Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Comprehensive professional tax preparation software excelling in complex business returns, multi-state compliance, and automated diagnostics.
- 2#2: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax solution for large firms offering advanced business entity support, real-time collaboration, and seamless integrations.
- 3#3: Lacerte - High-performance tax prep software optimized for business professionals with robust calculations, e-filing, and QuickBooks integration.
- 4#4: Drake Tax - Affordable full-featured software supporting all business types with superior customer service, updates, and value pricing.
- 5#5: ProConnect Tax Online - Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit for efficient business filing, mobile access, and ecosystem integrations.
- 6#6: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based platform for enterprise-level firms handling consolidated corporate returns and global compliance workflows.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - Cost-effective professional software with strong business modules, fast e-filing, and intuitive interface for mid-sized practices.
- 8#8: CCH TaxWise - User-friendly tax prep application ideal for small firms preparing business and individual returns with reliable support.
- 9#9: TaxAct Professional - Budget-friendly software providing comprehensive business return support, office tools, and competitive pricing.
- 10#10: TaxWorks - Streamlined tax preparation software for practitioners focusing on business taxes with efficient workflows and e-filing.
Tools were evaluated based on their capacity to handle complex business entities, ensure robust compliance (including multi-state and global requirements), deliver user-friendly workflows, integrate with accounting systems like QuickBooks, and offer reliable support—ultimately balancing feature richness, ease of use, and long-term value for tax professionals.
Comparison Table
Navigating business tax preparation software can be complex; this comparison table breaks down top tools like UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, Lacerte, Drake Tax, and ProConnect Tax Online to simplify decision-making. Readers will find key details—such as features, pricing, and user experience—helping them identify the best fit for their business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Comprehensive professional tax preparation software excelling in complex business returns, multi-state compliance, and automated diagnostics. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 2 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax solution for large firms offering advanced business entity support, real-time collaboration, and seamless integrations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Lacerte High-performance tax prep software optimized for business professionals with robust calculations, e-filing, and QuickBooks integration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Drake Tax Affordable full-featured software supporting all business types with superior customer service, updates, and value pricing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 5 | ProConnect Tax Online Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit for efficient business filing, mobile access, and ecosystem integrations. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based platform for enterprise-level firms handling consolidated corporate returns and global compliance workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro Cost-effective professional software with strong business modules, fast e-filing, and intuitive interface for mid-sized practices. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | CCH TaxWise User-friendly tax prep application ideal for small firms preparing business and individual returns with reliable support. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | TaxAct Professional Budget-friendly software providing comprehensive business return support, office tools, and competitive pricing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | TaxWorks Streamlined tax preparation software for practitioners focusing on business taxes with efficient workflows and e-filing. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
Comprehensive professional tax preparation software excelling in complex business returns, multi-state compliance, and automated diagnostics.
Cloud-based tax solution for large firms offering advanced business entity support, real-time collaboration, and seamless integrations.
High-performance tax prep software optimized for business professionals with robust calculations, e-filing, and QuickBooks integration.
Affordable full-featured software supporting all business types with superior customer service, updates, and value pricing.
Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit for efficient business filing, mobile access, and ecosystem integrations.
Web-based platform for enterprise-level firms handling consolidated corporate returns and global compliance workflows.
Cost-effective professional software with strong business modules, fast e-filing, and intuitive interface for mid-sized practices.
User-friendly tax prep application ideal for small firms preparing business and individual returns with reliable support.
Budget-friendly software providing comprehensive business return support, office tools, and competitive pricing.
Streamlined tax preparation software for practitioners focusing on business taxes with efficient workflows and e-filing.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseComprehensive professional tax preparation software excelling in complex business returns, multi-state compliance, and automated diagnostics.
SmartDiag real-time diagnostics and automated apportionment tools for complex multi-state business returns
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a premier professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and accounting firms handling complex business tax returns. It supports all major business entity types, including partnerships, S-corporations, C-corporations, LLCs, and trusts, with an extensive library of over 11,000 federal and state forms. The software automates intricate calculations like multi-state apportionment, consolidations, and diagnostics, while integrating seamlessly with e-filing and research tools for efficient compliance.
Pros
- Comprehensive form library covering complex business entities and multi-state filings
- Advanced automation, diagnostics, and error-checking for accuracy
- Seamless integration with CS Professional Suite for practice management
Cons
- High subscription costs that may strain smaller firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Resource-intensive, requiring robust hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms and tax professionals managing high volumes of complex business and multi-state returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at approximately $5,000-$10,000 per preparer annually depending on modules, firm size, and return volume; custom quotes required.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax solution for large firms offering advanced business entity support, real-time collaboration, and seamless integrations.
Integrated Axcess Diagnostics engine that provides real-time error detection, optimization suggestions, and audit risk analysis throughout preparation
CCH Axcess Tax is a comprehensive cloud-based tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed for professional tax firms handling business, individual, state, and international returns. It excels in complex business tax scenarios like corporate (1120), partnership (1065), and S-corp filings with advanced calculation engines, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities. The platform supports paperless workflows, real-time collaboration, and seamless integration with practice management tools for efficient firm operations.
Pros
- Robust support for all business entity types with precise calculations and compliance tools
- Cloud-based accessibility with real-time multi-user collaboration and automatic updates
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking to minimize amendments and audits
Cons
- High subscription costs that may strain smaller firms
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and requires sales consultation
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and accounting practices managing high volumes of complex business tax returns for corporations, partnerships, and pass-through entities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscriptions starting at around $5,000-$10,000+ annually per preparer or firm, depending on volume and modules.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-performance tax prep software optimized for business professionals with robust calculations, e-filing, and QuickBooks integration.
Deep QuickBooks integration for direct import of trial balances and financial data, reducing manual entry errors.
Lacerte by Intuit is a professional desktop tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms handling complex business and individual returns. It supports a comprehensive range of federal and state forms, including 1120, 1065, 1120S, and multi-state filings, with automated calculations and diagnostics to minimize errors. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, streamlining workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Robust support for complex business tax forms and multi-state compliance
- Advanced diagnostics, error checks, and scenario testing tools
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for automated data import
Cons
- High subscription costs that scale with usage
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to its depth
- Primarily Windows desktop-based with limited mobile access
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex business returns like partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,800 for basic preparer plans, increasing to $5,000+ for unlimited returns and enterprise features; per-return e-filing fees apply.
Drake Tax
specializedAffordable full-featured software supporting all business types with superior customer service, updates, and value pricing.
Unlimited e-filing across all federal and state returns without additional per-return charges
Drake Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Drake Software, specializing in efficient preparation and e-filing of individual, partnership, corporate, and S-corp business tax returns. It supports key IRS forms like 1065, 1120, 1120S, and 1120-F, along with state returns, depreciation tracking, K-1 generation, and comprehensive diagnostics for accuracy. Designed for tax pros, it prioritizes speed, reliability, and compliance in a desktop environment with optional bank products integration.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with no per-return fees
- Extensive support for complex business forms and e-filing
- Robust error-checking diagnostics and reliable customer support
Cons
- Dated interface that feels less modern than cloud competitors
- Primarily desktop-based with limited remote access options
- Steeper learning curve for new users unfamiliar with professional tax software
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and CPAs focused on cost-effective preparation of partnership and corporate business returns.
Pricing
Annual per-preparer pricing starts at $1,495 for Silver (business basics), up to $2,995 for Platinum (full features including bank products).
ProConnect Tax Online
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit for efficient business filing, mobile access, and ecosystem integrations.
Deep, bidirectional integration with QuickBooks that automatically populates trial balances and reduces manual data entry.
ProConnect Tax Online is Intuit's cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms handling complex business returns, including partnerships, S-corporations, C-corporations, and multi-state filings. It offers automated calculations, diagnostics, error checks, and direct e-filing with the IRS and states. The platform integrates deeply with QuickBooks for seamless data import, enabling efficient workflow from bookkeeping to tax prep.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all major business entity types and forms with real-time IRS updates
- Strong integration with QuickBooks for automated data import and trial balance mapping
- Robust diagnostics, organizer tools, and e-filing reliability
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for smaller firms or low-volume preparers
- Learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive interface
- Occasional performance lags during peak season despite cloud infrastructure
Best For
Mid-sized tax practices and CPAs specializing in complex business returns who value cloud accessibility and QuickBooks integration.
Pricing
Starts at about $1,899 per preparer annually for basic access, with tiered plans up to $4,000+ based on return volume and add-ons; pay-per-return options available.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based platform for enterprise-level firms handling consolidated corporate returns and global compliance workflows.
Advanced relational database structure enabling unlimited nested groupings for consolidations and custom calculations
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for complex business tax returns, supporting C-corporations, S-corporations, partnerships, and multi-state filings. It features robust data import from trial balances, advanced diagnostics, and electronic filing capabilities for federal and state returns. Ideal for mid-to-large accounting firms, it emphasizes accuracy and compliance in high-volume, intricate tax scenarios.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of complex, consolidated, and multi-state business returns
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking tools reduce compliance risks
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters practice management ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its depth
- High pricing limits accessibility for smaller firms
- Interface feels dated compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms preparing high-volume, complex business tax returns for corporations and partnerships.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on firm size, users, and modules; typically $5,000+ annually per preparer with volume discounts.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedCost-effective professional software with strong business modules, fast e-filing, and intuitive interface for mid-sized practices.
Unmatched value with unlimited e-filing and comprehensive business form support at a fraction of competitors' costs
TaxSlayer Pro is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax professionals handling business returns, supporting forms like 1065, 1120S, and 1120 for partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps. It offers e-filing, state returns, and tools for error-checking and diagnostics to streamline workflows. Ideal for small to mid-sized firms, it emphasizes affordability and reliability over advanced enterprise features.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with pay-per-return flexibility
- Reliable e-filing and strong customer support
- Cloud-based access for multi-user collaboration
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics tools
- Fewer integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
Best For
Small to medium-sized tax firms seeking cost-effective software for business tax preparation without needing enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295/year for the Gray package (100 federal returns), with higher tiers up to $3,495; pay-per-return options available.
CCH TaxWise
specializedUser-friendly tax prep application ideal for small firms preparing business and individual returns with reliable support.
Advanced Smart Diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and compliance issues across complex business returns
CCH TaxWise, developed by Wolters Kluwer, is a desktop-based professional tax preparation software primarily used by tax firms for preparing individual, business, and state returns. It supports key business forms such as Schedule C, 1065 for partnerships, 1120 for C-corps, and 1120S for S-corps, along with e-filing and electronic payments. The software includes diagnostics, work-in-progress tracking, and integration with practice management tools to streamline workflows for tax professionals.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for business entity returns including partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking for accuracy
- Reliable e-filing with high IRS acceptance rates and strong customer support
Cons
- Desktop-only installation lacks cloud accessibility and remote work flexibility
- Dated interface with a steeper learning curve for beginners
- Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons for multi-state or advanced business modules
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms handling moderate volumes of business returns who prioritize accuracy and reliability over cloud features.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,200 for basic individual returns, rising to $3,000-$6,000+ for full business and multi-state packages depending on users and modules.
TaxAct Professional
specializedBudget-friendly software providing comprehensive business return support, office tools, and competitive pricing.
Unlimited e-filing for business returns at no extra per-return cost
TaxAct Professional is a cost-effective tax preparation software designed for CPAs, accountants, and tax firms specializing in business returns. It supports a wide array of business forms including Schedule C, Form 1065 (partnerships), 1120 (C-corps), and 1120S (S-corps), along with multistate filing capabilities. Key features include e-filing, built-in error checks, client data import, and practice management tools to optimize professional workflows.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing for unlimited returns
- Strong support for common business tax forms and e-filing
- Reliable error-checking and diagnostics
Cons
- User interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Limited advanced customization and reporting options
- Customer support lacks phone availability for all users
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and independent preparers focused on straightforward business tax returns seeking maximum value.
Pricing
Federal business edition starts at $1,149 for unlimited returns; state modules $345 each, with volume discounts available.
TaxWorks
specializedStreamlined tax preparation software for practitioners focusing on business taxes with efficient workflows and e-filing.
Advanced Diagnostics engine that scans returns in real-time for errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities unique to business complexities
TaxWorks by Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for business tax returns, supporting forms like 1065, 1120, 1120S, and multistate filings. It provides robust e-filing capabilities, automated diagnostics for error detection, and integrations with accounting software such as QuickBooks. Designed for tax professionals, it streamlines complex business tax workflows while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all major business entity types and multistate returns
- Powerful diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and compliance issues
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates and strong customer support from Wolters Kluwer
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Limited customization options and slower updates for niche forms
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs specializing in corporate, partnership, and S-corp returns who prioritize accuracy and compliance over simplicity.
Pricing
Subscription starts at around $2,500/year for business modules, scaling up to $5,000+ based on users, states, and add-ons; pay-per-return options available.
Conclusion
Evaluating business tax preparation software reveals UltraTax CS as the top choice, excelling in complex returns, multi-state compliance, and automated diagnostics. Close competitors CCH Axcess Tax and Lacerte offer strong alternatives—cloud-based collaboration and enterprise-level global workflows for CCH Axcess, and robust calculations with QuickBooks integration for Lacerte—each suiting distinct needs. Together, they showcase a range of options to fit diverse business and practice sizes.
Take the first step toward efficient, accurate business tax preparation by trying UltraTax CS, our top-ranked tool, to simplify your workflow and ensure compliance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison