Quick Overview
- 1#1: Drake Tax - Comprehensive tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, extensive forms support, and top-rated customer service for tax professionals.
- 2#2: Lacerte - Advanced desktop tax software featuring powerful diagnostics, bank products integration, and efficiency tools for handling complex returns.
- 3#3: UltraTax CS - Scalable tax preparation and compliance solution integrated with practice management and trial balance for accounting firms.
- 4#4: ProSeries - Professional tax software designed for high-volume preparers with seamless Intuit ecosystem integrations and data import capabilities.
- 5#5: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax workflow platform offering automated assembly, reviewer tools, and multi-jurisdictional compliance for larger firms.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Pro - Web-based professional tax prep software with live expert support, competitive pricing, and reliable e-filing.
- 7#7: TaxWise - Reliable tax preparation software providing strong state return support, diagnostics, and practitioner-focused features.
- 8#8: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-hosted tax solution with advanced diagnostics, collaborative review, and document management for enterprise firms.
- 9#9: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective professional tax software with essential federal and state forms plus straightforward e-filing.
- 10#10: OLP - Professional tax preparation and e-filing software tailored for tax offices with integrated bookkeeping features.
These tools were selected through rigorous evaluation, prioritizing robust feature sets, user experience, technical reliability, and value, ensuring they stand out in a competitive landscape and cater to the unique demands of tax preparation and firm management.
Comparison Table
Tax business software is a cornerstone of efficient, accurate practice management, and selecting the right tool requires careful evaluation. This comparison table showcases top options like Drake Tax, Lacerte, UltraTax CS, ProSeries, and CCH Axcess Tax, detailing key features, strengths, and ideal scenarios. Readers will gain actionable insights to identify software that aligns with their practice’s needs, streamlining tax preparation and compliance efforts.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drake Tax Comprehensive tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, extensive forms support, and top-rated customer service for tax professionals. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 2 | Lacerte Advanced desktop tax software featuring powerful diagnostics, bank products integration, and efficiency tools for handling complex returns. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | UltraTax CS Scalable tax preparation and compliance solution integrated with practice management and trial balance for accounting firms. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 4 | ProSeries Professional tax software designed for high-volume preparers with seamless Intuit ecosystem integrations and data import capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax workflow platform offering automated assembly, reviewer tools, and multi-jurisdictional compliance for larger firms. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Pro Web-based professional tax prep software with live expert support, competitive pricing, and reliable e-filing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 7 | TaxWise Reliable tax preparation software providing strong state return support, diagnostics, and practitioner-focused features. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-hosted tax solution with advanced diagnostics, collaborative review, and document management for enterprise firms. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective professional tax software with essential federal and state forms plus straightforward e-filing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 10 | OLP Professional tax preparation and e-filing software tailored for tax offices with integrated bookkeeping features. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, extensive forms support, and top-rated customer service for tax professionals.
Advanced desktop tax software featuring powerful diagnostics, bank products integration, and efficiency tools for handling complex returns.
Scalable tax preparation and compliance solution integrated with practice management and trial balance for accounting firms.
Professional tax software designed for high-volume preparers with seamless Intuit ecosystem integrations and data import capabilities.
Cloud-based tax workflow platform offering automated assembly, reviewer tools, and multi-jurisdictional compliance for larger firms.
Web-based professional tax prep software with live expert support, competitive pricing, and reliable e-filing.
Reliable tax preparation software providing strong state return support, diagnostics, and practitioner-focused features.
Web-hosted tax solution with advanced diagnostics, collaborative review, and document management for enterprise firms.
Cost-effective professional tax software with essential federal and state forms plus straightforward e-filing.
Professional tax preparation and e-filing software tailored for tax offices with integrated bookkeeping features.
Drake Tax
enterpriseComprehensive tax preparation software with unlimited e-filing, extensive forms support, and top-rated customer service for tax professionals.
Advanced Diagnostics Engine that proactively identifies errors, omissions, and compliance issues before filing
Drake Tax from Drake Software is a leading professional tax preparation platform designed for CPAs, EAs, and tax firms, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and fiduciaries. It features extensive form libraries, automated diagnostics, e-filing, direct deposit, and bank product integrations for efficient refund processing. Renowned for reliability, frequent updates, and top-tier customer support, it streamlines high-volume tax workflows while ensuring compliance.
Pros
- Unparalleled state return support across 50+ jurisdictions
- Exceptional 24/7 U.S.-based customer support
- Cost-effective pricing with unlimited e-filing and preparations
Cons
- Desktop-based interface feels dated compared to cloud competitors
- Initial learning curve for complex business returns
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Established tax professionals and firms handling high volumes of individual and business returns who prioritize reliability, support, and value over modern UI.
Pricing
Starts at $495 for basic federal/state packages; full professional suites range from $1,545 to $2,295 annually, including unlimited returns and e-filing.
Lacerte
enterpriseAdvanced desktop tax software featuring powerful diagnostics, bank products integration, and efficiency tools for handling complex returns.
Industry-leading Max diagnostics tool that proactively identifies errors, optimizations, and compliance issues across thousands of scenarios
Lacerte Tax, from Intuit ProConnect, is a professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, tax firms, and accountants handling complex individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It provides comprehensive federal and state form support, advanced calculations, error-checking diagnostics, and seamless e-filing capabilities. The software integrates deeply with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, enabling efficient workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Extensive coverage of complex tax forms and scenarios with automatic calculations
- Powerful diagnostics engine that minimizes errors and ensures compliance
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and robust e-filing for high-volume practices
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its depth
- High pricing structure with per-return fees adding up quickly
- Occasional performance lags with very large client files
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing complex, high-volume returns who prioritize accuracy and automation over simplicity.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,649 for unlimited federal returns (1040 tier), plus ~$35/state return and e-filing fees; pay-per-return options available from $2.50/federal return.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseScalable tax preparation and compliance solution integrated with practice management and trial balance for accounting firms.
SmartDiag intelligent diagnostics that proactively identify errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities across entire returns
UltraTax CS is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, designed for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax professionals handling complex federal, state, and local returns. It supports individual, business, partnership, corporate, fiduciary, and estate returns with extensive form libraries and automated calculations. The software integrates seamlessly with other CS Suite tools for practice management, trial balance, and planning, streamlining workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Comprehensive support for thousands of forms and all 50 states with automatic apportionment
- Powerful diagnostics, error-checking, and one-click e-filing for efficiency
- Deep integration with CS Professional Suite for end-to-end firm workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- High subscription costs that scale with firm size and modules
- Dated user interface compared to more modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs managing high volumes of complex, multi-state business returns.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size, users, and modules; typically $5,000+ annually for small firms, scaling significantly for larger practices.
ProSeries
enterpriseProfessional tax software designed for high-volume preparers with seamless Intuit ecosystem integrations and data import capabilities.
ProSeries Diagnostic Copy for automated error detection and return optimization
ProSeries by Intuit is a robust desktop-based tax preparation software designed for professional tax preparers and CPAs handling individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It provides precise federal and state tax calculations, automated error-checking diagnostics, and efficient e-filing capabilities. The software integrates seamlessly with other Intuit products like QuickBooks, making it ideal for firms already in the ecosystem.
Pros
- Comprehensive form library covering complex tax scenarios
- Powerful diagnostics and accuracy guarantees
- Reliable e-filing with fast processing times
Cons
- Desktop-only (Windows required, no Mac or cloud option)
- Steep initial learning curve for new users
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume users
Best For
Established tax professionals and firms preparing high volumes of complex federal and state returns.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $449 for basic individual returns, up to $3,000+ for unlimited business and state packages per preparer.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax workflow platform offering automated assembly, reviewer tools, and multi-jurisdictional compliance for larger firms.
Intelligent Diagnostics engine that proactively scans for errors, optimizes refunds, and ensures compliance across thousands of forms
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax professionals handling complex returns. It provides comprehensive tools for individual, business, partnership, S-corp, C-corp, fiduciary, and estate tax returns, with advanced diagnostics, error-checking, and e-filing support. The platform integrates with other CCH Axcess modules for seamless practice management, trial balance import, and bank products.
Pros
- Extensive support for complex returns and all tax forms with high accuracy
- Cloud accessibility with real-time collaboration and automatic updates
- Robust integrations with practice management, accounting, and bank products
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to depth of features
- High subscription costs, especially for smaller firms
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms and CPAs managing high-volume, complex individual and business returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically $4,000–$10,000+ per preparer annually depending on firm size, volume, and add-ons.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedWeb-based professional tax prep software with live expert support, competitive pricing, and reliable e-filing.
Flexible pay-per-return pricing with no long-term contracts, minimizing costs for seasonal or low-volume users
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software designed for tax pros, firms, and businesses to prepare and e-file federal and state returns efficiently. It offers client organizers, document management, quality reviews, and practice management tools to handle everything from simple 1040s to complex business returns. The cloud-based platform supports unlimited users and provides strong e-filing capabilities with high acceptance rates.
Pros
- Affordable pay-per-return pricing ideal for variable volumes
- High e-file acceptance rates and reliable performance
- User-friendly interface with quick onboarding for beginners
Cons
- Fewer advanced reporting and analytics than top competitors
- Limited integrations with accounting or CRM software
- Support response times can lag during peak tax season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and solo preparers prioritizing affordability and reliability over advanced enterprise features.
Pricing
Starts at $1,295 for the base Professional Series (unlimited federal returns), plus ~$5-10 per state return; pay-per-return options from $0.99/federal without subscription.
TaxWise
enterpriseReliable tax preparation software providing strong state return support, diagnostics, and practitioner-focused features.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities across thousands of forms
TaxWise is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer designed for tax professionals and firms to prepare, review, and e-file federal and state tax returns. It supports an extensive library of over 15,000 forms and schedules, including complex returns for businesses, estates, and trusts. The software includes diagnostic tools, data import capabilities, and integration with practice management systems to streamline workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive form support for federal, state, and local returns
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates
- Strong audit trail and quality review tools
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Expensive for small practices with per-return fees
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs handling high volumes of complex returns who prioritize form accuracy and compliance.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,300 per preparer for basic plans, with premium tiers up to $2,500+, plus $0.50-$2 per e-filed return and state fees.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-hosted tax solution with advanced diagnostics, collaborative review, and document management for enterprise firms.
Relational database structure that links multiple related returns for efficient data sharing and scenario analysis
GoSystem Tax RS from Thomson Reuters is a powerful, browser-based tax preparation software tailored for professional firms handling complex returns. It supports individual, business, partnership, S-corp, and fiduciary tax forms with advanced diagnostics, error resolution, and automated calculations. The platform emphasizes workflow automation, electronic filing across federal and state jurisdictions, and seamless integration with other Thomson Reuters tools like Practice CS.
Pros
- Exceptional support for complex, high-volume returns with relational database linking
- Cloud-based access enabling multi-user collaboration and remote work
- Robust e-filing, diagnostics, and compliance tools for federal/state returns
Cons
- High cost with custom quote-based pricing
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Occasional lag with very large datasets or peak-season usage
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms managing high volumes of complex business and fiduciary returns with multi-office teams.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $10,000–$50,000+ annually depending on firm size, return volume, and add-on modules.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective professional tax software with essential federal and state forms plus straightforward e-filing.
Unmatched affordability delivering professional-grade features at a fraction of the cost of Intuit or Thomson Reuters products
TaxAct Professional is a comprehensive tax preparation software designed for professional tax preparers, CPAs, and small to mid-sized firms. It supports the creation, review, and e-filing of federal and state returns for individuals (Form 1040), businesses (1120, 1065), and nonprofits. Key capabilities include client organizer tools, data import from prior years, error checks, and multi-user access for efficient workflow management.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing compared to competitors
- Reliable e-filing with unlimited federal returns
- Strong multi-state support and compliance tools
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky
- Limited integrations with accounting software
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms prioritizing cost savings and core functionality over advanced integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $349 for 1040 edition, $1,149 for Deluxe (includes business forms), up to $1,749 for Full Service; pay-per-return options from $10-$40 per return.
OLP
specializedProfessional tax preparation and e-filing software tailored for tax offices with integrated bookkeeping features.
One-click state conformity updates that automatically align federal changes to supported states
OLP (olp.com) is a professional tax preparation software designed primarily for small tax firms and independent preparers handling federal and state returns. It supports e-filing, basic diagnostics, and simple client organizer tools to streamline tax workflows. While not as feature-rich as top-tier competitors, it focuses on reliability and cost-efficiency for straightforward tax scenarios.
Pros
- Affordable pricing for small practices
- Intuitive interface for beginners
- Strong e-filing success rate
Cons
- Limited support for complex returns and schedules
- Basic reporting and analytics
- Minimal integrations with accounting software
Best For
Solo practitioners or small tax businesses managing routine individual and small business returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $495 for basic plan with unlimited federal returns; state modules extra at $25-$50 each.
Conclusion
Comparing tax business software reveals standout options, with Drake Tax leading as the top choice, boasting unlimited e-filing, extensive forms support, and exceptional customer service. Lacerte follows closely, excelling with advanced diagnostics and efficiency tools for complex returns, while UltraTax CS stands out as a scalable solution integrated with practice management for growing firms. Each tool caters to distinct needs, ensuring the perfect fit for various tax professionals.
Take the first step to enhance your tax workflow—try Drake Tax to leverage its robust features, or explore Lacerte or UltraTax CS based on your firm’s specific requirements to find your ideal match.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison