Frequently asked questions
Who FairBooks is for, how it handles GST and BAS, and what to expect. For plans and billing, see Pricing.
Who is FairBooks for?
FairBooks is for sole traders and small businesses in Australia. If you need to reconcile your bank, send invoices, pay bills and lodge BAS without the bloat of enterprise accounting software, it's for you.
When will FairBooks be available?
Now. Founding membership is open: start a free 14-day trial, no credit card needed. Founding membership is $5 per month including GST for your first 24 months.
What is founding membership?
Founding members are the first businesses to join FairBooks. You lock in the founding price of $5 per month for your first 24 months (the standard price is $10 per month), get a direct line to the founder by email, and your feedback goes straight into what we build next. It is open now. See Pricing for the full detail.
Does FairBooks handle GST?
Yes. Every line carries its GST code (GST, GST-free, Input Taxed or BAS Excluded), and GST is worked out on a cash basis from the dates you were actually paid, including invoices paid in parts across quarters. At BAS time FairBooks prepares your G1, 1A, 1B and net GST position and shows the transactions behind each figure. Once you've lodged through the ATO portal, finalise the period and lock it.
Does FairBooks connect to my bank?
Not with a live bank feed. You download a statement from your internet banking (CSV, OFX or QFX) and import it. FairBooks recognises CSV exports from NAB, CBA, Westpac, ANZ, Up and Macquarie, flags duplicates, and checks the statement's opening and closing balances add up. Live bank feeds are on our roadmap as something we're considering.
Can I move my books across from Xero?
Yes. Export CSVs from Xero and import your chart of accounts, contacts, products, invoices, quotes, bills and credit notes, then bring in your opening balances from a Xero Trial Balance. Every file is previewed before anything is saved.
Where is my data stored?
Your data is stored in Australia. We don't sell your data, we don't run ads, and we don't share your information with third parties. See our privacy policy for details.
How is FairBooks different from Xero or MYOB?
FairBooks is being purpose-built for small businesses, not scaled down from enterprise software. The goal is simpler navigation, faster workflows, and fair pricing that doesn't creep up every year.
Can I accept online payments?
Yes. Connect your Stripe account and your customers can pay invoices online by card. FairBooks doesn't take a cut. You only pay Stripe's standard processing fees.
Still deciding?
Start a free 14-day trial, no credit card needed.