Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Professional tax preparation software with comprehensive support for federal Form 706 estate tax returns, state filings, diagnostics, and complex calculations.
- 2#2: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax compliance platform offering advanced estate and gift tax return preparation, including Form 706, with strong workflow automation for professionals.
- 3#3: Lacerte - High-end tax software from Intuit that expertly handles federal estate tax returns (Form 706), fiduciary forms, and integrates with planning tools.
- 4#4: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based tax preparation solution supporting complex estate tax returns with multi-state capabilities and enterprise-level security.
- 5#5: Drake Tax - Affordable professional tax software that includes full support for estate tax returns (Form 706) and provides excellent value for small to mid-sized firms.
- 6#6: CrossLink - Desktop tax preparation software with robust Form 706 estate tax module, e-filing, and customization for tax professionals.
- 7#7: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional tax software supporting estate tax returns including Form 706 with integrated e-filing and diagnostics.
- 8#8: EstateExec - Online estate settlement software that automates inventory, accounting, and federal/state estate tax calculations for executors and attorneys.
- 9#9: WealthCounsel - Estate planning document automation platform with integrated tax analysis tools for gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes.
- 10#10: RightCapital - Financial planning software featuring advanced estate tax modeling, illustrations, and projections for advisors.
Tools were selected based on core features like support for complex returns (e.g., Form 706), workflow automation, integration capabilities, and adherence to state/ federal requirements, along with ease of use and overall value for practice size or user type.
Comparison Table
Navigating estate tax software can be complex, but this comparison table simplifies the process by highlighting tools like UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, Lacerte, GoSystem Tax RS, and Drake Tax. Readers will discover key details about each tool’s features, usability, and strengths to make informed decisions for their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Professional tax preparation software with comprehensive support for federal Form 706 estate tax returns, state filings, diagnostics, and complex calculations. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 2 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax compliance platform offering advanced estate and gift tax return preparation, including Form 706, with strong workflow automation for professionals. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Lacerte High-end tax software from Intuit that expertly handles federal estate tax returns (Form 706), fiduciary forms, and integrates with planning tools. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based tax preparation solution supporting complex estate tax returns with multi-state capabilities and enterprise-level security. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Drake Tax Affordable professional tax software that includes full support for estate tax returns (Form 706) and provides excellent value for small to mid-sized firms. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 6 | CrossLink Desktop tax preparation software with robust Form 706 estate tax module, e-filing, and customization for tax professionals. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 7 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional tax software supporting estate tax returns including Form 706 with integrated e-filing and diagnostics. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | EstateExec Online estate settlement software that automates inventory, accounting, and federal/state estate tax calculations for executors and attorneys. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | WealthCounsel Estate planning document automation platform with integrated tax analysis tools for gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | RightCapital Financial planning software featuring advanced estate tax modeling, illustrations, and projections for advisors. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.5/10 |
Professional tax preparation software with comprehensive support for federal Form 706 estate tax returns, state filings, diagnostics, and complex calculations.
Cloud-based tax compliance platform offering advanced estate and gift tax return preparation, including Form 706, with strong workflow automation for professionals.
High-end tax software from Intuit that expertly handles federal estate tax returns (Form 706), fiduciary forms, and integrates with planning tools.
Web-based tax preparation solution supporting complex estate tax returns with multi-state capabilities and enterprise-level security.
Affordable professional tax software that includes full support for estate tax returns (Form 706) and provides excellent value for small to mid-sized firms.
Desktop tax preparation software with robust Form 706 estate tax module, e-filing, and customization for tax professionals.
Cost-effective professional tax software supporting estate tax returns including Form 706 with integrated e-filing and diagnostics.
Online estate settlement software that automates inventory, accounting, and federal/state estate tax calculations for executors and attorneys.
Estate planning document automation platform with integrated tax analysis tools for gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes.
Financial planning software featuring advanced estate tax modeling, illustrations, and projections for advisors.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseProfessional tax preparation software with comprehensive support for federal Form 706 estate tax returns, state filings, diagnostics, and complex calculations.
Advanced SmartDiag engine for proactive error detection and estate valuation workflows
UltraTax CS from Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software suite with specialized modules for estate and gift tax returns, including comprehensive support for Form 706 and related schedules. It automates complex calculations for valuations, deductions, generation-skipping transfers, and state estate taxes, ensuring compliance with IRS regulations. The platform integrates with other CS Professional Suite tools for seamless workflow from planning to filing.
Pros
- Robust Form 706 support with automated valuations and diagnostics
- Seamless integration with fiduciary accounting and practice management tools
- Unlimited e-filing and real-time IRS compliance updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High subscription costs for full modules
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud mobility
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing complex, high-value estate tax returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$3,500 per preparer for core modules, with estate/gift add-ons ~$1,200+; custom quotes for firms.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax compliance platform offering advanced estate and gift tax return preparation, including Form 706, with strong workflow automation for professionals.
Integrated asset valuation engine with links to third-party appraisers and real-time data feeds
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer that supports comprehensive estate tax return preparation, including Form 706 and related schedules. It offers automated calculations, asset valuation tools, and integration with estate planning workflows to handle complex high-net-worth estates efficiently. The platform ensures compliance with evolving IRS regulations through frequent updates and supports e-filing directly to the IRS.
Pros
- Advanced automation for estate valuations and complex asset tracking
- Seamless e-filing and compliance with IRS estate tax requirements
- Strong integration with CCH's broader suite for holistic tax and planning
Cons
- High subscription costs may deter small practices
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Customization requires technical support for optimal setup
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms and tax professionals managing high-net-worth estate returns and complex trusts.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and users; typically $5,000+ annually per preparer.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-end tax software from Intuit that expertly handles federal estate tax returns (Form 706), fiduciary forms, and integrates with planning tools.
Automated DSUE portability calculations and advanced asset valuation adjustments with appraisal import capabilities
Lacerte by Intuit is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software that includes robust support for estate tax returns via Form 706 and related schedules. It automates complex calculations for asset valuations, deductions, generation-skipping transfers, and portability elections like DSUE. Designed for CPAs and tax professionals, it offers e-filing, diagnostics, and integration with other Intuit tools for efficient workflow in high-volume practices.
Pros
- Comprehensive Form 706 support with automated calculations for estates, trusts, and GST exemptions
- Seamless e-filing and state-specific handling with built-in diagnostics
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and ProSeries for holistic client management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High subscription costs, especially for estate module add-ons
- Less specialized for pure estate tax compared to dedicated tools like CompuTax
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms or CPAs handling complex estate returns alongside income and gift taxes.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,500 for base package; estate tax module adds $500-$1,000+, with per-user fees up to $3,000+ for unlimited e-filing.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based tax preparation solution supporting complex estate tax returns with multi-state capabilities and enterprise-level security.
Advanced relational data structure for precise handling of estate asset allocations, elections, and multi-state filings
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a cloud-based professional tax preparation platform designed for complex returns, including federal estate tax Forms 706, 706-NA, and related gift tax filings. It features a robust calculation engine, automated diagnostics, and support for intricate asset valuations, deductions, and apportionments required in high-net-worth estates. The software integrates seamlessly with Thomson Reuters' ecosystem for practice management and research, ensuring compliance and efficiency for estate tax practitioners.
Pros
- Powerful relational database handles complex multi-jurisdictional estates accurately
- Strong diagnostics and error-checking reduce compliance risks
- Cloud access enables real-time collaboration and remote work
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to depth of functionality
- High cost may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern consumer apps
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms managing high-net-worth estate and trust returns with complex asset portfolios.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000-$15,000 annually, scaled by firm size, return volume, and modules selected.
Drake Tax
enterpriseAffordable professional tax software that includes full support for estate tax returns (Form 706) and provides excellent value for small to mid-sized firms.
Integrated asset tracking and automatic calculation engine that simplifies Form 706 preparation and ensures compliance with IRS requirements.
Drake Tax, from drakesoftware.com, is a comprehensive tax preparation software suite that includes dedicated modules for estate tax returns, primarily supporting Form 706 and related schedules for U.S. federal estate taxes. It provides tools for asset inventory, valuation, deduction calculations, and generating complete estate tax returns with e-filing capabilities. Designed for tax professionals, it integrates estate tax functionality within its broader tax prep platform, making it suitable for firms handling multiple tax types.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited returns
- Intuitive interface and quick form navigation
- Reliable e-filing and extensive form support including Form 706
Cons
- Less specialized for ultra-complex estates compared to premium competitors
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud features
- Steeper learning curve for estate-specific workflows
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and CPAs needing cost-effective, reliable estate tax preparation alongside general tax services.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at around $1,695 per preparer for the full suite with unlimited returns; estate modules included in professional plans.
CrossLink
enterpriseDesktop tax preparation software with robust Form 706 estate tax module, e-filing, and customization for tax professionals.
Direct, error-checked data linkage between preparation software and IRS MeF without manual re-entry
CrossLink is a specialized e-filing platform for federal estate tax returns (Form 706), enabling seamless electronic transmission to the IRS via the Modernized e-File (MeF) system. It supports data import and export from leading estate planning and preparation software, with built-in validation tools to ensure compliance and accuracy. The solution also handles select state estate tax filings and provides real-time acknowledgment tracking for submitted returns.
Pros
- Reliable and IRS-approved e-filing for Form 706
- Integrates with multiple preparation software like CompuPrep and BNA
- Secure transmission with validation and status tracking
Cons
- Limited built-in computation or valuation tools
- Pricing based on per-return fees can add up for high volume
- Requires compatible preparation software for full workflow
Best For
Estate tax professionals who use separate preparation software and need a robust, compliant e-filing gateway.
Pricing
Per-return fees starting at $75 for Form 706, with volume discounts and optional annual subscriptions around $500+.
TaxAct Professional
enterpriseCost-effective professional tax software supporting estate tax returns including Form 706 with integrated e-filing and diagnostics.
Seamless e-filing capability for Form 706 directly through the platform
TaxAct Professional is a comprehensive tax preparation platform that includes support for U.S. Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return Form 706, allowing professionals to prepare, calculate, and e-file estate tax returns. It features guided navigation, automatic calculations for deductions and valuations, and integration with asset tracking tools. While not as specialized as dedicated estate software, it serves as a cost-effective option for CPAs handling estates alongside other tax types.
Pros
- Affordable pricing compared to specialized estate software
- Supports e-filing of Form 706 with IRS acceptance
- User-friendly interface with strong integration across tax modules
Cons
- Limited advanced tools for highly complex estates or international assets
- Fewer specialized estate planning features like scenario modeling
- Customer support lags behind top-tier competitors
Best For
CPAs and tax professionals managing small to mid-sized estates alongside individual and business returns.
Pricing
Included in Professional Bundles starting at ~$1,200/year for unlimited returns; per-return pricing available for estate modules.
EstateExec
specializedOnline estate settlement software that automates inventory, accounting, and federal/state estate tax calculations for executors and attorneys.
Seamless automation of Form 706 estate tax returns directly from inventoried asset values and appraisals
EstateExec is a comprehensive cloud-based platform for estate settlement and administration, enabling users to inventory assets, track income and expenses, and prepare federal estate tax returns. It automates the generation of IRS Form 706 (United States Estate Tax Return) and Form 1041 (fiduciary income tax returns) using data entered into its accounting system. The software supports secure collaboration with beneficiaries, attorneys, and accountants, making it suitable for probate management.
Pros
- Automates Form 706 and 1041 preparation with integrated asset data
- Secure team collaboration and beneficiary portals
- Handles full estate accounting from inventory to distributions
Cons
- Limited to US federal/state taxes, no international support
- Cloud-only, requires reliable internet
- Pricing escalates for teams and complex estates
Best For
Executors, attorneys, and accountants managing moderately complex US estates needing integrated tax and administration tools.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (billed annually as $39/month) for Solo plan; Pro at $99/month ($79/month annually); custom Enterprise pricing.
WealthCounsel
specializedEstate planning document automation platform with integrated tax analysis tools for gift, estate, and generation-skipping transfer taxes.
Multi-scenario estate tax optimizer that dynamically models federal and state tax impacts under varying planning alternatives and law changes
WealthCounsel is a comprehensive estate planning platform for attorneys, specializing in automated document drafting, wealth transfer analysis, and estate tax planning tools. It enables users to generate IRS-compliant forms like 706 and 709, perform detailed estate tax projections, and simulate tax optimization strategies across multiple scenarios. The software integrates client portals, CRM features, and practice management to streamline estate tax compliance and planning workflows.
Pros
- Extensive library of customizable estate planning documents and IRS forms
- Powerful estate tax calculators with multi-generational projections
- Seamless integration with client portals and e-signature tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs for solo practitioners
- Limited flexibility for highly customized or niche tax scenarios
Best For
Estate planning law firms managing complex, high-net-worth client portfolios requiring integrated tax analysis and document automation.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions starting at $195/user/month for core features, with premium plans up to $395/user/month including advanced tax tools; annual contracts offer discounts.
RightCapital
specializedFinancial planning software featuring advanced estate tax modeling, illustrations, and projections for advisors.
Dynamic estate tax projector that links estate growth to cash flow, retirement, and investment assumptions
RightCapital is a comprehensive financial planning software platform that includes estate tax modeling tools for advisors. It projects future estate values, calculates federal and state estate tax liabilities, and simulates strategies like gifting, trusts, and life insurance to minimize taxes. While effective for high-level planning and visualizations, it focuses on projections rather than detailed tax return preparation like Form 706.
Pros
- Seamless integration with broader financial planning modules
- Intuitive visualizations for estate tax scenarios
- Supports gifting and trust strategy modeling
Cons
- Not designed for complex estate tax return filing
- Subscription model pricey for estate-only use
- Limited depth for ultra-high-net-worth estates
Best For
Financial advisors seeking to incorporate estate tax projections into holistic client financial plans without needing standalone tax software.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essential plan); higher tiers $199-$249/month for advanced features.
Conclusion
When evaluating estate tax software, UltraTax CS solidifies its place as the top choice, offering unmatched support for federal Form 706 returns and comprehensive state filing capabilities. CCH Axcess Tax and Lacerte follow closely, excelling in cloud-based automation and advanced planning tools, respectively, to meet diverse professional needs. This review highlights that the best option hinges on individual priorities, but UltraTax CS leads as a standout for its robust performance.
For a seamless estate tax preparation experience, start with UltraTax CS—its integrated features and expert support make it the ideal tool for handling complex calculations and ensuring accuracy.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.