Microsoft Office Accounting Express 2007 - Free Download

On October 30, 2006, Microsoft announced the free download of it's new accounting program, Microsoft Office Accounting Express 2007. Marketed to small businesses who still use paper ledgers or Excel, MOAE2007 appears to be going head-to-head with QuickBook's Simple Start program.

One reviewer was not happy with how MS Accounting Express kept forcing him to cold boot. It seems that you get what you pay for.

What this means for you: although it's not officially a beta, a free download from Microsoft smacks of beta to me. I think business finances are too important to take a change on a brand new, unproven, program, don't you? If you were a business advisor, would you advise people to try a new financial program, especially when there is a proven, inexpensive program available?

If you want to convert your business finances from Excel or paper, instead of saving a few bucks with this free download, go with the program that's been around - QuickBooks Pro or Simple Start. By clicking the link you can get Simple Start for $79.96, plus free shipping. I say: Let other people be the Guinea pigs. Get the software that is reliable, stable, and easy to use. Here are some other great reasons to choose QuickBooks:

• 30 days of free technical support
• 60 day money back guarantee
• QuickBooks Advisors who can help you with questions, fees may apply
• Several online accounting forums devoted specifically to QuickBooks

If you really want MS Accounting Express 2007, here it is. But don't waste too much time with it. If it proves to be a headache, get QuickBooks instead.