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Your accounts payable (AP) process is at the heart of your business operations, but is it as efficient as possible? For enterprises, where every dollar counts, manual AP processes aren’t just costly & outdated; they hold you back from focusing on other processes. Delays, errors, and inefficiencies can cost your business more than just time; they can impact vendor relationships, cash flow, and overall financial health.

So, how can you tackle this? The answer is - by leveraging the best accounts payable automation software

Modern accounts payable software solutions help you streamline your AP processes, eliminate manual headaches, and gain real-time visibility into your financials. Whether you’re looking to reduce errors, speed up approvals, or gain tighter control over cash flow, there’s a solution designed to fit your unique needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore 2025’s top payable software for enterprises, giving you a clear view of which AP tool to opt for your organization with more confidence.

Table of Contents

    • Best Accounts Payable Automation Solutions at a Glance
    • What is an Accounts Payable Management Software?
    • Top 13 Accounts Payable Automation Solutions of 2025
    • Challenges With Manual Accounts Payable
    • Benefits Of AP Automation Solutions
    • How To Choose An Accounts Payable Vendor
    • FAQs on Best Accounts Payable Tools

Best Accounts Payable Automation Solutions at a Glance

Below is a quick snapshot of the best accounts payable vendors in 2025, helping you see which AP platform fits your business and delivers the best results.

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Platform NameBest Suited ForStandout FeaturePricing
HighRadiusMid-to-large enterprises with high invoice volume and complexityTemplate-agnostic, AI-based invoice data capture with automated exception handlingCheck pricing
TipaltiCompanies managing international suppliers and complianceSupports global payments and compliance automationContact for pricing
QuickBooks OnlineSmall to mid-sized businesses needing simple AP workflowsOffers straightforward invoicing and integration optionsContact for pricing
Sage IntacctEnterprises requiring GAAP compliance and advanced reportingProvides configurable financial reportingContact for pricing
NetSuiteGrowing enterprises looking for scalabilityOffers ERP-connected invoicing and workflow managementContact for pricing
Microsoft Dynamics 365Businesses already using Microsoft productsIntegrates ERP and CRM with AP workflow supportContact for pricing
AcumaticaMidsize companies with large teamsFocuses on team collaboration and workflow accessContact for pricing
EpicorManufacturing, retail, and distribution sectorsIndustry-focused AP processes with payables visibilityContact for pricing
Oracle EPM CloudLarge enterprises with complex reporting needsIntegrates analytics with Oracle ERPContact for pricing
SAPBusinesses of all sizes need scalabilityOffers flexible deployment and standard AP automationContact for pricing
StampliTeams needing hands-on invoice approvalsFacilitates collaborative invoice processingContact for pricing
FreshBooksFreelancers and small businessesSimplified invoicing and expense trackingContact for pricing
MelioSmall businesses on a budgetBasic invoice capture and approval with a free optionFree plan available

What is an Accounts Payable Management Software?

An accounts payable platform is a technology solution that streamlines the process of handling vendor invoices, approvals, and payments for companies. By automating these tasks, an AP automation platform reduces manual effort, prevents errors, and ensures faster and more reliable payment cycles.

Key features of an accounts payable platform:

These platforms go beyond simple invoice tracking. A modern accounts payable platform combines automation, intelligence, and compliance to provide finance teams with end-to-end control over payables. Below are the key features that define an effective AP automation platform:

1. Automated invoice capture: An AP automation platform uses OCR and AI to capture invoice data from different formats like PDFs, emails, or scans. This reduces manual entry, minimizes errors, and accelerates the process, ensuring data accuracy and allowing finance teams to focus on more valuable tasks.

2. Purchase order matching: The platform automatically matches invoices with purchase orders and receipts to check accuracy. This three-way matching process helps avoid duplicate payments, reduces discrepancies, and ensures that suppliers are paid the correct amount on time, thereby improving financial control.

3. Streamlined approval workflows: Instead of chasing approvals through emails or paper, invoices are routed digitally to the right stakeholders. This creates faster approval cycles, provides clear visibility into pending tasks, and maintains an audit trail that strengthens accountability and compliance throughout the AP process.

4. Fraud detection and compliance: Built-in controls such as duplicate invoice alerts, segregation of duties, and tax checks reduce fraud risk. The platform ensures compliance with tax laws, corporate policies, and industry regulations, providing businesses with greater security and peace of mind in their operations.

5. Supplier self-service portals: Suppliers can log in to a portal to check invoice and payment status without contacting AP teams. This transparency reduces manual inquiries, saves time for finance staff, and builds stronger supplier relationships by providing visibility and faster resolution of concerns.

6. Cash flow optimization: With faster invoice approvals and better visibility into outstanding payables, companies can negotiate early payment discounts and optimize working capital. This improves cash flow management, reduces financing costs, and creates long-term financial stability for businesses.

Top 13 Accounts Payable Automation Solutions of 2025

1. HighRadius

HighRadius is an AI-powered accounts payable automation platform designed to streamline invoice processing. With seamless ERP integration, advanced invoice data capture and matching, and robust exception handling, it provides a centralized solution for validating invoices and managing payments efficiently, making it ideal for enterprises & midmarket businesses of all sizes.

HighRadius AP Automation delivers enterprise-grade invoice processing by combining agentic AI, advanced workflow automation, and deep ERP integrations to streamline accounts payable operations. Its platform centralizes AP functions across locations, business units, and spend types: direct, indirect, PO, and non-PO, allowing finance teams to scale operations without increasing headcount. 

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By automating invoice capture, coding, validation, matching, and approval, HighRadius enables up to 90% straight-through processing, reducing exceptions by up to 30% and cutting invoice processing costs by 50%. Enterprises benefit from faster cycle times, improved compliance, real-time visibility, and strategic focus for AP teams.

Key Capabilities

  • Email and PDF Invoice Capture: HighRadius Email Capture Agent extracts invoice data directly from emails and PDFs with up to 95% accuracy, eliminating printing and manual entry. Multi-invoice PDFs are automatically split, and multi-page files are merged, ensuring seamless processing across all formats.
  • Automated Approval Routing: AP Email Inbox Agent consolidates all AP communications into a single inbox and routes invoices through rule-based workflows, reducing approval cycle time by up to 50% and enabling touchless processing for high-volume enterprises.
  • Template-Agnostic Agentic AI: HighRadius processes invoices of all layouts, capturing 90% of line-level data such as quantities, prices, and descriptions without relying on PO data. Auto-coding of 100% non-PO invoices leverages historical data to route them to the right approvers instantly, minimizing delays and exceptions.
  • Three-Way Matching & Exception Management: Automates matching of invoices, POs, and GRNs, flags exceptions, and routes them through multi-level approvals and cross-team workflows, achieving up to 90% straight-through processing and reducing exceptions by 30%.
  • Term Discount Optimization: HighRadius identifies and prioritizes early payment opportunities with the Term Discount Calculation agent, enabling enterprises to capture missed discounts, improve profitability, and optimize working capital.
  • Scalable ERP Integrations: HighRadius integrates with 50+ ERPs and external systems via SFTP/API connectors, eliminating data silos and enabling unified AP reporting while ensuring 100% policy compliance and audit readiness.

HighRadius empowers enterprises to achieve 2X faster invoice processing, 40% higher analyst productivity, and up to 90% automation across AP processes. By combining AI-driven capture, auto-coding, automated approvals, and advanced reporting, it frees finance teams from manual tasks, reduces costs, ensures compliance, and drives measurable impact on working capital and profitability. For enterprise AP automation, HighRadius is not just a tool - it’s a strategic platform that transforms accounts payable into a scalable, efficient, and high-performing function.

2. Tipalti

Tipalti is a cloud-based AP automation platform that helps businesses efficiently manage global payments, streamline supplier onboarding, and ensure compliance with international tax regulations. Its tools aim to simplify cross-border transactions while maintaining regulatory standards. Companies with extensive vendor networks and international operations often find it beneficial to automate manual efforts in their payables processes.

Key Capabilities:

  • Global mass payments: Enables businesses to pay multiple suppliers worldwide in a single process.
  • Supplier self-service portal: Allows vendors to manage their own profiles, invoices, and payment status.
  • Automated tax compliance: Helps ensure correct tax handling across different countries and jurisdictions.

3. QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online is a user-friendly accounting platform ideal for small and mid-sized businesses seeking basic AP automation. It provides core invoicing and payment tools while offering integration options with third-party AP solutions. Its simplicity makes it accessible for teams without dedicated finance resources.

Key Capabilities:

  • Intuitive interface: Easy navigation for users to manage invoices and payments.
  • Expense tracking: Automatically tracks and categorizes expenses to support financial oversight.
  • Integration with third-party AP tools: Extends AP functionality through compatible applications.

4. Sage Intacct

Sage Intacct is a cloud-based ERP designed for enterprises that require advanced financial management and GAAP compliance. Its AP automation is integrated with robust reporting and customizable workflows, supporting detailed financial tracking and approvals. Companies with structured accounting needs leverage it for streamlined operations.

Key Capabilities:

  • Multidimensional reporting: Offers comprehensive insights across multiple financial dimensions.
  • Customizable workflows: Allows tailoring of AP processes to match company policies.
  • Core AP automation features: Automates invoice capture, approvals, and payment scheduling.

5. NetSuite

NetSuite provides scalable ERP solutions with AP automation integrated across finance and operational processes. Its real-time invoicing data and comprehensive reporting support growing enterprises that require accurate and timely financial insights. The platform is ideal for businesses seeking comprehensive end-to-end AP visibility.

Key Capabilities:

  • Real-time invoicing data: Tracks invoice status instantly for better financial control.
  • ERP integrations: Seamlessly connect AP processes with other business functions.
  • Reporting capabilities: Offers insights into payable trends and cash flow performance.

6. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft Dynamics 365 combines ERP and CRM features with AP automation, enabling businesses to streamline workflows within the Microsoft ecosystem. Its integration capabilities support scalability and operational efficiency. Teams already using Microsoft products can benefit from a unified environment.

Key Capabilities:

  • Unified ERP and CRM: Integrates finance, operations, and customer management in one system.
  • Integration with Microsoft ecosystem: Works seamlessly with tools like Office 365 and Power BI.
  • Scalable workflow management: Supports growing teams with adaptable AP processes.

7. Acumatica

Acumatica is a cloud ERP built to scale with growing businesses, offering AP automation and extensive collaboration tools. Its unlimited user model supports large teams, and its flexible workflows adapt to evolving business needs. Midsize companies often leverage it for operational efficiency.

Key Capabilities:

  • Unlimited user model: Provides access for all team members without additional licensing costs.
  • Customizable workflows: Lets organizations tailor AP processes to fit internal operations.
  • Collaboration-focused features: Facilitates team-based approvals and communication within AP.

8. Epicor

Epicor offers AP automation solutions tailored for the manufacturing, retail, and distribution sectors. It offers end-to-end visibility into payables and customizable workflows that help businesses control cash flow and operational efficiency.

Key Capabilities:

  • Industry-specific workflow options: Supports sector-focused AP processes for specialized operations.
  • Payables visibility: Gives clear insight into pending and processed invoices.
  • Cash flow management tools: Helps monitor and control financial outflows effectively.

9. Oracle EPM Cloud

Oracle EPM Cloud is designed for large enterprises seeking AP automation integrated with advanced financial planning, forecasting, and compliance tools. Its close connection with Oracle ERP allows better data-driven decisions and operational control.

Key Capabilities:

  • Advanced forecasting and budgeting: Supports precise financial planning and projections.
  • Analytics and reporting: Provides in-depth insights into payables and overall financial performance.
  • Oracle ERP integration: Seamlessly connects AP workflows with other enterprise systems.

10. SAP

SAP offers scalable ERP solutions with AP automation that cater to businesses of all sizes. Its flexible deployment options and strong reporting capabilities make it suitable for diverse organizational needs, from small companies to large multinational enterprises.

Key Capabilities:

  • Cloud and on-premises deployment: Offers flexibility in how the platform is implemented.
  • Scalable AP automation: Adapts to growing business volumes and process complexity.
  • Reporting and analytics: Generates comprehensive insights for informed decision-making.

11. Stampli

Stampli focuses on collaboration within AP processes, making it easier for teams to manage invoice approvals and exceptions. Its AI-assisted workflows reduce manual work while improving visibility and communication.

Key Capabilities:

  • Collaborative invoice processing: Enables multiple team members to manage invoices simultaneously.
  • AI-driven approval workflows: Automates approval routing and exception handling.
  • Customizable automation: Lets companies adapt the platform to their specific AP processes.

12. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is a simple accounting tool designed for freelancers and small businesses with minimal AP automation needs. Its focus is on ease of use and essential features, such as invoicing and expense tracking.

Key Capabilities:

  • Invoicing: Simplifies the creation and sending of invoices.
  • Expense tracking: Helps monitor costs and categorize transactions efficiently.
  • Basic payment management: Provides essential functionality for small-scale AP.

13. Melio

Melio is a free AP solution for small businesses, providing essential invoice capture and approval workflows. Its simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it ideal for teams with limited budgets or basic automation requirements.

Key Capabilities:

  • Free plan available: Offers essential features at no additional cost.
  • Invoice capture: Allows easy input of supplier invoices.
  • Payment approval workflows: Streamlines simple approval processes.

These top AP automation software solutions cater to a range of business needs, from small startups to large enterprises. You can choose the solution that best fits your operational goals by evaluating your company's specific requirements, including scalability, integration capabilities, and reporting needs.

Challenges With Manual Accounts Payable

Manual processes can feel manageable at first, but as invoice volumes increase, the cracks start to show. Without modern accounts payable management software tools or AP automation tools, finance teams often struggle with inefficiency, poor visibility, and compliance risks. Here are the biggest ap automation challenges companies face:

1. High error rates

Manual data entry increases the risk of duplicate invoices, incorrect amounts, or mismatched details. These errors not only slow down approvals but also strain vendor relationships and create reconciliation issues that AP automation vendors help eliminate.

2. Slow approval cycles

Invoices often sit in inboxes or get misplaced, causing delays in approvals and late payments. This slows down cash flow management and can damage supplier trust. Accounts payable tools streamline approvals and speed up payment cycles significantly.

3. Lack of visibility

With manual systems, it’s hard to track the status of invoices in real time. This lack of visibility makes forecasting difficult, increases the chance of missed discounts, and prevents finance leaders from making timely, data-driven decisions.

4. Compliance risks

Paper-based processes make it harder to maintain audit trails or meet tax and regulatory standards. Without reliable records, businesses face higher compliance risks. AP automation tools provide the controls and documentation to stay audit-ready.

5. High processing costs

From paper storage to manual labor, the cost of processing invoices without automation is high. Manual workflows drain resources that could be better invested elsewhere. AP automation vendors reduce these costs with faster, digital-first workflows.

Benefits Of AP Automation Solutions

Modern finance teams are shifting from manual processes to digital-first systems, and the reason is clear. By adopting accounts payable tools or AP automation tools, businesses gain better control, speed, and accuracy in their payables. Below are the key benefits companies see when working with leading AP automation vendors:

1. Error reduction

Accounts payable tools minimize manual entry mistakes by automating invoice capture and matching. This ensures fewer discrepancies, faster reconciliation, and stronger accuracy across transactions, leading to more reliable financial reporting and smoother audits.

2. Faster approvals

With automated workflows, invoices move through the system without bottlenecks. AP automation tools shorten approval times, helping businesses pay vendors on schedule, capture early payment discounts, and maintain stronger supplier relationships.

3. Improved visibility

AP automation vendors provide dashboards and real-time reporting to track invoices at every stage. This visibility enables finance leaders to forecast cash flow accurately, identify bottlenecks, and make informed decisions faster than with manual methods.

4. Lower costs

Accounts payable tools reduce processing costs by cutting down on paper handling, manual labor, and storage needs. By streamlining workflows, AP automation tools let teams handle higher volumes at lower cost, improving overall financial efficiency.

5. Stronger compliance

Leading AP automation vendors build audit trails, tax compliance, and regulatory safeguards into their platforms. Businesses benefit from accurate records, audit-ready financials, and reduced compliance risks without the overhead of manual monitoring.

How To Choose An Accounts Payable Vendor

Selecting the right partner is important because not all accounts payable vendors are built the same. The best accounts payable vendors combine automation, compliance, and scalability to match your business goals. Here are the steps to evaluate and select the right AP automation vendors:

1. Assess business needs

Start by mapping your invoice volume, approval workflows, and compliance requirements. This helps narrow down accounts payable vendors that align with your scale and complexity, rather than choosing generic tools that may not fit long-term growth.

2. Check integration capabilities

The best accounts payable vendors offer seamless integration with ERPs, CRMs, and banking systems. Strong integration ensures your financial data flows without disruption and reduces the need for manual reconciliations or duplicate entries.

3. Evaluate core features

Look for AP automation vendors that provide advanced features like invoice capture, three-way matching, approval routing, and audit-ready trails. The best accounts payable vendors also include dashboards for visibility and compliance safeguards.

4. Consider scalability

Choose a platform that can scale as your business expands. Many AP automation vendors offer modular upgrades, so you can start small and add advanced features like AI-driven analytics or multi-entity support as your needs grow.

5. Review pricing models

The best accounts payable vendors provide transparent pricing that matches your invoice volume and feature requirements. Compare subscription tiers across AP automation solutions to find a balance between cost efficiency and functionality.

6. Check vendor support

Evaluate how responsive the vendor is during onboarding and ongoing support. The best accounts payable vendors offer training resources, dedicated account managers, and quick resolution of issues to ensure smooth operations post-deployment.

FAQs on Best Accounts Payable Tools

1. What ROI can businesses expect from accounts payable automation solutions?

By choosing the best accounts payable tools, businesses can expect ROI through reduced processing costs, faster invoice approvals, and improved cash flow visibility. By adopting the best accounts payable platforms, companies also cut manual errors and gain efficiency. Partnering with strong AP automation vendors further boosts accuracy and scalability.

2. Can mid-sized businesses benefit from using AP automation tools?

Yes, mid-sized businesses can greatly benefit from AP automation tools. These platforms streamline invoice handling, reduce approval delays, and free finance teams from manual tasks. The best accounts payable vendors provide scalable solutions that support growth, compliance, and better supplier relationships without heavy upfront investments.

3. Which AP software works best for companies managing multiple entities and currencies?

The best accounts payable platforms are designed to handle multi-entity and multi-currency transactions with ease. Leading AP automation vendors centralize invoice workflows, enforce global compliance, and deliver consolidated reporting. Businesses with complex financial operations gain efficiency, accuracy, and control from such automation solutions.

4. How can you choose the right accounts payable accounting software for your business?

When selecting an accounts payable platform, businesses should evaluate integration with existing ERP systems, scalability for future growth, and vendor reputation. The best accounts payable tools in the market provide automation, real-time reporting, and compliance support. Reliable AP automation vendors help ensure smoother adoption and stronger ROI.

5. Does AP automation integrate smoothly with existing ERP or accounting platforms?

Yes, modern accounts payable platforms integrate seamlessly with ERP and accounting software, reducing disruption to finance operations. Top AP automation vendors ensure secure data flows, improved accuracy, and efficient invoice processing. The best accounts payable tools help businesses maintain control while enhancing overall financial productivity.

6. Which industries gain the most value from adopting AP automation?

Industries with heavy invoice volumes, such as manufacturing, retail, logistics, and healthcare, gain the most value from AP automation tools. The best accounts payable platforms streamline approvals, reduce errors, and enhance compliance. Partnering with trusted AP automation vendors allows these sectors to lower costs and improve supplier trust.

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HighRadius Named as a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Invoice-to-Cash Applications

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HighRadius stands out as an IDC MarketScape Leader for AR Automation Software, serving both large and midsized businesses. The IDC report highlights HighRadius’ integration of machine learning across its AR products, enhancing payment matching, credit management, and cash forecasting capabilities.

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Forrester Recognizes HighRadius in The AR Invoice Automation Landscape Report, Q1 2023

Forrester acknowledges HighRadius’ significant contribution to the industry, particularly for large enterprises in North America and EMEA, reinforcing its position as the sole vendor that comprehensively meets the complex needs of this segment.

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What Is Accounts Payable | Accounts Payable Process | Accounts Payable Reports | Accounts Payable Reconciliation | Managing Accounts Payable | Accounts Payable Audit | Accounts Payable Goals | Accounts Payable Internal Controls | Accounts Payable Department | Accounts Payable Automation ROI | Accounts Payable Workflow | Benefits Of AP Automation | What Is Invoice Processing | Three Way Invoice Matching | What Is Dynamic Discounting | Accounts Payable Vs Accounts Receivable | Accounts Payable Forecasting | Accounts Payable Metrics | AI In Accounts Payable | AP Automation ERP Integration

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AP Buyers Guide | AI in Accounts Payable Use Cases | AP Vendor Evaluation Template | AP Forrester Prediction | AP Automation Datasheet