Quick Overview
- 1#1: Lacerte - Premium tax preparation software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
- 2#2: UltraTax CS - Comprehensive desktop tax software with integrated practice management, multi-state support, and seamless data flow for mid-to-large firms.
- 3#3: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-native tax preparation platform offering workflow automation, collaboration tools, and real-time firm-wide insights.
- 4#4: Drake Tax - High-performance tax software known for speed, reliability, and value with unlimited e-filing and extensive form support.
- 5#5: ProSeries Professional - Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust error checks, data import, and support for individual and small business returns.
- 6#6: ProConnect Tax Online - Secure cloud tax solution enabling remote access, team collaboration, and automatic updates for professional preparers.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - Affordable, user-friendly tax software with unlimited federal and state e-filing, live support, and quality reviews.
- 8#8: GoSystem Tax RS - Browser-based tax prep system with advanced review workflows, security, and integration for enterprise accounting practices.
- 9#9: TaxWise - Versatile tax preparation software featuring strong state return support, customization options, and practitioner-focused tools.
- 10#10: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional-grade tax software providing e-filing, error checks, and support for a wide range of returns.
Tools were selected based on rigorous evaluation of feature robustness (e.g., automation, multi-state support), operational reliability, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring they cater to the varied needs of both small firms and enterprise practices.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key features, usability, and industry fit of leading professional tax software tools, including Lacerte, UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, Drake Tax, and ProSeries Professional. It helps users evaluate options by highlighting differences in compliance capabilities, integration potential, and customer support, catering to needs from small practices to large firms. Readers will gain actionable insights to select the software that best matches their workflow and operational requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lacerte Premium tax preparation software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and e-filing. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | UltraTax CS Comprehensive desktop tax software with integrated practice management, multi-state support, and seamless data flow for mid-to-large firms. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-native tax preparation platform offering workflow automation, collaboration tools, and real-time firm-wide insights. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Drake Tax High-performance tax software known for speed, reliability, and value with unlimited e-filing and extensive form support. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Professional Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust error checks, data import, and support for individual and small business returns. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | ProConnect Tax Online Secure cloud tax solution enabling remote access, team collaboration, and automatic updates for professional preparers. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro Affordable, user-friendly tax software with unlimited federal and state e-filing, live support, and quality reviews. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | GoSystem Tax RS Browser-based tax prep system with advanced review workflows, security, and integration for enterprise accounting practices. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | TaxWise Versatile tax preparation software featuring strong state return support, customization options, and practitioner-focused tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional-grade tax software providing e-filing, error checks, and support for a wide range of returns. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
Premium tax preparation software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
Comprehensive desktop tax software with integrated practice management, multi-state support, and seamless data flow for mid-to-large firms.
Cloud-native tax preparation platform offering workflow automation, collaboration tools, and real-time firm-wide insights.
High-performance tax software known for speed, reliability, and value with unlimited e-filing and extensive form support.
Desktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust error checks, data import, and support for individual and small business returns.
Secure cloud tax solution enabling remote access, team collaboration, and automatic updates for professional preparers.
Affordable, user-friendly tax software with unlimited federal and state e-filing, live support, and quality reviews.
Browser-based tax prep system with advanced review workflows, security, and integration for enterprise accounting practices.
Versatile tax preparation software featuring strong state return support, customization options, and practitioner-focused tools.
Cost-effective professional-grade tax software providing e-filing, error checks, and support for a wide range of returns.
Lacerte
enterprisePremium tax preparation software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and e-filing.
Advanced Diagnostics engine that scans returns in real-time to catch errors, optimize refunds, and ensure IRS compliance
Lacerte, developed by Intuit, is a premier desktop-based professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, tax firms, and accountants handling complex individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It provides an extensive library of over 15,000 federal and state forms with automated calculations, error-checking diagnostics, and seamless e-filing capabilities. The software integrates with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, streamlining workflows through client organizers, batch processing, and customizable reports.
Pros
- Vast federal and state form library with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics and compliance tools to minimize errors
- Reliable high-volume e-filing and bank product integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Premium pricing that scales with usage
- Primarily desktop-focused with optional add-on cloud features
Best For
Established tax professionals and high-volume firms preparing complex returns for individuals, businesses, and estates.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$549 for limited returns, up to $2,495+ for unlimited federal/state filing; additional fees for states and e-services.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseComprehensive desktop tax software with integrated practice management, multi-state support, and seamless data flow for mid-to-large firms.
CS Connect integration for real-time data sharing across the Professional Suite, enabling end-to-end firm workflows
UltraTax CS by Thomson Reuters is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax professionals handling complex federal, state, and local returns. It provides extensive form support, automated calculations, diagnostics, and e-filing with high accuracy guarantees. The software excels in multi-client environments through integration with the CS Professional Suite, streamlining workflows from data entry to review and delivery.
Pros
- Unmatched coverage of complex tax forms and scenarios, including business and fiduciary returns
- Advanced diagnostics and error-checking tools that minimize compliance risks
- Seamless integration with CS Professional Suite for practice management and document workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve and interface not as intuitive for new users
- High pricing that may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
- Resource-intensive, requiring powerful hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing high-volume, complex returns who prioritize compliance, automation, and enterprise integrations.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$4,500/year for basic federal modules, scaling to $10,000+ with states, users, and add-ons; custom quotes available.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-native tax preparation platform offering workflow automation, collaboration tools, and real-time firm-wide insights.
Integrated Tax Planner with scenario modeling and what-if analysis for proactive client advisory
CCH Axcess Tax by Wolters Kluwer is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, tax firms, and enterprises handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It provides extensive support for federal, state, and local filings with advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and automated calculations. The platform integrates with CCH's suite of tools for workflow management, document assembly, and client portals, enabling efficient multi-user collaboration.
Pros
- Comprehensive library of over 12,000 forms with real-time updates
- Cloud-native architecture for secure remote access and automatic backups
- Powerful diagnostics engine with guided error resolution
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Premium pricing that may not suit smaller firms
- Reported occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex returns who need scalable, integrated solutions.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually, scaled by firm size, user count, and return volume.
Drake Tax
specializedHigh-performance tax software known for speed, reliability, and value with unlimited e-filing and extensive form support.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and ensures IRS/state compliance before submission
Drake Tax is a robust professional tax preparation software from Drake Software, designed for CPAs, tax preparers, and firms handling individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It supports federal and all 50 states plus DC, with features like e-filing, direct deposit, and bank product integration. The software emphasizes error prevention through advanced diagnostics and offers tools for practice management and client data import.
Pros
- Highly affordable compared to competitors
- Extensive form support and state compliance
- Excellent customer support with live chat and phone
Cons
- User interface appears dated and less modern
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited third-party integrations
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and independent preparers prioritizing cost savings and reliable state/federal filing.
Pricing
Starts at $1,495/year for up to 100 returns, up to $2,495 for unlimited; state e-filing extra (~$300-$500 per state).
ProSeries Professional
enterpriseDesktop-based professional tax prep tool with robust error checks, data import, and support for individual and small business returns.
Advanced Smart Diagnostics that proactively identifies and resolves compliance errors across federal and state returns.
ProSeries Professional by Intuit is a desktop-based tax preparation software designed for professional accountants, CPAs, and tax firms handling complex individual and business returns. It supports federal, state, and local filings with features like automated data import from prior years, comprehensive diagnostics, and direct e-filing capabilities. The software excels in high-volume environments, offering review tools, client organizers, and integration with QuickBooks for seamless workflow.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex tax forms and scenarios including partnerships and trusts
- Reliable e-filing with built-in error checking and diagnostics
- Strong integration with Intuit ecosystem like QuickBooks and Lacerte
Cons
- Desktop-only installation with no native cloud access
- Steep pricing for additional states and multi-user licenses
- Learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface for pros
Best For
Established tax professionals and firms preparing high volumes of individual and small business returns who prefer a powerful desktop solution.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for basic federal returns; state modules $200-$400 each, with premium bundles up to $2,500+ for multi-state and advanced features.
ProConnect Tax Online
enterpriseSecure cloud tax solution enabling remote access, team collaboration, and automatic updates for professional preparers.
100% cloud-hosted real-time collaboration and auto-save across devices
ProConnect Tax Online is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Intuit, designed for CPAs, tax professionals, and firms handling individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It provides comprehensive support for federal and state filings, including complex forms, diagnostics, and automated error-checking tools. The platform emphasizes seamless integration with QuickBooks and other Intuit products for efficient data import and workflow management.
Pros
- Fully cloud-based with real-time access from any device
- Robust diagnostics and error prevention for accuracy
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and Intuit ecosystem
Cons
- Higher pricing with per-return and state fees
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs already using Intuit tools who need reliable cloud-based preparation for complex returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,899 for base plans, plus ~$35-$50 per return, state modules, and e-filing fees.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedAffordable, user-friendly tax software with unlimited federal and state e-filing, live support, and quality reviews.
Flexible pay-per-return pricing that allows firms to scale costs with volume without large upfront commitments
TaxSlayer Pro is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software designed for tax preparers, CPAs, and accountants to efficiently handle client returns, including federal, state, and extensions. It offers unlimited e-filing, data import from prior years or other software, and built-in quality checks to minimize errors. The platform supports high-volume processing with pay-per-return pricing, making it accessible for small to mid-sized firms.
Pros
- Highly affordable pay-per-return pricing
- Reliable e-filing with fast processing
- Strong customer support and training resources
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
- Limited advanced tax planning and advisory tools
- Fewer integrations with accounting software
Best For
Small to medium-sized tax firms seeking cost-effective software for high-volume individual returns without needing enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Pay-per-return model starting at $1,295 for 100 federal returns (Series 1), scaling to $3,995+ for unlimited; state returns extra at $35-45 each.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseBrowser-based tax prep system with advanced review workflows, security, and integration for enterprise accounting practices.
Relational database architecture enabling simultaneous multi-user editing and real-time synchronization on individual returns
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for mid-to-large tax firms handling complex business returns such as Form 1120, 1065, and 1065-B. It utilizes a unique relational database architecture that allows multiple users to work on the same return simultaneously with real-time updates and robust diagnostics. The platform includes advanced workflow management, paperless e-filing, and integration with Thomson Reuters' practice management tools like AdvanceFlow.
Pros
- Powerful relational database for multi-user collaboration and complex entity handling
- Comprehensive diagnostics, review tools, and workflow automation
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters ecosystem for research and practice management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to non-intuitive interface
- Higher pricing that may not suit smaller firms
- Windows-only with occasional performance issues on large datasets
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms preparing complex corporate and partnership returns that require collaborative, multi-preparer workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based pricing customized by firm size, users, and return volume; typically $10,000+ annually for mid-sized firms.
TaxWise
specializedVersatile tax preparation software featuring strong state return support, customization options, and practitioner-focused tools.
Proactive Diagnostics Engine that scans returns in real-time for errors, optimizations, and compliance issues before filing
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a robust professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, tax firms, and preparers handling complex individual and business returns. It supports thousands of federal and state forms with automated calculations, e-filing, and compliance tools to ensure accuracy and IRS adherence. The platform integrates with Wolters Kluwer's ecosystem for practice management, bank products, and client data import, streamlining high-volume workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for over 12,000 forms and schedules with real-time updates
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates and built-in diagnostics
- Seamless integration with Wolters Kluwer tools like CCH Axcess for full practice management
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- High pricing that may not suit solo practitioners or small firms
- Steeper learning curve for new users without extensive training
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms and CPAs managing high-volume, complex returns requiring top-tier compliance and integrations.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$2,500 for single-user basic edition, scaling to $5,000+ for multi-user, enterprise plans with add-ons.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective professional-grade tax software providing e-filing, error checks, and support for a wide range of returns.
Unlimited federal e-filing included in base pricing, a rarity among professional software
TaxAct Professional is a desktop-based tax preparation software suite designed for professional tax preparers, supporting federal and state returns for individuals (Form 1040), partnerships (1065), S-Corps (1120S), C-Corps (1120), and trusts/estates (1041). It offers tools for e-filing, direct deposit, client organizer management, and data import from prior years or other software. The software emphasizes efficiency for high-volume filers with features like batch printing and error-checking diagnostics.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing for professional-grade features
- Supports e-filing for all major business and individual forms
- Efficient data import and client management tools
Cons
- User interface feels dated compared to cloud-based competitors
- Limited third-party integrations and automation
- Customer support primarily email-based with slower response times
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms or independent preparers focused on high-volume, cost-sensitive return preparation.
Pricing
Annual licenses start at $349 for 1040 edition, up to $1,749 for full multi-module bundle; additional per-return fees for states and e-filing apply.
Conclusion
Across the professional tax software landscape, three tools rise to the top, with Lacerte leading as the standout choice—boasting advanced diagnostics, robust support for complex returns, and seamless e-filing. UltraTax CS follows closely, a powerful option for mid-to-large firms with integrated practice management and multi-state capabilities, while CCH Axcess Tax impresses with its cloud-native design, workflow automation, and real-time firm insights. Each offers distinct strengths, but Lacerte remains the top pick for diverse professional needs.
Don’t miss out on the industry’s leading solution—try Lacerte today to experience streamlined workflows, reliable performance, and confidence in handling even the most complex tax tasks.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison