Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with superior diagnostics and automation for complex Form 1041 estate and trust returns.
- 2#2: Lacerte - Premium professional tax software excelling in fiduciary 1041 filings with advanced K-1 support and e-filing integration.
- 3#3: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-native tax solution providing comprehensive 1041 compliance, multi-state support, and workflow automation for trusts and estates.
- 4#4: Drake Tax - Value-packed tax software with full 1041 support, including all schedules, diagnostics, and cost-effective e-filing for professionals.
- 5#5: ProSeries Tax - Efficient tax prep platform for mid-sized firms handling Form 1041 returns with strong integration and error-checking features.
- 6#6: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based collaborative tax preparation tool optimized for secure 1041 return processing and reviewer workflows.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - Affordable professional software delivering reliable Form 1041 preparation with unlimited e-filing and customer support.
- 8#8: CFS Horizon - Integrated tax and accounting software tailored for estate and trust professionals preparing accurate 1041 returns.
- 9#9: TaxWise - User-friendly tax preparation software with built-in guidance for Form 1041 fiduciary returns and state variations.
- 10#10: TaxAct Professional - Budget-friendly professional tax tool supporting Form 1041 with essential features for smaller practices.
Tools were evaluated and ranked based on key factors including feature depth (automation, K-1 support, multi-state capabilities), technical reliability (error-checking, integration), user-friendliness, and value relative to firm size and workflow requirements.
Comparison Table
1041 tax software simplifies fiduciary return filing, and this comparison table explores tools like UltraTax CS, Lacerte, CCH Axcess Tax, Drake Tax, ProSeries Tax, and more to highlight key differences. Readers will gain insights into features, usability, and performance to select the best option for their practice needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with superior diagnostics and automation for complex Form 1041 estate and trust returns. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Lacerte Premium professional tax software excelling in fiduciary 1041 filings with advanced K-1 support and e-filing integration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-native tax solution providing comprehensive 1041 compliance, multi-state support, and workflow automation for trusts and estates. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Drake Tax Value-packed tax software with full 1041 support, including all schedules, diagnostics, and cost-effective e-filing for professionals. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Tax Efficient tax prep platform for mid-sized firms handling Form 1041 returns with strong integration and error-checking features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based collaborative tax preparation tool optimized for secure 1041 return processing and reviewer workflows. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro Affordable professional software delivering reliable Form 1041 preparation with unlimited e-filing and customer support. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 8 | CFS Horizon Integrated tax and accounting software tailored for estate and trust professionals preparing accurate 1041 returns. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | TaxWise User-friendly tax preparation software with built-in guidance for Form 1041 fiduciary returns and state variations. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | TaxAct Professional Budget-friendly professional tax tool supporting Form 1041 with essential features for smaller practices. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with superior diagnostics and automation for complex Form 1041 estate and trust returns.
Premium professional tax software excelling in fiduciary 1041 filings with advanced K-1 support and e-filing integration.
Cloud-native tax solution providing comprehensive 1041 compliance, multi-state support, and workflow automation for trusts and estates.
Value-packed tax software with full 1041 support, including all schedules, diagnostics, and cost-effective e-filing for professionals.
Efficient tax prep platform for mid-sized firms handling Form 1041 returns with strong integration and error-checking features.
Web-based collaborative tax preparation tool optimized for secure 1041 return processing and reviewer workflows.
Affordable professional software delivering reliable Form 1041 preparation with unlimited e-filing and customer support.
Integrated tax and accounting software tailored for estate and trust professionals preparing accurate 1041 returns.
User-friendly tax preparation software with built-in guidance for Form 1041 fiduciary returns and state variations.
Budget-friendly professional tax tool supporting Form 1041 with essential features for smaller practices.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade tax preparation software with superior diagnostics and automation for complex Form 1041 estate and trust returns.
Revolutionary Smart Diagnostics system that proactively identifies and resolves potential issues in 1041 returns before filing.
UltraTax CS from Thomson Reuters is a premier professional tax preparation software suite tailored for CPAs and tax firms, offering comprehensive support for Form 1041 filings for estates and trusts. It automates complex calculations, handles federal and multi-state returns, and integrates diagnostics to minimize errors. The software streamlines workflows from data entry to e-filing and reporting, making it ideal for high-volume preparers dealing with intricate trust and estate tax scenarios.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in 1041 form support including all schedules and state variations
- Powerful diagnostics engine that flags errors and ensures compliance
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters ecosystem for trial balance and practice management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to extensive customization options
- High subscription costs that may deter solo practitioners
- Resource-intensive, requiring robust hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs handling complex, high-volume 1041 estate and trust returns.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually for base package plus 1041 module, scaling with users and add-ons.
Lacerte
enterprisePremium professional tax software excelling in fiduciary 1041 filings with advanced K-1 support and e-filing integration.
Advanced fiduciary accounting engine that automates income/deduction allocations across beneficiaries and trusts with drill-down traceability
Lacerte, developed by Intuit, is a professional tax preparation software renowned for handling complex returns, including Form 1041 for estates and trusts. It provides comprehensive tools for fiduciary income tax preparation, such as detailed input screens for Schedules K-1, grantor trusts, and complex allocations. The software excels in diagnostics, e-filing, and integration with trial balance imports, streamlining workflows for tax pros.
Pros
- Robust 1041 support with advanced fiduciary calculations and automatic K-1 generation
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking to ensure compliance
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and data import from accounting software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs without flexible pay-per-return options
- Occasional glitches with large-volume fiduciary returns
Best For
Established tax firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex estate and trust returns requiring precise calculations and Intuit ecosystem compatibility.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,200 for single-user basic package, scaling to $2,500+ for unlimited 1041s and multi-state; volume discounts for firms.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-native tax solution providing comprehensive 1041 compliance, multi-state support, and workflow automation for trusts and estates.
Intelligent Diagnostics Engine that proactively identifies and resolves 1041-specific compliance issues before filing
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation platform from Wolters Kluwer, specializing in high-volume, complex returns including Form 1041 for estates and trusts. It offers comprehensive tools for data entry, diagnostics, state return preparation, K-1 generation, and electronic filing. The software integrates seamlessly with practice management systems and provides real-time collaboration for firms handling fiduciary tax matters.
Pros
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking tailored for complex 1041 scenarios
- Unlimited e-filing and robust state support
- Seamless integration with CCH Axcess suite for workflow efficiency
Cons
- High subscription costs that may deter smaller firms
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Heavy reliance on stable internet for cloud functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms managing high volumes of intricate 1041 returns for estates and trusts.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on firm size, user count, and return volume; typically starts at $5,000+ annually per user with per-return fees.
Drake Tax
specializedValue-packed tax software with full 1041 support, including all schedules, diagnostics, and cost-effective e-filing for professionals.
Seamless data flow and K-1 integration across 1040, 1065, 1120S, and 1041 returns in a single platform
Drake Tax is a robust, professional-grade tax preparation software from Drake Software that fully supports Form 1041 for estates, trusts, and fiduciary returns. It streamlines the preparation process with automated calculations for income, deductions, distributions, and Schedule K-1 generation, while integrating seamlessly with other business and individual returns. Ideal for tax pros seeking an affordable, all-in-one solution with strong e-filing capabilities and state support.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with excellent value for multi-form support
- Intuitive interface and strong diagnostics for error-free 1041 filing
- Unlimited e-filing and robust customer support including live chat
Cons
- Fewer advanced fiduciary planning tools compared to premium competitors
- Windows-only platform limits accessibility
- Occasional updates required for complex trust scenarios
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or CPAs handling moderate volumes of 1041 returns alongside other entity types.
Pricing
Starts at approximately $1,495 per user for the full suite including 1041 module; volume discounts and multi-year plans available.
ProSeries Tax
specializedEfficient tax prep platform for mid-sized firms handling Form 1041 returns with strong integration and error-checking features.
Advanced ProSeries diagnostics engine with 1041-specific fiduciary checks and automated K-1 distribution calculations
ProSeries Tax by Intuit is a desktop-based professional tax software suite tailored for CPAs and tax preparers handling a wide range of returns, including Form 1041 for estates, trusts, and fiduciary tax preparation. It provides comprehensive federal and state e-filing support, automated calculations for complex fiduciary income, deductions, and distributions, along with K-1 generation. The software features robust diagnostics, prior-year data import, and integration with QuickBooks for seamless bookkeeping.
Pros
- Comprehensive 1041 support with accurate fiduciary calculations and K-1 worksheets
- Reliable e-filing and state program integration from Intuit's trusted platform
- Strong diagnostics and error-checking tools to minimize rejection risks
Cons
- Desktop-focused with limited cloud collaboration compared to competitors
- Module-based pricing can add up for multi-form users
- Steeper learning curve for non-Intuit users
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or CPAs preparing moderate volumes of 1041 returns who already use Intuit products like QuickBooks.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $449 for basic modules; 1041 fiduciary module adds $265+, with pay-per-return options from $1.50/return and volume discounts available.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based collaborative tax preparation tool optimized for secure 1041 return processing and reviewer workflows.
Relational database architecture enabling efficient multi-year data management and complex fiduciary calculations
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is an enterprise-grade tax preparation software tailored for complex returns like Form 1041 for estates and trusts. It provides robust support for fiduciary tax compliance, including detailed diagnostics, multi-state filing, and integration with practice management tools. Designed for professional firms, it excels in handling high-volume, intricate trust and estate scenarios with customizable workflows and electronic filing capabilities.
Pros
- Comprehensive Form 1041 support for complex estates and trusts
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking tools
- Strong multi-state compliance and e-filing integration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost unsuitable for small firms
- Interface can feel outdated compared to modern alternatives
Best For
Large CPA firms managing high volumes of complex estate and trust tax returns.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing starts at around $5,000+ annually, scaled by users, returns volume, and custom features; requires quote.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedAffordable professional software delivering reliable Form 1041 preparation with unlimited e-filing and customer support.
Automated fiduciary K-1 generation and secure client delivery portal
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros, supporting Form 1041 for U.S. estate and trust income tax returns alongside individual and business forms. It features guided navigation, automated calculations, e-filing, and client portals for efficient fiduciary return preparation. While reliable for standard 1041 filings, it excels in affordability for smaller practices handling estates and trusts.
Pros
- Affordable pricing tiers scalable by return volume
- Intuitive interface with step-by-step guidance for 1041 prep
- Fast and reliable e-filing with direct K-1 distribution
Cons
- Lacks some advanced tools for highly complex trusts compared to premium competitors
- Customer support limited to business hours
- Fewer third-party integrations for estate planning software
Best For
Solo practitioners or small firms preparing moderate volumes of straightforward 1041 returns who value cost savings and simplicity.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for Pro Series (50 returns), up to $4,995 for unlimited returns annually, with add-ons for extras.
CFS Horizon
specializedIntegrated tax and accounting software tailored for estate and trust professionals preparing accurate 1041 returns.
Advanced automated fiduciary K-1 generation with precise distribution and allocation calculations for complex trusts
CFS Horizon from cfssoftware.com is a professional-grade tax preparation software specializing in Form 1041 for estates and trusts, alongside support for other fiduciary and business returns. It offers automated calculations, comprehensive diagnostics, electronic filing, and state-specific compliance tools to streamline complex fiduciary tax preparation. Ideal for tax pros handling intricate trust accounting and IRS e-filing requirements, it integrates with CFS's broader suite for practice efficiency.
Pros
- Strong handling of complex 1041 scenarios like grantor trusts and fiduciary K-1s
- Reliable IRS e-filing with built-in diagnostics and error checks
- Dedicated customer support and regular updates from CFS
Cons
- Dated interface that lags behind more modern competitors
- Steeper learning curve for users new to the software
- Pricing feels premium without standout value-adds like AI automation
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms or CPAs specializing in estate and trust returns who prioritize compliance reliability over flashy usability.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,495 for the 1041 module, with per-return options and volume discounts for higher usage.
TaxWise
specializedUser-friendly tax preparation software with built-in guidance for Form 1041 fiduciary returns and state variations.
Advanced fiduciary worksheets for precise income and deduction allocations across beneficiaries
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software that provides comprehensive support for Form 1041 filings for estates and trusts, including complex calculations for income distribution, deductions, and K-1 generation. It features built-in diagnostics, error-checking, and e-filing capabilities to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements. The software integrates with Wolters Kluwer's ecosystem for practice management and offers tools for handling high-volume returns efficiently.
Pros
- Robust 1041 support with advanced fiduciary accounting and allocation tools
- Seamless e-filing and integration with bank products for refunds
- Frequent updates for tax law changes and strong diagnostics engine
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for users new to the platform
- Higher cost may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
Best For
Mid-sized accounting firms handling a moderate to high volume of estate and trust returns who value Wolters Kluwer's ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $1,500 per user for professional editions, with add-on modules for business/1041 returns increasing costs to $2,000+.
TaxAct Professional
specializedBudget-friendly professional tax tool supporting Form 1041 with essential features for smaller practices.
Unmatched affordability delivering full 1041 e-file compliance at a fraction of high-end software costs
TaxAct Professional is an affordable tax preparation software suite tailored for CPAs and tax professionals, providing robust support for Form 1041 filings for estates, trusts, and related schedules. It streamlines data entry, error-checking diagnostics, state return preparation, and electronic filing with the IRS. The platform emphasizes cost-efficiency while covering essential 1041 requirements like income, deductions, distributions, and K-1 generation.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Intuitive interface with guided navigation
- Strong e-filing support and diagnostics for 1041 returns
Cons
- Lacks advanced fiduciary planning and scenario modeling tools
- Limited integrations with practice management software
- Occasional performance lags with complex multi-state returns
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and solo practitioners handling straightforward 1041 returns who prioritize value over premium features.
Pricing
Annual bundles start at $1,295 for federal 1041 support (plus state add-ons ~$200-400); per-return pricing available from $150.
Conclusion
After assessing the top 1041 tax software options, UltraTax CS emerges as the top choice, boasting enterprise-grade diagnostics and automation for complex estate and trust returns. Lacerte and CCH Axcess Tax remain strong alternatives, with Lacerte excelling in fiduciary filings and advanced K-1 support, and CCH Axcess offering robust cloud-based compliance and multi-state capabilities. Each tool delivers unique strengths, ensuring accuracy and efficiency for different practice needs. A standout set of solutions, they redefine what reliable Form 1041 preparation entails.
Take your estate and trust tax processing to the next level—start using UltraTax CS today and experience the difference in performance and precision.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison