Quick Overview
- 1#1: Drake Tax - Comprehensive professional tax preparation software supporting complex business returns including partnerships, corporations, and S-corps.
- 2#2: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-level tax software for accounting firms handling multi-state business tax compliance and preparation.
- 3#3: Lacerte - Advanced tax preparation software with powerful diagnostics for business tax returns and workflow automation.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax preparation platform for firms managing high-volume business tax engagements with integrated trial balance.
- 5#5: ProSeries Tax - Professional tax software offering efficient preparation of business returns for small to mid-sized practices.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Pro - Affordable, user-friendly professional tax software supporting business entity returns with real-time support.
- 7#7: TurboTax Business - Desktop tax software designed for small businesses, LLCs, and S-corps with step-by-step guidance for federal and state filing.
- 8#8: H&R Block Business - Guided tax preparation software for small business owners handling partnerships, corporations, and multi-member LLCs.
- 9#9: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional tax software with support for business 1120, 1065, and 1120S returns plus e-filing.
- 10#10: Avalara - Automated sales and use tax compliance software for businesses managing nexus, rates, and filing across jurisdictions.
We ranked tools based on their support for complex business structures, integration with daily operational needs, user-friendliness across skill levels, and overall value, ensuring a balanced assessment of both features and practical benefit.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key business tax software tools like Drake Tax, UltraTax CS, Lacerte, CCH Axcess Tax, and ProSeries, helping users understand their features, usability, and suitability for different needs. Readers will gain insights to evaluate options that align with their specific tax preparation workflows and business requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drake Tax Comprehensive professional tax preparation software supporting complex business returns including partnerships, corporations, and S-corps. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 2 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-level tax software for accounting firms handling multi-state business tax compliance and preparation. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Lacerte Advanced tax preparation software with powerful diagnostics for business tax returns and workflow automation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax preparation platform for firms managing high-volume business tax engagements with integrated trial balance. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Tax Professional tax software offering efficient preparation of business returns for small to mid-sized practices. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Pro Affordable, user-friendly professional tax software supporting business entity returns with real-time support. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | TurboTax Business Desktop tax software designed for small businesses, LLCs, and S-corps with step-by-step guidance for federal and state filing. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | H&R Block Business Guided tax preparation software for small business owners handling partnerships, corporations, and multi-member LLCs. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional tax software with support for business 1120, 1065, and 1120S returns plus e-filing. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | Avalara Automated sales and use tax compliance software for businesses managing nexus, rates, and filing across jurisdictions. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
Comprehensive professional tax preparation software supporting complex business returns including partnerships, corporations, and S-corps.
Enterprise-level tax software for accounting firms handling multi-state business tax compliance and preparation.
Advanced tax preparation software with powerful diagnostics for business tax returns and workflow automation.
Cloud-based tax preparation platform for firms managing high-volume business tax engagements with integrated trial balance.
Professional tax software offering efficient preparation of business returns for small to mid-sized practices.
Affordable, user-friendly professional tax software supporting business entity returns with real-time support.
Desktop tax software designed for small businesses, LLCs, and S-corps with step-by-step guidance for federal and state filing.
Guided tax preparation software for small business owners handling partnerships, corporations, and multi-member LLCs.
Cost-effective professional tax software with support for business 1120, 1065, and 1120S returns plus e-filing.
Automated sales and use tax compliance software for businesses managing nexus, rates, and filing across jurisdictions.
Drake Tax
enterpriseComprehensive professional tax preparation software supporting complex business returns including partnerships, corporations, and S-corps.
Unmatched 24/7 live customer support and unlimited e-filing included in base pricing
Drake Tax is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software from Drake Software, specializing in business tax returns for entities like C-Corporations, S-Corporations, Partnerships, LLCs, and Trusts. It supports federal and all-state filings with advanced diagnostics, e-filing, and bank product integrations for seamless workflows. Renowned for its reliability, it serves tax professionals handling high volumes of complex business returns efficiently.
Pros
- Extensive coverage of all major business forms (1065, 1120, 1120S, etc.) with automatic updates
- Outstanding 24/7 customer support and unlimited phone assistance
- Unlimited e-filing at no extra cost, maximizing efficiency
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-based competitors
- Steeper learning curve for absolute beginners
- Primarily Windows-based with limited macOS compatibility
Best For
Seasoned tax professionals and CPAs preparing high volumes of complex business tax returns who prioritize affordability and robust support.
Pricing
Single-user full professional bundle starts at $1,645; multi-user and add-on modules available with volume discounts.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-level tax software for accounting firms handling multi-state business tax compliance and preparation.
Real-time Smart Diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, inconsistencies, and compliance issues during data entry.
UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters designed specifically for accounting firms handling complex business tax returns, including partnerships, S-corporations, C-corporations, and fiduciary filings. It provides robust tools for data entry, calculations, diagnostics, and electronic filing across federal and all 50 states. The software integrates with practice management systems and offers modules for payroll, depreciation, and write-up services to streamline workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all business entity types with advanced calculations
- Real-time diagnostics and error-checking to ensure compliance
- Seamless e-filing and state support for over 50 jurisdictions
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for beginners
- High subscription costs tailored to firm size
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud mobility
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms and CPAs preparing complex business tax returns for multiple entity types.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically range from $5,000 to $25,000+ based on modules, users, and return volume.
Lacerte
enterpriseAdvanced tax preparation software with powerful diagnostics for business tax returns and workflow automation.
Dynamic Diagnostics Engine that proactively identifies errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities across complex business returns
Lacerte, offered through ProConnect by Intuit, is a professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms handling complex business tax returns, including C-Corps, S-Corps, partnerships, and multi-state filings. It provides automated calculations, extensive diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities to ensure accuracy and compliance. The software integrates deeply with the Intuit ecosystem, such as QuickBooks, streamlining data import and workflow for business clients.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex business entities and multi-state taxes
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking tools reduce compliance risks
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and other Intuit products
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners and smaller practices
- High subscription costs with additional per-return fees
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms and CPAs specializing in intricate business tax returns requiring robust diagnostics and integrations.
Pricing
Annual per-preparer subscription starting at around $2,000-$3,500, plus optional modules and pay-per-return fees for e-filing.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax preparation platform for firms managing high-volume business tax engagements with integrated trial balance.
Three-View Navigator (Form, Worksheet, and Source Document views) for intuitive data entry and review
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed for CPAs and tax firms handling complex individual, business, partnership, corporate, and fiduciary returns. It supports over 4 million forms across federal, state, and local jurisdictions with automated calculations, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities. The platform integrates seamlessly with other Axcess suite tools for practice management, document management, and client collaboration, enabling efficient workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Comprehensive form library with real-time compliance updates and advanced diagnostics
- Fully cloud-based for remote access and multi-user collaboration
- Seamless integration with Axcess suite for end-to-end firm management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for beginners
- High cost prohibitive for solo practitioners or small firms
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and accounting practices requiring scalable, enterprise-grade tools for complex business tax compliance.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and modules; typically $4,000–$10,000+ annually per preparer with volume discounts.
ProSeries Tax
enterpriseProfessional tax software offering efficient preparation of business returns for small to mid-sized practices.
Powerful diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors and compliance issues across complex business returns
ProSeries Tax by Intuit is a professional desktop-based tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax pros handling complex individual and business returns. It supports a wide array of business tax forms like 1120, 1065, 1120S, and partnerships, with robust e-filing, error-checking diagnostics, and integration with QuickBooks. While reliable for high-volume preparers, it focuses primarily on tax compliance rather than full accounting.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for business tax forms and schedules
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking to ensure accuracy
- Seamless e-filing with major IRS forms and bank products
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing scales quickly with return volume
- Limited cloud collaboration compared to newer competitors
Best For
Established tax professionals and small firms preparing moderate to high volumes of business tax returns.
Pricing
Starts at $449 for basic single-user (500 returns), up to $3,500+ for unlimited basic returns; additional fees for state modules and business forms.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedAffordable, user-friendly professional tax software supporting business entity returns with real-time support.
Exceptional value with unlimited federal e-files at significantly lower cost than premium competitors
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling business and individual returns, supporting key forms like 1065, 1120S, 1120, and 1120-F. It offers cloud-based access, e-filing for federal and most states, built-in diagnostics, data import from prior years, and unlimited e-files depending on the plan. Ideal for small to mid-sized firms, it emphasizes affordability and speed over advanced enterprise features.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with unlimited e-filing in higher tiers
- Cloud-based platform for anytime, anywhere access
- Intuitive interface with strong error-checking tools
Cons
- Limited advanced business tax planning and analytics
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Support primarily email/phone, less 24/7 live chat
Best For
Small to medium tax firms and independent preparers seeking cost-effective software for routine business returns.
Pricing
Tiered annual subscriptions from $1,295 (Bronze, up to 100 returns) to $3,995+ (Platinum, unlimited), including federal/state e-filing.
TurboTax Business
specializedDesktop tax software designed for small businesses, LLCs, and S-corps with step-by-step guidance for federal and state filing.
One-click import of financial data directly from QuickBooks
TurboTax Business is a desktop tax preparation software from Intuit designed for filing complex business returns including partnerships (Form 1065), S-corporations (1120S), C-corporations (1120), and multi-member LLCs. It offers step-by-step guidance through interviews, automatic calculations, and generation of Schedules K-1 for owners. The software supports data import from QuickBooks Online or Desktop, error checking, e-filing, and includes audit defense options.
Pros
- Intuitive step-by-step interview process simplifies complex forms
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for easy data import
- Strong accuracy guarantees and built-in error checking
Cons
- Higher price point than some competitors for similar functionality
- Limited to specific business entity types (no sole proprietorships)
- Desktop-only software with no full online equivalent
Best For
Small to mid-sized business owners and accountants filing partnership, S-corp, or C-corp returns who value guided DIY preparation and QuickBooks compatibility.
Pricing
Federal return $189.99; $49.99 per state return (one-time desktop purchase).
H&R Block Business
specializedGuided tax preparation software for small business owners handling partnerships, corporations, and multi-member LLCs.
Seamless linkage between business and personal tax data for Schedule C filers and owner-operators
H&R Block Business is a tax preparation software tailored for small businesses, sole proprietors, partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps, supporting key forms like Schedule C, 1065, 1120S, and 1120. It offers step-by-step guidance, error-checking tools, and direct e-filing for federal and state returns. The software integrates well with H&R Block's personal tax products, making it convenient for owner-operated businesses handling both personal and business filings.
Pros
- Intuitive step-by-step interface familiar to H&R Block users
- Reliable e-filing with accuracy guarantees and audit support
- Strong integration for personal and business tax combo filings
Cons
- Limited advanced features for complex multi-state or international businesses
- Primarily desktop-based with less robust online options compared to competitors
- Additional costs for state returns and deluxe support add up quickly
Best For
Small business owners and sole proprietors seeking straightforward tax filing integrated with personal returns.
Pricing
Basic business editions start at $85-$115; full bundles for partnerships/S-corps up to $150-$200, plus $40-$50 per state return.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective professional tax software with support for business 1120, 1065, and 1120S returns plus e-filing.
Unlimited federal business returns for a single low annual fee, maximizing value for high-volume preparers
TaxAct Professional is a tax preparation software tailored for professional accountants handling business returns, supporting forms like 1065 for partnerships, 1120S for S-corps, 1120 for C-corps, and 1041 for trusts. It provides e-filing capabilities, built-in diagnostics, and tools for managing multiple clients efficiently. While not as feature-heavy as premium competitors, it emphasizes affordability and straightforward workflows for business tax compliance.
Pros
- Highly affordable flat fee for unlimited federal business returns
- Intuitive interface with strong diagnostics and error checking
- Reliable e-filing and quick state return add-ons
Cons
- Limited support for highly complex or niche business forms compared to top-tier software
- State returns incur additional per-state fees
- Customer support can be slower during peak tax season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or independent preparers seeking cost-effective software for standard business tax returns without needing advanced customization.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for unlimited federal returns (2023 pricing); state e-filing extra at $145-$195 per state.
Avalara
enterpriseAutomated sales and use tax compliance software for businesses managing nexus, rates, and filing across jurisdictions.
AvaTax's geolocation-based, address-level tax calculation engine with 99%+ accuracy across global jurisdictions
Avalara is a cloud-based tax compliance platform that automates sales and use tax calculations, filing, and remittance for businesses across thousands of jurisdictions worldwide. It excels in integrating with e-commerce platforms, ERPs, and accounting software like Shopify, QuickBooks, and NetSuite to streamline complex tax compliance. Avalara also manages exemption certificates and VAT/GST for international operations, reducing manual errors and audit risks.
Pros
- Covers over 19,000 U.S. jurisdictions and 90+ countries with real-time accurate tax rates
- Seamless integrations with 1,200+ apps including major ERPs and e-commerce platforms
- Automated filing and remittance services to minimize compliance burdens
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly based on transaction volume for high-volume businesses
- Initial setup and customization require significant time and expertise
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent for non-enterprise users
Best For
Mid-market and enterprise businesses with multi-jurisdictional sales needing robust, automated tax compliance.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on transaction volume; starts at ~$50/month for basic plans, with per-transaction fees (~$0.02-$0.10) and enterprise quotes from $10,000+/year.
Conclusion
The reviewed business tax software spans diverse needs, from complex corporate returns to small business LLCs, with standout performers leading the field. Drake Tax claims the top spot, excelling in comprehensive support for intricate business structures, while UltraTax CS and Lacerte offer strong alternatives—perfect for enterprise multi-state compliance and advanced diagnostics, respectively. Together, these tools redefine efficient, accurate tax preparation.
Explore Drake Tax, the top-ranked tool, to simplify complex business tax handling and ensure seamless preparation for your clients or business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison