The verdict
If you do not yet have a proper business account, pick Rabobank. It is a safe default in the Netherlands and nobody asks questions about it. If you have an account and your books are late, pick Xero, but only after you check local fit. Look at Dutch VAT handling, bank connections and e-invoicing on your local site before you commit.
Xero makes the most sense when your accountant uses it or recommends it, and when you want to add people without paying per seat. If your accountant prefers a Dutch package, follow them. A local tool may handle tax filing better. I would set up the bank first, then choose the ledger with your accountant, and check that the two connect before you switch anything.
Side by side
Plans and pricing
Rabobank
- Standard$10.85/mo
Xero
- Early$27/mo
- Growing$59/mo
- Established$97/mo
Who each is for
Choose Rabobank if…
Pick Rabobank if you run a Dutch business and want a recognised bank, an easy link to your accountant and a route to lending later. A freelancer can take the ZZP account, which has no fixed cost.
It suits you if you want a proper bank with an adviser and are fine with a slower start than a fintech. Opening an account involves identity and company checks, so do not plan to invoice from it on day one. Skip it if you are an international business that needs quick onboarding in English. The bank's APIs are not casual either. Most small companies reach their bank data through a bookkeeping tool, not by building their own connection.
Choose Xero if…
Pick Xero if you want shared cloud books with bank reconciliation, invoicing and a cash flow forecast, and your accountant is happy to work in it. It suits small and growing businesses that expect to add people, because there are no per-user licence fees.
It also suits teams that want to connect other apps, since it has an API with webhooks and an official MCP server for AI assistants. Count your invoices before you choose a plan, because the lowest plan limits invoices and bills. Skip it if a local Dutch tool gives better support for your tax filing, which is often true here. Check VAT, bank feeds and e-invoicing first.
Other options worth a look
Cloud accounting from Intuit for invoicing, expenses, bank feeds and reports, with a free plan and four paid tiers.
Bookkeeping and accounting software for managing business finances and keeping complete financial records.