Quick Overview
- 1#1: Drake Software - Comprehensive professional tax preparation software offering extensive forms, multi-state support, and cost-effective e-filing for tax preparers.
- 2#2: Lacerte - High-end tax software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and automation.
- 3#3: UltraTax CS - Enterprise-grade tax preparation platform with robust compliance tools, workflow management, and seamless integration for large firms.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax solution providing full-service preparation, research, and trial balance integration for mid-to-large tax practices.
- 5#5: ProSeries Professional - Desktop tax software tailored for professional preparers with strong support for individual and small business returns plus e-file capabilities.
- 6#6: ProConnect Tax Online - Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit featuring real-time collaboration, automatic updates, and integrated bookkeeping.
- 7#7: TaxSlayer Pro - User-friendly professional tax software with unlimited e-filing, live support, and competitive pricing for high-volume preparers.
- 8#8: TaxWise - Reliable tax preparation software with strong multi-state and federal form coverage designed for small to medium tax offices.
- 9#9: ATX - Affordable desktop tax software offering essential preparation features, e-filing, and bank product integration for solo practitioners.
- 10#10: TaxAct Professional - Cost-effective tax prep solution with guided navigation, accuracy guarantees, and support for individual and business filings.
Rigorous evaluation prioritized comprehensive feature sets, reliability, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring alignment with the demands of both solo practitioners and large tax firms.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key features, usability, and functionality of top tax preparer software tools, such as Drake Software, Lacerte, UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, ProSeries Professional, and more. Readers will gain insights to select the right software for their practice, based on specific needs like workflow integration or user-friendly interfaces.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drake Software Comprehensive professional tax preparation software offering extensive forms, multi-state support, and cost-effective e-filing for tax preparers. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 2 | Lacerte High-end tax software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and automation. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | UltraTax CS Enterprise-grade tax preparation platform with robust compliance tools, workflow management, and seamless integration for large firms. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax solution providing full-service preparation, research, and trial balance integration for mid-to-large tax practices. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Professional Desktop tax software tailored for professional preparers with strong support for individual and small business returns plus e-file capabilities. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | ProConnect Tax Online Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit featuring real-time collaboration, automatic updates, and integrated bookkeeping. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | TaxSlayer Pro User-friendly professional tax software with unlimited e-filing, live support, and competitive pricing for high-volume preparers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | TaxWise Reliable tax preparation software with strong multi-state and federal form coverage designed for small to medium tax offices. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | ATX Affordable desktop tax software offering essential preparation features, e-filing, and bank product integration for solo practitioners. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | TaxAct Professional Cost-effective tax prep solution with guided navigation, accuracy guarantees, and support for individual and business filings. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
Comprehensive professional tax preparation software offering extensive forms, multi-state support, and cost-effective e-filing for tax preparers.
High-end tax software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and automation.
Enterprise-grade tax preparation platform with robust compliance tools, workflow management, and seamless integration for large firms.
Cloud-based tax solution providing full-service preparation, research, and trial balance integration for mid-to-large tax practices.
Desktop tax software tailored for professional preparers with strong support for individual and small business returns plus e-file capabilities.
Cloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit featuring real-time collaboration, automatic updates, and integrated bookkeeping.
User-friendly professional tax software with unlimited e-filing, live support, and competitive pricing for high-volume preparers.
Reliable tax preparation software with strong multi-state and federal form coverage designed for small to medium tax offices.
Affordable desktop tax software offering essential preparation features, e-filing, and bank product integration for solo practitioners.
Cost-effective tax prep solution with guided navigation, accuracy guarantees, and support for individual and business filings.
Drake Software
specializedComprehensive professional tax preparation software offering extensive forms, multi-state support, and cost-effective e-filing for tax preparers.
Unlimited federal and state e-filing at no extra cost, covering all 50 states in a single low price tier
Drake Software is a comprehensive professional tax preparation platform used by over 50,000 tax pros for handling individual, business, partnership, corporate, and fiduciary returns. It offers robust e-filing for federal and all 50 states plus D.C., unlimited client e-files, bank product integrations, and tools like depreciation calculators and audit protection. The software emphasizes reliability, extensive form support, and seamless data import from prior years or other platforms.
Pros
- Exceptionally affordable with unlimited e-filing included
- Comprehensive support for all states and complex returns
- Outstanding 24/7 phone and chat customer support
Cons
- Dated, Windows-only interface feels clunky
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Limited modern integrations and mobile access
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms and independent preparers seeking maximum value and reliability without premium pricing.
Pricing
Starts at $545 per preparer for basic individual returns, up to $2,000+ for full suite with volume discounts and no per-return fees.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-end tax software for accounting professionals handling complex individual, business, and fiduciary returns with advanced diagnostics and automation.
Advanced diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, optimizations, and compliance issues across thousands of calculations
Lacerte, developed by Intuit, is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for CPAs, tax firms, and preparers handling complex individual, business, partnership, fiduciary, and estate returns. It supports over 7,000 federal, state, and local forms with advanced automation, error diagnostics, and direct e-filing capabilities. The platform integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, enabling efficient client data import and workflow management for high-volume practices.
Pros
- Extensive form library and automation for complex tax scenarios including K-1s and trusts
- Fast e-filing with high acceptance rates and robust error-checking diagnostics
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, ProSeries, and CRM tools for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to its professional depth
- High subscription costs plus per-return and state fees
- Primarily desktop-focused with limited native mobile access
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms and CPAs specializing in complex returns for businesses, estates, and high-net-worth individuals.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,999 per preparer for federal base, plus ~$200-500/state, e-file fees (~$0.40-$1.50/return), and optional per-return pricing.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseEnterprise-grade tax preparation platform with robust compliance tools, workflow management, and seamless integration for large firms.
Advanced Cluster Tools for simultaneous review and editing of multiple client returns in matrix views
UltraTax CS is a robust professional tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, tailored for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax preparers handling complex federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and estates. It excels in automated calculations, extensive form libraries covering over 9,000 forms, built-in diagnostics, and seamless e-filing across all states. The platform integrates with other Thomson Reuters tools like Practice CS for practice management and CS Professional Suite for accounting, streamlining workflows for high-volume preparers.
Pros
- Extensive support for federal, state, and local forms with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics, error-checking, and calculation verification tools
- Scalable for large firms with multi-user support and integration capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated, complex user interface
- High subscription costs that may not suit solo practitioners
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms and CPAs preparing high volumes of complex, multi-state returns.
Pricing
Subscription-based pricing starts at around $4,000-$6,000 annually for core 1040 modules, scaling to $10,000+ with business returns, states, and additional users.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax solution providing full-service preparation, research, and trial balance integration for mid-to-large tax practices.
Intelligent diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors, risks, and optimization opportunities across returns
CCH Axcess Tax is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed for CPAs, accounting firms, and tax preparers handling complex returns. It supports federal, state, and local forms for individuals, businesses, partnerships, estates, and nonprofits, with built-in diagnostics, error-checking, and e-filing capabilities. The platform integrates with the broader CCH Axcess suite for seamless workflow management, real-time collaboration, and automatic compliance updates.
Pros
- Extensive form coverage and advanced diagnostics for complex returns
- Cloud-based access with real-time collaboration and automatic updates
- Seamless integration with CCH Axcess practice management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms
- Interface can feel cluttered for simpler preparations
Best For
Mid-sized to large accounting firms and CPAs managing high-volume, complex tax returns.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on firm size, users, and modules; typically starts at $5,000+ annually for small teams, scaling to tens of thousands for enterprises.
ProSeries Professional
specializedDesktop tax software tailored for professional preparers with strong support for individual and small business returns plus e-file capabilities.
ProSeries Diagnostics, an intelligent tool that scans returns for errors, omissions, and optimization opportunities in real-time
ProSeries Professional is a desktop-based tax preparation software from Intuit designed for professional tax preparers, CPAs, and accountants. It supports a comprehensive library of federal and state forms for individual, business, fiduciary, and other tax returns, with robust e-filing capabilities. The software includes client organizers, diagnostics tools, depreciation schedules, and integrations with QuickBooks and other Intuit products to streamline workflows.
Pros
- Extensive forms library covering complex scenarios and niche returns
- Reliable e-filing with high acceptance rates and bank products integration
- Powerful diagnostics engine for error checking and compliance
Cons
- Desktop-only with no native cloud access or mobile support
- Steeper learning curve for new users compared to simpler alternatives
- Higher pricing for full bundles can strain small practices
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and CPAs handling moderate to high volumes of complex individual and small business returns who value desktop reliability.
Pricing
Starts at $449/year for basic 1040 bundle; comprehensive suites range from $1,500 to $4,000+ annually per preparer, with pay-per-return options available.
ProConnect Tax Online
specializedCloud-hosted tax preparation tool from Intuit featuring real-time collaboration, automatic updates, and integrated bookkeeping.
Real-time multi-user collaboration allowing team members to edit the same return simultaneously from anywhere
ProConnect Tax Online, from Intuit, is a cloud-based professional tax preparation software tailored for tax preparers handling complex individual, business, partnership, and fiduciary returns. It provides comprehensive federal and state form support, advanced diagnostics, error-checking tools, and seamless e-filing with direct deposit options. The platform integrates with Intuit tools like QuickBooks and offers remote access for on-the-go work.
Pros
- Extensive library of federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Robust diagnostics and error-checking to minimize rejects
- Cloud-based access enabling real-time collaboration and device flexibility
Cons
- Higher pricing structure with per-return fees adding up quickly
- Steeper learning curve due to dense interface
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms needing scalable, cloud-based software with strong diagnostics and Intuit ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,200 for basic individual returns, with tiered pricing up to $5,000+ for unlimited bundles, plus per-return fees for premium forms.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedUser-friendly professional tax software with unlimited e-filing, live support, and competitive pricing for high-volume preparers.
Flexible pay-per-return pricing that minimizes upfront costs and scales seamlessly with seasonal volume
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software tailored for tax preparers, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, and partnerships. It provides e-filing, client management, electronic signatures, and bank product integrations to streamline workflows. Ideal for small to mid-sized firms, it emphasizes affordability without sacrificing core functionality.
Pros
- Highly affordable pay-per-return and subscription pricing
- Reliable federal and multi-state e-filing with fast processing
- Strong customer support and training resources
Cons
- Fewer advanced features for complex enterprise needs compared to top competitors
- Limited third-party integrations
- Occasional reports of software glitches during peak season
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax preparation firms seeking cost-effective software for high-volume individual and simple business returns.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$1,200 for basic series (unlimited individual returns); pay-per-return options from $5-$15 per federal return.
TaxWise
specializedReliable tax preparation software with strong multi-state and federal form coverage designed for small to medium tax offices.
Advanced Smart Diagnostics engine that proactively identifies errors and optimizes returns before filing
TaxWise by Wolters Kluwer is a professional-grade tax preparation software tailored for tax preparers handling individual, business, and fiduciary returns. It offers comprehensive support for federal and state forms, automated e-filing with high acceptance rates, and built-in diagnostics for error checking and quality assurance. The software includes practice management tools to streamline workflows for busy tax firms.
Pros
- Extensive library of federal and state forms with frequent updates
- Robust diagnostics and e-file rejection handling for accuracy
- Strong integration with Wolters Kluwer's suite for practice management
Cons
- Dated user interface that can feel clunky compared to modern alternatives
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Higher cost structure with add-ons for states and advanced features
Best For
Mid-sized tax preparation firms with high-volume returns needing reliable state compliance and diagnostics.
Pricing
Annual per-preparer subscription starting at around $2,000-$3,500, plus fees for multi-state support and e-filing volumes.
ATX
specializedAffordable desktop tax software offering essential preparation features, e-filing, and bank product integration for solo practitioners.
Intelligent diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors and ensures compliance across thousands of forms
ATX by Thomson Reuters is a professional-grade tax preparation software designed for tax preparers handling individual, business, and partnership returns. It provides comprehensive federal and state form support, electronic filing, and integration with bank products for refunds. The software includes robust diagnostics, error-checking tools, and practice management features to streamline high-volume workflows.
Pros
- Extensive library of federal and state forms with automatic updates
- Reliable e-filing and bank product integration
- Strong customer support from Thomson Reuters
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to newer competitors
- Higher pricing for full features and add-ons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
Best For
Established tax professionals and firms managing high volumes of complex returns who prioritize reliability and support over cutting-edge design.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $1,200 for basic unlimited federal returns, with additional costs for states ($300+ each), e-filing, and payroll modules.
TaxAct Professional
specializedCost-effective tax prep solution with guided navigation, accuracy guarantees, and support for individual and business filings.
Unlimited e-filing at no additional per-return cost, ideal for high-volume preparers.
TaxAct Professional is a robust tax preparation software tailored for tax preparers, CPAs, and small to mid-sized firms, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, partnerships, S-corps, C-corps, and trusts via editions like 1040, 1065, 1120S, and 1041. It provides unlimited e-filing, built-in diagnostics, prior-year import, and basic practice management tools to streamline workflows. While reliable for standard returns, it lacks some advanced automation and integrations found in higher-end competitors.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with unlimited e-filing included
- Straightforward interface suitable for beginners
- Strong diagnostics and error-checking tools
- Reliable support for common business and individual forms
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Fewer third-party integrations
- Slower updates for niche forms
Best For
Small tax firms or solo preparers seeking cost-effective, no-frills software for high-volume standard returns.
Pricing
Annual licenses start at $1,295 for 1040 edition (unlimited returns), up to $2,645 for full business bundle; volume discounts and per-return options available.
Conclusion
Drake Software claims the top spot, offering comprehensive forms, multi-state support, and cost-effective e-filing that make it a standout for professional preparers. Lacerte and UltraTax CS follow closely, with Lacerte excelling in complex returns for large practices and UltraTax CS providing enterprise-grade compliance and integration. Each tool caters to distinct needs, ensuring users find the right fit to streamline their workflow.
Don’t miss out on the leading solution—explore Drake Software to elevate your tax preparation process and unlock its full potential for your practice.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison