There are many AP Automation tools on the market, and it’s critical to understand the differences to determine which is the right solution for you.
When it comes to accounts payable automation, BILL is a better option for small businesses looking for a streamlined solution, while Tipalti is a platform designed for larger enterprises with complex global payment needs. This post will cover both platforms in-depth to help you determine which one aligns better with your business requirements. Additionally, we’ll highlight Routable as an alternative to BILL and Tipalti, offering a compelling solution that combines the best features of both platforms and more.
Tipalti and BILL Overview
Tipalti
Tipalti is a global payables automation solution designed for enterprise companies. It automates the accounts payable process, from invoice intake to payment remittance, while providing financial controls and compliance features.
Key features of Tipalti include:
- End-to-end accounts payable automation
- Global mass payments (multi-currency, multi-method)
- Procurement and supplier management
- Integrated expense management
- Advanced tax and regulatory compliance
BILL
BILL (formerly Bill.com) is a cloud-based accounts payable and receivable automation platform that simplifies the way businesses manage their finances. It streamlines the entire invoice-to-payment process, enabling users to approve bills, route payments, and sync transactions with their accounting software.
Key features of BILL include:
- Accounts payable automation
- Accounts receivable management
- Expense tracking and reimbursement
- Payment processing (ACH, virtual cards, international payments)
- Accounting software integrations (QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, etc.)
Why Routable is a Better Alternative to BILL and Tipalti
Routable combines the best features of BILL and Tipalti while offering additional capabilities that set it apart as a comprehensive finance automation platform. Here are a few reasons why Routable is a better alternative:
- Real-time two-way sync with accounting software (Oracle NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks Online, Xero, etc.)
- AI-powered invoice capture and processing
- Vendor onboarding and compliance management
- International payments and multi-currency support
- Approval workflows and PO matching
- Payment reconciliation and real-time reporting
- Easy to configure to fit your existing workflows
- Built-in controls and compliance
Tool | Summary | Best For |
Tipalti | End-to-end AP automation with global payment capabilities | Large, multi-entity businesses with international operations |
BILL | Basic AP/AR automation and payment processing | Small businesses operating within the United States making a handful of monthly payments |
Routable | Comprehensive finance automation platform with advanced features | Modern finance teams seeking efficiency, speed, scale and cost savings |
Request a Routable demo.
Tipalti and BILL Feature Comparison
Feature | BILL | Tipalti |
Invoice Processing | BILL offers basic invoice processing capabilities, allowing users to capture invoices, route for approval, and sync with accounting software. However, the process can be manual and time-consuming for businesses with a high volume of invoices. | Tipalti provides robust invoice processing features, including AI-powered data capture, automated coding, and two-way sync with accounting systems. However, some users have reported challenges with integrations and slow implementations. |
Payment Processing | BILL supports various payment methods, including ACH, virtual cards, and international payments. However, there are limitations in terms of payment volumes and global reach, which may not suit businesses with complex payment needs. | Tipalti excels in global mass payments, offering multi-currency and multi-method capabilities. It can handle high payment volumes and complex payment scenarios., |
Vendor Management | BILL provides basic vendor management features, allowing users to maintain vendor information and track payments. However, it lacks advanced vendor onboarding and compliance capabilities. | Tipalti offers robust vendor management features, including vendor onboarding, tax compliance, and supplier enablement services. However, some users have reported challenges with the complexity of the platform. |
Approval Workflows | BILL allows users to define approval workflows and routing rules for invoices and payments. However, the workflow capabilities may be limited for businesses with complex approval hierarchies. | Tipalti offers customizable approval workflows and financial controls, which can be tailored to meet the needs of large enterprises. However, the setup and configuration process can be complex. |
Expense Management | BILL includes expense management capabilities, allowing users to capture receipts, create expense reports, and process reimbursements. However, the feature set may be basic compared to dedicated expense management solutions. | Tipalti offers integrated expense management features, including receipt capture, approval workflows, and reimbursement processing. However, some users have reported limitations in the expense management capabilities compared to standalone solutions. |
Reporting and Analytics | BILL provides standard reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing users to track invoices, payments, and cash flow. However, the reporting features may be limited for businesses with complex reporting needs. | Tipalti offers robust reporting and analytics capabilities, including customizable reports, real-time insights, and advanced data visualization tools. However, some users have reported challenges with data accessibility and report customization. |
BILL Use Cases
- Small businesses looking for a streamlined AP/AR solution
- Companies with straightforward approval workflows and payment needs
Tipalti Use Cases
- Mid-market and enterprise companies with global operations
- Businesses with complex payment scenarios and high payment volumes
Pros Compared
BILL Pros
- User-friendly interface and easy to navigate
- Tight integration with popular accounting software
- Quick onboarding and implementation process
Tipalti Pros
- Robust global payment capabilities and multi-currency support
- Advanced tax compliance and regulatory features
- Comprehensive vendor management and onboarding services
Cons Compared
BILL Cons
- Limited scalability for businesses with complex payment needs
- Basic reporting and analytics capabilities
- Lack of advanced vendor management and compliance features
Tipalti Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- Higher pricing compared to other AP solutions
- Limited integration with some accounting software
Pricing Comparison
Pricing information for both BILL and Tipalti is not publicly available, as it varies based on factors such as the number of users, payment volumes, and additional features required. Both platforms offer customized pricing plans based on the specific needs of the customer.
When To Use BILL or Tipalti
When to use BILL:
- Your business is small with relatively simple payment needs
- You primarily operate within a single country or region
- You prioritize ease of use and a streamlined user experience
When to use Tipalti:
- Your business is an enterprise with global operations
- You have complex payment scenarios, high payment volumes, and multi-currency needs
- You require advanced tax compliance and regulatory features
- You have a dedicated finance team to manage the implementation and ongoing usage
Routable: A Better Alternative to Tipalti and BILL
Feature | BILL | Tipalti | Routable |
Invoice Processing | Basic invoice processing capabilities | Invoice processing, including automated data capture and automated coding | AI-powered invoice capture, PO matching, and two-way sync with accounting software |
Payment Processing | Supports ACH, virtual cards, and international payments | Global mass payments, multi-currency and multi-method | Supports global mass payments, multi-currency, and various payment methods (ACH, wire, checks, etc.) |
Vendor Management | Basic vendor management features | Vendor management, including onboarding and compliance | Comprehensive vendor management, including onboarding, compliance checks, and tax management |
Approval Workflows | Define approval workflows and routing rules | Customizable approval workflows and financial controls | Highly configurable approval workflows and routing rules |
AI-powered Invoice Capture | No | Yes | Yes, with advanced AI capabilities for data extraction and processing |
PO Matching | No | Yes | Yes, with automated PO matching and reconciliation |
Vendor Onboarding and Compliance | Limited | Yes | Yes, with comprehensive vendor onboarding and compliance checks |
Real-Time Two-Way Sync | No | No | Yes, with real-time two-way syncs with 99.8% accuracy |
Real-time Payments | No | No | Yes |
How Routable Stands Apart
Seamless integration with accounting software
Routable offers a real-time, two-way sync with popular accounting software like QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Xero, ensuring that your financial data is always up-to-date and accurate.
AI-powered invoice processing
Routable’s advanced AI capabilities enable efficient invoice capture, data extraction, and processing, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy.
Comprehensive vendor management
Routable’s vendor management features go beyond basic vendor information tracking, offering robust vendor onboarding, compliance checks, and tax management capabilities.
Unified Platform for AP, payments, and more
Routable provides a unified platform for accounts payable automation, mass payments, vendor management, and more, eliminating the need for multiple tools and streamlining your finance operations.
Easy to configure to fit your existing workflows
Routable works the way you work, eliminating the need for disruptive changes. Its flexible platform adapts to your unique requirements, allowing you to maintain familiar workflows (like bill approvals) while enhancing efficiency.
Built-in controls and compliance
Integrated procurement controls, tax management, and automated approvals ensure your spending complies with internal guidelines and regulations. Take the burden off your employees and put it in the hands of Routable’s automated platform.
Request a Routable demo.
Conclusion
While Tipalti and BILL offer valuable accounts payable and receivable solutions, Routable emerges as a more comprehensive and advanced alternative for modern finance teams. With its seamless integration capabilities, advanced AI and machine learning features, robust global payment capabilities, and comprehensive suite of finance automation solutions, Routable positions itself as a powerful platform for businesses seeking efficiency, cost savings, and streamlined finance operations.