Wave Accounting Alternative Canada — Done-For-You vs. DIY
Wave is free bookkeeping software. We're a bookkeeping service. You do zero data entry.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Wave Accounting vs.
a real bookkeeper.
| Feature | Outsource Bookkeeping | Wave Accounting |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $500/month | Free (software only) |
| Who does the work | Our team | You |
| CPA-ready reports | ✓ By the 10th | DIY only |
| HST/GST filing | ✓ Included | You file yourself |
| Payroll | ✓ Included | Add-on ($40+/month) |
| Bank reconciliation | ✓ Done for you | You reconcile |
| Catch-up bookkeeping | ✓ Available | Not included |
| CRA support | ✓ Included | None |
| Works all provinces | ✓ All provinces | Software only |
| Dedicated bookkeeper | ✓ Yes | No |
| Free consultation | ✓ Yes | No |
Why Businesses Leave Wave
The hidden cost of
“free” software.
Hours of data entry every month
Wave requires you to manually enter or review every transaction. For a busy business owner, that's 5–10 hours a month you'll never get back.
Reconciliation errors add up
Without a professional reconciling your accounts, small errors compound over months. By year-end, your books are off and your CPA bills you extra to fix them.
No one to call when CRA asks questions
When CRA sends a letter, Wave can't help you. We respond to CRA correspondence on your behalf and keep your books audit-ready year-round.
HST filing still falls on you
Wave records transactions but doesn't file your HST returns. You still need to calculate, prepare, and submit to CRA every quarter — or risk penalties.
Payroll is a separate paid add-on
Wave Payroll charges extra per employee per month. Our flat-rate service includes payroll support — no surprise add-ons when you hire.
Wave doesn't prepare CPA reports
Wave produces basic reports, but they're not CPA-ready. Your accountant still needs to clean your books at year-end, costing you more in accounting fees.
Who This Is For
Built for every
Canadian business.
If you're spending hours every month inside Wave doing your own books, there's a better option — a real bookkeeper for a flat monthly fee.
FAQ
Common questions
answered honestly.
Stop doing your own bookkeeping.
Get a quote today.
Flat-rate $500/month. CPA-ready financials by the 10th. HST filed. All provinces. No contracts.
Get a quote →