The freelancers software stack
Solo operators need simple invoicing, tax-ready books and an easy way to pay themselves, without paying for features built for fifty-person companies.
4 of 4 guides published
Buying guides
- AccountingBest Accounting Software for Freelancers (2026): Invoicing to Tax TimeWe compare FreshBooks, Wave, Zoho Books and Xero for freelancers and the self-employed: invoicing, expenses, bank feeds, tax reports and real cost.Read the guide
- CRMBest CRM for Freelancers (2026): HoneyBook vs Dubsado vs Bonsai vs MoxieWe compare HoneyBook, Dubsado, Bonsai and Moxie as CRMs for freelancers: leads, proposals, contracts, invoicing, time tracking, client portals and cost.Read the guide
- PayrollBest Payroll Software for 1 Employee (2026): Cheapest Full-Service OptionsWe compare Patriot, SurePayroll, Square Payroll, Gusto and OnPay for a business with one employee, including S corp owners: real monthly cost and tax filing.Read the guide
- Website builderBest Portfolio Website Builder for Freelancers (2026): Format vs Squarespace vs WixWe compare Format, Squarespace and Wix as portfolio website builders for freelancers: project galleries, client proofing, custom domains, forms and cost.Read the guide
Know-how
Plain-English explainers on the tasks and rules behind the software.
- Explainer1099 vs W-2: What's the Difference? (2026)1099 vs W-2 for 2026: how the IRS, DOL and state ABC tests decide worker status, who pays which taxes, the new $2,000 1099-NEC threshold and misclassification risks.Read the explainer
- ExplainerSelf-Employment Tax for Freelancers: How It Works (2026)Self-employment tax for 2026: the 15.3% rate, the $400 threshold, the $184,500 Social Security cap, the half-SE-tax deduction, quarterly payments and two worked examples.Read the explainer