I'd recommend starting off with QuickBooks Simple Start 2008:
Link
You need to understand that all the 'extras' like paying online, merchant account online, and more are only good for 3 years. Meaning, if you try the Simple Start (free) but decide to upgrade to the Pro ($299 I believe) it will only be able to use those features in 2008, 2009, and 2010. In 2011 those features will not be usable (the rest of the software, inventory tracking, print billing, etc. will be just fine). In order to use the 'extras' you will have to purchase a new QuickBooks (2011 at that time - if you buy the latest version every year you don't have to worry about this). This isn't a problem as long as you know about it - you just have to budget the software purchase in for every 2 to 3 years.
Here
Link 1 Link 2 are complaints about the 'extras' removal.
Here
Link is QuickBooks sunset policy - the removal of the 'extra' features.
Which services will be discontinued on May 31, 2008?
* The chart below shows which products and services will be discontinued.
QuickBooks 2005 for Windows services to be 'sunseted':
Bill Pay
Credit Card Download
Employee Organizer
Merchant Service
Online Banking
Online Billing
Standard Payroll
Enhanced Payroll
Assisted Payroll
Support Plans and Services