Integrating Xero with Third-Party Apps

Integrating additional tools with Xero can be tricky when you're not sure where to start.

By the end of this post, you'll have a clear understanding of the top apps that connect with Xero to enhance accounting, inventory, payments, CRM, and more.

You'll learn the specific benefits of key Xero integrations, like Dynamics 365, eBay, SharePoint, Slack, and many other popular platforms. We'll also cover custom integration options using the Xero API, Zapier, and Integromat.

Introduction to Xero Integration

Integrating Xero with third-party apps can provide numerous benefits for businesses using the accounting software. Key advantages include:

Exploring the Benefits of Integrating Xero

Increased efficiency - Apps can automate manual processes and reduce the need for duplicate data entry across systems. This saves time and effort.
Better insights - Integrations give access to more data from different systems, allowing for better reporting and analytics. This aids decision making.
Enhanced features - Add-ons provide additional capabilities not inherently included in Xero, like inventory management, payment processing, etc.

Navigating the Xero App Store for Add-ons

The Xero App Store contains over 800 apps covering various business functions that can integrate with Xero:

Categories like CRM, inventory, payments, and more
Apps for popular tools like HubSpot, Slack, Trello
Reviews and ratings for each app
Details on app pricing and features

This makes it easy to browse and find an integration suited to your needs.

Understanding Xero Integrations

Here are details on connecting Xero to some top apps:

eBay - Automates order data flows into Xero for reconciling payments and tracking expenses. Easy to set up.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 - Syncs key data between systems like contacts, sales, and accounting information. More complex.
SharePoint - Allows storing of Xero files like invoices in a SharePoint document library for easier access and collaboration. Simple setup.
Paddle - Brings payment data into Xero for reconciliations. Includes useful reporting on transactions, fees, payouts etc. Quick to integrate.

The Xero API and available extensions make integrating many apps straightforward. Some may require more involved configuration but provide significant benefits.

Can Xero integration with other software?

Xero offers an extensive app marketplace with over 1,000 third-party integrations across various functions and industries. Here are some of the key things to know about integrating Xero with other software:

Seamless Connections

The Xero API enables smooth data flow between Xero and other business platforms. You can connect Xero to tools like PayPal, Expensify, ReceiptBank, and more to centralize financial data and eliminate manual data entry.

Enhanced Productivity

Integrations eliminate work duplication across platforms and provide a holistic view of your business finances. For example, connecting Xero with inventory software like Dear Inventory or shipping platforms like ShipStation can sync order and inventory data.

Tailored Integrations

Xero offers integrations for CRM, POS, ecommerce, payroll, marketing automation, and other systems. You can browse industry-specific integrations or use the Xero App Store to find the right apps to suit your unique needs.

Custom Integrations

Can't find an out-of-the-box integration for your tech stack? Xero's API allows you to build custom integrations to connect with niche or proprietary software your business uses.

In summary, Xero opens up abundant possibilities for integrating accounting with other business platforms, enabling you to create a customized technology ecosystem to manage finances, operations, and analytics in one connected system.

Can you integrate with Xero?

Xero offers an open API that allows developers to build custom integrations and apps. If you have an idea for an integration that isn't covered by the existing apps in the Xero App Store, you have the option to create your own integration.

Here are a few key things to know about building a custom integration with Xero:

Registration and access: You'll need to register as an API partner to get API credentials and access Xero's API documentation. This allows you to make API calls to Xero from your app.
Authentication: Implement OAuth 2.0 authentication in your app so users can securely connect their Xero account. This handles the login flow and access token retrieval.
API calls: Xero provides REST APIs across their various services like accounting, payroll, assets, projects, and more. You can make API requests to create transactions, sync data, run reports, and more.
Build and test: Use your preferred programming language and tools. Focus on core integration capabilities first, then refine and add features. Be sure to thoroughly test before launch.
Launch and monetize: Once your integration is complete, you can opt to list it on the Xero App Store to reach Xero customers. You can offer it as a free or paid app.

Building a custom integration takes development effort, but gives you full control to solve a specific use case. And integrating with Xero's APIs allows you to tap into the capabilities of their well-adopted accounting platform.

How many apps does Xero integrate with?

Xero offers an extensive app ecosystem with over 1,000 apps available to connect to its accounting software. This allows businesses to integrate Xero with other business tools and systems to enhance functionality.

Some key points about Xero's app integrations:

Xero has partnered with hundreds of third-party developers to build integrations and apps that connect to its platform via APIs.
There are apps available across a wide range of categories including CRM, inventory management, payroll, POS, ecommerce, marketing automation, business intelligence, and more.
Popular apps that integrate with Xero include HubSpot, Salesforce, Trello, eBay, Shopify, and PayPal, among many others.
Xero offers an "App Store" where businesses can browse and connect apps based on their industry and specific business needs.
Integration capabilities range from basic syncing of contacts and financial data to more advanced automated workflows between Xero and third-party systems.
Xero also offers an "Open API" to allow further custom integrations to be built as needed by developers and partners.

So in summary, Xero connects with an extensive library of over 1,000 third-party business apps covering a wide variety of use cases, through both pre-built integrations and custom development options. This enables robust possibilities to connect Xero's accounting and financial data with other key business platforms.

What expenses app integrates with Xero?

Xero offers seamless integration with several popular expense management apps, providing efficient workflows for tracking, approving, and reimbursing employee expenses. Some of the top options include:

Tipalti

Automates entire accounts payable workflows, including supplier onboarding, invoice processing, payments, and reconciliation
Integrates expense reporting with one-click Xero syncing
Offers easy approval routing, fast payments, and real-time spend visibility

TravelBank

Streamlines expense reporting tailored for business travelers
Syncs card transactions and e-receipts directly into Xero with no data entry
Includes tools for creating budgets, approving reports, and setting travel policies

Emburse Certify

Captures expenses from corporate cards, personal funds, and mileage
Automates expense report creation with direct feeds into Xero
Provides policy enforcement, auditing tools, and visibility into spend

The key benefit of integrating these solutions with Xero is eliminating manual data entry and paperwork when submitting, approving, and reimbursing expenses. Teams gain efficiency, transparency, and control over spending right within their accounting/finance workflows.

Integrating Xero with eBay for E-commerce Accounting

Automatically synchronizing your eBay sales data with Xero can help streamline accounting and inventory management for e-commerce businesses.

The Advantages of Connecting Xero and eBay

Integrating Xero and eBay offers several key benefits:

Reduces manual data entry: Rather than manually entering each eBay order into Xero, the integration automatically syncs sales and payment data between the two platforms. This saves significant time and effort.
Provides insights into sales performance: With eBay sales data flowing into Xero in real-time, you gain visibility into key metrics like bestselling products, revenue trends, top customers, etc. This informs business decisions.
Enables order fulfillment automation: As soon as an eBay order comes in, the integration can trigger actions in Xero or other systems to automate order processing and fulfillment.

How to Set Up the Xero and eBay Integration

Connecting Xero and eBay involves three key steps:

Sign up for an eBay developer account to access the eBay API. This enables connecting with third-party apps like Xero.
In Xero, browse the App Marketplace and select an eBay integration app that suits your needs, such as OneSaas. Install the app.
In the integration app, connect your eBay seller account and configure data sync settings based on your accounting needs - sales, fees, payments, etc.

The integration app handles the API connections behind the scenes to enable seamless data flow between eBay and Xero.

Maintaining Your Xero-eBay Connection

To ensure ongoing effective syncing between the platforms, it's important to monitor and maintain the integration:

Check the integration app dashboard periodically to monitor sync status and address any errors.
Adjust sync configurations if your data needs change - for example, adding new eBay sales data points into Xero.
Keep integration app credentials and connections updated on both eBay and Xero side when permissions or accounts change.

By proactively managing the Xero-eBay integration, you can automate accounting processes and gain insights to scale your e-commerce business.

Synchronizing Financials with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Integrating Xero with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can provide several key benefits for businesses looking to consolidate financial reporting and analysis across platforms.

Integrating Xero and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Xero offers a cloud-based accounting solution focused on small businesses, while Dynamics 365 Business Central delivers an all-in-one business management platform for financials, sales, service, and operations. Connecting the two systems allows you to:

Sync key financial data between the platforms
Maintain real-time visibility into financial performance
Eliminate manual data entry and reduce errors
Streamline processes with automated data flows

By integrating the platforms, you can leverage Xero's user-friendly accounting interface alongside Dynamics 365's robust business management capabilities.

Step-by-Step Dynamics 365 Business Central Integration Setup

Follow these steps to set up an integration between Xero and Dynamics 365 Business Central:

In Dynamics 365 Business Central, install the Xero Integration from the in-app marketplace
In the integration setup, enter your Xero API credentials
Configure which financial entities you want to sync between the platforms
Set up automated syncs based on a schedule or trigger events
Map accounts, customers, vendors, items, and transactions in Dynamics 365 to the corresponding data in Xero
Validate successful connection and review initial data sync

With the integration established, financial data will flow between the two systems automatically based on your configured sync settings.

Automating Data Sync Between Xero and Dynamics 365

To maximize efficiency gains, set up automated, scheduled syncs that push updated accounting transactions from Xero into Dynamics 365 Business Central. Key guidelines:

Schedule batch syncs daily or weekly to maintain latest financial data in both systems
Set up real-time syncs using webhook triggers to instantly reflect Xero transaction updates in Dynamics 365
Review sync logs to ensure successful data transfer and troubleshoot any errors
Avoid overwriting data by configuring sync direction and having a single source of truth

Automating syncs enables you to consolidate real-time financial data across platforms, reducing manual processes while increasing accuracy and visibility.

Enhancing Document Management with SharePoint

Integrating Xero with SharePoint allows businesses to centralize their accounting documents and data for streamlined workflows.

The Benefits of Xero and SharePoint Integration

Key benefits of connecting Xero with SharePoint include:

Centralized document storage: Store invoices, bills, reports, and other financial files directly in SharePoint document libraries synced with Xero. Avoid scattered documents across multiple systems.
Enhanced collaboration: Share accounting documents seamlessly with relevant teams and provide unified access controls. Multi-user editing capabilities also improve collaboration.
Powerful reporting: Use SharePoint's reporting functionality on synced Xero files for additional analysis and business insights.

Configuring SharePoint for Xero Integration

To set up SharePoint integration:

Create SharePoint document libraries for financial documents like invoices and bills that need to sync with Xero.
Install the Xero app from the SharePoint app store and connect it with your SharePoint site.
Link your Xero account with the SharePoint app to enable real-time syncing across both platforms.
Set up permissions, views, and metadata for the document libraries as needed.

Optimizing Document Workflow with Xero and SharePoint

To optimize workflows:

Review files synced from Xero into SharePoint and configure libraries for ease-of-use.
Set up SharePoint alert rules and workflows to streamline accounting document handling.
Use SharePoint's access controls to securely share files with the appropriate teams.
Customize integration settings to ensure optimal sync between systems.

The Xero and SharePoint integration provides businesses powerful tools for centralized accounting document management, securing files, and streamlining collaboration between teams. Configuring the integration fully unlocks these benefits for day-to-day accounting workflows.

Streamlining Payments and Inventory with Popular Apps

Integrating additional apps with Xero can help businesses streamline operations across payments, inventory, HR, communications, and more. Here are some of the most popular integrations:

Connecting Paddle and Xero for Payment Processing

Paddle is a payment platform tailored for SaaS companies. Connecting it with Xero automatically imports payment and subscription data into the accounting software, saving manual work.

Key benefits include:

Sync payment and subscription records from Paddle to Xero in real-time
Automatically reconcile payments and create invoices
Reduce time spent on accounting and administrative tasks

To set up the integration, simply visit the Paddle app listing in the Xero app marketplace. After connecting accounts, payments will flow seamlessly between the two platforms.

Managing Stock with Zoho Inventory and Xero Integration

For ecommerce businesses, keeping inventory levels up to date across systems is critical. The Zoho Inventory and Xero integration automatically syncs key data like stock quantities and valuations.

Benefits of connecting the apps include:

Stock quantities and values remain aligned in real-time
Streamline order fulfillment by accessing shared inventory data
Reduce overhead in managing and updating inventory records manually

Users can enable the integration in just a few clicks. With stock data synced, firms can efficiently track inventory, avoid overselling goods, and save significant manual reporting efforts.

Centralizing HR Data by Connecting Xero and BambooHR

BambooHR is a leading HR platform for managing employee records, time-off, compensation, and more. Integrating it with Xero helps centralize key financial and HR data.

Key features include:

Employee payroll and accounting data flows into Xero automatically
Tax and salary information remains synchronized
Streamlines payroll, accounting, and HR workflows

Setting up the integration is simple - users just have to link their BambooHR and Xero accounts. This enables seamless data sharing, reducing double entry efforts and manual data checks across systems.

Automating Notifications with Slack and Xero Integration

Slack is a popular team collaboration app. Integrating it with Xero sets up automatic notifications and makes it easy to discuss financial data.

Benefits include:

Get real-time notifications of invoice status, overdue payments, bank feeds, and more
Message team members and share accounting information easily
Reduce delays by collaborating directly within Slack

Users can install the Xero app from the Slack App Directory. Once connected, teams can seamlessly share data, update records, and collaborate to streamline accounting tasks.

Handling Crypto Payments with Coinbase Commerce and Xero

To tap into the crypto economy, businesses can accept payments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin via Coinbase Commerce. Integrating it with Xero enables automatically recording crypto transactions as they occur.

Key features include:

Accept payments in dozens of cryptocurrencies
Crypto transactions flow automatically into Xero as they are made
Reconcile payments with orders and update accounting books without manual work

The integration can be set up directly from Coinbase Commerce. With crypto payment data flowing into Xero, merchants can easily track sales, payments owed, settlements, and more.

Leveraging the Xero App Store for Extended Functionality

Discover hundreds of integrated third-party apps to extend Xero's functionality.

How to Browse and Select Apps by Category in the Xero App Store

The Xero App Store offers over 800 apps across various categories like accounting, inventory, payroll, point-of-sale, and more. Here are some tips for efficiently finding and selecting apps:

Use the sidebar filters to narrow down apps by category, features, ratings, and number of users. This helps surface the most popular and reputable apps.
Click on categories like "Accounting", "Inventory", or "Reporting" to view relevant apps. Scan app descriptions and customer reviews.
Search for specific app names or functions using the search bar. For example, search "eBay" or "Dynamics" to find related integrations.
Filter by country availability if integrating apps across global teams. Xero has editions for different countries.
Select the "Top Rated" filter to view 5 star apps with the most users. High ratings and adoption signals an app is well-supported.

Evaluating factors like ratings, number of users, recent updates, and reviews helps determine if an app is reliable, secure, and a good fit.

Evaluating App Integrations in the Xero Ecosystem

When assessing apps to integrate with Xero, key factors to consider include:

User Ratings and Reviews: Prioritize 4+ star rated apps with positive user experiences noted in reviews. This indicates apps are delivering value without major issues.
Number of Users: Apps used by hundreds or thousands of organizations suggest they are stable, supported, and connect smoothly with Xero.
Recent Updates: Frequent version release notes and development activity demonstrates the app is still supported versus outdated integrations.
Security: Review if data encryption, secure access controls, and compliance standards are in place to ensure data protection when syncing.
Ease of Set-Up: Well documented set-up guides, pre-built connections, and responsive customer support simplify integration.
Pricing: Compare app subscription costs and free trial options across the ecosystem.

Vetting app vendors thoroughly gives confidence in building integrated ecosystems with Xero.

Implementing New App Connections within Xero

Here is an overview of key steps when setting up new app integrations:

Enable Apps in Xero: Under Xero App Settings, toggle permissions to "On" for the app and select data access controls for syncing.
Configure Data Sync: In the app's portal, connect your Xero organization, choose sync directionality, select data fields to share, and set sync frequency such as daily or hourly.
Monitor Sync Activity: Review connection logs in Xero and the integrated app to ensure data flows accurately without failures.
Troubleshoot Issues: If sync problems occur, confirm API keys match, adjust data access controls, check for changes made by either company that require re-authentication, double check configurations, then contact customer support.

With some trial and error, Xero's open ecosystem allows mixing and matching apps for the right technology stack to manage accounting operations smoothly.

Custom Integration Solutions for Advanced Xero Connectivity

For advanced custom integrations, Xero offers additional tools like APIs and third-party services to connect with other software.

Developing Custom Integrations with the Xero API

The Xero API allows developers to build customized, advanced integrations between Xero and other business apps. Key benefits of using the Xero API include:

Access to the full range of Xero accounting data and functions to create tailored solutions
Ability to automate complex workflows and processes between Xero and other platforms
Real-time data syncing and transfers between Xero and third-party solutions
Flexibility to develop web apps, mobile apps, or integrations with CRMs, ERPs etc.

To use the Xero API, developers will need:

Xero user account authorized for API use
Understanding of common web programming languages like JSON, OAuth 2.0
Familiarity with REST APIs, HTTP requests

Key resources for getting started with the Xero API:

Xero Developer Center - Documentation, SDKs, API reference materials
Postman - Useful API testing/prototyping tool for making API calls
Xero Sample Apps - Example apps demonstrating API capabilities

By leveraging the Xero API, developers can create truly tailored, robust integrations to streamline financial workflows.

Automating Workflows with Zapier and Xero

Zapier enables anyone to quickly automate workflows between Xero and over 1,000 other business apps without coding. Some popular Xero integrations on Zapier include:

Syncing Xero accounting data with CRMs like Salesforce
Automatically adding Stripe payment data into Xero
Pushing Xero invoice details to project tools like Trello
Embedding new Xero expense claims into Slack

Zapier uses prebuilt “Zaps” that connect triggers, actions, and filters between apps. Setting up a Zap takes just minutes with no developers needed.

Key advantages of using Zapier for Xero workflows:

Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for easy automation
300+ premade Zaps specifically for common Xero integrations
Real-time syncing of data across apps
Error handling and reliability features

For easy, code-free automation of Xero and other business apps, Zapier is an ideal integration tool for most use cases.

Orchestrating Complex Integrations with Integromat and Xero

Integromat enables advanced orchestration of complex workflows and processes between Xero and many other apps through visual automation.

Some Integromat features that provide robust Xero connectivity:

Multi-step scenarios automating processes across multiple apps
Ability to transform, enrich, analyze data as it flows between systems
Robust management and monitoring tools for large integration projects
Advanced admin features for oversight, access controls, debugging

Integromat goes beyond basic two-way syncing to allow full end-to-end automation of complex business workflows, making it ideal for systems integration and enterprise connectivity scenarios.

Other key points about Integromat:

Over 3,000 app integrations
Affordable pricing tiers based on volume of integration usage
24/7 monitoring of integrations and SLAs

For orchestrating intricate, multi-layered workflows and processes between Xero and other platforms, Integromat is an enterprise-grade automation tool.

Learn How to Set Up a Custom Integration Using Appy Pie Connect

Appy Pie Connect provides an easy way for non-developers to set up customized, two-way integrations between Xero and various other apps.

With an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, users can quickly build workflows, map data fields between apps, configure triggers and events, and more.

Key capabilities include:

Connecting Xero to solutions like Slack, Mailchimp, Dropbox, and more
Mapping Xero data like invoices, bills, contacts etc. to other apps
Automated syncing based on triggers and schedules
Easy monitoring and error handling

Appy Pie Connect has affordable monthly pricing plans for small to mid-sized integration projects. It also provides team collaboration features to manage ongoing integrations.

For DIY-style app integration without coding, Appy Pie Connect combined with Xero can automate many manual processes. Its user-friendly interface allows custom connections to be set up in minutes by non-technical users.

Advanced Third-Party Integrations

Expanding Xero's capabilities with advanced third-party integrations for enhanced business operations.

Connecting Xero with Salesforce for CRM Integration

Integrating Xero with Salesforce CRM enables a seamless flow of financial data between the two platforms. Key benefits include:

Real-time syncing of customer billing and invoicing data from Xero into Salesforce for complete visibility of account financials
Automated creation of Salesforce records based on financial transactions in Xero
Insights into customer lifetime value through combined metrics from both systems

To set up the integration, install the Xero for Salesforce app from the Salesforce AppExchange marketplace. The app handles the API connections behind the scenes to securely share data.

With the integration active, sales teams gain greater context around account profitability and outstanding payments to improve forecasting. Customer service can also access integrated financial history for more personalized interactions.

Integrating Xero with HubSpot for Marketing Automation

Connecting Xero with HubSpot marketing automation tools enables the seamless flow of billing and invoicing data into the platform. This delivers key advantages:

Automated creation of Xero invoices when HubSpot payments are triggered
Syncing of payment information into contact and company records
Insights into campaign ROI inclusive of overhead and operational costs tracked in Xero

The integration can be set up directly within HubSpot using the Xero app template. This automatically handles linking Xero's API with your HubSpot portal.

With the integration set up, marketers can better track net profits by campaign or channel, taking overhead costs into account for more accurate ROI reporting.

Synchronizing Project Management with Trello and Xero

Integrating Trello project management with Xero accounting provides enhanced visibility into project costs and tasks. Connecting the two systems enables:

Automatic creation of billable project invoices directly from Trello cards
Updating of Xero ledger based on billable project hours logged in Trello
Real-time syncing of project budget vs. actual costs from Xero to Trello

Setting up the integration is simple within the Trello platform. Just install the Xero Power-Up and link your accounts. This handles linking the APIs securely behind the scenes.

With the Trello-Xero sync configured, project managers can track real-time budget vs. actuals alongside task completion status for better cost control and forecasting.

Integrating Xero and Airtable for Custom Database Solutions

Xero integrates with Airtable to link accounting data into custom-built databases and tables. Benefits include:

Automated population of Airtable records based on Xero invoices, bills, payments etc.
Custom views of Xero data within Airtable interfaces for tailored reporting and analysis
Ability to manage various financial processes using Airtable

The open API architecture of both platforms enables flexible integration capabilities. You can leverage pre-built templates or create custom solutions tailored to your needs.

With Airtable pulling live data from Xero, you can build automated workflows, share custom views, and manage financials all through Airtable's user-friendly interface.

Managing Finances and Banking with Xero and Revolut Integration

Connecting Xero accounting to Revolut business accounts enables automated syncing of banking and cash flow data. This provides:

Real-time feed of Revolut transactions into Xero for up-to-date financial reporting
Automatic categorization of Revolut purchases based on Xero accounting categories
Ability to view cash flow forecasts and metrics within Revolut dashboards

The direct bank feed integration is configured within Xero's bank settings. Simply link your Revolut account for an automated live sync.

With the integration, transactions are seamlessly fed into Xero ledgers in real-time. You also gain access to cash flow insights, spend categorization, and reporting all through Revolut's platform. This simplifies business banking and expense management.

Conclusion: Maximizing Business Efficiency with Xero Integrations

Integrating Xero with other business applications can lead to significant efficiency gains and cost savings. Here are some key takeaways:

Recap of Xero Integration Benefits and Strategies

Integrations eliminate manual data entry and reduce human error risks
Automated syncing ensures real-time data flows between systems
Expanded capabilities by connecting specialized tools like inventory or ecommerce
Carefully evaluate integration needs before selecting apps to implement
Leverage Xero's App Store and API for seamless third-party connections

Next Steps for Optimizing Your Xero Ecosystem

Audit current workflows to identity friction points and opportunities
Research top apps in needed categories to determine best fits
Start small by connecting 1-2 critical systems, then expand over time
Continuously monitor and tweak integrations to maximize value
Stay up to date on new Xero apps and features for future upgrades

Focusing on purposeful integration aligned to business goals will pave the path to efficiency. Xero's open platform makes connecting the dots simple.

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