I need them.Ever time I asked a question one day later I had a answer

Cons:

When I was doing my taxes with bench they were on a separate platform

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

Hi Jose, Thank you for the wonderful review! We are so glad to hear that your team is always there when you need it! Additionally, we want to let you know that moving forward, Bench Tax will be brought in-house, which means your taxes will be done on the same platform!

Djabire Marwan
Manger in Burkina Faso
Internet, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Bench review

5.0 2 years ago

Pros:

Easy to master accounting software and programmatic marketing is a little easier and is practically with Bench

Cons:

One of the easiest software to find and use. No problem likely

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

We're so happy to be supporting you and your business, Djabire. It's great to hear that we've been able to give you valuable time back, so you can focus on growing your business!

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Media Production, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source
Source: GetApp

failed to file business taxes on time and did not file personal taxes properly

1.0 2 years ago

Comments: tldr; terrible - incompetent, will not support client if there are missed filing deadlines, penalties and fees. During my sales onboarding call, I talked about my 10 years of doing business in NYC as a sole owner of an s-corp. I have to file extensions from time to time. Bench assured me this would be no problem. They missed the deadline to file my business return with NYC. When I asked Bench about this, they replied that they don't do municipal filings. I asked why didn't my tax preparer notify me - the short answer: he didn't even know NYC requires a seperate business filing. It took several intense phone calls to get a refund. My personal returns were the same. They didn't calculate my estimated tax liability when the filed my extension. I got hit with hundreds in penalties and interest. Again I asked why they didn't notify me. Answer: it was in our disclaimer. If you look at what Bench offers, they are charging a premium for essentially googling information for you. The actual issues you will need guidance on, they don't offer. Furthermore, they will not advise you of critical filing necessities because it's in their list of "disclaimers". Find a local tax accountant who understands your business and will have your best interests in mind.

Pros:

The dashboard chat and customer call scheduling were pretty responsive.

Cons:

a bit clunky moving from bookkeeping to tax platforms and not knowing which chat/communication to use when customer support tells you to check your messages.

Bench Accounting Response

2 years ago

Hi there, Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're concerned to hear about some of your frustrations, and our Client Success Team has been actively reaching out to you to address the frustrations.

Luisa
COO in US
Hospitality, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Accounting for Startups

4.0 3 years ago

Pros:

We transitioned from a traditional outsourced bookkeeper to Bench and love the ability to go in and view our reports quick and easy. The team is also much quicker to finish month end reports and responds quickly.

Cons:

The onboarding process was a bit difficult. We had to adjust our expense categories to match. We would like to use the accrual accounting adjustment but haven't been able to get help with this yet.

Bench Accounting Response

3 years ago

Wow! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that we have been able to give you peace of mind, knowing that your bookkeeping is in great hands! It's also amazing to hear that your team has been professional, friendly and knowledgable. Thank you for sharing and for being with us, Luisa!

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Retail, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Good start, low customization

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: Overall, I still recommend Bench if you are starting out and a small business under $1 Million in sales. However, as you grow, I would recommend switching to Quickbooks.

Pros:

Prior to Bench, we used Quickbooks, and it was lifesaver! We had no idea how to use Quickbooks for bookkeeping and Bench made it easy for us. There was low setup involved and their dashboard was amazing.

Cons:

As our company grew, we needed more information in our financial statements. At the time, there was low customization with Bench, and we couldn't add or change things in regards to our Profit and Loss statement. Also, at the time, they only did cash based accounting.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience and feedback. We are constantly looking to improve our service, and listening to your feedback is hugely important to us!

Joshua
CEO in US
Hospitality, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Bench is Amazing

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: Bench is amazing. As a small business owner I was spending too much time categorizing expenses and correctly documenting items for the P&L or balance statement. Bench offers such an amazing service and any time I had a question or issue my Bench specialist was right there. I would highly recommend Bench to anyone who needs bookkeeping services (and their tax team is amazing as well). Couple all of that with their service team's (big shout out to [SENSITIVE CONTENT HIDDEN]) genuine care for you and your company and you have kind of a no brainer.

Pros:

The platform is intuitive and easy to use. You speak directly with the individual managing your account, which is nice for continuity. Any discrepancies are easily adjusted or annotated. It exports to multiple file types for integration with other platforms. It links with your accounts so you don't have to manually input everything. AND THEIR TEAM ACTUALLY CARES ABOUT YOU, which is a breath of fresh air.

Cons:

Sometimes there are functionality issues with linked accounts, but usually it is because of the security protocols of the bank or account.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Wow! Thank you so much, Joshua. We are absolutely thrilled to hear about your experience. We're excited to keep providing the support you need so you can continue to grow your business!

Tony
President in US
Executive Office, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Best Bookkeeper there is!

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: Bench always delivers above and beyond and i love their service.

Pros:

Bench is an amazing product that is in the cloud. I love that i can access my books from anywhere on the go and get a snapshot of how the company is doing week to week.

Cons:

There are no cons at this point. I wish they started an accounting arm that tied to bench since their product is so awesome!

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Hi Tony! Thanks so much for the lovely words! We have a network of CPA's that we can refer to our clients. They are trained on our platform, and work really well with our service! If you're interested, let your bookkeeping team know, and they can guide you with next steps. All the best!

Jon
Owner in US
Restaurants, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Bench Works!

4.0 6 years ago

Comments: Overall, I recommend bench to everyone. They do have their shortcomings, but in my experience it can be fixed by not giving so many clients to one person. My current bookkeeper is great and very prompt on delivering my books each month. I hope she sticks around. YMMV, but keep with it, bench is the best out there.

Pros:

My QuickBooks was a mess. I had brought in duplicate transactions from syncing with square and I was going to need to manually adjust thousands of items. Then I found bench! The bookkeepers are relatively easy to get in touch with when you have an issue; you can book a call, chat, etc. Come tax time the year end summary they put together was amazing. It made filing taxes very easy.

Cons:

The bookkeepers are spread very thin, and turnover is high. I've been with them a little over a year and I've had 3 different bookkeepers. I had to complain about one of them because he wasn't giving me a complete set of books each month. (They ended up giving a month free while they caught up my books.) It costs much much more than QuickBooks and doing it yourself, and you do have someone knowledgeable doing the work, but all than means nothing if your books are fragmented.

Derick
President in US
Furniture, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

A lifesaver

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: Overall I am more than pleased. I have no doubt that my books are being done correctly, which frees me up to deal with other things.

Pros:

I love the ease of use. The portal is easy to get around in and I always have someone to answer my questions.

Cons:

I would like to have a little more interaction as to tax planning. I understand that it doesnt necessarily fall under bookkeeping. But I would like to be able to have some sort of review.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Hi Derick, we're thrilled to hear you can rely on our bookkeeping team to help answer questions that come up! We're also happy to hear that the online platform is easy to use so you can get the information you need quickly and spend those extra minutes on growing your business. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience!

Sunghoon
President in US
Education Management, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

convenient and accessible

5.0 6 years ago

Comments: With bench.co I've been able to see in real-time our financial statements without having to ruffle through paperwork or calling someone/visiting an office. I would highly recommend this service to any small business owner.

Pros:

Bench.co has literally changed the way I operate my organization & school. Whereas in the past we'd have to wait, and work around local accountants who had 100's of clients in queue, Bench allows me the convenience and access to my virtual accountant 24/7 online and poignantly clear on all aspects of bookkeeping.

Cons:

As with all software based services, sometimes Bench can lag in their monthly accounts at the beginning of the new year. This is a very minor inconvenience to the overall experience.

James
Owner in US
Retail, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Shockingly Incompetent

1.0 4 years ago

Comments: I had Bench do a full year of bookkeeping for my company and consulted them on aspects of the PPP loan program. I found them shockingly incompetent. Many mistakes. Much flat-out wrong technical information about the PPP program. It was the most recent encounter with them over the PPP program that motivates me to write this review, to warn the public. They should not represent themselves as PPP experts.

Pros:

The pros are beside the point because the cons are so overwhelming.

Cons:

I had Bench do a full year of bookkeeping for my company and consulted them on aspects of the PPP loan program. I found them shockingly incompetent. Many mistakes. Much flat-out wrong technical information about the PPP program. They should not represent themselves as PPP experts.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Hi James, thanks for taking a moment to share your feedback. We always want to make sure we're continuously addressing client questions and their experience. We had passed your concerns to our Client Success Team and understand a senior leader has been in touch with you to discuss this further. We really appreciate your transparency as we work through this with you.

Ivan
Owner in US
Food Production, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Big relief

4.0 3 years ago

Pros:

That I don't have to manage books myself.

Cons:

I don't really like the user interface or the reconcile feature.

Bench Accounting Response

3 years ago

Hi Ivan, thank you for sharing your experience with us! We are happy to hear that we have given you back your time so you don't need to manage your books yourself. We're concerned to hear about your frustration regarding the reconcile feature and our user interface, and would love the opportunity to discuss this further! A member of our Client Success Team will be reaching out to you shortly!

Smiley
Gym Owner / Jail Chaplain in US
Health, Wellness & Fitness, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

GREAT COMPANY! AWESOME PEOPLE! INCREDIBLE SKILLS!

5.0 4 years ago

Comments: We really enjoyed working with Bench, & will continue to do so. [SENSITIVE CONTENT HIDDEN] & everyone at Bench are extremely good and they care about what they're doing.

Pros:

I enjoyed the "Messaging" feature & the 1-on-1 calls to straighten out any questions about different expenses & purchases.

Cons:

I can't think of anything we did not like.

Bench Accounting Response

4 years ago

Wow, thank you for the kind words, Smiley! We're glad to hear that you've been utilizing the message feed as well as having conversations with your bookkeeper to get the support you need for your business. Thank you for being with Bench!