Xero accounting software is always changing and updating to provide their partners and users with a better experience. Last month, Xero held their annual roadshow through Zoom where they provided updates on what they have done and what they are going to do to improve the Xero platform. Here are some of the updates that may be beneficial to you if you are using Xero in your business:

Automation  

 For those of you who have not yet had the chance to try Hubdoc, it is now free to all Xero business subscribers! Hubdoc is an automation application (owned by Xero) designed to make entering bills a fast and seamless process. The steps for using Hubdoc are as follows:

1. Import your bill into Hubdoc (There are multiple ways to import your bill into Hubdoc);
2. Hubdoc will review the bill and extract the relevant information;
3. You correct and fill in any missing data;

You can choose to skip step 3 once a supplier setting is saved in Hubdoc.

4. Hubdoc will push a bill into Xero in either draft or approved status.

If a supplier is connected to Hubdoc (Hubdoc can connect to over 250 suppliers), it can automatically import the invoice from the supplier and create a bill in Xero with no interaction from you.

If you have not yet tried Hubdoc, click here for instructions on how to set it up.

New Mobile Authentication App – Xero Verify

Xero has created a mobile app, Xero Verify, for a smoother multi-factor authentication process. Rather than using the google authentication app and having to enter a token code each time you login to Xero, Xero’s application will use push notifications to your mobile phone for the authentication process. This will make it faster and easier for you to access Xero. This app can now be downloaded to your mobile phone from the app store. 

Xero Mobile App 

Xero has improved the way you create invoices using the Xero mobile app. You are now able to create invoices using items which will save you time when using the Xero app by being able to invoice customers with standard wording.

Customer Credit Limits (Upcoming)

You will soon be able to set and monitor customer credit limits when creating invoices. This will make it easier when invoicing customers with extended payment terms to know if you are able to provide additional services to them without upfront payments. 

Payment Apps

Xero has an integration with many apps which are designed to allow your customers to pay you electronically. They are integrated directly into the digital invoice that you send to your customers giving them multiple options on how to pay the invoice.

The three main apps are:

• PayPal
• Stripe
• GoCardless

PayPal and Stripe are both merchant facilities which allow your customers to pay using a credit or debit card online. GoCardless is an app designed for customers that pay you regularly. It allows you to set up a direct debit with a customer and automatically charge their chosen account on the agreed upon day. This makes it easier and faster for you to get paid.

If you have not explored the payment apps available in Xero, click here to see all the available payment apps and see if any of them could help you get paid faster.