Quick Overview
- 1#1: Drake Tax - Comprehensive desktop tax preparation software supporting all federal and state returns with e-filing, diagnostics, and bank products integration.
- 2#2: Lacerte - High-end professional tax software offering advanced calculations, workflow automation, and seamless QuickBooks integration for complex returns.
- 3#3: UltraTax CS - Integrated tax preparation platform with practice management, accounting links, and multi-state compliance for mid-to-large firms.
- 4#4: CCH Axcess Tax - Cloud-based tax compliance solution providing automated workflows, document management, and real-time collaboration for tax professionals.
- 5#5: ProSeries - Affordable desktop tax prep software with essential features, error checks, and e-filing for small tax practices.
- 6#6: TaxSlayer Pro - User-friendly, cost-effective tax preparation software with unlimited federal and state e-filing and live support.
- 7#7: TaxWise - Integrated tax and accounting software delivering fast preparation, payroll integration, and compliance updates.
- 8#8: GoSystem Tax RS - Web-based tax preparation system with secure sharing, review tools, and enterprise-level scalability for large firms.
- 9#9: 8606 - Powerful tax preparation software focused on speed, accuracy, and support for complex individual and business returns.
- 10#10: TaxDome - All-in-one practice management platform for tax pros handling client portals, workflows, billing, and document storage.
Ranked based on key metrics including comprehensive feature sets (e.g., e-filing, multi-state compliance, integration capabilities), ease of use, performance, and overall value, ensuring they meet the varied needs of modern tax professionals.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right tax software is critical for tax professionals, and evaluating top options helps streamline workflows. This table features tools like Drake Tax, Lacerte, UltraTax CS, CCH Axcess Tax, ProSeries, and more, guiding readers to identify the best fit for their practice needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drake Tax Comprehensive desktop tax preparation software supporting all federal and state returns with e-filing, diagnostics, and bank products integration. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 2 | Lacerte High-end professional tax software offering advanced calculations, workflow automation, and seamless QuickBooks integration for complex returns. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | UltraTax CS Integrated tax preparation platform with practice management, accounting links, and multi-state compliance for mid-to-large firms. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | CCH Axcess Tax Cloud-based tax compliance solution providing automated workflows, document management, and real-time collaboration for tax professionals. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | ProSeries Affordable desktop tax prep software with essential features, error checks, and e-filing for small tax practices. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | TaxSlayer Pro User-friendly, cost-effective tax preparation software with unlimited federal and state e-filing and live support. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 7 | TaxWise Integrated tax and accounting software delivering fast preparation, payroll integration, and compliance updates. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | GoSystem Tax RS Web-based tax preparation system with secure sharing, review tools, and enterprise-level scalability for large firms. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | 8606 Powerful tax preparation software focused on speed, accuracy, and support for complex individual and business returns. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 10 | TaxDome All-in-one practice management platform for tax pros handling client portals, workflows, billing, and document storage. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive desktop tax preparation software supporting all federal and state returns with e-filing, diagnostics, and bank products integration.
High-end professional tax software offering advanced calculations, workflow automation, and seamless QuickBooks integration for complex returns.
Integrated tax preparation platform with practice management, accounting links, and multi-state compliance for mid-to-large firms.
Cloud-based tax compliance solution providing automated workflows, document management, and real-time collaboration for tax professionals.
Affordable desktop tax prep software with essential features, error checks, and e-filing for small tax practices.
User-friendly, cost-effective tax preparation software with unlimited federal and state e-filing and live support.
Integrated tax and accounting software delivering fast preparation, payroll integration, and compliance updates.
Web-based tax preparation system with secure sharing, review tools, and enterprise-level scalability for large firms.
Powerful tax preparation software focused on speed, accuracy, and support for complex individual and business returns.
All-in-one practice management platform for tax pros handling client portals, workflows, billing, and document storage.
Drake Tax
specializedComprehensive desktop tax preparation software supporting all federal and state returns with e-filing, diagnostics, and bank products integration.
Unlimited year-round telephone support from certified tax experts, providing instant guidance on any return or issue.
Drake Tax from Drake Software is a leading professional tax preparation platform tailored for CPAs, enrolled agents, and tax firms, supporting federal, state, and local returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and fiduciaries. It features advanced e-filing, error-checking diagnostics, bank product integrations, and automated calculations to streamline complex returns. Renowned for its reliability and affordability, it handles high-volume preparers efficiently while ensuring compliance with the latest IRS guidelines.
Pros
- Unlimited expert telephone support available year-round
- Comprehensive coverage of all 50 states plus federal forms with automatic updates
- Exceptional value with low per-return costs and no hidden fees
Cons
- User interface appears dated compared to modern web-based competitors
- Windows-only desktop application limits multi-platform flexibility
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep for new users
Best For
Experienced tax professionals and mid-sized firms seeking reliable, cost-effective software with unmatched support and full feature set.
Pricing
Starts at $1,495 per preparer for the base Professional Edition; unlimited returns, with optional modules from $300-$800 and pay-per-return options available.
Lacerte
enterpriseHigh-end professional tax software offering advanced calculations, workflow automation, and seamless QuickBooks integration for complex returns.
Advanced diagnostics and input mapping system that automates error-checking and speeds up data entry from source documents
Lacerte Tax, offered through ProConnect by Intuit, is a professional tax preparation software tailored for CPAs, EAs, and tax firms handling complex returns. It supports federal, state, and local filings for individuals, businesses, partnerships, estates, and trusts with automated calculations, diagnostics, and e-filing capabilities. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and other Intuit tools, enabling efficient workflow from data import to client delivery.
Pros
- Extensive form library and support for complex tax scenarios
- Powerful diagnostics engine that minimizes errors and ensures compliance
- Fast e-filing with direct bank product integrations for refunds
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High subscription costs for smaller practices
- Occasional performance issues with very large return volumes
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms preparing high volumes of complex individual and business returns.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $1,300 per preparer for base individual returns, with tiered pricing up to $4,000+ for unlimited multi-state/business modules; pay-per-return options available.
UltraTax CS
enterpriseIntegrated tax preparation platform with practice management, accounting links, and multi-state compliance for mid-to-large firms.
Advanced Diagnostics engine that proactively identifies issues, suggests corrections, and ensures compliance across thousands of forms
UltraTax CS is a comprehensive professional tax preparation software from Thomson Reuters, designed for CPAs and tax firms handling complex individual, business, partnership, corporate, and fiduciary returns. It supports federal, state, and local tax forms with automated calculations, diagnostics, and electronic filing. The software integrates with the CS Professional Suite for practice management, trial balance, and planning tools.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 12,000 forms and schedules with automatic updates
- Powerful diagnostics engine that flags errors and optimizes returns
- Seamless integration with CS Suite for workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs scaled by firm size
- Resource-intensive, requiring robust hardware
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms managing high volumes of complex, multi-state returns.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starts at ~$5,000/year for basic modules, scaling to $15,000+ for full firm suites; requires quote.
CCH Axcess Tax
enterpriseCloud-based tax compliance solution providing automated workflows, document management, and real-time collaboration for tax professionals.
Integrated trial balance and general ledger import directly from accounting software for seamless data flow and reduced manual entry.
CCH Axcess Tax is a comprehensive, cloud-based tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer designed for professional tax firms and CPAs. It handles everything from simple individual returns to complex corporate, partnership, and state filings with an extensive library of over 12,000 forms. The platform integrates trial balance import, error diagnostics, e-filing, and real-time collaboration, ensuring compliance with ever-changing tax laws through automatic updates.
Pros
- Vast form library and support for highly complex returns
- Cloud-based access with strong multi-user collaboration and security
- Automated compliance updates and advanced error-checking diagnostics
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High subscription costs unsuitable for solo practitioners
- Occasional performance lags during peak tax season
Best For
Mid-sized to large tax firms managing high-volume, complex returns requiring robust workflow integration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscription starting at around $5,000-$10,000 annually per user, depending on modules, users, and firm size; no public pricing tiers.
ProSeries
specializedAffordable desktop tax prep software with essential features, error checks, and e-filing for small tax practices.
Smart Diagnostics engine that proactively flags errors and provides guided resolutions before filing
ProSeries by Intuit is a desktop-based tax preparation software designed specifically for professional tax preparers, supporting federal and state returns for individuals, businesses, partnerships, and fiduciaries. It offers robust tools for data entry, automated calculations, error diagnostics, and e-filing, with seamless integration into the Intuit ecosystem like QuickBooks. The software excels in handling high-volume practices with features like customizable worksheets and print/mail options, making it a reliable choice for complex tax scenarios.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with keyboard shortcuts for fast data entry
- Comprehensive diagnostics and error-checking tools
- Strong integration with QuickBooks and reliable e-filing support
Cons
- Desktop-only installation limits remote access without hosting
- Pricing escalates with state add-ons and advanced modules
- Subscription model locks in annual costs without perpetual option
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and preparers who prioritize speed, diagnostics, and Intuit ecosystem integration in a desktop environment.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $449 for Basic federal edition; Professional editions from $1,999, plus $100-300 per state and e-file fees; volume discounts for firms.
TaxSlayer Pro
specializedUser-friendly, cost-effective tax preparation software with unlimited federal and state e-filing and live support.
Budget-friendly pay-per-return pricing that scales seamlessly without long-term commitments
TaxSlayer Pro is professional tax preparation software tailored for tax professionals, enabling the preparation, e-filing, and management of federal and state tax returns for clients. It includes features like client organizers, electronic signatures, audit support, and a robust dashboard for firm management. The platform emphasizes affordability and simplicity, supporting practices from solo preparers to mid-sized firms with reliable performance during peak tax season.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing structure with excellent value for money
- User-friendly interface that minimizes training time
- Reliable e-filing and strong customer support during tax season
Cons
- Fewer advanced customization options compared to top-tier competitors
- Occasional software glitches reported during high-volume periods
- Limited integrations with third-party accounting tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms seeking cost-effective, straightforward software for high-volume return preparation.
Pricing
Series-based pricing from $1,095 (Series 1: up to 100 returns) to $4,995 (Series 5: unlimited returns), plus pay-per-return options starting at low per-return fees.
TaxWise
specializedIntegrated tax and accounting software delivering fast preparation, payroll integration, and compliance updates.
Advanced diagnostics and quality assurance tools that proactively flag errors and ensure compliance across complex returns
TaxWise is a professional-grade tax preparation software from Wolters Kluwer, designed specifically for tax professionals to prepare, e-file, and manage federal and state tax returns efficiently. It supports a vast library of forms, automated calculations, data import from prior years or other software, and built-in diagnostics for error checking. The platform also includes practice management tools, client organizers, and robust e-filing capabilities with direct deposit support.
Pros
- Extensive federal and state form library with frequent updates
- Reliable high-volume e-filing and fast processing times
- Strong customer support and training resources
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern alternatives
- Higher pricing may not suit very small practices
Best For
Mid-sized tax firms and high-volume preparers needing comprehensive state return support and dependable e-filing.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$1,200 per preparer/year for basic editions, up to $3,000+ for premium, with additional per-return fees (~$1-5/return); volume discounts available.
GoSystem Tax RS
enterpriseWeb-based tax preparation system with secure sharing, review tools, and enterprise-level scalability for large firms.
Distributed Read & Repair (DRR) technology ensuring real-time data synchronization and integrity across distributed teams
GoSystem Tax RS from Wolters Kluwer is an enterprise-grade tax preparation software tailored for mid-to-large tax firms handling complex returns for high-net-worth individuals, partnerships, corporations, and estates. It features a fully paperless workflow, real-time collaboration, and unlimited client capacity with robust diagnostics and error-checking tools. The platform integrates seamlessly with CCH practice management solutions for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of complex, multi-state, and international tax scenarios
- Scalable for large firms with unlimited clients and real-time team collaboration
- Strong data integrity via Distributed Read & Repair (DRR) technology and audit trails
Cons
- Steep learning curve and interface not as intuitive for beginners
- High cost makes it less accessible for small practices
- Custom implementation and training required for optimal use
Best For
Mid-to-large tax firms managing high-volume, sophisticated returns for businesses and high-net-worth clients.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $5,000+ per preparer annually, scaling with firm size and modules.
8606
specializedPowerful tax preparation software focused on speed, accuracy, and support for complex individual and business returns.
Automated basis tracking and carryforward across unlimited clients and years, including recharacterizations and partial distributions
8606 by CFS Software is a specialized standalone application designed specifically for tax professionals to prepare IRS Form 8606, handling nondeductible contributions to traditional IRAs, Roth IRA conversions, and taxable distributions with precise basis tracking. It supports multiple clients and years, automatically carrying forward basis information to simplify compliance for complex IRA scenarios. The software integrates with popular tax preparation programs for e-filing or PDF import/export, making it a niche but reliable tool for targeted form preparation.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in multi-year IRA basis calculations and carryovers
- Seamless integration with major tax software like Drake, Lacerte, and UltraTax for e-filing
- Affordable one-time purchase with lifetime use option
Cons
- Extremely narrow focus limited to Form 8606 only, lacking broader tax prep features
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern cloud-based solutions
- No native multi-user or cloud collaboration capabilities
Best For
Tax professionals or firms specializing in retirement account compliance who need precise, efficient Form 8606 handling without a full-suite tax program.
Pricing
One-time purchase at $99 for single-user lifetime license; $49 annual update subscription optional.
TaxDome
otherAll-in-one practice management platform for tax pros handling client portals, workflows, billing, and document storage.
Advanced client portal with self-service document upload, e-signing, and 24/7 access, minimizing email back-and-forth.
TaxDome is an all-in-one practice management platform tailored for tax and accounting professionals, offering client portals, CRM, workflow automation, document management, billing, and e-signatures. It streamlines firm operations by centralizing client communication, task tracking, and financial processes in a secure, cloud-based environment. Designed to reduce reliance on multiple tools, it supports tax pros in efficiently managing practices from onboarding to tax filing.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform eliminates need for multiple apps
- Robust client portal for secure document sharing and communication
- Strong automation tools for workflows, reminders, and onboarding
Cons
- Steep learning curve and occasionally clunky interface
- Pricing can add up for larger teams or advanced features
- Reporting and analytics not as advanced as specialized competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized tax firms seeking an integrated solution to manage clients, workflows, and billing without juggling disparate tools.
Pricing
Starts at $50/user/month (Pro plan, billed annually); scales to $65 (Business) and $90+ (Enterprise) with features like advanced automations.
Conclusion
The top three tools emerge as leaders, with Drake Tax leading for its broad support of federal and state returns, e-filing, and diagnostics, making it a standout choice. Lacerte follows with advanced calculations and QuickBooks integration for complex work, while UltraTax CS excels with integrated practice management and multi-state compliance for larger firms. Each offers unique strengths, ensuring a tailored solution for diverse professional needs.
Explore the top-ranked Drake Tax to simplify your tax workflow and unlock its comprehensive features today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison