Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax Business - Guides small business owners through preparing and e-filing complex returns including Schedule C, 1120S, 1065, and 1120 with QuickBooks integration.
- 2#2: H&R Block Premium & Business - Offers user-friendly tax software for small businesses with live expert help, accuracy guarantees, and support for sole proprietors and partnerships.
- 3#3: TaxAct Business - Provides affordable, comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses covering individual business schedules and entity returns like S-Corps and LLCs.
- 4#4: TaxSlayer Pro - Delivers professional-grade tax filing software optimized for small businesses with multi-state support and efficient e-filing capabilities.
- 5#5: Drake Tax - Features robust, cost-effective tax preparation for small business professionals handling partnerships, S-Corps, and complex deductions.
- 6#6: ProSeries Tax - Intuit's professional tax software streamlines filing for small businesses with advanced diagnostics and seamless data import from QuickBooks.
- 7#7: Lacerte Tax - High-end professional software for small business tax pros with powerful calculations, error checks, and multi-client management.
- 8#8: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-level tax prep solution for small businesses offering integrated workflows, compliance tools, and extensive form support.
- 9#9: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax software for small business accountants with real-time collaboration, automation, and global compliance features.
- 10#10: GoSystem Tax RS - Scalable online tax preparation platform for small businesses supporting complex returns and secure client portals.
We ranked these solutions by evaluating depth of support for business structures (e.g., S-Corps, partnerships), user-friendliness, accuracy guarantees, integration capabilities (including with QuickBooks), and overall value, ensuring they deliver reliability and efficiency for varied operational needs.
Comparison Table
Small businesses often need specialized tools to navigate tax filing, and choosing the right software is key to accuracy and efficiency. This comparison table features leading options like TurboTax Business, H&R Block Premium & Business, TaxAct Business, TaxSlayer Pro, Drake Tax, and more, outlining their unique strengths. Readers will discover critical details to select software that best fits their business size, complexity, and operational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Business Guides small business owners through preparing and e-filing complex returns including Schedule C, 1120S, 1065, and 1120 with QuickBooks integration. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block Premium & Business Offers user-friendly tax software for small businesses with live expert help, accuracy guarantees, and support for sole proprietors and partnerships. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Business Provides affordable, comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses covering individual business schedules and entity returns like S-Corps and LLCs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | TaxSlayer Pro Delivers professional-grade tax filing software optimized for small businesses with multi-state support and efficient e-filing capabilities. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | Drake Tax Features robust, cost-effective tax preparation for small business professionals handling partnerships, S-Corps, and complex deductions. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 6 | ProSeries Tax Intuit's professional tax software streamlines filing for small businesses with advanced diagnostics and seamless data import from QuickBooks. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 7 | Lacerte Tax High-end professional software for small business tax pros with powerful calculations, error checks, and multi-client management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-level tax prep solution for small businesses offering integrated workflows, compliance tools, and extensive form support. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.1/10 | 5.8/10 |
| 9 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax software for small business accountants with real-time collaboration, automation, and global compliance features. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 10 | GoSystem Tax RS Scalable online tax preparation platform for small businesses supporting complex returns and secure client portals. | enterprise | 6.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 5.1/10 | 4.8/10 |
Guides small business owners through preparing and e-filing complex returns including Schedule C, 1120S, 1065, and 1120 with QuickBooks integration.
Offers user-friendly tax software for small businesses with live expert help, accuracy guarantees, and support for sole proprietors and partnerships.
Provides affordable, comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses covering individual business schedules and entity returns like S-Corps and LLCs.
Delivers professional-grade tax filing software optimized for small businesses with multi-state support and efficient e-filing capabilities.
Features robust, cost-effective tax preparation for small business professionals handling partnerships, S-Corps, and complex deductions.
Intuit's professional tax software streamlines filing for small businesses with advanced diagnostics and seamless data import from QuickBooks.
High-end professional software for small business tax pros with powerful calculations, error checks, and multi-client management.
Enterprise-level tax prep solution for small businesses offering integrated workflows, compliance tools, and extensive form support.
Cloud-based tax software for small business accountants with real-time collaboration, automation, and global compliance features.
Scalable online tax preparation platform for small businesses supporting complex returns and secure client portals.
TurboTax Business
specializedGuides small business owners through preparing and e-filing complex returns including Schedule C, 1120S, 1065, and 1120 with QuickBooks integration.
Deep integration with QuickBooks Desktop and Online for automatic import of profit/loss data, balances, and mileage.
TurboTax Business is a desktop tax preparation software from Intuit designed for small businesses, including sole proprietors (Schedule C), partnerships (Form 1065), S-corporations (1120S), and C-corporations (1120). It provides step-by-step interview guidance to simplify complex business tax filing, with support for federal and state returns, depreciation calculations, and industry-specific deductions. The software integrates directly with QuickBooks for seamless data import, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in handling business finances and tax obligations.
Pros
- Intuitive step-by-step guidance minimizes errors for complex business forms
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for automatic data import
- Includes audit defense, live expert support, and e-filing capabilities
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to some competitors
- Desktop-only software, not available as a web-based option
- Requires annual purchase with no multi-year discounts
Best For
Small business owners, freelancers with Schedule C, and multi-member entities like partnerships or S-corps who need guided, accurate filing with QuickBooks integration.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $170 for Federal + State (varies by business type); additional state returns $50 each.
H&R Block Premium & Business
specializedOffers user-friendly tax software for small businesses with live expert help, accuracy guarantees, and support for sole proprietors and partnerships.
Hybrid model allowing seamless switch to in-person H&R Block office support
H&R Block Premium & Business is an online tax preparation software tailored for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners handling Schedule C, partnerships (Form 1065), S-corporations (Form 1120S), and other business returns. It supports complex deductions, depreciation, multi-state filings, and includes tools for 1099 tracking and prior-year imports. Backed by H&R Block's expertise, it offers live chat with tax pros and the option to transfer to in-person preparation if needed.
Pros
- Robust support for small business forms like Schedule C, 1065, and 1120S
- Live expert assistance via chat and phone
- Strong accuracy guarantees and audit support
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to basic editions
- Interface can feel less intuitive for absolute beginners
- Limited advanced features for very complex corporations
Best For
Freelancers, sole proprietors, and small business owners filing Schedule C or basic partnership/S-corp returns who value expert backup.
Pricing
Federal from $85, plus $37 per state; includes 5 free federal e-files for business and personal returns.
TaxAct Business
specializedProvides affordable, comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses covering individual business schedules and entity returns like S-Corps and LLCs.
Unmatched value with full business form support at prices significantly lower than TurboTax or H&R Block
TaxAct Business is a comprehensive tax filing software tailored for small businesses, supporting key forms like Schedule C for sole proprietors, 1065 for partnerships, 1120S for S-corporations, and 1120 for C-corporations. It offers step-by-step guidance, data import from prior years or accounting software like QuickBooks, and secure e-filing with audit risk assessment. Available as both online and desktop versions, it emphasizes affordability and accuracy for straightforward business returns without unnecessary upsells.
Pros
- Exceptionally affordable pricing for business filings
- Supports a wide range of business entity types and forms
- Seamless data import from prior returns and QuickBooks
Cons
- Customer support limited to chat and email (no phone for business)
- Interface appears somewhat dated compared to competitors
- Lacks advanced tax planning or scenario modeling tools
Best For
Cost-conscious small business owners and accountants handling straightforward entity returns without needing extensive hand-holding.
Pricing
Federal filing starts at $65 for 1065/1120S and $125 for 1120, plus $40-50 per state return; no subscription required.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedDelivers professional-grade tax filing software optimized for small businesses with multi-state support and efficient e-filing capabilities.
Unlimited e-filing for federal and every state included in all paid plans
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software designed for accountants and tax pros handling small business filings, including Schedule C sole proprietorships, partnerships (Form 1065), and S-Corps (1120S). It offers robust e-filing for federal and all 50 states, client management tools, and diagnostics to minimize errors. The desktop-based platform supports unlimited returns based on licensing, making it suitable for small to mid-sized practices.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with flexible licensing tiers
- Strong e-filing support for federal and all states
- Responsive customer support and training resources
Cons
- Limited advanced features for complex corporate returns
- Desktop-only (no full cloud option)
- Fewer integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks
Best For
Small tax firms and solo preparers managing straightforward small business returns on a budget.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295/year for Basic Series (up to 100 returns), scaling to $3,495+ for higher volumes; pay-per-return available at ~$10-15/return.
Drake Tax
specializedFeatures robust, cost-effective tax preparation for small business professionals handling partnerships, S-Corps, and complex deductions.
Unlimited state returns in premium packages, minimizing per-state costs for multi-state small businesses
Drake Tax is a professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants and tax pros handling small business filings, supporting forms like Schedule C, Form 1065, 1120S, and 1120 for sole proprietors, partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps. It provides robust e-filing for federal and most state returns, data import from prior years, automatic calculations, and error-checking tools to streamline compliance. Ideal for high-volume preparers, it integrates with bank products for refunds and offers extensive depreciation and asset management features.
Pros
- Extensive library of business tax forms and schedules
- Reliable federal and state e-filing with high acceptance rates
- Excellent customer support via phone and chat
Cons
- Dated interface that may feel clunky compared to modern cloud apps
- Steep learning curve for non-professionals or beginners
- Requires desktop installation, no full cloud option
Best For
Tax professionals and CPAs preparing returns for multiple small business clients throughout tax season.
Pricing
Starts at $495 for basic individual returns; business packages from $1,200+; pay-per-return from $5/federal + $5/state, with unlimited options for high-volume users.
ProSeries Tax
enterpriseIntuit's professional tax software streamlines filing for small businesses with advanced diagnostics and seamless data import from QuickBooks.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors, missing data, and audit risks across complex business returns
ProSeries Tax by Intuit is professional desktop tax preparation software designed for tax pros handling individual and small business returns, including Schedule C, partnerships, S-Corps, and C-Corps. It features extensive IRS form support, automated calculations, error-checking diagnostics, and direct e-filing capabilities. While powerful for complex filings, it's geared toward accountants rather than DIY small business owners.
Pros
- Comprehensive library of over 4,800 federal and state forms for business taxes
- Robust error-checking and audit risk tools reduce preparation time
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for importing financial data
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-professionals
- Desktop-only with manual updates required
- High cost with per-return fees adding up for high volume
Best For
Tax professionals and accountants preparing returns for small businesses with complex structures.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $449 for Basic edition; Pro edition ~$1,449; additional state and e-file per-return fees apply.
Lacerte Tax
enterpriseHigh-end professional software for small business tax pros with powerful calculations, error checks, and multi-client management.
Advanced diagnostics engine that automatically flags errors, optimizes deductions, and ensures compliance across thousands of forms
Lacerte Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Intuit designed primarily for CPAs and tax professionals handling complex returns, including those for small businesses. It supports a vast array of federal, state, and local tax forms such as Schedule C, Form 1065, 1120S, and 1120, with automated calculations and e-filing capabilities. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks, making it efficient for businesses with accounting needs, though it's more suited to pros than DIY filers.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex small business tax forms and scenarios
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for easy data import
- Powerful diagnostics and error-checking for accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-professionals
- High subscription costs not ideal for simple filers
- Interface feels dated compared to consumer tax apps
Best For
Tax professionals and accountants preparing returns for small businesses with partnership, S-corp, or C-corp structures.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at approximately $1,299 for basic unlimited federal e-filing, with add-ons for states and extended support; pay-per-return options available from $100+ per return.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-level tax prep solution for small businesses offering integrated workflows, compliance tools, and extensive form support.
SmartDiag automated diagnostics that proactively identify and resolve potential errors across complex business returns
UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters designed primarily for CPAs, accountants, and tax firms to prepare and file complex federal, state, and local tax returns. It excels in handling small business forms such as Schedule C, Form 1120S, 1065, and 1120, with advanced calculations, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities. While powerful for professional use, it is less suited for DIY small business owners due to its enterprise focus and steep learning curve.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all business tax forms and schedules with high accuracy
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking tools to ensure compliance
- Seamless integration with Thomson Reuters practice management tools
Cons
- High subscription costs make it unaffordable for solo small business owners
- Steep learning curve and professional interface not ideal for beginners
- Overkill for simple small business returns with limited customization for casual users
Best For
Accounting professionals and small firms preparing tax returns for multiple small business clients.
Pricing
Subscription starts at around $5,000-$15,000 annually depending on modules, users, and states; additional fees for training and support.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax software for small business accountants with real-time collaboration, automation, and global compliance features.
Advanced workflow automation and real-time collaboration for professional tax teams
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed primarily for accounting firms and tax professionals handling complex returns. It supports an extensive library of federal, state, and local forms, including those essential for small businesses like Schedule C, Form 1120S, and 1065, with advanced diagnostics, e-filing, and automation features. While powerful for high-volume preparers, it excels in accuracy and compliance but may be overkill for simple small business self-filing needs.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for small business forms and complex scenarios like S-corps and partnerships
- Robust error-checking, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities
- Cloud-based with seamless integration to practice management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and professional-level interface not suited for DIY users
- High cost makes it less viable for low-volume small business filers
- Limited customization for basic personal or sole proprietor returns
Best For
Accounting firms and tax pros preparing returns for multiple small business clients.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000+ annually, scaled by number of returns and users.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseScalable online tax preparation platform for small businesses supporting complex returns and secure client portals.
Advanced real-time diagnostics and workflow automation that streamline professional-grade return preparation
GoSystem Tax RS is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, designed for accounting firms to handle complex business tax returns including Forms 1120, 1065, and 1065-B. It features advanced diagnostics, multi-state support, workflow automation, and integration with practice management tools. While highly capable for professional use, it is overkill and not optimized for small business owners doing independent DIY tax filing.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex business forms and multi-state filings
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking tools for compliance
- Cloud-based platform with secure multi-user access and unlimited storage
Cons
- Prohibitively expensive for small businesses or solo filers
- Steep learning curve and interface geared toward tax professionals
- Not designed for simple, self-service tax filing experiences
Best For
Tax professionals or accounting firms preparing returns for small business clients.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $3,000–$15,000+ annually per firm based on users, returns, and modules.
Conclusion
After reviewing the 10 tools, TurboTax Business leads as the top choice, guiding through complex returns and integrating with QuickBooks for streamlined workflows. H&R Block Premium & Business stands out with user-friendly design and live expert help, while TaxAct Business offers affordable, comprehensive coverage for diverse small business needs. These options provide strong solutions tailored to different priorities.
Take the next step toward hassle-free tax filing—try TurboTax Business to simplify your process and ensure accuracy for your small business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.