Intuit has upgraded its QuickBooks small business accounting package for the Mac, with streamlined company set-up features and customized at-a-glance reporting tools.

QuickBooks 2010 for Mac provides two company-set-up screens instead of 30 to make configuration easier. The software leads new users through key tasks, such as creating invoices and entering customer data. QuickBooks Live Community on the Web connects them with other QuickBooks users.

The latest version also streamlines the process of performing common tasks such as creating statements, printing, e-mailing and setting preferences. Customized company snapshots include reports and graphs showing year-over-year comparisons of expenses and income. The software now highlights the top 10 most commonly used reports and helps users find them later under “Favorite” and “Recent” menus.

The software will be available Oct. 19 at a suggested retail price of $199.95. An integrated add-on service, Intuit Merchant Service for QuickBooks for Mac, helps businesses process credit card transactions directly from within QuickBooks. It is expected to be available in late October starting at $19.95 per month, with a $59.95 set-up fee.

An add-on payroll service, Intuit QuickBooks Payroll for Mac, helps users manage paychecks, W-2 forms, federal and state tax payments, and form filings. It is currently available starting at $25 per month.

Free add-on time-tracking software, known as My Time, helps users organize and track their billable time, generate timesheets, and send invoices. It is expected to be available in late October. For more information, visit www.quickbooks.com/mac.