2024 has shown some exciting updates within Dext. Recently, they have made some key changes by combining the features from Prepare, Precision and Commerce.
These updates should simplify the workflow and give up to date information for advisors.
New screen layout
Dext is now rolling out its new screen layout. The old left hand black menu has been replaced by a simpler, cleaner look. All the settings are still there – if you see the message at the top of the screen, click and have a look. For now, you can still switch back to the original screen if you prefer.
Dextension
If you use Chrome or Edge as your browser, you can set up Dextension. This helps show details within your main accounting software such as Xero, when Dext is open too.
For example, on the dashboard you may see a small yellow triangle on amounts owed or receivable. This will be where there are transactions in Dext not yet published and so the dashboard totals may not be up to date.
You should also be able to see a paperclip symbol on the bank reconciliation screen to review an invoice before matching to payment.
These are just a couple of examples of how time can be saved by notifying you automatically of things to check.
Statements
It is now possible to upload supplier statements to Dext.
It can check which bills have been published to the main software such as Xero or Quickbooks and note if any invoices are missing.
If there is an item in Dext that has not been published you will be able to open this. If not you can click the link to send a message to the supplier to send the invoice across.
Approvals
A new approval system is now available. This is particularly useful for project management where different approvers can be set in place. The approver can see the item scanned in but cannot edit – if they do not approve, they can select “reject” for the bookkeeper to check for amendments, otherwise they just click “approve”.
Mileage tracking and claims
Coming in the next few weeks is the ability to put mileage claims in via Dext.
Business can input different car details into the settings and users can just enter the vehicle, start and finish points of the journey and Dext will calculate the claim value.
Dext will be updated each quarter with the fuel advisory rates, in order to claim the correct amount of VAT. Once the mileage has been calculated, it can be added to an expense claim.
Other updates
Dext can now link to Zoho Books.
Dext Solo is ideal for non-VAT registered businesses and property owners. Dext is preparing ready for the quarterly updates to HMRC once MTD for ITSA comes in. It will link with any existing software for year end processing such as Iris, but should be able to perform these tasks as stand alone software by the time 2026 comes along.
Coming soon
In 2025 Dext will be launching its payments offering – not only being able to pay suppliers from Dext, but also link to payroll runs. This will be an exciting addon for all Dext users.
Dext will be increasing its links to online sellers such as Etsy and Shopify to enable importing sales data.
The next step
If you have any enquiries regarding the latest updates in Dext, please contact Alison Martin on a.martin@uhy-calvertsmith.com or your usual UHY cloud accounting adviser.
