The Best SaaS Apps for Solo Side Hustlers in 2024
Published on November 14, 2024
Managing a side hustle on your own is no small feat. Fortunately, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) apps can streamline your workflow, boost your productivity, and help you grow your hustle efficiently.
1. Buffer or Publer: Automate Social Media Marketing
Building an online presence is critical for solo entrepreneurs. Tools like Buffer and Publer let you schedule and analyze your social media posts across platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. With automated posting and easy-to-read analytics, you can save time and optimize your strategy to reach the right audience.
- Buffer: Ideal for simple scheduling and performance insights.
- Publer: Offers added features like link shortening and hashtag suggestions.
Pricing:
- Buffer: Free plan for 3 social channels; paid plans start at $6/month per channel.
- Publer: Free for 3 accounts; premium plans start at $12/month.
2. Stripe: Seamless Payment Processing
If you sell services or digital goods, Stripe is an excellent payment processor. It's secure, integrates with platforms like Shopify and WordPress, and supports recurring billing. For solo hustlers looking for a professional, no-hassle payment solution, Stripe is a top choice.
Features:
- Accept payments via credit cards, wallets, or bank transfers.
- Tools for invoicing and analytics to track income trends.
Pricing:
No monthly fee; Stripe takes a small percentage of each transaction (starting at 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction).
3. Calendly: Hassle-Free Scheduling
Tired of juggling meeting schedules? Calendly simplifies the process by letting clients book time with you based on your availability. This eliminates endless email exchanges and keeps your calendar organized. Perfect for freelancers, consultants, and coaches.
Pricing:
Free plan available; paid plans start at $8/month with advanced features like multiple calendar connections and reminders.
4. Toggl Track: Accurate Time Tracking
For side hustlers billing by the hour or trying to optimize their workflows, Toggl Track is indispensable. It offers easy time tracking, detailed reporting, and integrations with tools like Asana and Trello.
Features:
- Simple start-and-stop timers for tasks.
- Generate detailed reports for client billing.
Pricing:
Free for up to 5 users; paid plans start at $9/user/month.
5. HoneyBook: All-in-One Client Management
HoneyBook is a comprehensive platform for managing clients and projects. It helps with contracts, invoicing, payment collection, and scheduling, all in one place. Ideal for freelancers and service-based side hustlers who want a unified approach to client management.
Pricing:
Free trial available; paid plans start at $16/month.
Additional Essential Tools for Side Hustlers
6. Gumroad: Effortless Digital Product Sales
Ideal for creators selling digital products. Free to start; charges a small transaction fee per sale.
7. Tailwind: Boost Pinterest and Instagram Growth
Perfect for visual content creators. Free plan available; premium plans start at $12.99/month.
8. Hello Bonsai: Contracts and Invoicing Simplified
Essential for freelancers. Plans start at $24/month, with a free trial option.
9. QuickBooks Self-Employed: Financial Management Made Easy
Simplifies expense tracking and tax preparation. Starts at $15/month.
10. Descript: Content Creation for Video and Audio
Powerful tool for content creators. Free plan available; paid plans start at $12/month.