Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Professional tax preparation software with superior Form 990 support, advanced diagnostics, and seamless e-filing for non-profits.
- 2#2: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based platform delivering comprehensive non-profit tax compliance including all 990 series forms and real-time collaboration.
- 3#3: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based enterprise tax solution optimized for complex non-profit returns with multi-user access and global compliance features.
- 4#4: Lacerte - Intuit's high-end professional tax software providing robust tools for non-profit 990 preparation and IRS e-filing.
- 5#5: CCH ProSystem fx Tax - Desktop-based tax prep software with specialized diagnostics and workflow tools for non-profit tax returns.
- 6#6: Drake Tax - Cost-effective professional tax software supporting full Form 990 series with strong e-filing and customer support.
- 7#7: ProSeries Tax - Reliable Intuit tax software for professionals handling non-profit filings including Form 990 and related schedules.
- 8#8: TaxWise - Intuitive tax preparation software with solid support for non-profit forms and efficient e-filing capabilities.
- 9#9: ExpressTaxExempt - Specialized online tool for easy preparation and e-filing of Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and 990-T.
- 10#10: Tax990 - Streamlined cloud-based service for non-profits to prepare, review, and e-file IRS Form 990 returns affordably.
We ranked tools based on Form 990 support depth, e-filing reliability, ease of use, advanced features (like diagnostics or collaboration), and overall value, prioritizing solutions that empower both professionals and small organizations to meet compliance goals with confidence.
Comparison Table
For non-profits seeking to streamline tax compliance, this comparison table highlights top tools such as UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, GoSystem Tax RS, Lacerte, CCH ProSystem fx Tax, and more. Readers will discover key features, usability, and suitability for different organizational sizes, empowering them to select the best software for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Professional tax preparation software with superior Form 990 support, advanced diagnostics, and seamless e-filing for non-profits. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 2 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based platform delivering comprehensive non-profit tax compliance including all 990 series forms and real-time collaboration. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based enterprise tax solution optimized for complex non-profit returns with multi-user access and global compliance features. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Lacerte Intuit's high-end professional tax software providing robust tools for non-profit 990 preparation and IRS e-filing. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | CCH ProSystem fx Tax Desktop-based tax prep software with specialized diagnostics and workflow tools for non-profit tax returns. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Drake Tax Cost-effective professional tax software supporting full Form 990 series with strong e-filing and customer support. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 7 | ProSeries Tax Reliable Intuit tax software for professionals handling non-profit filings including Form 990 and related schedules. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 8 | TaxWise Intuitive tax preparation software with solid support for non-profit forms and efficient e-filing capabilities. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 9 | ExpressTaxExempt Specialized online tool for easy preparation and e-filing of Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and 990-T. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 10 | Tax990 Streamlined cloud-based service for non-profits to prepare, review, and e-file IRS Form 990 returns affordably. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
Professional tax preparation software with superior Form 990 support, advanced diagnostics, and seamless e-filing for non-profits.
Cloud-based platform delivering comprehensive non-profit tax compliance including all 990 series forms and real-time collaboration.
Web-based enterprise tax solution optimized for complex non-profit returns with multi-user access and global compliance features.
Intuit's high-end professional tax software providing robust tools for non-profit 990 preparation and IRS e-filing.
Desktop-based tax prep software with specialized diagnostics and workflow tools for non-profit tax returns.
Cost-effective professional tax software supporting full Form 990 series with strong e-filing and customer support.
Reliable Intuit tax software for professionals handling non-profit filings including Form 990 and related schedules.
Intuitive tax preparation software with solid support for non-profit forms and efficient e-filing capabilities.
Specialized online tool for easy preparation and e-filing of Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and 990-T.
Streamlined cloud-based service for non-profits to prepare, review, and e-file IRS Form 990 returns affordably.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseProfessional tax preparation software with superior Form 990 support, advanced diagnostics, and seamless e-filing for non-profits.
SmartDiag diagnostics engine that proactively flags non-profit-specific issues like UBI calculations and donor disclosures
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software renowned for its comprehensive support of non-profit tax forms, including 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, 990-N, and all associated schedules. It automates complex calculations, provides real-time diagnostics, and enables electronic filing for federal and state returns, ensuring compliance for organizations of all sizes. Integrated with the CS Professional Suite, it streamlines workflows for tax professionals handling high-volume non-profit clients.
Pros
- Unmatched support for all non-profit forms and schedules with automated computations
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking tools that minimize compliance risks
- Seamless e-filing, state integration, and practice management connectivity
Cons
- High subscription costs may deter small practices
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive navigation
- Requires robust hardware and ongoing updates for optimal performance
Best For
Established CPA firms and tax professionals managing complex, high-volume non-profit returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based; core federal/non-profit modules start at ~$3,500-$6,000 annually per user, with add-ons for states and payroll.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based platform delivering comprehensive non-profit tax compliance including all 990 series forms and real-time collaboration.
AI-powered diagnostics and related organization mapping for intricate non-profit structures
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, specializing in comprehensive support for non-profit tax returns including Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, and all associated schedules. It offers advanced diagnostics, real-time error checking, guided navigation, and electronic filing to ensure compliance with IRS requirements for non-profits. The platform integrates with practice management tools for efficient workflows in handling complex non-profit structures like related organizations and grants.
Pros
- Robust support for all Form 990 series and schedules with specialized non-profit diagnostics
- Cloud-based collaboration and secure multi-user access for firm-wide workflows
- Advanced automation for related party transactions and compliance reporting
Cons
- High subscription costs that may not suit small firms or solo practitioners
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Overly complex for simple non-profit returns without dedicated training
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms handling complex non-profit tax compliance for multiple clients.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and modules; typically $5,000+ annually per user with tiered plans.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based enterprise tax solution optimized for complex non-profit returns with multi-user access and global compliance features.
GoChart relational database system for streamlined data entry and management across interconnected non-profit entities and schedules
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a cloud-based, enterprise-grade tax preparation platform designed for professional firms handling complex returns, including comprehensive support for non-profit Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, and related schedules. It features a relational database structure (GoChart) for efficient data input across multi-entity organizations, advanced diagnostics, automated calculations, and seamless e-filing with state compliance. The software emphasizes real-time collaboration, workflow automation, and integration with Thomson Reuters' practice management tools, making it suitable for high-volume non-profit tax practices.
Pros
- Robust support for complex non-profit returns with full Form 990 series and schedules
- Real-time multi-user collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Powerful diagnostics engine and relational data structure for multi-entity orgs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring significant training
- High cost prohibitive for small firms
- Occasional performance lags in web-based environment with large datasets
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms with high-volume, complex non-profit clients needing enterprise-level automation and collaboration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions typically start at $5,000+ per preparer or firm-wide, scaling with user count and return volume.
Lacerte
enterpriseIntuit's high-end professional tax software providing robust tools for non-profit 990 preparation and IRS e-filing.
Advanced non-profit diagnostics that automatically flag IRS compliance issues across all 990 schedules
Lacerte by Intuit is a professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms handling complex returns, including comprehensive support for non-profit Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, and 990-N. It offers e-filing, diagnostics, error-checking, and integration with Intuit's ecosystem for streamlined workflows. While powerful for diverse tax needs, it's particularly valued for automating intricate non-profit schedules and ensuring IRS compliance.
Pros
- Extensive Form 990 support with automated calculations for all schedules
- Powerful diagnostics and compliance checks tailored to non-profits
- Seamless e-filing and integration with Intuit ProConnect and QuickBooks
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its professional complexity
- High subscription costs compared to non-profit-specific alternatives
- Desktop-focused with limited cloud collaboration features
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms preparing complex non-profit returns alongside individual and business taxes.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$1,200/year for unlimited federal e-filing (including 990s), with tiers up to $2,500+ for states and advanced features.
CCH ProSystem fx Tax
enterpriseDesktop-based tax prep software with specialized diagnostics and workflow tools for non-profit tax returns.
Advanced diagnostics and planning tools that proactively flag non-profit compliance issues and optimize filings
CCH ProSystem fx Tax from Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and accounting firms handling complex returns, including comprehensive support for non-profit Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF, and related schedules. It offers advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and e-filing capabilities, integrated with the Axcess platform for workflow efficiency. Ideal for high-volume practices, it ensures compliance with federal and state non-profit tax requirements through robust data import and review tools.
Pros
- Extensive support for all non-profit 990 series forms and schedules
- Powerful diagnostics engine for compliance and error detection
- Seamless integration with practice management and e-filing systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms managing complex, high-volume non-profit tax returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at approximately $5,000-$10,000 per preparer annually, plus fees for state modules and add-ons.
Drake Tax
enterpriseCost-effective professional tax software supporting full Form 990 series with strong e-filing and customer support.
Unlimited e-filing for all non-profit forms with no volume limits or extra fees
Drake Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software that supports comprehensive non-profit tax filing, including Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and related schedules. It offers e-filing, data import from prior years, and integration with accounting tools for efficient workflow management. Designed for tax pros handling diverse client portfolios, it ensures compliance with IRS requirements for non-profits while supporting high-volume preparation.
Pros
- Unlimited e-filing and clients without per-return fees
- Robust support for all 990 series forms and schedules
- Excellent customer service with live chat and phone support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to forms-based interface
- Primarily Windows desktop application, less ideal for Mac users
- Limited non-profit-specific dashboards or automation compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Tax professionals and accounting firms preparing high volumes of non-profit returns alongside individual and business taxes.
Pricing
Starts at $1,495/year for the base Drake package including unlimited 990 filings; higher tiers up to $2,500+ with add-ons for states and payroll.
ProSeries Tax
enterpriseReliable Intuit tax software for professionals handling non-profit filings including Form 990 and related schedules.
Built-in diagnostics and error resolution tailored for complex Schedule A through R on Form 990
ProSeries Tax by Intuit is a professional desktop tax preparation software primarily designed for tax pros handling individual, business, and non-profit returns. It provides robust support for Form 990 series filings, including 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, and 990-PF, with e-filing, error-checking, and calculations for non-profit specific schedules. While versatile for multi-client practices, it lacks deep specialization in non-profit accounting or donor management beyond tax prep.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all Form 990 variants with e-filing and diagnostics
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for financial data import
- Automatic updates and reliable accuracy for professional use
Cons
- High pricing not ideal for small non-profits without a CPA
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Desktop-only (no full cloud option), limiting remote access
Best For
Professional tax preparers or CPAs managing non-profit clients alongside other business returns.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for Basic (1040-focused); Business/Non-Profit bundles from $1,149-$3,199/year based on volume and features.
TaxWise
enterpriseIntuitive tax preparation software with solid support for non-profit forms and efficient e-filing capabilities.
Proactive Smart Diagnostics engine that flags non-profit-specific compliance issues before filing
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional tax preparation software suite widely used by CPAs and tax firms for handling various returns, including comprehensive support for non-profit Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, and 990-PF. It offers robust tools for data import, automated calculations, error diagnostics, and secure e-filing to ensure IRS compliance. The software integrates with practice management systems, making it suitable for high-volume preparers managing non-profit clients alongside others.
Pros
- Extensive Form 990 series support with automated schedules
- Reliable e-filing and high IRS acceptance rates
- Integrated diagnostics and audit trail for compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface
- High subscription costs for smaller users
- Limited non-profit-specific reporting beyond basics
Best For
Tax professionals and firms preparing non-profit returns as part of a diverse client portfolio.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $1,200-$2,500 based on returns volume and modules, with add-ons for states and support.
ExpressTaxExempt
specializedSpecialized online tool for easy preparation and e-filing of Forms 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and 990-T.
Free e-filing of Form 990-N (e-Postcard) with instant IRS acknowledgment
ExpressTaxExempt is a specialized online platform designed for non-profit organizations to prepare and e-file IRS Form 990 series returns, including 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, 990-PF, and 990-T. It provides a step-by-step interview process with automatic calculations, error checks, and direct electronic submission to the IRS. The software also supports Form 8868 extensions and select state filings, making compliance straightforward for 501(c) entities.
Pros
- Affordable pay-per-return pricing with free 990-N filing
- Intuitive step-by-step guidance like TurboTax for non-profits
- IRS-authorized e-file provider with accuracy guarantees
Cons
- Limited to Form 990 series and lacks full accounting integration
- No mobile app or advanced customization options
- Customer support primarily email-based with limited hours
Best For
Small to mid-sized non-profits with simple annual filings who want an easy, low-cost e-filing solution.
Pricing
Pay-per-return model: $0 for 990-N, $99.95 for 990-EZ, $149.95 for 990, up to $249.95 for 990-PF; discounts for multiples.
Tax990
specializedStreamlined cloud-based service for non-profits to prepare, review, and e-file IRS Form 990 returns affordably.
Real-time IRS e-file validation and error checking during preparation
Tax990 is a cloud-based e-filing platform tailored for non-profit organizations to prepare and submit IRS Form 990 series returns, including 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, and related schedules. It simplifies data entry with guided interviews, automatic calculations, and IRS-compliant export options. Accessible via web browser without installation, it's designed for small to mid-sized non-profits seeking affordable compliance.
Pros
- Affordable per-return pricing
- Simple, guided data entry process
- Direct e-filing with IRS validation
Cons
- Limited advanced scheduling support
- Basic reporting and analytics
- No mobile app or offline access
Best For
Small non-profits with straightforward Form 990 filings and limited budgets.
Pricing
Per-return pricing from $99 (990-N) to $299 (990); volume discounts and annual plans available starting at $199/year.
Conclusion
Evaluating non-profit tax software reveals three standout tools: UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, and GoSystem Tax RS, each tailored to distinct needs. UltraTax CS leads with superior Form 990 support and seamless e-filing, making it the top choice, while CCH Axcess Tax offers robust cloud collaboration and GoSystem Tax RS caters to complex, multi-user workflows. These options ensure non-profits can navigate compliance effectively, with the right solution depending on their specific requirements.
For those seeking a reliable start, exploring UltraTax CS—our top-ranked tool—can simplify tax preparation, enhance accuracy, and free up time to focus on their core mission.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.