Quick Overview
- 1#1: TurboTax Business - Guides small business owners through filing Schedule C, partnerships, S-Corps, and multi-state taxes with ease.
- 2#2: H&R Block Premium & Business - Offers comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses with live expert support and audit defense.
- 3#3: TaxAct Business - Provides affordable, professional-grade tax software for small business entities like LLCs and partnerships.
- 4#4: Drake Tax - Full-featured desktop tax preparation software ideal for tax pros handling small business returns.
- 5#5: Intuit ProSeries - Professional tax software with robust e-filing and small business form support for accountants.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Pro - Cloud-based, cost-effective tax prep platform for professionals serving small business clients.
- 7#7: Intuit ProConnect Tax Online - Secure online tax preparation tool with seamless integration for small business tax workflows.
- 8#8: Intuit Lacerte - Advanced tax software for complex small business scenarios with high-volume e-filing capabilities.
- 9#9: Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS - Integrated tax and accounting software for small firms preparing business tax returns efficiently.
- 10#10: Wolters Kluwer CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-hosted enterprise tax solution supporting small business compliance and multi-jurisdictional filing.
Tools were selected based on features like support for diverse business structures and multi-jurisdictional filing, ease of use, reliability, and value, ensuring a balanced list that caters to both simplicity and depth for small business success.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key small business tax preparation software options, including TurboTax Business, H&R Block Premium & Business, TaxAct Business, Drake Tax, Intuit ProSeries, and more, to help readers navigate their choices. It highlights features, usability, cost, and support, enabling informed decisions for efficient tax filing.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TurboTax Business Guides small business owners through filing Schedule C, partnerships, S-Corps, and multi-state taxes with ease. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | H&R Block Premium & Business Offers comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses with live expert support and audit defense. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | TaxAct Business Provides affordable, professional-grade tax software for small business entities like LLCs and partnerships. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 4 | Drake Tax Full-featured desktop tax preparation software ideal for tax pros handling small business returns. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | Intuit ProSeries Professional tax software with robust e-filing and small business form support for accountants. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Pro Cloud-based, cost-effective tax prep platform for professionals serving small business clients. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | Intuit ProConnect Tax Online Secure online tax preparation tool with seamless integration for small business tax workflows. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Intuit Lacerte Advanced tax software for complex small business scenarios with high-volume e-filing capabilities. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS Integrated tax and accounting software for small firms preparing business tax returns efficiently. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Wolters Kluwer CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-hosted enterprise tax solution supporting small business compliance and multi-jurisdictional filing. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.7/10 | 6.5/10 |
Guides small business owners through filing Schedule C, partnerships, S-Corps, and multi-state taxes with ease.
Offers comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses with live expert support and audit defense.
Provides affordable, professional-grade tax software for small business entities like LLCs and partnerships.
Full-featured desktop tax preparation software ideal for tax pros handling small business returns.
Professional tax software with robust e-filing and small business form support for accountants.
Cloud-based, cost-effective tax prep platform for professionals serving small business clients.
Secure online tax preparation tool with seamless integration for small business tax workflows.
Advanced tax software for complex small business scenarios with high-volume e-filing capabilities.
Integrated tax and accounting software for small firms preparing business tax returns efficiently.
Cloud-hosted enterprise tax solution supporting small business compliance and multi-jurisdictional filing.
TurboTax Business
specializedGuides small business owners through filing Schedule C, partnerships, S-Corps, and multi-state taxes with ease.
Industry-specific questionnaires and smart deduction maximization tailored to various business types
TurboTax Business is a leading desktop tax preparation software tailored for small businesses, supporting partnerships, S corporations, C corporations, and multi-member LLCs. It guides users through preparing and e-filing key forms like 1065, 1120S, and 1120 with step-by-step interviews, automatic calculations, and import capabilities from QuickBooks and Excel. The software maximizes deductions, handles depreciation, and includes audit risk alerts to ensure compliance and accuracy.
Pros
- Step-by-step guidance simplifies complex business returns
- Seamless data import from QuickBooks, Excel, and prior TurboTax files
- Comprehensive deduction finder and built-in error checks
Cons
- Higher price point compared to basic personal tax software
- Desktop-only (no online or mobile version)
- Steeper learning curve for very complex multi-state returns
Best For
Small business owners and accountants handling partnerships, S-corps, or C-corps who prefer guided, accurate software over manual preparation.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $170 for partnerships/LLCs and $200 for S-corps/C-corps, with optional audit defense add-ons.
H&R Block Premium & Business
specializedOffers comprehensive tax preparation for small businesses with live expert support and audit defense.
Comprehensive support for business entities like partnerships (Form 1065) and S-Corps (1120S) with automated depreciation and industry-specific deductions
H&R Block Premium & Business is a comprehensive tax preparation software tailored for self-employed individuals, freelancers, sole proprietors, partnerships, S-Corps, and small businesses. It supports complex forms like Schedule C, Form 1065, 1120S, depreciation, vehicle tracking, and multi-state filings with import capabilities from QuickBooks and prior-year data. The platform offers step-by-step guidance, accuracy guarantees, and optional live expert assistance to ensure compliance and maximize deductions.
Pros
- Robust support for multiple business entity types including partnerships and S-Corps
- Seamless import from accounting software like QuickBooks and prior H&R Block returns
- 100% accuracy guarantee plus Worry-Free Audit Support
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to basic personal tax software
- Interface can feel less intuitive for absolute beginners versus competitors
- Live expert help requires additional fees and has limited availability
Best For
Small business owners and self-employed professionals with moderate to complex tax situations, including multiple entities or states, who value accuracy guarantees and expert backup.
Pricing
Federal filing starts at $114.99; additional $36.99 per state return; expert review add-on $85+.
TaxAct Business
specializedProvides affordable, professional-grade tax software for small business entities like LLCs and partnerships.
Exceptional value pricing for comprehensive business entity support (1065, 1120S, 1120) that rivals more expensive alternatives
TaxAct Business is an online tax preparation platform tailored for small businesses, supporting key forms like 1065 for partnerships, 1120S for S-corporations, and 1120 for C-corporations, along with schedules and multi-state filings. It uses a step-by-step interview process to gather data, perform calculations, and generate returns with built-in error checks and audit risk meters. The software emphasizes affordability and accuracy guarantees, making it suitable for DIY filers or accountants handling straightforward business taxes.
Pros
- Highly affordable compared to competitors like TurboTax Business
- Strong support for federal and state business forms with e-filing
- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantees with audit support
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated and less polished
- Customer support limited to email/chat, no phone for business edition
- Fewer advanced import/export options for complex scenarios
Best For
Cost-conscious small business owners or accountants preparing partnership, S-corp, or C-corp returns without needing premium hand-holding.
Pricing
Federal 1065 starts at $84.99, 1120S/1120 at $109.99; state returns ~$44.99 each; bundles available for multi-state.
Drake Tax
specializedFull-featured desktop tax preparation software ideal for tax pros handling small business returns.
Legendary 24/7 U.S.-based customer support with direct access to tax experts for real-time assistance
Drake Tax is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for accountants and tax pros handling small business returns, supporting forms for sole proprietorships (Schedule C), partnerships (1065), S-Corps (1120S), and C-Corps (1120). It provides comprehensive federal and state e-filing, automated calculations, error checks, and integration with bank products for refunds. Known for reliability and speed, it's a staple for firms preparing high volumes of business tax returns.
Pros
- Extensive library of federal and all-state forms with automatic updates
- Exceptional 24/7 customer support via phone, chat, and email
- Cost-effective with unlimited e-filing and included bank products
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern alternatives
- Steep learning curve for beginners without prior tax software experience
- Limited third-party integrations and mobile accessibility
Best For
Experienced tax professionals and small to mid-sized firms preparing a high volume of small business returns.
Pricing
Per-preparer pricing starts at $545 for the basic package (individual returns) up to $1,695 for the full professional suite including business and state modules; volume discounts available.
Intuit ProSeries
specializedProfessional tax software with robust e-filing and small business form support for accountants.
Seamless QuickBooks integration for automatic import of trial balance and financial data
Intuit ProSeries is professional tax preparation software tailored for accountants and tax pros handling small business returns, supporting forms like 1065, 1120, 1120S, and Schedule C. It streamlines workflows with interview-style data entry, automated calculations, error diagnostics, and direct e-filing to IRS/state systems. The software integrates with QuickBooks for seamless import of business financials, making it efficient for complex small business tax scenarios.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for all major small business tax forms and schedules
- Strong integration with QuickBooks for financial data import
- Reliable e-filing, diagnostics, and bank products for refunds/deposits
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit solo preparers or very small firms
- Learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive interface
- Limited standalone mobile app; primarily desktop-based
Best For
Accounting firms and tax professionals preparing returns for multiple small businesses needing robust, professional-grade tools.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$449/year for Basic Professional (individual returns); $1,449+ for Professional editions with business forms; volume discounts available.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedCloud-based, cost-effective tax prep platform for professionals serving small business clients.
Cloud-based platform with unlimited client access and real-time form updates from anywhere
TaxSlayer Pro is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software designed for tax pros handling small business returns, supporting forms like Schedule C, 1065, 1120S, and 1120. It provides federal and state e-filing, built-in diagnostics, error checks, and organizer tools to streamline workflows. The platform emphasizes affordability and reliability for firms with moderate volumes.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Intuitive interface with quick navigation
- Strong customer support and high e-file acceptance rates
Cons
- Limited integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks
- Fewer advanced reporting and customization options
- Occasional delays in form updates during peak season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and independent preparers focused on cost savings and efficient small business tax filing.
Pricing
Starts at $1,245 per preparer for the base plan, with tiered options up to $3,495 based on volume and pay-per-return flexibility.
Intuit ProConnect Tax Online
specializedSecure online tax preparation tool with seamless integration for small business tax workflows.
Seamless QuickBooks Online integration that automatically pulls trial balance and financial data into tax forms
Intuit ProConnect Tax Online is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax pros handling individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It offers comprehensive support for federal and state forms, including Schedule C for sole proprietors, partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps relevant to small businesses. The platform provides real-time calculations, error checks, and e-filing capabilities, with seamless integration into the Intuit ecosystem.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 12,000 forms and schedules for small business tax needs
- Cloud-based access for anytime, anywhere preparation and collaboration
- Strong integration with QuickBooks for importing small business financial data
Cons
- High subscription costs that may strain solo preparers
- Steep learning curve for users new to professional-grade software
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Professional tax preparers specializing in small business clients who require robust, cloud-based tools with QuickBooks compatibility.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $1,899 for unlimited individual returns (Essentials plan), with Tax Pro and Tax Pro+ tiers at $3,449+ for business and fiduciary support; per-return fees may apply for extras.
Intuit Lacerte
specializedAdvanced tax software for complex small business scenarios with high-volume e-filing capabilities.
Advanced diagnostics and quality review engine that proactively identifies errors and compliance issues
Intuit Lacerte is a professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs and tax firms, offering robust support for small business tax returns including partnerships, S-corporations, C-corporations, and LLCs. It provides comprehensive federal and state form coverage, automated calculations, and diagnostics to ensure accuracy and compliance. The software integrates with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, streamlining data import and workflow for complex business filings.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex business forms and states
- Powerful automation, error-checking, and e-filing capabilities
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and professional-grade support
Cons
- High pricing that may overwhelm solo small business users
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Modular pricing adds up quickly for full functionality
Best For
CPAs and tax professionals handling complex small business returns rather than DIY business owners.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$419 per module (e.g., 1120 package), with full business suites ranging from $2,000-$6,000+ based on returns, states, and users.
Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS
specializedIntegrated tax and accounting software for small firms preparing business tax returns efficiently.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and compliance issues across complex business returns
Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for accounting firms and CPAs to handle federal, state, and local tax returns for individuals and businesses, including small business entities like S-Corps and partnerships. It features automated calculations, diagnostics, e-filing, and integration with practice management tools. While powerful for complex returns, it's geared toward tax professionals rather than DIY small business users.
Pros
- Extensive support for business tax forms (1120S, 1065, etc.) with automated computations
- Strong diagnostics and error-checking to ensure compliance
- Seamless e-filing and integration with Thomson Reuters ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs not ideal for solo small business preparers
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile accessibility
Best For
Tax professionals and small to mid-sized accounting firms preparing returns for small business clients.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at around $3,000-$5,000+ depending on modules, users, and states supported.
Wolters Kluwer CCH Axcess Tax
specializedCloud-hosted enterprise tax solution supporting small business compliance and multi-jurisdictional filing.
Intelligent diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors, optimizes refunds, and ensures compliance across multi-state filings
Wolters Kluwer CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software suite designed for CPAs and tax firms handling federal, state, and local returns for businesses and individuals. It excels in managing complex small business tax scenarios like partnerships, S-corps, and C-corps with automated calculations, e-filing, and compliance tools. The platform integrates with practice management systems for streamlined workflows and offers real-time updates to IRS changes.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for complex business forms (e.g., 1120S, 1065) with advanced diagnostics
- Cloud-based accessibility and seamless integration with Axcess suite for workflow efficiency
- Robust error-checking, e-filing, and automatic updates for compliance
Cons
- High cost with quote-based pricing unsuitable for solo preparers
- Steep learning curve and interface not intuitive for beginners
- Overkill for simple small business returns, better for mid-sized firms
Best For
Professional tax preparers and small firms handling moderately complex small business returns who need scalable, enterprise-grade tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscriptions; typically $5,000+ annually per user based on modules, volume, and firm size.
Conclusion
Choosing the right small business tax preparation software depends on individual needs, but the top tools deliver standout performance. Leading the pack is TurboTax Business, celebrated for its user-friendly guidance through complex forms like Schedule C, partnerships, and multi-state filings. Runners-up, H&R Block Premium & Business and TaxAct Business, offer strong alternatives: the former with live expert support and audit defense, the latter with affordable professional-grade features for LLCs and partnerships. All three excel, with TurboTax Business emerging as the clear top choice.
Take the first step toward hassle-free tax filing—try TurboTax Business today and simplify your tax season with confidence.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.