Short answer Both work well in Canada. Choose the one that fits your integrations, payroll needs and your accountant’s preference, then set up GST/QST correctly from day one.
QuickBooks Online and Xero are the two platforms we see most among Quebec small businesses. Either can run a clean set of books; the right pick depends on how you operate.
What to compare
- Sales tax setup: confirm GST and QST are configured as separate tax codes so returns are accurate.
- Integrations: check the connection to your bank, card processor, e-commerce platform (such as Shopify) and point of sale.
- Payroll: confirm how you will handle Quebec payroll, including RL-1 and QPP/QPIP, before choosing.
- Language and support: consider whether you or your team need French-language support.
- Your accountant: using the platform your accountant already knows reduces cost and friction.
Our approach
We work in both and connect them to your bank, card and payment accounts so transactions flow in automatically. If you are unsure, a short call is usually enough to recommend the right fit. See monthly bookkeeping.