Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lacerte - Premium professional tax preparation software optimized for complex returns, high-volume filing, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
- 2#2: Drake Tax - Affordable, feature-rich tax software with unlimited e-filing, superior support, and tools for all practice sizes.
- 3#3: UltraTax CS - Comprehensive tax prep solution with advanced diagnostics, workflow automation, and firm-wide integration.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-native tax compliance platform for large firms with real-time collaboration and robust reporting.
- 5#5: ProSeries - Desktop-based tax software for small to mid-sized practices with intuitive interface and strong data import features.
- 6#6: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based tax preparation tool enabling anytime access, multi-user collaboration, and scalable processing.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - High-value tax software delivering speed, accuracy, and responsive support for professional preparers.
- 8#8: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional tax solution with guaranteed maximum refunds and efficient e-filing.
- 9#9: TaxWise - Straightforward tax preparation software supporting multi-state filings and small firm operations.
- 10#10: ATX - Reliable, entry-level tax software for independent preparers with essential forms and e-file capabilities.
We ranked these tools based on depth of features, integration capabilities, user experience, and overall value, ensuring they align with the varying demands of small, mid-sized, and large accounting firms.
Comparison Table
Explore a comparison of leading accountant tax software, including Lacerte, Drake Tax, UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, and ProSeries, to understand their unique features, usability, and suitability for various practice needs. This table equips readers with insights to select software that aligns with their workflow, efficiency goals, and specific tax preparation requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lacerte Premium professional tax preparation software optimized for complex returns, high-volume filing, and seamless QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Drake Tax Affordable, feature-rich tax software with unlimited e-filing, superior support, and tools for all practice sizes. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 3 | UltraTax CS Comprehensive tax prep solution with advanced diagnostics, workflow automation, and firm-wide integration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-native tax compliance platform for large firms with real-time collaboration and robust reporting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Desktop-based tax software for small to mid-sized practices with intuitive interface and strong data import features. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based tax preparation tool enabling anytime access, multi-user collaboration, and scalable processing. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro High-value tax software delivering speed, accuracy, and responsive support for professional preparers. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional tax solution with guaranteed maximum refunds and efficient e-filing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | TaxWise Straightforward tax preparation software supporting multi-state filings and small firm operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | ATX Reliable, entry-level tax software for independent preparers with essential forms and e-file capabilities. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Premium professional tax preparation software optimized for complex returns, high-volume filing, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
Affordable, feature-rich tax software with unlimited e-filing, superior support, and tools for all practice sizes.
Comprehensive tax prep solution with advanced diagnostics, workflow automation, and firm-wide integration.
Cloud-native tax compliance platform for large firms with real-time collaboration and robust reporting.
Desktop-based tax software for small to mid-sized practices with intuitive interface and strong data import features.
Web-based tax preparation tool enabling anytime access, multi-user collaboration, and scalable processing.
High-value tax software delivering speed, accuracy, and responsive support for professional preparers.
Cost-effective professional tax solution with guaranteed maximum refunds and efficient e-filing.
Straightforward tax preparation software supporting multi-state filings and small firm operations.
Reliable, entry-level tax software for independent preparers with essential forms and e-file capabilities.
Lacerte
enterprisePremium professional tax preparation software optimized for complex returns, high-volume filing, and seamless QuickBooks integration.
The M*A*S*H diagnostics system that intelligently flags errors, suggests optimizations, and ensures compliance across thousands of scenarios
Lacerte, developed by Intuit, is a premier professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants and CPAs handling complex individual, business, partnership, fiduciary, and estate tax returns. It offers extensive automation, including data import from QuickBooks, error diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities to streamline high-volume workflows. With robust compliance tools and customizable inputs, it ensures accuracy and efficiency for professional tax practices.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for over 9,000 forms and complex tax scenarios with advanced automation
- Powerful diagnostics engine that proactively checks for errors and maximizes refunds
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks, ProConnect, and Intuit Link for efficient client data management
Cons
- High subscription costs, especially for smaller firms or solo practitioners
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface improvements
- Occasional performance lags when handling very large client datasets
Best For
Ideal for mid-to-large accounting firms and experienced CPAs managing high-volume, complex tax returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,500 for unlimited federal returns, with additional per-state fees ($200-$500 each) and tiered plans up to $3,000+ based on features and volume.
Drake Tax
enterpriseAffordable, feature-rich tax software with unlimited e-filing, superior support, and tools for all practice sizes.
Unmatched real-time diagnostics engine that catches errors and ensures compliance before submission
Drake Tax is a robust professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants, CPAs, and tax firms, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, corporations, and estates. It features advanced diagnostics, unlimited e-filing, and seamless integration with bank products for direct deposit refunds. The software emphasizes accuracy, speed, and compliance with IRS standards, making it ideal for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Exceptional value with per-return pricing and unlimited federal e-filing
- Comprehensive library covering over 95% of tax forms with strong diagnostics
- Outstanding 24/7 customer support during tax season
Cons
- Dated graphical user interface that feels less modern
- Steeper learning curve for new users compared to cloud-based alternatives
- Limited built-in advanced tax planning and advisory tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized accounting firms and high-volume tax preparers prioritizing affordability and reliability over flashy design.
Pricing
Starts at $1,495/year for single-user unlimited federal returns; per-return pricing from $5.99/form with multi-state add-ons; volume discounts available.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseComprehensive tax prep solution with advanced diagnostics, workflow automation, and firm-wide integration.
Real-time Smart Diagnostics that proactively identifies errors and provides guidance across complex returns
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for accounting firms, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, corporations, and trusts. It features automated calculations, real-time diagnostics, and electronic filing capabilities across all 50 states plus D.C. The software integrates seamlessly with other CS Professional Suite tools for practice management and research.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all entity types and 50+ states with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics, error-checking, and workflow automation
- Strong integration with Thomson Reuters' CS Suite for research and document management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface requiring extensive training
- High pricing that scales with firm size and usage
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms preparing complex, multi-state, and multi-entity tax returns who value compliance accuracy over simplicity.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at around $5,000 annually for small firms, scaling to $20,000+ based on preparers, forms, and returns processed.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-native tax compliance platform for large firms with real-time collaboration and robust reporting.
Relational diagnostics engine that cross-references data across multiple returns for proactive error detection and optimization
CCH Axcess Tax is a comprehensive, cloud-based tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, tailored for professional accountants and tax firms. It supports federal, state, and local returns for individuals, corporations, partnerships, and nonprofits, with robust e-filing, diagnostics, and compliance tools. The platform integrates seamlessly with other CCH Axcess modules for workflow automation, document management, and client portals.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 18,000 forms with real-time compliance updates
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking across multi-state returns
- Seamless integration with CCH Axcess suite for firm-wide workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- High subscription costs that may not suit small firms
- Occasional cloud performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-sized to large accounting firms requiring enterprise-level tax prep with integrated practice management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing per preparer or firm-wide, typically $3,000-$6,000 annually per user depending on volume and modules.
ProSeries
enterpriseDesktop-based tax software for small to mid-sized practices with intuitive interface and strong data import features.
ProSeries Input Verification engine that proactively flags errors and ensures high e-file acceptance rates
ProSeries by Intuit is a professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants, CPAs, and tax preparers handling individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It offers comprehensive support for federal and state forms, automated calculations, and seamless e-filing capabilities. The software integrates well with QuickBooks and includes tools for client organizers and error-checking to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Pros
- Vast library of over 27,000 federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Robust error-checking and diagnostics to reduce e-file rejections
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Higher pricing that may strain small practices
- Interface can feel outdated compared to modern cloud-based alternatives
- Steeper learning curve for users new to professional tax software
Best For
Mid-sized accounting firms and CPAs preparing high volumes of complex individual and business tax returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $449 for basic individual returns and scale to $2,500+ for premium bundles including business and state modules.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based tax preparation tool enabling anytime access, multi-user collaboration, and scalable processing.
Advanced relational diagnostics engine that proactively identifies and resolves inter-return dependencies and compliance issues
GoSystem Tax RS by Wolters Kluwer is a robust, web-based tax preparation software tailored for professional accountants and firms handling complex returns. It supports federal, state, and local tax forms for individuals, businesses, partnerships, estates, and trusts, with advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and electronic filing capabilities. The platform integrates with the CCH Axcess suite for seamless workflow management and offers enterprise-level scalability for multi-user environments.
Pros
- Superior diagnostics and quality control tools reduce errors in complex returns
- Highly scalable for mid-to-large firms with unlimited clients and preparers
- Seamless integration with CCH Axcess practice management and research tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- High pricing that may not suit small firms or solo practitioners
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large accounting firms managing high volumes of complex business and fiduciary tax returns.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per preparer annually with volume discounts for larger firms.
TaxSlayer Pro
enterpriseHigh-value tax software delivering speed, accuracy, and responsive support for professional preparers.
Unmatched low per-return pricing, allowing firms to scale cost-effectively without sacrificing core functionality
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software designed for accountants, CPAs, and tax firms to handle individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It supports e-filing for federal and all 50 states, includes client organizers, error diagnostics, and payroll integration. The platform emphasizes affordability and efficiency for high-volume preparers during tax season.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with low per-return fees
- Strong e-filing reliability and full state support
- Intuitive interface with solid client management tools
Cons
- Limited advanced features like AI diagnostics compared to top competitors
- Fewer third-party integrations (e.g., no native QuickBooks sync)
- Occasional performance issues with very large client volumes
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and solo practitioners prioritizing cost savings and reliable basics over enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for Pro Basic (100 federal returns), plus $2.25-$5.25 per additional return and state fees; volume discounts available.
TaxAct Professional
enterpriseCost-effective professional tax solution with guaranteed maximum refunds and efficient e-filing.
Flat-fee unlimited e-filing for federal and state returns, maximizing value for high-volume users
TaxAct Professional is a cost-effective tax preparation software designed for accountants and tax professionals, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and fiduciaries. It offers tools for data entry, import from prior years or client organizers, automated error checks, and direct e-filing to streamline professional workflows. The platform emphasizes accuracy with Xpert tax calculations and includes features like practice returns and client management for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Exceptional value with flat-rate unlimited returns
- Reliable e-filing for federal and 47 states
- Strong support for complex returns including businesses
Cons
- Outdated interface compared to competitors
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting
- Fewer integrations with accounting software
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and independent accountants prioritizing affordability and reliability over premium features.
Pricing
Bundles start at $1,149 for 1040 edition, up to $2,449 for complete professional suite; includes unlimited federal/state e-files per license.
TaxWise
enterpriseStraightforward tax preparation software supporting multi-state filings and small firm operations.
Advanced diagnostics and quality review engine that proactively identifies errors and ensures high e-file acceptance rates
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for accountants and tax preparers, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, and fiduciaries. It features robust e-filing capabilities, direct deposit options, and integration with bank products for refund processing. The software emphasizes compliance with IRS updates and includes tools for quality review and diagnostics to ensure accuracy.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex returns and multi-state filing
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates and bank integrations
- Strong compliance updates and professional customer support
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
Best For
Mid-sized accounting firms and tax professionals handling high volumes of individual and business returns requiring robust compliance tools.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,500-$3,000 depending on user count and return volume, with additional per-return fees.
ATX
enterpriseReliable, entry-level tax software for independent preparers with essential forms and e-file capabilities.
Advanced diagnostics that proactively identify and resolve potential errors across complex returns
ATX from Wolters Kluwer is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software designed for accountants and tax professionals handling individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It offers extensive federal and state form support, automated calculations, diagnostics, and direct e-filing capabilities. The software integrates with practice management tools and provides reliable performance for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 18,000 federal and state forms
- Powerful diagnostics engine for error detection
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates
- Strong integration with Wolters Kluwer ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Interface feels dated in places
- Limited customization options
Best For
Mid-sized accounting firms managing complex, high-volume tax returns for businesses and individuals.
Pricing
Tiered annual subscriptions starting at around $1,500 for 100 individual returns, scaling to $5,000+ for unlimited bundles including business and state modules.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, Lacerte leads as the top choice, excelling with complex returns, high-volume filing, and seamless QuickBooks integration. Drake Tax and UltraTax CS, ranked second and third, are strong alternatives—Drake Tax for its affordability and unlimited e-filing, and UltraTax CS for advanced diagnostics and firm-wide workflow tools. Each option addresses distinct needs, ensuring accountants find a solution that fits their practice size and priorities.
Elevate your tax preparation efficiency by trying Lacerte—its professional optimization and integration features are crafted to streamline complex work and deliver reliable results for your clients.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison