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In September 2009, Intuit released a new web based tax software called Intuit ProLine(TM) Tax Online Edition (beta) for tax preparer’s and those individuals that need a comprehensive, low-cost and Web based 1040 tax program. This software is designed for low volume users whose customer base does not justify an expensive PC or networked tax software. Similar to other web-based software programs, and similar to QuickBooks Online, this program permits the tax preparers to work any time from anywhere providing they have web access. Intuit has many years experienced in the tax preparation business and has its TurboTax ,Pro Series ,and Lacerte brands. Intuit understands its customers’ needs and has the foresight to know that many of the tax software applications are heading towards “cloud computing” and this tax software is another example of a Web enabled program.

How the Tax Software Works - The concept behind this program is simplicity, and Intuit accomplishes this, by setting up three basic workspaces for the tax preparer. These workspaces are “input”,” review” and “file”. The “input” workspace is where the tax preparer enters information such as information from Forms W-2, 1099, Schedule A and B,etc .. Locating the proper form is very easy. Within each form you’re able to enter multiple data entries by using a list and total feature in the software. The second workspace, is the “review” section which provides the tax preparer with a summary diagnostics and a list of tax related suggestions. And finally the third workspace, is “file” which allows the tax preparer to electronically file the return or to print the tax return for manual transmission with the Internal Revenue Service.

In the past, tax preparers have purchased TurboTax software and pirated the tax software to prepare hundreds of tax returns by using TurboTax. In order to capture and capitalize from this market, Intuit designed a low cost tax software for a preparer that wants to prepare a tax return in the dining room of a client or their own dining room or from any location with web access. The value proposition is that this software is low priced and simple to use. Although the Intuit website currently offers the beta software for 2008 at no cost, I’ve been unofficially informed that Intuit will sell the software on a pay-per-use basis of $16 per tax return. This price is not currently shown in the Intuit website.This tax software becomes an affordable alternative for the tax preparers whose practice cannot afford to purchase the Pro Series or Lacerte brands.

The software functionality is summarized as follows: (1) Single user for 1040’s (2) Pay for each return (3) EFile or ability to paper file for two states. By the end of the 4th quarter 2009 Intuit expects that filing will be available for the remaining states. (4) Data conversion (5) Status tracking with the Internal Revenue Service (6) Notes & lists with totaling capabilities embedded in the various forms and schedules(7) Diagnostics and suggestions with intelligent suggestions and (8)Technical support from Intuit.

Even though hundreds of users have beta tested this software, there are always issues arising from any new release . Similar to other web enabled software, the software’s performance may be dependent on the web connection, which may result in sluggish performance. Also, there are taxpayer’s homes or offices that may not have web access, which would prevent the tax preparer from entering the tax information “on the fly”. Not a huge problem, since there are work arounds and alternatives, such as just gathering the information, and entering the data later into the software.

I commend Intuit for producing a web-based tax preparer software for new low volume users as well as making it easy for those individuals that have used “pirated” versions of TurboTax in the past, to legally use a low-cost and affordable tax software.

Sandor Lenner,CPA/MBA has provided accounting services for companies for over 35 years. He is a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and provides QuickBooks support and business accounting services. As an Intuit Authorized Affiliate, heoffers you discounted QuickBooks and Intuit software. He works as a part-time for Susan Missal Lenner, P.A.