Quick Overview
- 1#1: Drake Tax - Provides comprehensive desktop tax preparation with unlimited e-filing, batch processing, and bank products for high-volume service bureaus.
- 2#2: UltraTax CS - Delivers scalable enterprise tax software with advanced diagnostics, multi-state support, and workflow automation for large service bureaus.
- 3#3: Lacerte - Offers professional-grade tax preparation with expert guidance, seamless integrations, and robust e-filing for busy tax firms.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax prep platform enabling collaborative workflows, real-time updates, and secure client data management for firms.
- 5#5: ProConnect Tax Online - Cloud-hosted tax software with unlimited storage, auto-backups, and anytime access optimized for multi-user service environments.
- 6#6: ProSeries - Desktop tax preparation tool with extensive forms, error checks, and e-file capabilities suitable for mid-sized bureaus.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - Web-based professional tax software offering affordable pricing, quick setup, and strong support for volume preparers.
- 8#8: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective tax prep software with free federal e-filing, drag-and-drop import, and comprehensive business forms.
- 9#9: GoSystem Tax RS - Workflow-driven tax preparation system with review tools, document management, and scalability for complex service bureau operations.
- 10#10: OPTIMA CSR - Specialized high-volume tax processing and e-filing software tailored for service bureaus with rapid return turnaround.
Tools were evaluated based on key metrics including feature depth (e.g., e-filing, workflow automation), reliability, usability, and value, ensuring alignment with the demands of modern service bureau tax processing.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading service bureau tax software options, featuring Drake Tax, UltraTax CS, Lacerte, CCH Axcess Tax, ProConnect Tax Online, and more. Readers will gain insights into key features, usability, and suitability to identify tools that fit their specific professional needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drake Tax Provides comprehensive desktop tax preparation with unlimited e-filing, batch processing, and bank products for high-volume service bureaus. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 2 | UltraTax CS Delivers scalable enterprise tax software with advanced diagnostics, multi-state support, and workflow automation for large service bureaus. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Lacerte Offers professional-grade tax preparation with expert guidance, seamless integrations, and robust e-filing for busy tax firms. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax prep platform enabling collaborative workflows, real-time updates, and secure client data management for firms. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | ProConnect Tax Online Cloud-hosted tax software with unlimited storage, auto-backups, and anytime access optimized for multi-user service environments. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | ProSeries Desktop tax preparation tool with extensive forms, error checks, and e-file capabilities suitable for mid-sized bureaus. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro Web-based professional tax software offering affordable pricing, quick setup, and strong support for volume preparers. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 8 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective tax prep software with free federal e-filing, drag-and-drop import, and comprehensive business forms. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | GoSystem Tax RS Workflow-driven tax preparation system with review tools, document management, and scalability for complex service bureau operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | OPTIMA CSR Specialized high-volume tax processing and e-filing software tailored for service bureaus with rapid return turnaround. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
Provides comprehensive desktop tax preparation with unlimited e-filing, batch processing, and bank products for high-volume service bureaus.
Delivers scalable enterprise tax software with advanced diagnostics, multi-state support, and workflow automation for large service bureaus.
Offers professional-grade tax preparation with expert guidance, seamless integrations, and robust e-filing for busy tax firms.
Cloud-based tax prep platform enabling collaborative workflows, real-time updates, and secure client data management for firms.
Cloud-hosted tax software with unlimited storage, auto-backups, and anytime access optimized for multi-user service environments.
Desktop tax preparation tool with extensive forms, error checks, and e-file capabilities suitable for mid-sized bureaus.
Web-based professional tax software offering affordable pricing, quick setup, and strong support for volume preparers.
Cost-effective tax prep software with free federal e-filing, drag-and-drop import, and comprehensive business forms.
Workflow-driven tax preparation system with review tools, document management, and scalability for complex service bureau operations.
Specialized high-volume tax processing and e-filing software tailored for service bureaus with rapid return turnaround.
Drake Tax
enterpriseProvides comprehensive desktop tax preparation with unlimited e-filing, batch processing, and bank products for high-volume service bureaus.
Unlimited e-filing and client capacity without per-return fees, perfect for service bureau scale
Drake Tax is a top-tier professional tax preparation software tailored for service bureaus, enabling high-volume processing of individual, business, and fiduciary returns for multiple clients. It provides unlimited e-filing, comprehensive federal and state form support, and robust tools for client management, bank product integration, and quality reviews. With features like Drake Documents for organizers and electronic signatures, it optimizes workflows for busy tax firms handling thousands of returns annually.
Pros
- Unlimited e-filing and forms at a flat price, ideal for high-volume service bureaus
- Exceptional customer support with live chat, phone, and extensive training resources
- Seamless multi-client management and integration with bank products for refunds
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to newer cloud-based competitors
- Steep initial learning curve for complex returns despite intuitive navigation
- Additional state packages can increase costs for firms in multiple jurisdictions
Best For
High-volume service bureaus and professional tax firms preparing thousands of returns for multiple clients seeking reliable, cost-effective software.
Pricing
Starts at $1,895 for the Professional Unlimited package (federal + 3 states, unlimited returns/e-files); additional states $295 each; multi-user licenses extra.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseDelivers scalable enterprise tax software with advanced diagnostics, multi-state support, and workflow automation for large service bureaus.
Advanced Smart Diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and compliance issues across entire client portfolios
UltraTax CS is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, tailored for service bureaus and high-volume tax firms handling complex federal, state, and local returns. It excels in batch processing, e-filing, and quality control diagnostics, supporting thousands of forms with automatic updates for compliance. Integrated with the CS Professional Suite, it streamlines workflows for multi-client environments, including practice management and client organizers.
Pros
- Extensive coverage of federal, state, and local forms with real-time diagnostics
- Scalable batch processing and e-filing for high-volume service bureaus
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters tools like Checkpoint and Practice CS
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- Higher pricing structure compared to simpler alternatives
- Resource-intensive performance on older hardware during peak seasons
Best For
Large service bureaus and CPA firms processing thousands of complex returns annually with a need for robust compliance and integration.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size and return volume, typically $5,000+ annually per preparer with additional per-return fees for high-volume users.
Lacerte
enterpriseOffers professional-grade tax preparation with expert guidance, seamless integrations, and robust e-filing for busy tax firms.
Advanced Paperless Office suite for fully digital workflows and client document management
Lacerte, from Intuit, is a premium tax preparation software tailored for professional accountants and service bureaus handling high-volume, complex tax returns including individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary forms. It features advanced diagnostics, automated calculations, and secure e-filing with support for over 6,000 forms and schedules. Designed for scalability, it enables efficient multi-client management and integration with Intuit's ecosystem for streamlined workflows in service bureau environments.
Pros
- Extensive form library and state support for complex returns
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking tools reduce compliance risks
- Strong e-filing reliability and multi-client security for service bureaus
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing compared to entry-level options
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets
Best For
Service bureaus and CPAs managing high volumes of intricate individual and business tax returns.
Pricing
Pay-per-return model starting at ~$1.50/return with volume discounts for bureaus; unlimited plans from $2,500+/year.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax prep platform enabling collaborative workflows, real-time updates, and secure client data management for firms.
Delegated Access Workflow for secure, role-based assignment of client returns across multiple preparers and reviewers
CCH Axcess Tax by Wolters Kluwer is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax firms and service bureaus handling high-volume returns. It provides comprehensive support for federal, state, and local tax forms with advanced automation, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities. The platform excels in multi-user environments through delegated workflows, role-based security, and integration with bank products, making it suitable for service bureaus processing returns for numerous clients.
Pros
- Robust scalability for high-volume service bureau operations
- Advanced workflow delegation and multi-client management
- Extensive federal/state form coverage with strong diagnostics
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing that may strain smaller bureaus
- Occasional cloud performance lags during peak season
Best For
Large service bureaus managing high volumes of client returns that need enterprise-grade security and workflow tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $4,000-$10,000+ annually per preparer with additional per-return fees for high-volume use.
ProConnect Tax Online
enterpriseCloud-hosted tax software with unlimited storage, auto-backups, and anytime access optimized for multi-user service environments.
Fully cloud-hosted with automatic daily tax updates and unlimited storage for workpapers
ProConnect Tax Online is a cloud-based tax preparation platform from Intuit, tailored for professional tax firms and service bureaus handling high volumes of individual, business, and specialty returns. It supports comprehensive federal and state form libraries, diagnostics, e-filing, and client management tools in a fully hosted environment. Ideal for multi-user teams, it offers real-time collaboration, automatic updates, and integration with other Intuit products like Accountant’s Toolbox.
Pros
- Extensive form coverage with daily updates from Intuit
- Unlimited e-filing at no extra cost
- Strong security and multi-client management for service bureaus
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Interface can feel dated and less intuitive for beginners
- Limited advanced customization options
Best For
Mid-to-large service bureaus preparing complex returns for multiple clients who value reliability and Intuit ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Starts at about $1,500 per preparer annually for basic packages, scaling up to $3,000+ with modules; volume discounts available for service bureaus.
ProSeries
specializedDesktop tax preparation tool with extensive forms, error checks, and e-file capabilities suitable for mid-sized bureaus.
ProSeries Diagnostics with proactive error-checking and Intuit's 100% accuracy guarantee for filed returns
ProSeries by Intuit is a desktop-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros and service bureaus, supporting federal, state, and business returns with high-volume e-filing capabilities. It features advanced diagnostics, prior-year data import, and batch processing to streamline workflows for multiple clients. As part of Intuit's ecosystem, it integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for efficient data handling in service bureau environments.
Pros
- Exceptional e-file acceptance rates exceeding 99% for reliable high-volume filing
- Powerful diagnostics engine that minimizes errors and ensures compliance
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and Intuit tools for client data management
Cons
- Desktop-only installation limits remote access compared to cloud competitors
- Pricing escalates quickly for service bureaus with multiple users or high volumes
- Moderate learning curve for complex customizations and multi-client setups
Best For
Service bureaus handling high volumes of individual and small business returns that prioritize e-filing reliability and Intuit ecosystem compatibility.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for basic single-user; service bureau multi-user premium editions range from $1,500-$3,000+ per preparer annually, with unlimited e-filing in higher tiers and add-ons for states/returns.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedWeb-based professional tax software offering affordable pricing, quick setup, and strong support for volume preparers.
Streamlined 'Slayer' interface with drag-and-drop navigation for rapid data entry in multi-client environments
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax software tailored for tax preparers and service bureaus, enabling efficient preparation and e-filing of federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, and partnerships. It supports a wide range of forms including 1040, 1120, 1065, and offers tools like client organizers, error-checking diagnostics, and batch printing for high-volume processing. The platform emphasizes affordability and simplicity, making it suitable for firms handling multiple clients without needing extensive training.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing structure for high-volume filers
- Intuitive and modern interface that reduces learning curve
- Reliable e-filing with fast processing times
Cons
- Limited advanced features for highly complex returns compared to top competitors
- Fewer third-party integrations and customization options
- State return support not as comprehensive in all jurisdictions
Best For
Small to mid-sized service bureaus and tax firms prioritizing cost savings and ease of use for standard volume returns.
Pricing
Federal series starts at ~$1,295; states ~$395 each; pay-per-return options from $5-$20, with unlimited e-file bundles available.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective tax prep software with free federal e-filing, drag-and-drop import, and comprehensive business forms.
Unlimited e-file transmissions included in base pricing
TaxAct Professional is a cost-effective tax preparation software tailored for professional tax preparers and service bureaus, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, partnerships, corporations, and nonprofits. It offers e-filing, client organizer tools, and automated calculations across thousands of forms. Ideal for high-volume filers, it emphasizes accuracy with built-in diagnostics and error-checking features.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with pay-per-return options
- Intuitive interface suitable for beginners and pros
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates
Cons
- Limited advanced customization and workflow tools
- Fewer integrations with accounting software
- Customer support can be slower during peak season
Best For
Small to mid-sized service bureaus prioritizing cost savings and simplicity over enterprise-level features.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for 1040 edition (unlimited federal returns), plus $5-10 per state return and e-filing fees.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWorkflow-driven tax preparation system with review tools, document management, and scalability for complex service bureau operations.
Professional Review Station enabling secure, multi-user electronic review, annotation, and sign-off workflows
GoSystem Tax RS from Wolters Kluwer is a robust, enterprise-level tax preparation and review software tailored for service bureaus handling high-volume, complex returns. It offers advanced workflow management, diagnostics, multi-state support, and electronic review/sign-off capabilities to streamline processing for multiple clients. The platform supports unlimited firms and returns, with strong e-filing and compliance tools suited for professional service environments.
Pros
- Scalable for high-volume processing with unlimited clients and returns
- Advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and multi-jurisdictional support
- Secure electronic review station for efficient team workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High enterprise pricing with per-return fees
- Less intuitive UI compared to modern cloud-native competitors
Best For
Large service bureaus managing thousands of complex, multi-state tax returns for multiple clients annually.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $5,000+ annually base plus $5-15 per return, with add-ons for planners and support.
OPTIMA CSR
specializedSpecialized high-volume tax processing and e-filing software tailored for service bureaus with rapid return turnaround.
Client-server architecture enabling remote preparer access and centralized management for service bureau operations
OPTIMA CSR from CFS Software is a professional tax preparation platform designed specifically for service bureaus handling high-volume client returns. It supports federal, state, and local tax forms for individuals and businesses, with strong e-filing capabilities and multi-user access. The software emphasizes reliability for large-scale operations, including diagnostics, printing, and client data management in a client-server environment.
Pros
- Reliable high-volume e-filing for thousands of returns
- Comprehensive state and federal form support
- Solid customer support from CFS Software
Cons
- Dated Windows-only interface feels outdated
- Limited integrations with modern accounting tools
- Steeper learning curve for non-traditional workflows
Best For
Service bureaus processing hundreds to thousands of returns annually that prioritize dependable e-filing over cutting-edge UI or automation.
Pricing
Annual licensing starts at around $2,000-$5,000 based on users and volume, plus per-return e-filing fees of $0.50-$2.00.
Conclusion
The top tools reviewed highlight distinct strengths, with Drake Tax leading as the top choice, offering comprehensive desktop preparation and unlimited e-filing to meet high-volume service bureau needs. UltraTax CS stands out for its scalable enterprise features and advanced diagnostics, while Lacerte impresses with professional-grade tools and seamless integrations, serving as strong alternatives for varied operational requirements. These options demonstrate the range of reliable solutions available, ensuring service bureaus of all sizes find effective tools to streamline their processes.
Don’t overlook Drake Tax—explore its capabilities today to boost efficiency and set your practice up for success with a tool built to handle modern tax preparation demands
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison