Comparison

Xolo vs Local Accountant: Which is Better?

Should you use Xolo's all-in-one platform or hire a local Estonian accountant? Here's an honest comparison for e-residents and Estonian company owners.

Comparison Disclaimer

Pricing and features shown are based on publicly available information. Always verify current pricing on provider websites before making decisions. We receive affiliate commissions from some providers. Information current as of January 2025.

Quick Verdict

Xolo is better for most digital businesses — freelancers, consultants, SaaS founders. It's simpler, more predictable, and includes all the tools you need. Local accountants make sense for complex situations requiring personalized Estonian business advice.

Two Different Models

Xolo: Platform Model

All-in-one SaaS platform designed for e-residents. Invoicing, expense tracking, and accounting integrated in one place. Fixed monthly pricing. Optimized for digital businesses.

  • Invoicing platform included
  • Expense tracking app
  • Fixed monthly fee (€79-129)
  • Unlimited transactions
  • English support

Local Accountant: Service Model

Traditional accounting firm relationship. You send documents, they do bookkeeping. Personal accountant for advice. Hourly or transaction-based pricing.

  • Personal relationship
  • Custom advice for complex cases
  • No integrated tools
  • Variable pricing
  • May require Estonian language

Cost Comparison

Cost ItemXolo LeapLocal Accountant
Company formationIncluded€200-400
Legal addressIncluded€10-20/month
Monthly accounting (simple)€79/month€50-100/month
Monthly accounting (moderate)€99-129/month€100-200/month
Annual reportIncluded€50-200
VAT registrationIncluded€50-100
Invoicing softwareIncluded€10-30/month extra
Year 1 Total (simple)~€950~€1,000-1,800

For simple businesses, costs are similar. But Xolo includes tools that accountants charge extra for.

Feature Comparison

FeatureXoloLocal Accountant
Invoice creation
Expense tracking app
Real-time dashboard
API access
Fixed pricing
24/7 self-service
Personal relationshipLimited
Complex tax adviceBasic
Unusual structures

When to Choose Each Option

Choose Xolo if:

  • Digital business — Freelancing, consulting, SaaS, agencies
  • Standard operations — Invoice clients, pay expenses, file reports
  • Self-service preference — Want to create invoices yourself
  • Predictable costs — Fixed monthly fee, no surprises
  • E-resident focused — Platform built for remote founders

Choose Local Accountant if:

  • Complex structure — Holding companies, real estate, investments
  • Need custom advice — Unusual tax situations, cross-border complexity
  • Already have tools — Use your own invoicing software
  • High-touch needed — Want dedicated accountant relationship
  • Physical operations — Inventory, manufacturing, local employees

The Hybrid Approach

Can You Use Both?

Some businesses start with Xolo for convenience, then add a local accountant for specific advice as they grow. This works if you need specialized tax planning while keeping Xolo for daily operations.

Common hybrid setup:
  • • Xolo for invoicing, expense tracking, and monthly bookkeeping
  • • Local accountant (hourly) for annual tax planning and complex questions
  • • Total cost: Xolo fee + €100-300/year for occasional advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Xolo vs local accountants

All information verified as of December 2025. Prices and features subject to change. Always verify current pricing with providers.

Ready to Simplify Your Accounting?

Xolo combines invoicing, expense tracking, and accounting in one platform designed for e-residents.