Germany’s Top Freelancer Platform: Xolo vs Accountable

Freelancing in Germany is increasingly popular, but even the most seasoned solopreneurs can find themselves overwhelmed by taxes, VAT filings and compliance requirements.

That’s where platforms like Accountable and Xolo come in. Each offers a streamlined solution for freelancers looking to stay compliant while minimizing admin time. But which one is right for you? If you haven't set up your solo business in Germany yet, read our guide on how to get started here. 

In this guide, we compare Accountable, Xolo Go and Xolo Leap—three distinct options built with freelancers in mind. Whether you’re looking for total control inside the German system, a fast no-bureaucracy start, or a full-fledged international company, we’ll break it all down.

Pricing: Flat fees vs Pay-as-you-go

Cost is a key factor whenever freelancers evaluate tools and platforms—rightfully so. From free invoicing tools to full-service monthly plans, here’s how pricing structures stack up across today’s three options.

Accountable

• Free plan includes invoicing, limited receipt scans, and a German IBAN.
• Paid plans: €15.50–€33.50/month (billed annually). Higher tiers add a personal tax coach, unlimited tax filings, and cashback on revenue.

Xolo Go

• No monthly fee.
• 5.9% commission on payouts to your personal account. Only pay when you get paid.

Xolo Leap

• Starts at €59/month for new businesses.
• Higher tiers (Standard, Pro, Premium) for growing companies.
• Requires Estonian e‑Residency (~€100 one-time fee).

💡 Xolo Go is ideal for those just starting out or freelancing occasionally. Accountable suits those who want fixed, predictable monthly costs. Xolo Leap is best for full-timers ready to scale.

Features: German-centric vs global capabilities

From invoicing and compliance to currency support and expense tracking, the right set of features can make or break your workflow. Let’s explore how each platform supports the day-to-day needs of a freelancer.

Accountable

• Full German tax compliance: income tax, VAT, trade tax filings.
• Create legally compliant invoices (ZUGFeRD/XRechnung supported).
• Expense scanning, bank sync, free business account with tax-saving sub-account.
• AI tax advisor and Tax Guarantee on paid plans.
  
  

Xolo Go

• Invoice clients in 7+ currencies.
• Accept card payments and send recurring invoices.
• No VAT ID or German registration required.
• Xolo handles compliance; you get paid with peace of mind.
  
  

Xolo Leap

• Run your own Estonian company with full accounting, VAT registration and payroll.
• Dedicated accountants handle compliance.
• Create invoices, and link oin your payment providers (Stripe, PayPal, Wise, etc.).
• Add team members or shareholders (higher plans).

💡 Accountable shines for full German-system coverage. Xolo Go is for freelancers focused on getting paid globally with zero setup. Xolo Leap is a hands-off way to operate a real company from almost anywhere.

Ease of use: Minimal effort, maximum focus

Let’s face it—no one becomes a freelancer to spend hours navigating admin tools. Here’s how easy each platform makes it to get started, stay on track, and manage your business effectively.

Accountable

• User-friendly mobile and web app.
• Familiar German terms in an English/German interface.
• Bank sync and OCR make data entry easy.
• Designed for those staying in Germany long-term.

Xolo Go

• Onboard and send your first invoice in under 10 minutes.
• 100% online, English-based platform.
• No registrations, tax forms, or bank account setup needed.

Xolo Leap

• Company setup requires Estonian e‑Residency but is otherwise fully online.
• After setup, all business admin is managed via your Xolo dashboard.
• Human reminders and expert help to reduce your learning curve.

💡 For ultimate simplicity, Xolo Go wins. For an all-in-one German solution, Accountable is a strong choice. Xolo Leap offers an incredibly streamlined company setup for those ready to go big.

Customer support: Human vs AI vs Hybrid

Support can be a lifeline, especially when it comes to taxes and compliance. Whether you prefer instant AI answers or a real person on the other end, here’s what each platform offers.

Accountable

• AI tax advisor available 24/7.
• Human expert support included on higher-tier plans.
• Webinars and coaching for new freelancers.
• Available in English and German.

Xolo

• All plans include real, human support in English.
• Xolo Go offers helpful email/chat support.
• Xolo Leap users get a dedicated accountant and proactive updates.

💡 Prefer fast answers and working off-hours? Accountable’s AI assistant is perhaps ideal. Want a real person guiding your business? Xolo’s human-led support may be a better fit.

Legal compliance: Who does the heavy lifting?

Navigating legal requirements is critical to any successful business—especially in Germany. Here’s how Accountable, Xolo Go and Xolo Leap help freelancers meet local and international compliance needs.

Accountable

• Built for German law and bureaucracy.
• File directly with ELSTER, track Kleinunternehmer status, and auto-generate required forms.
• Tax Guarantee backs up your filings.

Xolo Go

• Operates under Xolo’s Estonian entity.
• No German VAT registration or business setup required.
• You’re a contractor to Xolo and get paid as such.

Xolo Leap

• Own and operate a fully compliant Estonian OÜ.
• Xolo handles all of your EU company obligations.
• You’ll still need to file personal taxes in Germany if you are resident.*

💡 Accountable keeps you compliant within Germany. Xolo Go lets you freelance without forming a German business. Xolo Leap gives you the control of a company—without the business paperwork.

Choosing between Accountable and Xolo as a freelancer?

Each freelancer’s situation is different. Whether you’re just starting out, growing quickly, or looking for location independence, there’s a solution that fits.

✅ Choose Accountable if…

• You plan to stay in Germany.
• You want full tax prep, a German IBAN, and no language barriers.
• You prefer a tool that’s purpose-built for the German tax system.

✅ Choose Xolo Go if…

• You want to start now, without German bureaucracy.
• You work with international clients.
• You prefer a pay-as-you-go model.

✅ Choose Xolo Leap if…

• You’re building a global business.
• You want experts managing accounting and taxes.
• You’re tired of red tape and ready for a long-term setup.

If you’re a Germany-based freelancer looking for clarity, simplicity, and control over your finances, Accountable and Xolo both offer powerful solutions—just for different types of freelancers.

Not sure which to choose? 

👉 Explore Xolo’s plans and start freelancing on your terms: Xolo Pricing Page

With the right platform, you can stop worrying about invoices, taxes and red tape—and get back to doing the work you love.