Quick Overview
- 1#1: UltraTax CS - Leading professional tax preparation software with advanced features for complex partnership returns including Form 1065, basis calculations, and multi-state K-1s.
- 2#2: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax compliance solution offering robust partnership tax return preparation, workflow automation, and seamless K-1 distribution.
- 3#3: GoSystem Tax RS - Scalable cloud tax preparation platform excelling in enterprise-level partnership filings with real-time collaboration and diagnostics.
- 4#4: Lacerte - Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient Form 1065 preparation, partner allocations, and integration with accounting tools.
- 5#5: Drake Tax - Affordable yet feature-rich tax software supporting comprehensive partnership returns with e-filing and state-specific handling.
- 6#6: ProConnect Tax - Cloud-hosted tax prep tool from Intuit for streamlined partnership tax returns, QuickBooks integration, and automated K-1s.
- 7#7: TaxWise - Professional tax software by Wolters Kluwer focused on high-volume partnership Form 1065 preparation and compliance checks.
- 8#8: TaxWorks - Reliable tax preparation system offering solid support for partnership returns with customization and error-checking capabilities.
- 9#9: TaxSlayer Pro - Cost-effective professional software for preparing partnership tax returns with unlimited e-filing and basic allocation tools.
- 10#10: TaxAct Professional - User-friendly tax software providing essential features for partnership Form 1065 filing and K-1 generation at a budget price.
We evaluated tools based on key factors including feature robustness, performance reliability, ease of use, and value, ensuring each entry excels in supporting the nuanced demands of partnership tax preparation—whether for high-volume filings, real-time collaboration, or seamless integration with accounting systems.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key features, usability, and capabilities of leading partnership tax return software, including UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, GoSystem Tax RS, Lacerte, Drake Tax, and more, to assist professionals in identifying the right tool for their needs. It outlines functionality, integration options, and support resources to help users align software with their workflow and client requirements effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UltraTax CS Leading professional tax preparation software with advanced features for complex partnership returns including Form 1065, basis calculations, and multi-state K-1s. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax compliance solution offering robust partnership tax return preparation, workflow automation, and seamless K-1 distribution. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | GoSystem Tax RS Scalable cloud tax preparation platform excelling in enterprise-level partnership filings with real-time collaboration and diagnostics. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Lacerte Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient Form 1065 preparation, partner allocations, and integration with accounting tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Drake Tax Affordable yet feature-rich tax software supporting comprehensive partnership returns with e-filing and state-specific handling. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 6 | ProConnect Tax Cloud-hosted tax prep tool from Intuit for streamlined partnership tax returns, QuickBooks integration, and automated K-1s. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | TaxWise Professional tax software by Wolters Kluwer focused on high-volume partnership Form 1065 preparation and compliance checks. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | TaxWorks Reliable tax preparation system offering solid support for partnership returns with customization and error-checking capabilities. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | TaxSlayer Pro Cost-effective professional software for preparing partnership tax returns with unlimited e-filing and basic allocation tools. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 10 | TaxAct Professional User-friendly tax software providing essential features for partnership Form 1065 filing and K-1 generation at a budget price. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
Leading professional tax preparation software with advanced features for complex partnership returns including Form 1065, basis calculations, and multi-state K-1s.
Cloud-based tax compliance solution offering robust partnership tax return preparation, workflow automation, and seamless K-1 distribution.
Scalable cloud tax preparation platform excelling in enterprise-level partnership filings with real-time collaboration and diagnostics.
Intuit's professional tax software providing efficient Form 1065 preparation, partner allocations, and integration with accounting tools.
Affordable yet feature-rich tax software supporting comprehensive partnership returns with e-filing and state-specific handling.
Cloud-hosted tax prep tool from Intuit for streamlined partnership tax returns, QuickBooks integration, and automated K-1s.
Professional tax software by Wolters Kluwer focused on high-volume partnership Form 1065 preparation and compliance checks.
Reliable tax preparation system offering solid support for partnership returns with customization and error-checking capabilities.
Cost-effective professional software for preparing partnership tax returns with unlimited e-filing and basic allocation tools.
User-friendly tax software providing essential features for partnership Form 1065 filing and K-1 generation at a budget price.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseLeading professional tax preparation software with advanced features for complex partnership returns including Form 1065, basis calculations, and multi-state K-1s.
Advanced partnership allocation engine with automated basis tracking and multi-tier support
UltraTax CS is a premier professional tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, specializing in comprehensive partnership tax return preparation (Form 1065) for CPAs and accounting firms. It offers automated calculations for complex allocations, K-1 generation, basis worksheets, and multi-state compliance, streamlining the entire workflow from input to e-filing. Integrated diagnostics ensure accuracy, while seamless data import/export supports efficient handling of large client volumes.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in partnership-specific features like tiered allocations, capital account reconciliations, and Section 704(b) bookkeeping
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking engine minimizes compliance risks
- Seamless integration with CS Professional Suite for practice-wide efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to professional-grade tax software
- High subscription costs may deter solo practitioners or small firms
- Occasional performance lags with very large partnership returns
Best For
Mid-to-large accounting firms handling complex, multi-entity partnership returns with high-volume e-filing needs.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$5,000/year for core modules including partnerships; scales to $15,000+ for full suite and multi-user access.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax compliance solution offering robust partnership tax return preparation, workflow automation, and seamless K-1 distribution.
Advanced diagnostics and simulation tools for partner basis, capital account reconciliations, and 'what-if' scenario modeling
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, offering comprehensive support for partnership tax returns including Form 1065, Schedules K-1, and complex allocations. It excels in handling multi-state filings, tiered partnerships, and advanced basis calculations with built-in diagnostics for accuracy. The platform integrates seamlessly with other Axcess suite tools for workflow efficiency and provides real-time updates to tax rules and forms.
Pros
- Robust handling of complex partnership allocations, basis tracking, and at-risk/passive activity rules
- Powerful diagnostics engine that identifies errors and compliance issues proactively
- Cloud-based with real-time IRS updates and seamless multi-state support
Cons
- High subscription costs make it less accessible for small firms
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and professional-grade interface
- Customization options are somewhat limited compared to niche competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large CPA firms handling high volumes of complex partnership returns with multi-state and international considerations.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise pricing, typically $5,000–$25,000+ annually based on firm size, users, and return volume.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseScalable cloud tax preparation platform excelling in enterprise-level partnership filings with real-time collaboration and diagnostics.
Relational database architecture enabling precise multi-year partnership data tracking and complex allocation modeling
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is an enterprise-level tax preparation software optimized for complex returns, including detailed Partnership Form 1065 filings. It provides advanced capabilities for partner basis tracking, Section 704(b) allocations, at-risk and passive activity calculations, and automated K-1 generation with packaging. The platform features a relational database structure for handling multi-year data, real-time diagnostics, and multi-state compliance, making it a go-to for professional firms dealing with intricate partnership structures.
Pros
- Superior handling of complex partnership allocations, basis worksheets, and 704(b) bookkeeping
- Real-time diagnostics, error-checking, and automated K-1 distribution tools
- Scalable relational database for enterprise firms with high-volume, multi-entity returns
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and non-intuitive interface
- High cost that may not suit smaller practices
- Dated user interface compared to modern cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large CPA firms managing complex, multi-partner partnerships with significant state and federal compliance needs.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $5,000+ per preparer annually with firm-wide licensing options and volume discounts.
Lacerte
enterpriseIntuit's professional tax software providing efficient Form 1065 preparation, partner allocations, and integration with accounting tools.
Advanced Partner Basis Worksheet with automatic tiered calculations and at-risk limitations
Lacerte by Intuit ProConnect is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms, excelling in complex partnership returns like Form 1065 and Schedules K-1. It offers automated calculations for partner basis, allocations, and M-3 reconciliations, along with robust state compliance support. The cloud-hosted platform ensures accessibility and integration with trial balance software for efficient workflows.
Pros
- Powerful automation for partner allocations, basis tracking, and K-1 generation
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and trial balance imports
- Real-time diagnostics and e-filing with high accuracy for complex partnerships
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to dense interface
- High pricing that may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
- Occasional slowdowns and glitches during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-sized to large CPA firms handling complex multi-state partnership returns with advanced allocation needs.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$4,000-$15,000 based on firm size and returns, with pay-per-return options from $100-$200 per partnership return.
Drake Tax
specializedAffordable yet feature-rich tax software supporting comprehensive partnership returns with e-filing and state-specific handling.
Form-view screens that replicate IRS forms exactly for direct, error-free data entry and review.
Drake Tax is a robust tax preparation software designed for professional accountants, offering comprehensive support for Partnership Tax Returns including Form 1065, Schedules K-1, and multi-state filings. It features an intuitive form-based interface with automated diagnostics, error-checking, and seamless e-filing capabilities. The software streamlines complex partnership calculations, allocations, and basis worksheets, making it reliable for handling returns of varying complexity.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with unlimited e-filing
- Intuitive form-view data entry mimicking IRS forms
- Outstanding customer support via phone and chat
Cons
- Fewer advanced partnership analytics compared to premium competitors
- Slower performance with extremely large or complex returns
- Limited third-party integrations
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and preparers seeking cost-effective, user-friendly software for standard partnership returns.
Pricing
Starts at $1,695 for the Professional edition (unlimited 1040s and business returns), up to $2,495 for Enterprise with advanced features.
ProConnect Tax
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax prep tool from Intuit for streamlined partnership tax returns, QuickBooks integration, and automated K-1s.
IntelliConnect diagnostics that automatically flag errors, compliance issues, and optimization opportunities in partnership allocations
ProConnect Tax, from Intuit, is a professional desktop tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms, offering comprehensive support for partnership tax returns including Form 1065, Schedules K-1, and related state filings. It features advanced diagnostics, error-checking tools, and seamless e-filing capabilities to streamline complex partnership allocations and compliance. The software integrates with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, enabling efficient data import and multi-user collaboration via SmartSync.
Pros
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking for accurate partnership returns
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for data import
- Reliable e-filing and bank products for fast refunds
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Limited mobile accessibility and cloud-only options
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms preparing complex partnership returns with a need for robust diagnostics and Intuit ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,500 for basic unlimited returns, with tiered plans up to $5,000+ for advanced features and pay-per-return options available.
TaxWise
specializedProfessional tax software by Wolters Kluwer focused on high-volume partnership Form 1065 preparation and compliance checks.
Integrated diagnostics engine with real-time error checking and quality review tools
TaxWise, developed by Wolters Kluwer, is professional tax preparation software that supports Partnership Tax Returns through Form 1065, Schedule K-1 generation, and related schedules for federal and state filings. It offers automated calculations, diagnostics, error-checking tools, and e-filing capabilities to streamline workflows for tax professionals. While versatile for small businesses and individuals, its partnership module handles standard returns efficiently but may lack depth for highly complex structures.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with straightforward navigation for partnership forms
- Reliable e-filing and state support across multiple jurisdictions
- Cost-effective pricing suitable for small to mid-sized firms
Cons
- Limited advanced features for complex multi-state or international partnerships
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets
- Customer support can be slower during peak tax season
Best For
Small to medium tax firms preparing straightforward partnership returns with moderate volume.
Pricing
Annual per-preparer pricing starts at around $1,500 for core federal modules, plus $200-$500 per state and additional fees for e-filing and premium support.
TaxWorks
specializedReliable tax preparation system offering solid support for partnership returns with customization and error-checking capabilities.
Advanced Partner Basis Worksheet with automated Section 704(b) capital account maintenance
TaxWorks is a professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, specializing in business returns including comprehensive support for Partnership Form 1065, Schedules K-1, and complex allocations. It offers automated diagnostics, partner basis calculations, and multi-state compliance tools to streamline partnership tax filings. Designed for CPAs and tax firms, it integrates with individual and other entity modules for efficient workflow management.
Pros
- Robust support for complex partnership allocations and basis worksheets
- Powerful diagnostics engine to minimize errors and ensure compliance
- Seamless e-filing and multi-state return handling
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Occasional performance lags with very large partnership files
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms handling moderately complex partnership returns with multi-state requirements.
Pricing
Subscription-based; business modules start at around $2,500-$5,000 annually depending on user count and features.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedCost-effective professional software for preparing partnership tax returns with unlimited e-filing and basic allocation tools.
Unmatched value pricing that delivers professional-grade partnership filing at a fraction of competitors' costs
TaxSlayer Pro is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling partnership returns via Form 1065, including K-1 generation, allocations, and multi-state e-filing. It provides essential tools for data entry, diagnostics, and electronic filing with strong accuracy checks. While reliable for standard partnerships, it prioritizes affordability over enterprise-level complexity.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing for high-volume filing
- Intuitive web-based interface with no installation needed
- Solid e-filing support and responsive customer service
Cons
- Lacks advanced features for highly complex partnerships
- Limited integrations with accounting software
- Slower performance with very large return volumes
Best For
Small tax firms and solo practitioners preparing straightforward partnership returns on a tight budget.
Pricing
Starts at $1,245 for 100 federal returns, with tiered plans up to $4,995 for unlimited; state returns extra.
TaxAct Professional
specializedUser-friendly tax software providing essential features for partnership Form 1065 filing and K-1 generation at a budget price.
Cost-effective pay-per-return model allowing flexibility without annual commitments
TaxAct Professional is a desktop-based tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax pros handling partnership returns via Form 1065, including Schedule K-1 generation and multi-state support. It provides essential tools for data entry, error-checking diagnostics, electronic filing, and prior-year data import to streamline workflows. While reliable for standard partnership filings, it lacks some advanced automation found in higher-end competitors.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing model with pay-per-return options
- Reliable e-filing and strong diagnostic tools for accuracy
- Straightforward interface suitable for users familiar with tax software
Cons
- Limited advanced features like AI-driven insights or complex allocation modeling
- Dated user interface compared to modern cloud-based alternatives
- Fewer integrations with practice management or accounting software
Best For
Budget-conscious small to mid-sized tax firms handling straightforward partnership returns without needing enterprise-level customization.
Pricing
Single-user licenses start at ~$1,495 for federal + unlimited states; pay-per-return pricing from $125 for Form 1065.
Conclusion
The reviewed partnership tax return software offers diverse solutions, from advanced professional tools to budget-friendly options. At the pinnacle, UltraTax CS excels with its robust features for complex returns and multi-state K-1s, making it the top choice. CCH Axcess Tax and GoSystem Tax RS stand as strong alternatives, offering cloud-based flexibility and enterprise-level collaboration, ensuring a fit for varied needs.
Take the first step toward efficient filings—explore UltraTax CS to leverage its comprehensive tools and streamline partnership tax preparation.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison