QuickBooks for the Web, geared toward service-based businesses, was designed for users with little or no accounting experience, according to the firm. Features include a three-step start up interview that customizes the program specifically for each business; a QuickFill feature that remembers information on customers, vendors, products and services so users don't have to enter data twice; a QuickZoom feature that enables users to drill down several levels on reports to see charges and costs; and Quick Add, which allows users to add a new name to their customer list without having to change screens.

The Windows compatible, Web-based service enables users in different locations to work together to manage their accounting online. Users can extend access rights to accountants, giving them the ability to review and adjust files via the Internet in real time. The program includes automated billing functions, such as recurring charges and automated statement creation, that allow businesses to generate and distribute recurring client bills, and statement delivery via e-mail and fax that enables businesses to deliver statements electronically from their desk by setting their preferences without any additional sign-up or software, said Intuit.

QuickBooks for the Web costs $14.95 per month, per company, for up to 20 users. The price includes premium technical support and 50 faxes per month for charter users. Optional services, including excess faxes, may require additional subscription or service fees. Internet access and Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher are required. A 30-day free trial is available for a limited time at www.quickbooks.com.

In the latest versions of QuickBooks, QuickBooks 2001 and QuickBooks Pro 2001, Intuit said it made more than 30 customer-requested improvements based on surveys and user focus groups that focus on ease of use. Enhancements include: the ability to e-mail or fax invoices and estimates, easier formatting and customizing of reports from a single editing window; the ability to set price levels on items and services, so users can set-up wholesale pricing or negotiated discounts for special customers; and an online billing service that lets users fax or e-mail electronic invoices and estimates directly to customers from within the program.

With the online billing service, businesses can payment-enable invoices sent by e-mail, giving their customers the option to pay with a credit card through an embedded link, the company said. Beginning in January, customers will also have the option to pay by transferring funds directly from their bank account. Confirmations of online payments received are automatically downloaded and captured in QuickBooks 2001. X.com will provide payment processing for Online Billing in QuickBooks 2001 through PayPal.

Other features include improved reporting capabilities, which allow users to more easily customize their reports, drag-and-drop and sort columns on the fly, and save and print reports in batches.

New payroll customers using QuickBooks 2001 will receive a 60-day free trial of the Basic Payroll service. After the trial, users can subscribe to the service for $129 annually, or opt to continue using the last free tax table downloaded until February 2002. Direct deposit is available as an optional feature with either Basic or Deluxe Payroll, Intuit said.
Optional services include QuickBooks Site Solutions, QuickBooks Merchant Account Service, provided through alliances with Wells Fargo Merchant Services and Chase Merchant Services, and the QuickBooks Shopping Source.

QuickBooks 2001 and QuickBooks Pro 2001 should be available by the end of December for $149.95 and $249.95 respectively. Upgrades of QuickBooks 2001 and QuickBooks Pro 2001 will be available for $89.95 and $169.95 respectively. Optional services, including the fax feature, may require additional subscription or service fees. Internet access is required for online billing and other business services.

-- SmartPros News Staff

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