- Do I need invoicing software at all if I'm a sole trader?
- Strictly no — you can issue tax invoices in Word or Google Docs as long as they include your ABN, GST status, an invoice number, the supply date, and the GST amount where applicable. But once you're issuing more than ~5 invoices a month or claiming expenses, software pays for itself in time saved and BAS sanity at quarter end.
- What's the real difference between Hnry and Rounded?
- Hnry is a tax service that includes invoicing — you send invoices through Hnry, your customer pays Hnry, and Hnry pays you the post-tax amount, lodging your BAS, income tax, and super for you. Rounded is invoicing + accounting software that gives you BAS-ready reports — you still lodge yourself or with your accountant. Rule of thumb: if you want to forget about tax, Hnry. If you want to control it, Rounded.
- Can I just use Xero for invoicing?
- Yes, and many sole traders do. The Xero Starter plan is invoice-capable, GST-aware, and direct-lodgement-ready. The trade-off is that you're paying for an accounting platform whose flexibility you may never need — Rounded usually wins on price-to-value if you're solo with simple needs.
- What if I'm registered for GST and need BAS lodged for me?
- All four platforms handle GST tracking. Hnry is the only one that fully lodges BAS and income tax on your behalf as part of the fee. Rounded, Xero, and MYOB all give you BAS-ready reports — you (or your accountant / registered BAS agent) submit them to the ATO.
- How was this comparison put together?
- We compared the four AU-focused platforms most often used by sole traders, looking at starting price, GST/BAS handling, tax automation, and how well the product is shaped for solo operators rather than larger businesses. Pricing accurate as of the last update date; check each provider for current prices and plan inclusions before you decide.