Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lacerte - Professional-grade tax preparation software optimized for complex business returns including corporations, partnerships, and S-corps with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
- 2#2: UltraTax CS - Comprehensive tax software for accounting firms supporting all business entity types with integrated workflow management and multi-state filing.
- 3#3: Drake Tax - Feature-packed, affordable tax preparation software for professionals handling business tax returns with strong diagnostics and bank product integration.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax preparation platform for enterprise firms offering robust support for business returns and seamless integration with practice management.
- 5#5: ProSeries Tax - Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient preparation for business and individual returns with smart worksheets and error checks.
- 6#6: GoSystem Tax RS - Cloud-hosted tax solution for large firms specializing in business entity returns with collaborative review tools and global compliance features.
- 7#7: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional tax software supporting business forms like 1120 and 1065 with fast e-filing and unlimited client support.
- 8#8: ATX - Desktop tax preparation software for small to mid-sized firms offering solid business return capabilities and integration with bookkeeping tools.
- 9#9: TaxSlayer Pro - User-friendly professional tax prep software with strong support for business entities, live support, and competitive pricing.
- 10#10: TaxWise - Reliable tax software for tax pros providing essential features for business returns with good value for smaller practices.
These tools were selected for their robust feature sets (supporting corporations, partnerships, and S-corps), reliability, user-friendly design, and strong value, ensuring they meet the demands of both small firms and enterprise-level practices.
Comparison Table
Business tax return software plays a critical role in ensuring accuracy and efficiency for filings. This comparison table evaluates tools including Lacerte, UltraTax CS, Drake Tax, CCH Axcess Tax, ProSeries Tax, and more, equipping readers to identify the best option for their unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lacerte Professional-grade tax preparation software optimized for complex business returns including corporations, partnerships, and S-corps with advanced diagnostics and e-filing. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 2 | UltraTax CS Comprehensive tax software for accounting firms supporting all business entity types with integrated workflow management and multi-state filing. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Drake Tax Feature-packed, affordable tax preparation software for professionals handling business tax returns with strong diagnostics and bank product integration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax preparation platform for enterprise firms offering robust support for business returns and seamless integration with practice management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Tax Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient preparation for business and individual returns with smart worksheets and error checks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | GoSystem Tax RS Cloud-hosted tax solution for large firms specializing in business entity returns with collaborative review tools and global compliance features. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional tax software supporting business forms like 1120 and 1065 with fast e-filing and unlimited client support. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | ATX Desktop tax preparation software for small to mid-sized firms offering solid business return capabilities and integration with bookkeeping tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | TaxSlayer Pro User-friendly professional tax prep software with strong support for business entities, live support, and competitive pricing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | TaxWise Reliable tax software for tax pros providing essential features for business returns with good value for smaller practices. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
Professional-grade tax preparation software optimized for complex business returns including corporations, partnerships, and S-corps with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
Comprehensive tax software for accounting firms supporting all business entity types with integrated workflow management and multi-state filing.
Feature-packed, affordable tax preparation software for professionals handling business tax returns with strong diagnostics and bank product integration.
Cloud-based tax preparation platform for enterprise firms offering robust support for business returns and seamless integration with practice management.
Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient preparation for business and individual returns with smart worksheets and error checks.
Cloud-hosted tax solution for large firms specializing in business entity returns with collaborative review tools and global compliance features.
Cost-effective professional tax software supporting business forms like 1120 and 1065 with fast e-filing and unlimited client support.
Desktop tax preparation software for small to mid-sized firms offering solid business return capabilities and integration with bookkeeping tools.
User-friendly professional tax prep software with strong support for business entities, live support, and competitive pricing.
Reliable tax software for tax pros providing essential features for business returns with good value for smaller practices.
Lacerte
enterpriseProfessional-grade tax preparation software optimized for complex business returns including corporations, partnerships, and S-corps with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
Advanced business entity support with automated K-1 generation and multi-state apportionment
Lacerte is a premium tax preparation software from Intuit, tailored for professional accountants handling complex business and individual returns. It supports an extensive library of federal, state, and local forms, including all major business entities like 1120, 1065, and 1120S, with automated calculations for depreciation, AMT, and reconciliations. Key functionalities include real-time diagnostics, e-filing, and integration with practice management tools for efficient workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all business tax forms and schedules
- Powerful MEND diagnostics for accuracy and compliance
- Seamless e-filing with direct state transmission and fast processing
Cons
- High subscription costs that scale with usage
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Requires robust hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Professional CPAs and mid-to-large tax firms managing high volumes of complex business returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,649 for unlimited individual returns, with business modules and states adding $500-$2,000+; pay-per-return options available.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseComprehensive tax software for accounting firms supporting all business entity types with integrated workflow management and multi-state filing.
Dynamic Diagnostics engine that intelligently flags issues, suggests fixes, and ensures compliance across complex multi-state apportionments.
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software designed specifically for handling complex business tax returns, including Forms 1120, 1065, 1120S, and multi-state filings. It features automated calculations, extensive form libraries, and robust diagnostics to minimize errors and streamline compliance. Integrated with the CS Professional Suite, it supports high-volume practices with electronic filing, planning tools, and research links via Checkpoint.
Pros
- Extensive support for all federal and 50-state business forms and schedules
- Powerful automation, diagnostics, and e-filing with high acceptance rates
- Seamless integration with CS Connect, Practice CS, and Checkpoint research
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High subscription costs that scale with modules and users
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud or mobile flexibility
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms and tax professionals managing high volumes of corporate, partnership, and S-corp returns.
Pricing
Module-based annual subscriptions; Business Returns module starts at ~$3,500-$6,000 per user, with full suite exceeding $10,000 depending on firm size and add-ons.
Drake Tax
enterpriseFeature-packed, affordable tax preparation software for professionals handling business tax returns with strong diagnostics and bank product integration.
Unlimited e-filing and client capacity with no additional per-return fees
Drake Tax is a robust tax preparation software tailored for professional preparers, specializing in business tax returns such as Form 1065 for partnerships, 1120S for S-corporations, and 1120 for C-corporations. It offers comprehensive federal and state filing capabilities, unlimited e-filing, and seamless integration with prior-year data and accounting software like QuickBooks. Known for its affordability and reliability, Drake Tax streamlines workflows for high-volume business filers while including tools for depreciation, K-1 generation, and audit support.
Pros
- Exceptional value with low per-return costs and unlimited e-filing
- Strong support for business forms including partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps
- Fast customer support with a 5-minute response guarantee
Cons
- Interface appears somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced tax planning and scenario modeling tools
- Fewer third-party integrations than top-tier alternatives
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and CPAs handling moderate volumes of business returns who prioritize affordability and reliability over cutting-edge features.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions range from $545 for basic individual returns to $2,295 for the full Professional Suite including unlimited business modules and states.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax preparation platform for enterprise firms offering robust support for business returns and seamless integration with practice management.
Proactive, AI-enhanced diagnostics that scan returns in real-time to flag errors, risks, and optimization opportunities before filing
CCH Axcess Tax is a comprehensive, cloud-based tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, tailored for professional accountants handling complex business tax returns including Form 1120, 1065, 1120S, and multistate filings. It offers advanced diagnostics, automated calculations, and seamless e-filing with real-time compliance updates from trusted tax experts. The platform integrates with the broader CCH Axcess suite for streamlined workflows in practice management and client collaboration.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex business entities and multistate returns with high accuracy
- Cloud-based access enabling remote collaboration and automatic updates
- Robust integration with CCH practice management tools for efficient workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature depth
- High pricing that may not suit small firms
- Interface can feel cluttered for simpler returns
Best For
Mid-sized to large accounting firms managing high volumes of complex corporate and partnership tax returns.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at approximately $5,000–$15,000+ per preparer annually, depending on firm size, modules, and usage.
ProSeries Tax
enterpriseIntuit's professional tax software providing efficient preparation for business and individual returns with smart worksheets and error checks.
Intuit Link for effortless QuickBooks data import and real-time error diagnostics
ProSeries Tax by Intuit is a professional desktop tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling complex individual and business returns. It supports a wide array of business forms like 1120, 1065, 1120S, and 1065-B, with automated calculations, e-filing, and direct deposit options. Integrated with QuickBooks, it streamlines data import and workflow for accounting firms, while providing regular updates for tax law changes.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for business tax forms and schedules
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for data import
- Robust e-filing, error-checking, and customer support
Cons
- Desktop-only installation requires local setup and updates
- Pricing can be steep for smaller practices
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to cloud rivals
Best For
Established CPAs and tax firms preparing high volumes of business returns who need reliable Intuit ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for basic single-user; business bundles $600-$2,000+ annually depending on modules and users.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax solution for large firms specializing in business entity returns with collaborative review tools and global compliance features.
Relational database structure that enables seamless data sharing and real-time updates across related returns and entities
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a robust, enterprise-grade tax preparation software tailored for complex business tax returns, including C-corps, S-corps, partnerships, and multi-state/international filings. It excels in handling consolidated returns, advanced calculations, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations through its relational database architecture. The platform supports high-volume workflows with electronic filing, diagnostics, and integration with other Thomson Reuters tools like ONESOURCE.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of complex, consolidated business returns and multi-state compliance
- Scalable relational database for efficient data management across large client portfolios
- Strong integration with Thomson Reuters ecosystem and reliable e-filing
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to powerful but intricate interface
- High cost unsuitable for small firms
- Customization can require IT support
Best For
Large CPA firms and enterprises managing high-volume, complex business tax returns with multi-entity consolidations.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing; typically $10,000+ annually based on users, modules, and firm size—contact vendor for quote.
TaxAct Professional
enterpriseCost-effective professional tax software supporting business forms like 1120 and 1065 with fast e-filing and unlimited client support.
Unlimited e-filing of business returns at no extra per-return cost
TaxAct Professional is a robust tax preparation software tailored for accountants and tax pros handling business returns, supporting key forms like 1065 (partnerships), 1120 (C-corps), 1120S (S-corps), and 1041 (estates/trusts). It streamlines workflows with federal/state e-filing, data import tools, error diagnostics, and audit risk assessment. Ideal for professional use, it offers desktop and online options with unlimited client returns in higher tiers.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited e-filing for business returns
- Comprehensive support for federal, state, and business-specific forms
- Strong error-checking and diagnostics to ensure accuracy
Cons
- Dated interface compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced integrations with accounting software
- Customer support lags behind top-tier options
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and independent preparers seeking cost-effective business tax filing without sacrificing core functionality.
Pricing
Desktop bundles range from $349 (1120S only) to $1,549 (full suite with unlimited business/individual returns and e-filing); annual subscription model.
ATX
enterpriseDesktop tax preparation software for small to mid-sized firms offering solid business return capabilities and integration with bookkeeping tools.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities across complex business returns
ATX from Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms, excelling in business tax returns such as Form 1120, 1120S, 1065, and multi-state filings. It offers robust tools for data import, diagnostics, depreciation calculations, and e-filing with high acceptance rates. Integrated with Wolters Kluwer's ecosystem, it supports efficient workflows for firms handling complex entity returns.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex business forms and multi-state compliance
- Reliable e-filing with strong diagnostics to minimize rejections
- Seamless integration with Wolters Kluwer practice management tools
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Dated user interface with a learning curve for new users
- Limited customization options in reporting
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs specializing in corporate, partnership, and S-corp returns who prioritize accuracy and compliance over modern aesthetics.
Pricing
Annual subscription-based pricing starts at around $2,000-$4,000 depending on modules, user count, and return volume; business add-ons extra.
TaxSlayer Pro
enterpriseUser-friendly professional tax prep software with strong support for business entities, live support, and competitive pricing.
Exceptionally low cost-per-return without compromising core business form support
TaxSlayer Pro is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling business and individual returns, supporting key forms like Schedule C, 1065, 1120, and 1120S. It offers federal and state e-filing, data import tools, and basic practice management features. Ideal for smaller firms, it emphasizes affordability and simplicity over advanced enterprise capabilities.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing for small firms
- Intuitive interface with quick navigation
- Reliable e-filing and multi-state support
Cons
- Limited advanced diagnostics and automation
- Fewer integrations with accounting software
- Basic reporting and customization options
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and solo practitioners prioritizing cost savings and ease of use for business returns.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295/year for up to 100 returns; scales to $3,495+ for 1,000+ returns, with pay-per-return options available.
TaxWise
enterpriseReliable tax software for tax pros providing essential features for business returns with good value for smaller practices.
Integrated multi-state processing with automatic form updates and linkage
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling business returns, including Forms 1065, 1120, 1120S, and 1041, alongside individual filings. It offers comprehensive federal and state support, e-filing capabilities, and built-in diagnostics for accuracy. The software streamlines workflows with tools like import/export functions and practitioner portals for client management.
Pros
- Extensive federal and state form library with frequent updates
- Reliable e-filing and direct deposit options
- Robust diagnostics and quality review tools
Cons
- Dated interface with steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Limited customization and reporting flexibility
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms preparing a high volume of business and individual returns that require strong state compliance support.
Pricing
Tiered subscription starting at ~$1,200 per preparer/year, with add-ons for states and advanced modules; volume discounts available.
Conclusion
The top 10 business tax return tools cater to diverse needs, from complex professional workflows to cost-effective solutions. Lacerte claims the top spot, excelling with advanced diagnostics and tailored support for intricate business entities like corporations, partnerships, and S-corps. UltraTax CS follows, noted for comprehensive entity coverage and integrated workflow, while Drake Tax stands out as an affordable choice with strong diagnostics and banking integration, making them excellent alternatives based on specific firm requirements.
Don’t miss the chance to enhance your tax preparation efficiency—start with Lacerte, the top-ranked tool, to handle complex business returns with ease, or explore UltraTax CS or Drake Tax to find the best fit for your practice.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison