It seems like there are a million different receipt scanning apps out there nowadays, so how can you choose the best app for receipts for you?

Whether you’re a busy business owner or a work-from-home mom, you need a convenient, reliable way to transform your paper receipts into digital documents that can be retrieved whenever you want, from wherever you want.

Here are the top 5 qualities to consider when looking for the best receipts app:

1. Convenience

A great receipt scanner app will make your life easier, not harder.

The best apps allow you to instantly digitize your paper receipts by snapping a photo with your smartphone or scanning to your PC. This process should be easy, seamless, and stress-free, and require the least amount of effort on your part.

2. Cost

There’s a wide range of costs when it comes to receipt scanning apps. Some are free, but lack the robust storage and security you need to keep your sensitive info safe. Others are overpriced or only cost-effective for big businesses.

The best app for receipts is one with a range of pricing options to fit your budget. Look for one that offers a free app download for your devices along with monthly pricing plan choices.

3. Multi-platform functionality

You can’t just download a receipt app to your phone or tablet and call it a day.

Why?

Because receipts creep up in every area of your life, and require a multi-tiered approach to their management. For instance, you might get handed a receipt at the gas station, emailed a receipt from an online subscription, and dumped with a stack of paper receipts to be sorted at work.

A great receipt app will have you covered no matter where the receipts are coming from. Shoeboxed has a smartphone app, but they also offer done-for-you receipt scanning and traditional scanning options.

With this service, you can

  • Dump receipts and stacks of paper in an envelope, drop the envelope in the mail, and have everything scanned for you while you sleep
  • Snap photos of receipts with your phone or tablet while you’re on the go
  • Scan receipts yourself from your home or office scanner

Look for a receipt app that offers all of these options and more.

4. Security

Did you know that the IRS accepts electronic versions of your receipts? You can now digitize just about anything and everything, making receipt scanning a great way to stay organized and clutter-free.

But what happens to all of your sensitive information when you scan it to the cloud? If you choose the best app for receipts, your credit card info, social security number, and other sensitive financial information will remain secure.

Look for an app that guarantees your security with SSL encryption and TRUSTe certification.

5. Flexibility

A great receipt scanning app won’t only scan receipts. Look for an app that can handle business cards, bank statements, and all types of hard copy clutter.

Which receipt scanning apps have you tried before? What did you love or hate the most? Let us know in the comments below!