Complete Xero Setup Guide

New to Xero? Follow this step-by-step setup guide to get up and running in under an hour.

Step 1: Create Your Account

1. Click the discount link above
2. Enter business details (name, industry, country)
3. Choose your plan (Starter, Standard, or Premium)
4. 90% discount auto-applies for 6 months

Step 2: Set Up Organization

1. Go to Settings → General Settings
2. Set fiscal year (usually calendar year)
3. Choose accounting basis (cash or accrual)
4. Configure tax rates (VAT, GST, Sales Tax)

Step 3: Connect Bank Account

1. Go to Accounting → Bank Accounts → Add Bank
2. Search for your bank
3. Log in securely (read-only access)
4. Xero imports transactions automatically

Step 4: Customize Chart of Accounts

Xero provides default accounts, but customize for your business:

• Add income accounts (product sales, service revenue)
• Add expense accounts (specific to your industry)
• Disable unused default accounts

Step 5: Add Customers & Suppliers

1. Go to Contacts → Add Contact
2. Import from CSV (if migrating)
3. Enter key customers first
4. Add suppliers for bill payment

Step 6: Create Your First Invoice

1. Business → Invoices → New Invoice
2. Select customer
3. Add line items
4. Set payment terms & due date
5. Approve & Send

Step 7: Invite Your Team

1. Settings → Users → Invite User
2. Enter email address
3. Set permissions (standard user, advisor, etc.)
4. Unlimited invites included

Next steps: How to Use Xero | Invoicing Guide