Indispensable Tools you wouldn't live without

[equinecpa]

Every fall I try to update and implement better software, hardware, and tools to make my practice life easier. I'd like others to share with readers here, what tool, gadget, software would you not want to live without (I'm not talking about a computer or tax package) but the smaller stuff which makes your tax preparation life easier.

Have you discovered any neat software or hardware that makes your life just a little bit easier? If so please share!

I'll go first:

Hardware: Last year I bought a fujitsu scanner and 2nd moniter -wow I wouldn't live without them now.

Software: I run a little program called keylogger -tracks my keyboard entries so I can go back and track my time (great for when you're interrupted by the phone and forget to note the time)

Carolyn

[BOB W]

Small stapler, very large stapler, paper clips and temporary clear folders (so I can see through it and know at a glance what is in it). I have all the rest.

[KBTS]

PDF software

PDF factory and FinePrint are pretty neat printer software that allow you to create PDF files or print multiple pages on a single piece of paper. There are free versions that work just fine, but you have to pay if you want to remove the trial version disclaimer from printouts or PDF files.

[Gretel]

Send2fax

Same here with 2nd monitor and scanner.

But what I am really delighted about is webbased fax software for receiving and sending. It's attached to the e-mail, has a 800 number and I also can fax using the internet or my e-mail. I can scan directly to my e-mail and then use it to send a fax. Company is Send2fax.

[JohnH]

I agree with all gthe above, plus the dual monitors we discussed extensively on another thread. Here's something we discussed over on the ATX forum that I think is very helpful - might even save you the cost of wrist surgery> See "Mouse Platform-Under Desk"

http://www.aidata.com.tw/products?c=319

[Davc]

Sticky Pad:

http://www.brothersoft.com/stickypad-70623.html

Can be used to put a note on your monitor and the notes can be set as a reminder and pop up at the applicable time. I use it for client related notes and to remind me to register for CPE, order a sandwich to pick up on the way home, and to reset my password for e-services.

[opie]

Dymo LabelWriter 400

I love having labels instantly available without having to switch paper in my printer.

I never thought I needed one of these, but now I don't know how I did my work without it.