Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lacerte - Advanced professional tax preparation software with diagnostic tools, e-signing, and seamless integrations for CPAs handling complex returns.
- 2#2: UltraTax CS - Comprehensive cloud-enabled tax compliance software offering multi-state support, workflow automation, and firm-wide collaboration.
- 3#3: Drake Tax - Affordable, full-featured tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing and exceptional customer support for tax professionals.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax prep platform with AI insights, document management, and secure client collaboration for mid-to-large CPA firms.
- 5#5: ProSeries Professional - Reliable desktop tax software for small to mid-sized practices featuring quick data entry and integrated e-filing.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Pro - Intuitive professional tax software with fast preparation times, unlimited clients, and strong mobile support for CPAs.
- 7#7: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective tax preparation tool with accuracy guarantees, import capabilities, and efficient e-filing for busy tax pros.
- 8#8: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based tax return solution designed for complex corporate and high-volume returns with robust review workflows.
- 9#9: TaxWise - Desktop tax preparation software for small firms offering integrated bookkeeping and straightforward form handling.
- 10#10: Profile - Flexible tax software for accountants with customizable calculations and support for specialized return types.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors such as feature depth—including automation, multi-state support, and integration capabilities—alongside usability, reliability, and value, ensuring alignment with the varied demands of CPAs from small firms to enterprise practices.
Comparison Table
This comparison table aids CPA tax professionals in evaluating leading software tools, including Lacerte, UltraTax CS, Drake Tax, CCH Axcess Tax, ProSeries Professional, and more. It explores key features like functionality, user-friendliness, and integration capabilities to help identify the best fit. Readers will learn to gauge which platform aligns with their practice’s specific workflows, client needs, and performance requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lacerte Advanced professional tax preparation software with diagnostic tools, e-signing, and seamless integrations for CPAs handling complex returns. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | UltraTax CS Comprehensive cloud-enabled tax compliance software offering multi-state support, workflow automation, and firm-wide collaboration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | Drake Tax Affordable, full-featured tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing and exceptional customer support for tax professionals. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax prep platform with AI insights, document management, and secure client collaboration for mid-to-large CPA firms. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Professional Reliable desktop tax software for small to mid-sized practices featuring quick data entry and integrated e-filing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Pro Intuitive professional tax software with fast preparation times, unlimited clients, and strong mobile support for CPAs. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 7 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective tax preparation tool with accuracy guarantees, import capabilities, and efficient e-filing for busy tax pros. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 8 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based tax return solution designed for complex corporate and high-volume returns with robust review workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | TaxWise Desktop tax preparation software for small firms offering integrated bookkeeping and straightforward form handling. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Profile Flexible tax software for accountants with customizable calculations and support for specialized return types. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
Advanced professional tax preparation software with diagnostic tools, e-signing, and seamless integrations for CPAs handling complex returns.
Comprehensive cloud-enabled tax compliance software offering multi-state support, workflow automation, and firm-wide collaboration.
Affordable, full-featured tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing and exceptional customer support for tax professionals.
Cloud-based tax prep platform with AI insights, document management, and secure client collaboration for mid-to-large CPA firms.
Reliable desktop tax software for small to mid-sized practices featuring quick data entry and integrated e-filing.
Intuitive professional tax software with fast preparation times, unlimited clients, and strong mobile support for CPAs.
Cost-effective tax preparation tool with accuracy guarantees, import capabilities, and efficient e-filing for busy tax pros.
Web-based tax return solution designed for complex corporate and high-volume returns with robust review workflows.
Desktop tax preparation software for small firms offering integrated bookkeeping and straightforward form handling.
Flexible tax software for accountants with customizable calculations and support for specialized return types.
Lacerte
enterpriseAdvanced professional tax preparation software with diagnostic tools, e-signing, and seamless integrations for CPAs handling complex returns.
Advanced M-1 Diagnostics system that proactively identifies errors, overrides, and compliance issues across the entire return
Lacerte, from Intuit's ProConnect, is a premier professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax professionals handling complex returns. It supports an extensive library of federal, state, and local tax forms, including those for individuals, businesses, partnerships, estates, trusts, and nonprofits. Key functionalities include advanced diagnostics, e-filing, direct deposit options, and seamless integration with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for over 11,000 forms and complex tax scenarios with automatic calculations
- Powerful diagnostics engine that minimizes errors and ensures compliance
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and reliable e-filing with fast processing times
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customizable interface
- High subscription costs that may strain smaller practices
- Outdated user interface compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms and tax professionals managing high volumes of complex business, estate, and trust returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $599 for unlimited individual returns, with tiers up to $1,500+ for business/estate modules and add-ons for multi-state e-filing.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-enabled tax compliance software offering multi-state support, workflow automation, and firm-wide collaboration.
Revolutionary SmartDiag diagnostics system that proactively scans and optimizes returns for accuracy and maximum refunds.
UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, designed specifically for CPA firms and tax professionals handling complex returns. It supports federal, state, and local tax forms for individuals, businesses, partnerships, corporations, estates, and trusts, with robust calculation engines and diagnostics. The platform integrates with practice management tools, offers electronic filing, and provides tools for planning, review, and compliance.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all major tax forms and unlimited state returns
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking tools that minimize compliance risks
- Seamless integration with CS Professional Suite for workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its depth and customization options
- High pricing that may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
- Interface feels dated compared to more modern cloud-based competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms managing high volumes of complex individual and business tax returns.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at around $5,000–$15,000 annually, based on modules, users, and return volume.
Drake Tax
specializedAffordable, full-featured tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing and exceptional customer support for tax professionals.
Accountant's Calculator for instant, on-screen computations without leaving the data entry view
Drake Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for CPAs and tax firms, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, S-corps, C-corps, and fiduciaries. It features comprehensive diagnostics, unlimited e-filing, automated calculations, and integrations for bank products and document management. With over 35 years in the industry, it emphasizes reliability, speed, and cost-efficiency for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited returns options
- Extensive forms support (over 120,000 calculations)
- Outstanding customer support with live chat and phone
Cons
- Dated user interface feels clunky
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
Best For
Mid-to-large tax practices prioritizing cost savings and reliable high-volume processing over modern UI.
Pricing
Starts at ~$1,895 for unlimited 1040 returns; business modules extra (~$500+); per-return pricing from $5/return available.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax prep platform with AI insights, document management, and secure client collaboration for mid-to-large CPA firms.
Proven diagnostics engine with AI-driven error detection and over 10,000 checks for unparalleled accuracy in complex returns
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, tailored for CPA firms handling complex federal, state, and international returns for individuals, businesses, and estates. It features robust diagnostics, automated calculations, e-filing, and seamless integration with practice management and research tools within the Axcess suite. Designed for high-volume practices, it emphasizes compliance accuracy and workflow efficiency to support large-scale tax operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex returns with over 10,000 diagnostics and automated forms
- Strong cloud collaboration and workflow integration for team-based preparation
- Excellent compliance tools including state-specific handling and e-filing reliability
Cons
- High subscription costs that may not suit small firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization
- Occasional interface lag during peak tax season despite cloud infrastructure
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms managing high volumes of complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns requiring advanced diagnostics and workflow automation.
Pricing
Tiered annual subscriptions starting at approximately $6,000-$12,000 per preparer, scaling with return volume, users, and add-ons like research or planning modules.
ProSeries Professional
specializedReliable desktop tax software for small to mid-sized practices featuring quick data entry and integrated e-filing.
One-click QuickBooks data import that automatically populates tax forms
ProSeries Professional is a desktop-based tax preparation software from Intuit, designed specifically for CPAs and tax professionals handling individual, business, partnership, S-corp, and C-corp returns. It streamlines federal and state tax filing with e-filing support, automated calculations, and diagnostic tools to minimize errors. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for data import, making it efficient for firms already in the Intuit ecosystem.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with fast data entry and navigation
- Strong QuickBooks integration for seamless client data import
- Reliable e-filing and excellent Intuit customer support
Cons
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud collaboration options
- Pricing can add up with per-state and business module fees
- Less suited for very complex enterprise-level returns compared to top competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized CPA firms preparing a high volume of individual and basic business tax returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $449 for basic individual returns, with add-ons for states ($200+ each) and business modules ($300+).
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedIntuitive professional tax software with fast preparation times, unlimited clients, and strong mobile support for CPAs.
Exceptional value through flat-fee unlimited federal returns in core packages, minimizing costs for high-volume preparers
TaxSlayer Pro is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed specifically for CPAs, tax preparers, and accounting firms to handle federal and state returns efficiently. It supports a wide range of forms for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and estates, with robust e-filing capabilities and built-in error-checking tools. The platform offers data import from prior years, client management features, and customizable organizers, making it suitable for firms of varying sizes. Overall, it emphasizes affordability and simplicity without compromising on core tax compliance needs.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with pay-per-return or flat-fee unlimited options
- Intuitive, web-based interface that's quick to learn even for new users
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates and strong customer support
Cons
- Lacks some advanced features like extensive audit support found in premium competitors
- Limited integrations with accounting software compared to top-tier options
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Small to mid-sized CPA firms and independent tax preparers prioritizing cost savings and ease of use over advanced enterprise features.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for basic Pro Series (unlimited federal 1040 returns), with pay-per-return from $0.75; state returns $35-$150 extra per package, no long-term contracts.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective tax preparation tool with accuracy guarantees, import capabilities, and efficient e-filing for busy tax pros.
Unlimited e-filing across all return types without per-return fees
TaxAct Professional is a cost-effective tax preparation software suite designed for CPAs and tax professionals, supporting a full range of federal and state forms for 1040, 1065, 1120, 1120S, 1041, and more. It offers features like unlimited e-filing, automated error checks, prior-year data import, and basic practice management tools. The platform emphasizes simplicity and affordability, making it suitable for handling standard to moderately complex returns efficiently.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Intuitive interface with guided navigation
- Unlimited e-filing for all clients at no extra cost
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex scenarios
- Basic reporting and analytics tools
- Customer support lags behind premium options
Best For
Small to mid-sized CPA firms and solo practitioners seeking reliable, budget-friendly tax software for standard returns.
Pricing
1040 edition starts at $1,449; full business bundle ~$2,495; additional per-state fees ~$145 each.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based tax return solution designed for complex corporate and high-volume returns with robust review workflows.
Relational spreadsheet methodology that dynamically links data across worksheets and returns for efficient complex preparations
GoSystem Tax RS from Wolters Kluwer is a robust, enterprise-grade tax preparation software designed for CPA firms handling complex federal, state, and local returns. It supports individual, corporate, partnership, fiduciary, and nonprofit forms with advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and e-filing capabilities. The cloud-based platform enables real-time collaboration and integrates seamlessly with other CCH tools like engagement management software. Its relational database structure allows for dynamic data linking across worksheets, streamlining workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of complex, multi-state, and consolidated returns
- Strong cloud-based security and real-time multi-user collaboration
- Comprehensive diagnostics, planners, and audit trail features
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to relational spreadsheet interface
- High cost makes it less viable for small firms
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms managing high volumes of complex business, multi-state, and consolidated tax returns.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on firm size and return volume; typically $5,000+ per preparer annually plus per-return fees.
TaxWise
specializedDesktop tax preparation software for small firms offering integrated bookkeeping and straightforward form handling.
Advanced Smart Diagnostics system that proactively identifies errors, dependencies, and compliance issues before e-filing
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax professionals handling complex federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and estates. It provides comprehensive form support, automated calculations, and seamless e-filing with high acceptance rates. The platform integrates with practice management tools and offers robust diagnostics to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 15,000 federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Reliable e-filing and bank product integration for faster refunds
- Strong diagnostics engine that catches errors and ensures compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to professional tax software
- Higher cost structure with per-return fees adding up for high volume
- Interface feels dated compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms and tax preparers managing high volumes of complex business and multi-state returns.
Pricing
Subscription starts at around $1,500 per preparer annually, plus per-return fees ($5-15) and add-ons for states or payroll.
Profile
specializedFlexible tax software for accountants with customizable calculations and support for specialized return types.
Advanced Diagnostics Engine that provides real-time error checking and quality assurance for accurate filings
Wolters Kluwer's Profile is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for CPAs and tax firms, offering comprehensive support for federal, state, and local returns across individual, business, partnership, S-corp, and fiduciary forms. It features an advanced diagnostics engine for error detection, customizable data entry, and seamless e-filing with direct bank payment options. The software integrates with practice management tools and supports high-volume processing for complex tax scenarios.
Pros
- Powerful diagnostics engine catches errors and compliance issues proactively
- Strong multi-state support for all 50 states and D.C.
- Reliable e-filing and integration with Wolters Kluwer ecosystem
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller firms
Best For
Mid-sized CPA firms handling moderate to high volumes of complex business and individual returns.
Pricing
Custom annual subscriptions starting around $4,000-$10,000+ based on firm size, users, and modules; per-return options available.
Conclusion
Through careful review, Lacerte stands as the top choice, offering advanced professional features like diagnostic tools and seamless integrations for complex returns. UltraTax CS and Drake Tax follow closely—UltraTax CS excels with cloud collaboration and multi-state support, while Drake Tax provides affordability and strong customer service, each a standout for distinct practice needs.
Begin with Lacerte to leverage its powerful capabilities, or explore UltraTax CS or Drake Tax to find the solution that aligns best with your firm's specific demands.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison