Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Professional tax preparation software with robust Form 706 support, advanced valuation tools, and e-filing for complex estate tax returns.
- 2#2: Lacerte - Premium desktop tax software offering comprehensive Form 706 preparation, diagnostics, and integration for estate planning professionals.
- 3#3: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax compliance solution with specialized Form 706 workflows, real-time collaboration, and estate asset tracking.
- 4#4: GoSystem Tax RS - Cloud-hosted tax preparation platform featuring Form 706 automation, multi-user access, and seamless e-filing capabilities.
- 5#5: ProSeries - Reliable tax software with Form 706 e-file support, guided entry, and error-checking for mid-sized estate tax practices.
- 6#6: Drake Tax - Affordable, high-value tax prep software including Form 706 with strong diagnostics and unlimited e-filing.
- 7#7: CCH TaxWise - User-friendly tax preparation tool supporting Form 706 with integrated asset valuation and state estate tax forms.
- 8#8: TaxSlayer Pro - Cost-effective professional software with Form 706 capabilities, fast input, and e-file for estate returns.
- 9#9: EstateExec - Online estate settlement platform that generates IRS Form 706 with inventory tracking and simplified calculations.
- 10#10: CrossLink Tax - Modular tax software supporting Form 706 for trusts and estates with customizable workflows and e-filing.
Tools were selected based on robust Form 706 support, including advanced valuation features, seamless e-filing, and intuitive workflows, paired with quality metrics like reliability, error-checking, and integration with estate planning processes, while evaluated for value to ensure alignment with diverse user needs, from small firms to large enterprises.
Comparison Table
Explore the landscape of Form 706 software with this comparison table, tailored to break down key tools that simplify estate tax preparation. It features industry staples such as UltraTax CS, Lacerte, CCH Axcess Tax, GoSystem Tax RS, ProSeries, and more, providing readers with a concise overview of each tool’s capabilities to aid in informed software choices.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Professional tax preparation software with robust Form 706 support, advanced valuation tools, and e-filing for complex estate tax returns. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Lacerte Premium desktop tax software offering comprehensive Form 706 preparation, diagnostics, and integration for estate planning professionals. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax compliance solution with specialized Form 706 workflows, real-time collaboration, and estate asset tracking. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | GoSystem Tax RS Cloud-hosted tax preparation platform featuring Form 706 automation, multi-user access, and seamless e-filing capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Reliable tax software with Form 706 e-file support, guided entry, and error-checking for mid-sized estate tax practices. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Drake Tax Affordable, high-value tax prep software including Form 706 with strong diagnostics and unlimited e-filing. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | CCH TaxWise User-friendly tax preparation tool supporting Form 706 with integrated asset valuation and state estate tax forms. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 8 | TaxSlayer Pro Cost-effective professional software with Form 706 capabilities, fast input, and e-file for estate returns. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | EstateExec Online estate settlement platform that generates IRS Form 706 with inventory tracking and simplified calculations. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | CrossLink Tax Modular tax software supporting Form 706 for trusts and estates with customizable workflows and e-filing. | specialized | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Professional tax preparation software with robust Form 706 support, advanced valuation tools, and e-filing for complex estate tax returns.
Premium desktop tax software offering comprehensive Form 706 preparation, diagnostics, and integration for estate planning professionals.
Cloud-based tax compliance solution with specialized Form 706 workflows, real-time collaboration, and estate asset tracking.
Cloud-hosted tax preparation platform featuring Form 706 automation, multi-user access, and seamless e-filing capabilities.
Reliable tax software with Form 706 e-file support, guided entry, and error-checking for mid-sized estate tax practices.
Affordable, high-value tax prep software including Form 706 with strong diagnostics and unlimited e-filing.
User-friendly tax preparation tool supporting Form 706 with integrated asset valuation and state estate tax forms.
Cost-effective professional software with Form 706 capabilities, fast input, and e-file for estate returns.
Online estate settlement platform that generates IRS Form 706 with inventory tracking and simplified calculations.
Modular tax software supporting Form 706 for trusts and estates with customizable workflows and e-filing.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseProfessional tax preparation software with robust Form 706 support, advanced valuation tools, and e-filing for complex estate tax returns.
Sophisticated unified transfer tax system that links estate, gift, and GST calculations across years for precise portability and optimization.
UltraTax CS from Thomson Reuters is a premier professional tax preparation platform offering comprehensive support for Form 706 (United States Estate and Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax Return). It automates intricate calculations for asset valuations, deductions, marital and charitable credits, and generation-skipping transfer taxes, while ensuring full IRS compliance. The software includes diagnostic tools, e-filing capabilities, and integration with estate planning modules for seamless workflows.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in Form 706 support, including complex valuations for real estate, businesses, and intangibles
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking to ensure audit-ready returns
- Seamless integration with gift tax (Form 709) and financial planning tools
Cons
- High subscription costs may deter solo practitioners
- Steep learning curve for users new to enterprise-level software
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud flexibility
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and estate planning professionals managing high-value, complex estates.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at $5,000-$15,000+ depending on firm size, users, and estate/gift modules.
Lacerte
enterprisePremium desktop tax software offering comprehensive Form 706 preparation, diagnostics, and integration for estate planning professionals.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies Form 706 errors and compliance issues before filing.
Lacerte by Intuit is a professional-grade tax preparation software suite that provides robust support for IRS Form 706 United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Returns. It automates complex calculations for estate valuations, deductions, credits, and generation-skipping transfers, with built-in diagnostics to ensure compliance. Designed for CPAs and tax firms, it supports e-filing and integrates with Intuit's ecosystem for seamless data import from prior returns or accounting software.
Pros
- Comprehensive Form 706 support with automated valuations and GST calculations
- Seamless e-filing and state-specific extensions
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and prior-year data import
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High subscription costs for smaller practices
- Occasional performance lags with very large estates
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms handling complex estate returns alongside individual and business taxes.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,200 for base package, plus ~$500+ for estate module and per-return fees; volume discounts available.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax compliance solution with specialized Form 706 workflows, real-time collaboration, and estate asset tracking.
Integrated asset valuation engine with direct links to third-party appraisers and decedent data imports
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software suite from Wolters Kluwer, offering comprehensive support for complex returns including Form 706 United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return. It streamlines estate tax computations with tools for asset valuation, deductions, credits, and IRS compliance. The platform integrates with financial data imports and provides e-filing capabilities for efficient workflow in high-volume practices.
Pros
- Robust Form 706 support with advanced asset tracking and valuation tools
- Seamless integration with CCH estate planning and appraisal software
- Real-time updates for tax law changes and reliable e-filing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs for smaller firms
- Cloud dependency requires stable internet
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms managing complex, high-value estate tax returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at $4,500-$6,000 annually per user with tiers scaling by return volume and firm size.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax preparation platform featuring Form 706 automation, multi-user access, and seamless e-filing capabilities.
Relational data-sharing engine that dynamically links estate assets, beneficiaries, and allocations across interconnected worksheets for unparalleled flexibility in complex Form 706 preparations
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is an enterprise-grade tax preparation software suite tailored for CPAs and large firms handling complex tax returns, including comprehensive support for Form 706 United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Returns. It features advanced calculation engines for intricate estate valuations, QTIP elections, portability, and generation-skipping transfers, along with robust diagnostics, workflow management, and e-filing capabilities. The platform integrates seamlessly with other Thomson Reuters tools for holistic estate planning and compliance.
Pros
- Superior handling of complex Form 706 scenarios like asset valuations, deductions, and GST exemptions
- Powerful diagnostics, error-checking, and multi-state e-filing support
- Scalable for large firms with collaborative workflow and integration options
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to relational spreadsheet-style interface
- High pricing makes it less accessible for solo practitioners or small firms
- Occasional performance lags with extremely large estate datasets
Best For
Large CPA firms and estate tax specialists managing high-value, multifaceted Form 706 returns for ultra-high-net-worth clients.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually per user, plus add-ons for estate modules and premium support.
ProSeries
enterpriseReliable tax software with Form 706 e-file support, guided entry, and error-checking for mid-sized estate tax practices.
Intuit's proprietary calculation engine with built-in diagnostics for accurate Form 706 computations and IRS validation.
ProSeries by Intuit is a comprehensive desktop tax preparation software designed for professional accountants, offering support for Form 706 United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Returns among thousands of other forms. It streamlines the preparation of estate tax returns with automated calculations, asset valuation tools, and e-filing capabilities. While reliable for standard estate filings, it excels more broadly in individual and business tax prep rather than highly specialized estate planning.
Pros
- Strong integration with Intuit ecosystem like QuickBooks for asset data import
- Reliable e-filing and IRS compliance for Form 706
- Comprehensive diagnostics and error-checking tools
Cons
- Less advanced features for ultra-complex estates compared to specialized competitors
- Desktop-only installation requires manual updates and hardware
- Additional costs for estate module and per-return fees can accumulate
Best For
Tax professionals handling a mix of returns who occasionally prepare straightforward Form 706 filings.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$449 for basic package; estate/706 support via add-on modules (~$200+) or per-return pricing (~$50-100 per form).
Drake Tax
enterpriseAffordable, high-value tax prep software including Form 706 with strong diagnostics and unlimited e-filing.
Direct IRS e-filing for Form 706 with automated portability elections and supplemental calculations
Drake Tax is a desktop-based tax preparation software suite from Drake Software that includes robust support for Form 706, the U.S. Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return. It automates complex estate tax calculations, asset valuations, deductions, and generations-skipping transfer computations, with e-filing capabilities directly to the IRS. The software integrates with other fiduciary and individual tax modules, making it suitable for professionals handling estate planning and administration.
Pros
- Affordable pricing for comprehensive Form 706 support including unlimited estates
- Reliable e-filing and state inheritance tax returns
- Strong integration with prior-year data import and fiduciary worksheets
Cons
- Dated Windows-only interface lacks modern cloud or mobile access
- Steeper learning curve for complex estate scenarios compared to specialized tools
- Limited advanced valuation tools requiring third-party integrations
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or CPAs seeking cost-effective, reliable Form 706 preparation with full e-file support.
Pricing
Professional bundles start at ~$1,500-$2,500 per user for unlimited returns including Form 706; volume discounts available.
CCH TaxWise
enterpriseUser-friendly tax preparation tool supporting Form 706 with integrated asset valuation and state estate tax forms.
Seamless integration with CCH's AnswerConnect research database for instant access to estate tax guidance and precedents
CCH TaxWise from Wolters Kluwer is a professional tax preparation software that supports Form 706 for estate and generation-skipping transfer tax returns, enabling accurate calculations of estate values, deductions, and tax liabilities. It integrates with other tax forms and provides e-filing capabilities for federal returns. While primarily known for individual and business tax prep, its Form 706 module offers guided navigation and compliance checks for estate tax professionals.
Pros
- Robust integration with Wolters Kluwer research tools and diagnostics for accurate Form 706 compliance
- Supports e-filing and state variations where applicable
- Strong customer support and regular updates for tax law changes
Cons
- Steep learning curve for estate-specific workflows compared to dedicated Form 706 software
- Higher pricing for full suite access, with Form 706 as an add-on module
- Limited advanced estate planning tools like complex trust modeling
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms handling a moderate volume of estate returns alongside other tax prep needs.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $2,500 for base package plus Form 706 module; volume discounts available for multi-user firms.
TaxSlayer Pro
enterpriseCost-effective professional software with Form 706 capabilities, fast input, and e-file for estate returns.
Budget-friendly unlimited e-filing for Form 706 without tiered per-return pricing hikes
TaxSlayer Pro is a professional tax preparation software suite that supports Form 706 for U.S. Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Returns, allowing tax pros to value assets, calculate deductions, and generate schedules efficiently. It offers both cloud-based and desktop options with built-in diagnostics, guidance, and e-filing capabilities for federal estate returns. While primarily known for 1040 and business returns, its Form 706 module handles basic to moderately complex estates with integration to client organizers and prior-year data import.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Intuitive interface with step-by-step guidance
- Reliable federal e-filing and error-checking tools
Cons
- Lacks advanced tools for ultra-complex estates (e.g., limited charitable deductions modeling)
- No dedicated state estate tax support in most cases
- Customer support slower during peak season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms handling straightforward Form 706 returns on a budget.
Pricing
Starts at ~$1,645/year for the Online Pro bundle (unlimited federal returns including Form 706); additional per-return fees may apply for high volume.
EstateExec
specializedOnline estate settlement platform that generates IRS Form 706 with inventory tracking and simplified calculations.
Seamless linkage between detailed asset inventories and dynamic Form 706 schedules for accurate, audit-ready tax returns
EstateExec is a cloud-based estate administration platform that supports the preparation of IRS Form 706 for estate tax returns, alongside comprehensive tools for asset inventory, expense tracking, and beneficiary distributions. It automates complex calculations like the unified credit, deductions, and generation-skipping transfer taxes. Designed for executors, attorneys, and accountants, it streamlines the entire estate settlement process from death to final tax filing.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of estate management and Form 706 preparation
- Automated valuations and tax calculations reduce errors
- Real-time collaboration for multiple users on estates
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex estates
- Limited third-party integrations compared to dedicated tax software
- Subscription model may add up for infrequent users
Best For
Executors and estate attorneys managing mid-sized estates who want an all-in-one platform for administration and Form 706 filing.
Pricing
Starts at $19/month (Basic), $49/month or $495/year (Pro with full Form 706 support); per-estate pricing available.
CrossLink Tax
specializedModular tax software supporting Form 706 for trusts and estates with customizable workflows and e-filing.
CrossLink's proprietary 'Link & Load' technology for importing data from probate documents and prior returns directly into Form 706 schedules
CrossLink Tax is a professional tax preparation software suite tailored for estate and fiduciary returns, with robust support for IRS Form 706 (United States Estate Tax Return). It automates complex calculations for asset valuations, deductions, credits, and generation-skipping transfers across all required schedules. The software enables electronic filing and provides diagnostic checks to minimize errors in high-stakes estate tax filings.
Pros
- Comprehensive Form 706 support with all schedules and automated valuations
- Seamless e-filing integration with IRS
- Strong diagnostic and error-checking tools
Cons
- Dated user interface with a learning curve
- Limited integrations with third-party asset management tools
- Customer support can be slow during peak seasons
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms specializing in estate planning and handling moderate volumes of Form 706 returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $495 for basic access, with Form 706 module in Pro plan at $995/year; per-return fees may apply.
Conclusion
The reviewed Form 706 software cater to varying needs, from robust professional capabilities to accessible simplicity. UltraTax CS stands out as the top choice, excelling with advanced support, valuation tools, and e-filing for complex returns. Both Lacerte and CCH Axcess Tax provide strong alternatives: Lacerte for desktop integration and estate planning professionals, CCH Axcess Tax for cloud collaboration and real-time workflows.
Explore UltraTax CS to experience its unmatched Form 706 features, whether you’re navigating complex returns or seeking efficiency—your ideal tool for accurate estate tax preparation.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison