Tax prep Tips

Online Tax Software vs. Desktop Tax Software

Benefits of Online Tax Software

Online tax prep software can be used on any computer – Mac or PC

Online tax software auto updates and is self-maintaining

Acknowledgments automatically applied

No need to back up files since they are stored in the cloud

Functionally similar to desktop versions

Fluid movement between software years

Several preparer roles

Has interview mode

Can go back and forth between interview and form modes

 

Drawbacks of Online Tax Software

Must have internet access

Subject to server outages

Must be taken offline by developers to update

Corporate modules not available online yet (beta testing forthcoming)

Not all hotkeys work on online tax software

Different browsers have slightly different interaction and support

 

Benefits of Desktop Tax Software

Can prepare regardless of internet connectivity

Includes corporate and specialty modules

Can use regular keyboard hotkeys (ctrl + C, etc.)

Desktop tax software have an interview mode

Internal security is 100% in your control

 

Drawbacks of Desktop Tax Software

Must have internet in order to send returns

Must backup files for restoral purposes

Program must be manually updated regularly

Desktop tax software can only be used on computers that have the program installed

Back and forth between interview and form modes not advised

 

Questions to ask yourself to determine which platform may be best for your office?

Where will you be preparing tax on your software? Will you be traveling much? Will you be in an office setting?

How many people will be using the program? Do you need to limit the level of authority of some preparers?

Will your office be preparing corporate or specialty tax returns?

 

If you would like to speak to a team member about the different tax software options or to request a demo, feel free to call us at (866) 357-2052.

Joseph Rogers

Share
Published by
Joseph Rogers
Tags: tax software

Recent Posts

Why is Tax Software So Expensive?

Professional tax software costs range from lower cost, a few hundred dollars, to very high…

5 days ago

When Will Tax Season Start in 2026?

Tax season for tax filing year 2025 is rumored to be starting late this year.…

3 weeks ago

How to Prepare for 2026 Tax Season

Preparing for the incoming tax season doesn't have to be time consuming. Here is a…

3 weeks ago

Important Phone Numbers for 2026 Tax Season

Identity Theft Protection Unit: 800-908-4490 Refund Offset Questions: 800-304-3107 IRS Refund Hotline: 1-800-829-1954 ITIN Line:…

3 weeks ago

Prepaid Debit Cards for Tax Refunds

If you own a tax business, you may have encountered taxpayers who have no bank…

1 month ago

Helping Clients Navigate the “Gig Economy”

             In our current economy, finding a standard 9-5 job…

3 months ago

This website uses cookies.