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CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business ProSystem fx Tax 28

CCH Small Firm ServicesATX 28

CCH Small Firm Services TaxWise 29

Drake Software Drake Software 29

Intuit Proline Lacerte Tax Software 30

Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS 30

The holiday season comes and pass-es. For CPA firms large and small, income tax return preparation season

then begins, with work volumes growing daily as April 15 draws closer. How will tax suite software perform this year?

Many functions and features found only in high-end packages earlier this decade are standard items now, making tax suites more robust than ever. E-filing and document management for storing scanned images of tax forms, for example, once were pricey options. Tax suites across all markets and price ranges now include these capabilities.

While technology keeps progressing, expectations and needs keep growing, too.

"The congressional trend of late on retroac-tive tax legislation has made tax software a vital component of any tax practice," says Kerri Car-penter, CPA, director, tax development, for Drake Software. "At Drake Software, we know our customers are relying on us to analyze, interpret and implement these late changes

quickly and accurately. Agility is, therefore, a core focus of our development model."

Internet IntegrationThanks to the Internet's ability to quickly and inexpensively transmit data, workflows and specific tasks extend beyond physical offices and regular business hours. To this end, many Internet-related possibilities exist for accounting firms to improve efficiency.

"We are focused on creating end-to-end work-flow solutions and lever-aging the Web to increase workflow efficiency and staff utilization and miti-gate security and compli-ance risks, all while driv-ing down the total cost of technology own-ership," says Scott Fleszar, senior director, strategic marketing, for Thomson Reuters.

UltraTax CS, Thomson Reuters' tax suite, offers online client organizers and portals, as well as integration with Check-point research resources. Other tax suite developers also provide Web-based research options.

Preparers work and file returns from

TOP 6 TAX SUITESSOLUTIONS 2009

HIGH-END PACKAGES NOW 'STANDARD'Features such as online client portals, auto-fill data entry, and e-filing and document management no longer optional add-ons BY RICHARD BUSE

Kerri Carpenter

Scott Fleszar

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various locations. To track such efforts, Drake Software's tax suite enables users to integrate tax return filing data from multiple offices into a single database via the Internet. TaxWise offers InterviewPlus, a Web-based service that allows preparers to enter a client's tax information from a remote site and then complete the tax return later.

Social media's value extends beyond posting updates and sharing photos: It allows coworkers or professionals across the country to share dilemmas, suggestions and to collaborate on work activities. With the Live Community feature in its ProLine Lacerte application, Inuit allows users to post questions and answers about various software functions.

The Internet makes it possible to reap the benefits of technology without under-taking the costs and concerns associated with purchasing and maintaining IT sys-tems in-house. CCH is among software developers offering tax suites in desktop or software as a service (SaaS) mode. With CCH serving as host, SaaS users simply log on to a secure connection whenever they wish to use the ProSystem fx Tax suite.

Workflow Efficiencies"To be efficient, tax professionals need soft-ware that is simple," Carpenter says. "Train-ing is important, but ultimately, preparers want a product that is intuitive to use. Complex calculations, integration, e-file, paperless office, practice management — it doesn't matter what it is, we have the excit-ing challenge of taking the complex and making it simple. The best feedback I can get is to hear a customer say, 'I never had a

need to call customer service.'"ProLine Lacerte, ATX and other tax

suites deploy interview modes for data entries, in which tax preparers and their clients respond to series of questions with entered answers flowing to the correct tax form lines. CCH incorporates optical char-acter recognition (OCR) for its ProSystem fx and Small Firm Services Tax Suites, allowing preparers to automatically enter scanned information from W-2, 1099 and other source documents.

Auto-fill data entry capabilities elimi-nate the need to manually enter repetitive bits of information, and automated data transfers eliminate the need to re-enter information from one form to another.

For an accountant, various options arise when preparing a tax returns — options that have immediate effects as well as consequences for the following tax year. Drake Software's tax suite includes capa-bilities for compiling and saving multiple versions of a taxpayer's return. This allows the accountant to discuss various scenarios with the client and then proceed based on the client's instructions.

Diagnostic and review activities are crucial but time-consuming, so tax suite developers focus on making comprehensive examinations as efficient as possible.

IT IntegrationThe Internet can link multiple office loca-tions. An accounting firm might handle functions beyond tax preparation for its business taxpayers. Within an account-ing firm, accounting-specific applications co-exist with general business office appli-cations. There's the need to enter client-

supplied information, too, with a minimal amount of manual data entry work.

IT integration is a crucial concern. Drake Software allows clients to download Web-based report data in Access or Excel format. ProLine Lacerte features enhanced Excel data import capabilities, along with support for customers using Vista and Win-dows 7-based systems. A common database maintains information for all ProSystem fx applications. Tax suite developers also offer data conversion services so customers can import information from systems used previously.

High-End Now, Common Soon?Introduction, acceptance and mass use of new technology tends to follow a pattern: It first shows up in large enterprise appli-cations. Then, it appears in high-end or function-specific applications. From there, it becomes an optional feature in mid-level or entry-level applications before becoming a standard feature.

Tax preparation software seems to be following this pattern. Data mining once was deployed only for large-scale purposes. UltraTax CS from Thomson Reuters now offers data mining capabilities.

Senior-level executives of large compa-nies were early users of dashboard reporting systems, which allowed them to view all key performance indicators (KPI) on one screen. UltraTax CS features dashboard reporting options, and Pro System fx offers custom home page options for users.

Will those items become common to all tax suites? That remains to be seen, but expect tax suites to lead tax prep in becom-ing more agile and efficient.

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Custom Dashboard Includes E-mail, Calendar Postings

ProSystem fx Tax from CCH, a Wolters Kluwer busi-ness, always has offered customers a range of module options. The latest edition is built with Microsoft's

.NET 3.5 framework and improved user interfaces. It also is available as a SaaS (software as a service) product. With those enhancements, ProSystem fx Tax further extends its attrac-tiveness to CPA firms with diverse needs and preferences.

Benefits and Featuresn A common client database makes it easy to access or update information across all ProSystem fx applications. n SaaS portability means easy data access from any location with Internet access. SaaS also eliminates the need for on-site installations, enhancements and maintenance.n Customizable dashboard incorporates notifications, Out-look calendar postings and e-mail access within one screen.

What Users Say

"Having recently participated in the Beta program for the ProSystem fx Suite, we are extremely excited for two rea-sons: 1.) the individual applications themselves have been improved far beyond our expectations, and 2.) the imminent ability to operate all these applications in a fully-integrated environment will enable process and procedural changes that are sorely needed," says Charles Spring, chief technology officer for RAFFA, P.C., Rockville, MD. "As much as we appreciate the remarkable development effort that has gone into the products themselves, I suspect that the software changes will pale in comparison to the structural maturity that will be enabled by their implementation. "

SummaryFlexibility afforded through combinations of various mod-ules and applications always has characterized ProSystem fx Tax. The tax suite's latest edition refines these characteristics. The availability of ProSystem fx Tax as a SaaS product elimi-nates in-house IT concerns and enables firms to assign tax preparation tasks to individuals working varied hours from multiple locations.

CCH, a Wolters Kluwer businesswww.cchgroup.com877-224-8365

Total Tax Office Provides Toolbox for Small Firms

With a price tag of $1,695, ATX Total Tax Office by CCH Small Firm Services offers small firms a suite of applications for tax preparation. The basic 1040

tax preparation package sells for $410 as a stand-alone appli-cation. Additional modules, such as Total Tax & Account-ing, address year-round small business accounting needs.

Benefits and Featuresn Five packages — 1040, 1040 Office, MAX for Business, Total Tax Office, and Total Tax & Accounting Office — serve small firm needs.n Individual and entity forms for local, state and federal returns are included in the Total Tax & Accounting suite.n Online research resources and unlimited electronic filing for Total Tax & Accounting users.n Document manager scans and stores documents and sup-ports files in PDF format.n Trial balance, fixed asset manager, write-up and payroll applications are available for ongoing small business client accounting needs.

What Users Say

"I've found the ATX program to be very user-friendly and easy to work with," says Jo Holloman, CPA, an indepen-dent practitioner in Raleigh, NC. "It has links to take you from one section to another. When you click on a line, it takes you to more detailed information. It has a lot of func-tionality and flexibility as to how much you want printed. The last several years I've used ATX for e-filing, and that's worked well. For the cost, it's a really good program for a small practitioner."

Summary ATX Total Tax & Accounting offers small firms a range of features and functions, including research, electronic filing and document management. For firms looking to provide year-round services for small business clients, ATX offers additional modules separately and in its Total Tax & Accounting Office suite.

CCH Small Firm Serviceswww.atxinc.com 888-455-0183

CCH

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Office Manager Groups Data From Multiple Locations

Add-On Module Deducts Tax Prep Fees From Refunds

Drake Software grew out of a local tax preparation busi-ness founded in the 1950s. It began developing and offering technological tools for tax return preparation

and filing in the 1970s. Drake offers four applications — Tax Preparation, Tax Planner, Client Write-up, and Drake Docu-ment Manager — that can be used individually or in various combinations as a tax suite.

Benefits and Featuresn Update Manager supplies only user-requested updates. n An archive feature saves multiple versions of the same tax return, so CPAs can discuss various tax options and scenarios with clients.n Includes packages for 1040, 1040 NR, 1041, 1065, 1120, 1120 S, 706, 709 and 990 forms, plus state tax return soft-ware for 47 states. n Streamlined data entry for entity returns.n Multi-Office Manager combines tax return data from mul-tiple offices into one database via the Internet.n E-mails of tax returns in PDF format are password-protect-ed and encrypted for secure transmission.n Real-time Web reports for tax return preparation and filing status can be downloaded in Access and Excel formats.n Free electronic filing.n Free data conversion for many applications.

What Users Say

"During tax season, minutes and seconds count," says Pat Deblasio, CPA, Deblasio Group, Greensburg, PA. "Drake is the only company I have used that really understands and cares enough to design features that save me minutes, which add up to hours."

Summary Drake's industry history spans six decades, reflecting its emphasis on long-term service and responsiveness to tax preparation needs. Its Web site advertises that Drake custom-ers wait an average of nine seconds during peak tax prepara-tion season to speak with a support representative.

Drake Softwarewww.drakesoftware.com800-890-9500

Where does a small accounting firm turn for a tax suite? What about a larger firm that anticipates growth but doesn't need an extensive package imme-

diately? TaxWise, a part of CCH Small Firm Services, pro-vides answers to such questions with various configuration packages and optional modules and unlimited user licenses.

Benefits and Featuresn Offered in a variety of configuration packages: ProFiling, ProBusiness & Specialty, Executive, Power Package, Execu-tive Accounting, Power Accounting, and Corporate Tax & Accounting.n Instant error checking by keystroke, entry or entire return.n Auto-fill and drop-down selections for ZIP codes, EINs, cities, states and other common information.n Real-time calculations automatically update forms.n A fixed asset manager recommends depreciation methods based on assets and includes precalculations for 19 methods.n FeeCollect service automatically deducts and deposits tax preparation fees from client tax refunds.n Unlimited user licenses for a single location and Interview-PLUS Online for quickly establishing remote locations.

What Users Say

"In all honesty, I love TaxWise!" says Robert G. Wright B.B.A., E.A., R&D Income Tax Services, Brooklyn, NY. "I'll continue to use it. I was up and running within a month. And I was surprised at how well I learned the program. I regret that I didn't switch years ago. In terms of functional-ity, I love it! I told another tax preparer, who pays a lot more, about TaxWise. TaxWise is a perfect program for me to expand to offering accounting services."

Summary TaxWise accommodates high-volume tax preparation prac-tices. Its various configuration options let smaller firms select a package that best suits their needs. Additional tax modules and optional products, such as InterviewPLUS Online and FeeCollect, enable firms to ramp up to meet new demands.

CCH Small Firm Serviceswww.taxwise.com888-455-0184

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Tracker Screen Displays Tax Return Status Firm-Wide

The Intuit ProLine Lacerte tax compliance system, geared toward mid-level and large practices, offers various func-tions in a modular format. Pay-per-use pricing offers

added flexibility. Those options extend ProLine's appeal to small firms with complex, specialized workloads. In addition to offering a range of new features for the 2009 tax year, ProLine retains the interview data entry mode and other common characteristics of Intuit and Lacerte applications.

Benefits and Featuresn Real-time tax research provided in partnership with BNA. n Expanded views of prior year tax return information.n Live Community panel not only accesses standard help ref-erences but also enables users to share questions and answers with other ProLine users.n Optional modules for various entity, municipal and state tax return needs.n Expanded Excel data import capabilities.n Support for Vista and Windows 7 customers.n Several dozen icons for navigating to specific functions.n Form-based view of tax returns for review purposes.

What Users Say

"Lacerte tax software is one of the key tools in my firm's efficiency arsenal!" says Renee' Mengali, CPA, owner of Mengali Accountancy, San Francisco, CA. "From the smart-map functionality to the built-in e-file ability, Lacerte allows me to prepare even the most complicated returns quickly and accurately. The Client Tracker screen allows me to track firm-wide tax return status from one screen, and I love how I can access any tax return from this one screen with a simple double-click!"

SummaryProLine extends the features and functions associated with Lacerte. The modular format and pay-per-use pricing make ProLine affordable for small firms with complex, specialized needs. Real-time research access and the Live Community enable users to get the most out of online resources.

Intuit ProLine Lacerte Tax Softwarewww.lacertesoftware.com 800-765-7777

Office Function Compares Previous Year's Activity

Thomson Reuters, developer of UltraTax CS, provides an array of information and technology products for accountants and other professionals. The features and

functions of UltraTax CS reflect that depth and width. The latest edition of UltraTax CS includes significant updates for the coming tax season.

Benefits and Featuresn New source document processing extracts pertinent data from scanned images of 1099 forms, W-2 forms and other source documents.n New firm/office function provides metrics for current-year tax preparation activity as well as comparisons to previous year activity.n Customizable home page provides notices and alerts, client status, and other user-defined information. n Integration with online Checkpoint research resources.

What Users Say

"Prior to UltraTax CS, we operated like we were in the dino-saur age, manually entering figures into tax software," says Chris Fleming, Fleming & Associates. "After implement-ing UltraTax CS and utilizing the tax codes for companies we keep the books for, our efficiency increased approximately 70% the first year and could increase to nearly 80% in future years. Although UltraTax CS is behind the scenes to our cli-ents, it makes a world of difference to our firm."

Summary UltraTax CS addresses tax preparation needs with a range of technology features and functions. Client-specific Web site portals, Checkpoint research data and other online resources provide easily accessible information. OCR technology trans-fers information from supporting source documents to tax returns, eliminating the need for storing paper documents and manually entering tax return information. Comprehen-sive diagnostic and drill down functions, including data min-ing, allow for complete reviews and evaluations. A customiz-able home page adds convenience by reducing mouse clicks.

Thomson Reuterswww.thomsonreuters.com800-968-8900