Many self-employed individuals in Spain struggle to find accounting software that’s both simple and compliant with Spanish tax rules. Quarterly VAT (IVA), personal income tax (IRPF), and correct invoice formatting are non-negotiable. In this guide, we compare top tools for autónomos - renn, Xolo, Cuéntica, Holded, and Quipu - based on price, ease of use, tax features, and real usability.
Why VAT/IRPF compliance matters
Missing IVA or IRPF deadlines can cost hundreds in penalties.
Spain requires:
- Quarterly filings for both VAT (Modelo 303) and IRPF (Modelo 130)
- Proper invoice formatting: date, description, taxable base, IVA, IRPF retention
- Digital compliance: e-invoicing (Facturae) and SII for large taxpayers
And from January 2026, Verifactu compliance will be mandatory for all autónomos. This means all invoices must be created through software connected directly with Agencia Tributaria. Platforms that don’t meet Verifactu standards won’t be allowed for issuing invoices.
Most international platforms don’t support Spanish formats or Verifactu. Stick to tools built for the Spanish market.
renn - simple, compliant, and free for light users
renn is an AI-powered tax assistant for Spain. It's the only tool with a usable free tier:
- 25 invoices/month at no cost
- IVA and IRPF handling for quarterly filing
- Auto-bookkeeping and tax prep - optional
Best suited for freelancers with simple needs who want to avoid complex menus and manual entry.
Pros:
- Extremely simple to use, quick setup
- Send invoices directly from WhatsApp
- Verifactu-ready invoicing
- Free tier actually useful
Cons:
- Less suited for multi-employee or international businesses
Best Self-Employed Accounting Software in Spain - 2025
Xolo - more features, accountant included
Xolo targets freelancers across Europe. Offers:
- Invoicing, expenses, VAT handling
- Spanish tax integration
- Accountant support with higher plans
Pricing:
- Lite: €15/mo
- Starter: €49/mo (with tax advisor)
- Global: €59/mo (international setup)
Pros:
- More comprehensive services
- Professional tax advice available
Cons:
- No free plan
- Interface can feel heavier for basic users
Cuéntica & Holded - full-feature Spanish platforms
Cuéntica:
- Designed for autónomos and SMEs
- Offers tax filing, invoicing, records
- €15/mo; no free version
Holded:
- ERP-style: invoicing, accounting, CRM, inventory
- €25+/mo depending on plan
Pros:
- Built for Spanish compliance
- Verifactu and Modelo 303/130 supported
Cons:
- No free plan
- Learning curve for non-financial users
Quipu - well-rounded with tax advisor support
Quipu is a Spanish platform designed for freelancers and small businesses:
- Verifactu-compatible invoicing
- Expense management and digital receipts
- Access to certified tax advisors
Pricing:
- Basic plans from €14/mo
Pros:
- Includes human support
- Good balance of features for growing businesses
Cons:
- Less intuitive than simpler tools
- Some features locked behind higher tiers
Bottom line
If you're self-employed in Spain and want something simple, Renn is the easiest starting point—Verifactu-ready, intuitive, and free for up to 25 invoices.
If you need more features, advisor support, or inventory/project management, Xolo, Cuéntica, Holded, and Quipu all offer more flexibility.
Nomo works well if you prefer mobile tools that blend banking and bookkeeping.
