10 best professional tax software to help you maintain compliance

UltraPractice’s client management system allows you to maintain detailed client profiles, track interactions, and manage communications effectively. The document management feature ensures that all client documents are securely stored, easily accessible, and organized for efficient retrieval. Workflow automation tools enable you to create standardized processes for common tasks, reducing the time spent on repetitive activities and minimizing the risk of errors. TaxCycle offers flexible pricing plans based on the number of returns processed and the level of functionality required.

Contrary to common concerns, integrating AI tools doesn’t have to be disruptive—just as tax season doesn’t have to be synonymous with stress. The adoption of AI solutions not only delivers immediate benefits for both firms and their clients during the height of tax season, but it also lays a foundation for long-term success. With real-time updates to tax laws and regulations, ERP software ensures businesses comply with local, national, and international requirements without the need for manual monitoring.

• These features contribute to a smoother workflow and help you stay on top of your responsibilities without unnecessary stress.
• Below are five industry-leading professional tax software options that fully integrate with SurePrep’s 1040 automation solutions.
• TaxCycle offers flexible pricing plans based on the number of returns processed and the level of functionality required.
• CCH Axcess Tax is one module of the CCH Axcess cloud-based firm management software.
• Its intuitive interface makes it a popular choice with firms looking for a relatively simple yet modern and easy-to-use platform.

What does tax document automation software do?

But with TaxDome’s industry-leading support and education materials — including regular webinars, bootcamp events, and hands-on training — this initial hurdle can be easily overcome. While most platforms offer client portals on desktop, only a handful offer client mobile apps. So if you want your clients to be able to interact with you on the go, choose wisely.

Quickbooks Online Accountant

This includes calculating taxes, preparing and filing tax returns, and ensuring adherence to tax regulations. Automation eliminates time-consuming manual processes, significantly reduces human error, and ensures businesses can focus on growth without worrying about compliance mishaps. This CPA tax software provides options for on-premise and cloud-based hosting, allowing tax professionals to process 1040 and business returns from anywhere. SurePrep’s automation integrates seamlessly with Lacerte’s professional tax software, so there are no offline or manual steps.

Simplify and Scale Your Tax Firm

Additionally, the billing and invoicing tools ensure that you can manage your finances efficiently, with automated payment reminders and easy tracking of outstanding invoices. The software excels in client management, allowing you to efficiently organize and track client information and interactions. TaxAct Professional streamlines tax preparation with its automated calculations, extensive form library, and intuitive interface, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the latest tax laws. Additionally, it offers integrated billing and invoicing tools, making financial management straightforward and efficient. ProConnect Tax Online excels in client management with its intuitive interface that allows for easy tracking of client information and interactions.

What kind of accounting firms use Pixie?

Liz Smith is an experienced tax specialist with focused expertise in compliance and financial planning. Liz has 11 years of experience in public accounting where she has assisted companies through all phases of business development from inception to dissolution. Liz has written extensively for the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants and been featured in podcast and video presentations on their platform. It integrates with CCH IntelliConnect, a leading tax research service, to provide in-program links to relevant tax authorities and analysis. Built-in research tools this robust are not offered by Drake or TaxAct, and providing this service gives CCH Axcess Tax a competitive upper hand.

Equipped with calculation algorithms, these tools ensure you align with government tax regulations and rates and declare taxable income within expected guidelines. Taxpayers with more complex returns—like those who itemize their deductions or earn income through the gig economy—are not eligible for Direct File. In 2025, some taxpayers may be eligible for Direct File, a program that allows people to file their federal taxes online directly with the IRS. Taxpayers generally have a few options when filing their taxes, but some may not be available to everyone.

• You can add returns later for the same per-return rate as your original purchase.
• Practice Ignition is a modern tax practice management software that emphasizes client engagement and business development.
• QuickBooks Online ProAdvisors can try ProConnect for free and not pay until the return is filed.
• It offers a seamless tax filing experience complete with AI-powered write-off detection and around-the-clock access to tax experts.
• Before you can prepare and file their tax returns, you need to onboard them to your firm.
• Advanced CRM capabilities allow you to track interactions, manage communications, and nurture client relationships through automated follow-ups and personalized messaging.

Drake Tax Software is a long-standing player in the tax software industry, known for its reliability and extensive feature set tailored specifically for tax professionals. With decades of experience, Drake Tax offers a comprehensive professional tax automation software solution that covers all aspects of tax preparation and practice management, making it a trusted choice for many firms. Effective client management is crucial for maintaining strong relationships and ensuring seamless service delivery.

Known for its robust functionality and ease of use, ProSeries Tax offers a comprehensive platform that simplifies tax preparation and enhances practice management. The software excels in client management with its advanced CRM functionalities, allowing firms to maintain detailed client profiles, track interactions, and manage communications seamlessly. This integration ensures that all parts of your practice work together harmoniously, improving overall productivity and reducing the risk of errors. The software offers robust client management capabilities, allowing you to maintain detailed client profiles, track interactions, and manage communications effectively. Catalyst’s document management system ensures that all client documents are securely stored, easily accessible, and organized for efficient retrieval. The software offers a wide range of features, including client management, document storage, workflow automation, and communication tools.

Sole proprietors preparing 30 or fewer returns per year might consider Drake Tax, which provides a very affordable way to produce a mix of individual and business tax returns. If you’re not a licensed tax preparer, you can e-file up to five federal tax returns without additional fees. For those needing to file more returns, purchasing a professional tax software plan is necessary.

Karbon’s collaboration tools enable seamless communication among team members, facilitating the sharing of information and ideas. The platform also integrates with popular email and calendar systems, ensuring that all communications and schedules are centralized and easily accessible. TaxDome is ideal for tax practices that prioritize client collaboration, workflow automation, and secure document management, and are looking for an all-in-one solution to streamline their operations. UltraTax CS offers a tiered pricing structure based on the size of the firm and the range of features required. This flexibility allows firms to choose a plan that aligns with their specific needs and budget, making it accessible to both small practices and larger firms.

Features include a deduction finder that helps you identify potential deductions to maximize your refund. Its accuracy guarantee ensures your calculations are correct, providing peace of mind. FreeTaxUSA also offers prior-year import, allowing you to carry over information from past returns easily. Features include bank reconciliation that helps you match transactions with your bank statements effortlessly. Its expense tracking feature allows you to monitor spending and manage budgets effectively.