How to Build Your Own Canopy
Replace Canopy with a custom build. The #1 Practice Management Software for Accounting and Tax Firms
Build Difficulty: 4/5
A few focused days to build a solid replacement
Estimated Timeline
Based on 69 features at Few Days difficulty, expect about 3-5 days with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Type-safe ORM for complex relational data models
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 69 features
Document Management(10 features)
Sync documents to desktop and print directly to Canopy
Preview, edit, collaborate on, annotate, adjust, combine, and work on files
Upload, store, manage, and organize unlimited internal and client documents with folder templates
Secure, unlimited document storage for internal and client files
Separate internal and client docs, use folder templates, and share with clients
+5 more in this category
Workflow Automation(10 features)
Automate conditions and actions on standalone tasks and subtasks or in templates
Create custom task and project statuses
Utilize templates, perform bulk actions, and set up recurring tasks
Set and track time on each task and view productivity reports for team
Create and manage tasks, assign staff, record notes, get updates
+5 more in this category
Tax Resolution(9 features)
Years of data summarized into one easy-to-read table
Set and forget automated data requests and table updates
Manage collection cases with penalty and spousal relief options
Pre-written letter templates to respond to IRS letters and notices
Library of notice templates for various tax scenarios
+4 more in this category
Client Engagement(7 features)
Collect information, files, and agreements to proposals from clients
Branded, secure, multi-functional client portal available on web and mobile app for client interactions
Client request feature with automatic reminders for pending client information
Credit-based engagement sending with unlimited use per client after first use
Send proposals with eSignature capabilities and track from proposal to re-engagement
+2 more in this category
Reporting(6 features)
Pre-built reports for billing and revenue tracking
Plan team capacity with reporting
Create custom reports and formulas for analysis
Monitor firm data with pre-built dashboards
Track profitability with pre-built reports
+1 more in this category
AI(5 features)
AI-powered auto-fill of forms using CRM info or scanned documents
AI-powered generation of client checklists from prior-year returns or firm templates
AI-powered insights for firm management and performance
AI-powered preparation tools for tax and accounting work
AI-powered email summarization and draft reply generation
Security(5 features)
Create custom user roles with specific permissions
Control access and permissions for document folders
Best in class standards for protecting firm and client data
Identity verification before accessing and signing documents with unique information
100+ controls to govern users' access
Payments(4 features)
Process and record client payments in Canopy
Clients can view and pay invoices or review payment history on mobile
Collect card and ACH payments from clients
Apply surcharges to payments
Cost Calculator
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Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 69 features at easy complexity.