Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with advanced Form 709 gift tax return support, lifetime gift tracking, and integration for complex estate planning.
- 2#2: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based professional tax solution featuring specialized modules for gift taxes, generation-skipping transfers, and comprehensive compliance reporting.
- 3#3: Lacerte - High-performance desktop tax software for CPAs with robust gift tax calculations, e-filing of Form 709, and diagnostics for accuracy.
- 4#4: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based tax prep platform excelling in complex gift and estate tax returns with real-time collaboration and workflow automation.
- 5#5: ProConnect Tax Online - Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool supporting gift tax forms, automatic calculations, and seamless multi-client management.
- 6#6: Drake Tax - Cost-effective professional tax software with full Form 709 support, gift splitting, and efficient e-filing features.
- 7#7: CCH TaxWise - Streamlined tax preparation software for smaller firms, including gift tax return preparation and basic lifetime exemption tracking.
- 8#8: TaxAct Professional - Affordable pro tax software that handles gift taxes via Form 709 with guided input and value-driven pricing.
- 9#9: TaxSlayer Pro - User-friendly professional tax platform supporting gift tax filings, quick data entry, and competitive support services.
- 10#10: CFS Tax Software - Comprehensive Windows-based tax prep software offering Form 709 gift tax capabilities and all-in-one federal form support.
We ranked these tools by prioritizing robust gift tax capabilities (including Form 709 support), accuracy, ease of use, and value, ensuring they meet the demands of professionals, whether managing complex estates or smaller firms. Quality, workflow integration, and user feedback also guided our assessment to deliver a reliable guide.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key features, usability, and essential functions of popular gift tax software tools, including UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, Lacerte, GoSystem Tax RS, ProConnect Tax Online, and more. Readers can use this resource to evaluate options based on their unique needs, such as complexity handling, user-friendliness, or integration capabilities, to find the best fit for their gift tax preparation tasks.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with advanced Form 709 gift tax return support, lifetime gift tracking, and integration for complex estate planning. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based professional tax solution featuring specialized modules for gift taxes, generation-skipping transfers, and comprehensive compliance reporting. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Lacerte High-performance desktop tax software for CPAs with robust gift tax calculations, e-filing of Form 709, and diagnostics for accuracy. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based tax prep platform excelling in complex gift and estate tax returns with real-time collaboration and workflow automation. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ProConnect Tax Online Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool supporting gift tax forms, automatic calculations, and seamless multi-client management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Drake Tax Cost-effective professional tax software with full Form 709 support, gift splitting, and efficient e-filing features. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | CCH TaxWise Streamlined tax preparation software for smaller firms, including gift tax return preparation and basic lifetime exemption tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | TaxAct Professional Affordable pro tax software that handles gift taxes via Form 709 with guided input and value-driven pricing. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | TaxSlayer Pro User-friendly professional tax platform supporting gift tax filings, quick data entry, and competitive support services. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | CFS Tax Software Comprehensive Windows-based tax prep software offering Form 709 gift tax capabilities and all-in-one federal form support. | specialized | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.7/10 |
Enterprise-grade tax preparation software with advanced Form 709 gift tax return support, lifetime gift tracking, and integration for complex estate planning.
Cloud-based professional tax solution featuring specialized modules for gift taxes, generation-skipping transfers, and comprehensive compliance reporting.
High-performance desktop tax software for CPAs with robust gift tax calculations, e-filing of Form 709, and diagnostics for accuracy.
Web-based tax prep platform excelling in complex gift and estate tax returns with real-time collaboration and workflow automation.
Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool supporting gift tax forms, automatic calculations, and seamless multi-client management.
Cost-effective professional tax software with full Form 709 support, gift splitting, and efficient e-filing features.
Streamlined tax preparation software for smaller firms, including gift tax return preparation and basic lifetime exemption tracking.
Affordable pro tax software that handles gift taxes via Form 709 with guided input and value-driven pricing.
User-friendly professional tax platform supporting gift tax filings, quick data entry, and competitive support services.
Comprehensive Windows-based tax prep software offering Form 709 gift tax capabilities and all-in-one federal form support.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade tax preparation software with advanced Form 709 gift tax return support, lifetime gift tracking, and integration for complex estate planning.
Intelligent diagnostics and scenario modeling that automatically calculates gift tax implications across multiple years and family members
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software renowned for its comprehensive handling of U.S. gift tax returns on Form 709, including complex calculations for annual exclusions, lifetime exemptions, gift splitting, and generation-skipping transfers. It integrates seamlessly with other tax modules for holistic estate and trust planning. The software provides robust diagnostics, e-filing capabilities, and automatic updates to ensure compliance with the latest IRS regulations.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in complex gift tax computations, including prior gift carryovers and unified credit tracking
- Seamless integration with estate tax (Form 706) and trust modules for comprehensive planning
- Advanced diagnostics engine that flags errors and ensures IRS compliance before filing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its professional-level depth
- High subscription costs, especially for smaller firms or solo practitioners
- Primarily Windows-based, limiting accessibility on other platforms
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex gift and estate tax returns for high-net-worth clients.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at around $5,000-$10,000 annually per firm, scaling with users, modules, and states; contact Thomson Reuters for quotes.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based professional tax solution featuring specialized modules for gift taxes, generation-skipping transfers, and comprehensive compliance reporting.
Advanced diagnostics and AnswerTree guidance for navigating IRS gift tax rules and exceptions
CCH Axcess Tax is a comprehensive, cloud-based tax preparation platform from Wolters Kluwer designed for professional tax firms, offering robust support for federal gift tax returns (Form 709) and related schedules. It handles complex scenarios like lifetime transfers, annual exclusions, generation-skipping transfers, and integration with trusts or estates. The software provides diagnostics, error-checking, and real-time law updates to ensure compliance and accuracy in gift tax reporting.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of intricate gift tax calculations, including valuations and exemptions
- Seamless integration with estate tax modules and CCH research tools
- Cloud-based access with strong security and multi-user collaboration
Cons
- High cost may deter smaller practices
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive workflows
- Limited customization for niche gift tax-only workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms managing high volumes of complex gift and estate tax returns.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and return volume; typically $5,000+ annually per user with per-return fees.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-performance desktop tax software for CPAs with robust gift tax calculations, e-filing of Form 709, and diagnostics for accuracy.
Lifetime gift tax tracking and scenario modeling that simulates multi-year gifting strategies against unified credit limits
Lacerte by Intuit is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for CPAs and tax firms, offering robust support for gift tax returns via Form 709, including calculations for annual exclusions, lifetime exemptions, gift splitting, and generation-skipping transfers. It integrates seamlessly with other tax modules for comprehensive estate planning and provides automatic updates to comply with changing IRS regulations. While powerful for complex scenarios, it's part of a broader tax suite rather than a standalone gift tax tool.
Pros
- Advanced Form 709 support with automated calculations for lifetime gifts and GST exemptions
- Real-time diagnostics and error-checking to ensure IRS compliance
- Seamless integration with Intuit's ecosystem for holistic tax planning
Cons
- High subscription costs make it less accessible for small practices or occasional users
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive, professional-level interface
- Overkill for simple gift tax filings, lacking lightweight alternatives
Best For
CPAs and tax professionals managing complex, high-value gift tax returns for affluent clients within a full-service tax practice.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at approximately $1,200 per user for unlimited returns, with add-ons for e-filing and multi-user access.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based tax prep platform excelling in complex gift and estate tax returns with real-time collaboration and workflow automation.
Relational database system for precise multi-year gift history tracking and unified reporting across estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfers
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a cloud-based professional tax preparation platform designed for complex returns, including comprehensive support for U.S. gift tax filings via Form 709. It features advanced calculation engines, multi-year gift tracking, lifetime exemption management, and integration with other Thomson Reuters tools for seamless workflows. Primarily used by mid-to-large tax firms, it excels in handling high-volume, intricate gift tax scenarios with robust diagnostics and e-filing capabilities.
Pros
- Powerful gift tax module with automatic carryover calculations and splitting options
- Cloud-based access for team collaboration and remote work
- Extensive diagnostics and error-checking for compliance accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost unsuitable for small practices
- Interface feels dated compared to modern consumer tax apps
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms handling complex, high-volume gift tax returns for high-net-worth clients.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing, typically $4,000-$10,000+ per preparer annually depending on firm size and modules; custom quotes required.
ProConnect Tax Online
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax preparation tool supporting gift tax forms, automatic calculations, and seamless multi-client management.
Intelligent diagnostics engine that proactively identifies gift tax compliance issues and optimizes lifetime exemption calculations
ProConnect Tax Online, from Intuit, is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software that includes robust support for gift tax returns via Form 709. It handles complex calculations like lifetime gift exclusions, gift splitting, prior taxable gifts, and generation-skipping transfers, with seamless integration into broader 1040 and estate tax workflows. Ideal for tax pros, it offers diagnostics, e-filing, and real-time updates to tax laws, making it a versatile tool beyond just gifts.
Pros
- Comprehensive Form 709 support with advanced diagnostics and error-checking
- Cloud-based access for anytime collaboration and mobile workflow
- Strong integration with Intuit tools and other tax forms for holistic prep
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to professional-grade software
- Pricing can be high for low-volume gift tax filers
- Overfeatured for simple gift tax needs, lacking niche simplicity
Best For
Tax professionals and firms handling high-volume, complex gift tax returns alongside individual and estate taxes.
Pricing
Tiered subscription plans starting at ~$1,049/year for 100 returns (Premier), with pay-per-return options and higher tiers up to $4,000+ for unlimited access.
Drake Tax
specializedCost-effective professional tax software with full Form 709 support, gift splitting, and efficient e-filing features.
Integrated lifetime gift history tracking and automatic carryover calculations across multiple Form 709 filings
Drake Tax is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software that includes robust support for gift tax returns through Form 709, enabling accurate calculations for annual exclusions, lifetime exemptions, split gifts, and generation-skipping transfers. It integrates seamlessly with individual and estate tax modules, allowing tax pros to manage complex gifting scenarios alongside other returns. While not exclusively focused on gift taxes, its full-featured suite makes it a reliable choice for practitioners handling occasional to moderate gift tax volumes.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited client returns
- Strong Form 709 support including e-filing and complex gift calculations
- Excellent customer support and frequent updates
Cons
- Dated interface compared to modern competitors
- Steeper learning curve for gift tax newcomers
- Limited specialized reporting or analytics for high-volume gift tax filers
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms needing cost-effective gift tax capabilities integrated with general tax prep.
Pricing
Starts at around $1,500 per preparer annually for the Professional edition, scaling with users and add-ons; unlimited clients included.
CCH TaxWise
specializedStreamlined tax preparation software for smaller firms, including gift tax return preparation and basic lifetime exemption tracking.
Advanced generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax calculations with automatic donor tracking across multiple years
CCH TaxWise, from Wolters Kluwer, is a professional-grade tax preparation software that supports Form 709 for U.S. gift tax returns, along with comprehensive federal and state filing capabilities. It automates complex gift tax calculations, including annual exclusions, lifetime exemptions, and generation-skipping transfers. The software includes diagnostics, e-filing, and integration with practice management tools for efficient workflows.
Pros
- Strong Form 709 support with accurate split-gift and valuation tools
- Real-time IRS compliance updates and error-checking diagnostics
- Seamless e-filing and multi-state gift tax handling
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Higher cost for smaller practices
- Limited customization options compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs specializing in estate and gift tax planning with moderate to high volumes.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$1,200 per preparer/year for basic federal/gift modules, plus add-ons for states (~$300+) and e-filing.
TaxAct Professional
specializedAffordable pro tax software that handles gift taxes via Form 709 with guided input and value-driven pricing.
Unlimited e-filing of Form 709 at no extra cost, streamlining compliance for high-volume preparers
TaxAct Professional is a comprehensive tax preparation platform for professionals that includes support for IRS Form 709, enabling efficient preparation and e-filing of U.S. gift tax returns. It handles gift reporting, taxable gift calculations, lifetime exemption tracking, and generation-skipping transfer taxes within its integrated workflow. While not exclusively focused on gift taxes, it provides reliable tools for professionals managing mixed tax portfolios, with features like automatic carryovers and donor-donee coordination.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited federal e-filing for Form 709
- User-friendly step-by-step guidance and integration with other tax forms
- Reliable automation for gift exclusions, splitting, and carryover calculations
Cons
- Secondary focus on gift tax compared to income tax features, limiting depth for ultra-complex estates
- Fewer specialized valuation tools than dedicated estate/gift software
- Customer support primarily online with limited phone availability
Best For
Tax professionals preparing a mix of income, business, and occasional gift tax returns who value cost savings and simplicity.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for the 1040 Professional edition (includes Form 709 support and unlimited e-filing); bundles up to $2,500+ for full suites.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedUser-friendly professional tax platform supporting gift tax filings, quick data entry, and competitive support services.
Seamless integration of Form 709 with client organizer portals for efficient gift tax data collection and review.
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software that supports gift tax returns through Form 709, enabling tax pros to handle annual gift reporting, split gifts, prior taxable gifts, and lifetime exemption tracking. It integrates gift tax preparation with a full suite of federal and state returns, offering e-filing and client management tools. While not exclusively focused on gift taxes, it provides reliable functionality for professionals managing occasional or moderate volumes of Form 709 filings.
Pros
- Strong support for Form 709 including automatic calculations for unified credit and generation-skipping transfers
- Unlimited e-filing for gift returns at no extra cost
- User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop data import
Cons
- Lacks advanced tools for complex multi-jurisdictional or Crummey power gifts compared to specialized software
- Desktop-focused with limited cloud collaboration features in base plans
- Customer support can be slower during peak tax season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or CPAs handling occasional gift tax returns alongside general tax preparation.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $1,295 for Desktop Basic (includes Form 709), up to $3,495 for Enterprise with advanced features.
CFS Tax Software
specializedComprehensive Windows-based tax prep software offering Form 709 gift tax capabilities and all-in-one federal form support.
Automated gift splitting, valuation adjustments, and multi-year carryover tracking with full audit trail
CFS Tax Software is a professional desktop tax preparation suite from cfstax.com, featuring a dedicated Gift & Estate Tax module for Form 709 filing, supporting complex gift splitting, generation-skipping transfers, and prior gift carryovers. It integrates with CFS's broader 1040, business, and fiduciary return software, providing diagnostics, e-filing, and state support where applicable. While reliable for high-volume preparers, it's geared toward Windows users rather than cloud-first environments.
Pros
- Strong Form 709 support with gift splitting and diagnostics
- Seamless integration across tax return types
- Unlimited e-filing and reliable customer support
Cons
- Desktop-only with no mobile/cloud access
- Outdated interface and steeper learning curve
- Higher pricing less ideal for low-volume gift tax filers
Best For
Established tax firms preparing a mix of returns including occasional complex gift taxes on a desktop setup.
Pricing
Annual licenses start at ~$1,200 for core modules; Gift & Estate add-on ~$300-$500 extra, plus per-state fees.
Conclusion
When evaluating the best gift tax software, UltraTax CS leads as the top choice, boasting enterprise-grade features like advanced Form 709 support and lifetime gift tracking that cater to complex estate planning needs. CCH Axcess Tax follows closely, offering a cloud-based solution with specialized modules for gift and generation-skipping transfers, ideal for professionals seeking comprehensive compliance. Lacerte rounds out the top three, proving a high-performance option for CPAs with robust calculations, e-filing capabilities, and diagnostics to ensure accuracy.
Whether you’re planning for complex transfers or streamlining compliance, start with UltraTax CS to leverage its leading tools and simplify gift tax preparation.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.