Tax Software Again

[Safire]

I know this has been done to death, but I would like some imput on ATX tax prep software if possible.

It looks like the Total Tax Office, with it's 40 possible cpe credits might actually be as good a deal as what I actually spent last year on CPE, software, pay per returns and e-filing fees.

Can anyone tell me if they like this software or have had problems with it recently?

Any imput is appreciated.
Thanks!

[Lion]

Atx

Don't have much useful to say to you (just adding to my post total when I have time!). I use MAX for business returns only, so I don't have frantic times in January when everyone wants to efile and/or get RALS while working out bugs. But, I've had excellent and fast service the few times I've needed to call for support (usually re getting something new via my slow dial-up service). I also had an online session in using the program last summer. I think the program improves every year. And, the ATXers message board is an extraordinarily valuable resource for both program tips and tax information. You can search the archives there for topics re preparers thinking about switching from various software packages. And, do get a CD of last year's program to test drive it with several of your typical returns and a few at the outer limits.

[S T]

Atx

Not sure I can give you the right answers, but I demo'd ATX about 2 years ago. Worked all summer with it.

When I couldn't understand and get the results I thought that were needed, I called Tech Support. They basically stated it was based on an excel spreadsheet. You have to know how to handle some of the tax reporting issues to get the info onto the forms. That just didn't fit what I needed for my practice. I need the diagnostics and intuitive software support!

Price seems really good, if you are doing a lot of simple 1040A or 1040 returns, but I do so much more.

You still have time, call ATX, Drake, TaxSlayer, TaxWorks, Lacerte, Pro Series, etc and order out the free demos. Try your returns on extension on each of these programs and see what works for your practice.

Sandy

[Chief]

ATX Software

Sandy has given you some good advice. I tried or demo'd ATX a while past. I checked their message board and was scared away because of the efile problems their dlients were having. Further I did not care for the layout of their program. Had a fellow tax preparer who hasused their software for many years but even with his help I decided to go with another software product.

What any of us need to do is to get with a program that we like, that meets our needs, and stay with it. It is too time consuming to change products. The continuity of our records is quite important. Good luck with your decision.