LedgerSMB
Web-based double-entry accounting and ERP for small and medium businesses.
GitHub stars
570
Repo updated
Oct 2026
License
GPL-2.0
Technology
Perl, PostgreSQL
What is LedgerSMB?
LedgerSMB is a free web-based double-entry accounting system that also covers quotations, ordering, invoicing, projects, timecards, inventory and shipping. Orders, invoices and requests for quotation can be e-mailed as PDFs straight from the application. It is written in Perl and requires Perl 5.38 or newer.
Best for Small businesses that value a conventional, accuracy-first accounting model and multi-user web access.
In depth
LedgerSMB features
Strengths
- Long-running, accounting-focused project.
- Covers the order-to-invoice and purchasing flow.
- Multi-user web access.
Limitations
- The interface is plainer than newer tools.
- Perl stack is less common, so fewer people can maintain it.
- Requires Perl 5.38+ and PostgreSQL knowledge.
Where LedgerSMB fits in your business
We compare LedgerSMB with similar tools in these small business buying guides:
- Accounting guide
- Bookkeeping guide
- Bank reconciliation guide
- Purchase orders guide
- Vendor management guide
- Quoting guide
- Financial reporting guide
Installing and hosting LedgerSMB
Requirements: Perl 5.38+ (per the README) with PostgreSQL.
Follow the project's own installation guide for exact, current steps. See the official documentation.
Information checked 16 October 2026 from the project's documentation. Versions change, so confirm before running commands on a production server.
Need a server to host it?
Docker, Node, Python, Java and similar stacks usually need a VPS where you can install your own software. A small VPS is enough to start, and you can upgrade later. Hostinger offers both shared web hosting and VPS plans.
Affiliate disclosure: this is an affiliate link. If you buy through it we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. CRMs and software are listed independently of any hosting partner. Learn more.
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Official links for LedgerSMB
Always download from the official sources to get the latest and safest version.
Frequently asked questions about LedgerSMB
What is LedgerSMB?
A free web-based double-entry accounting and ERP system for small and medium businesses, covering quotations, orders, invoicing, projects, timecards and inventory.
What does LedgerSMB require?
Perl 5.38 or newer according to its README, plus a PostgreSQL database and a web server. Follow the project documentation for exact steps.
Is LedgerSMB good for small business?
Yes if you want conventional double-entry accounting with multi-user web access and do not mind a plain interface.
Data verified 16 October 2026 from the project's public repository, LICENSE file and documentation. Details change, so check the official sources. See our disclaimer. Found a mistake? Tell us.