CCH Small Firm Services — TaxWise Client Write-Up & ATX Client Write-Up

LEARNING CURVE & EASE OF USE — 4.5 Stars
Once again, both write-up systems are the same except that each bridges data
to the professional’s tax system, either ATX or TaxWise. The system opens
into a Spartan interface that is intuitive and aesthetically appealing, providing
access to various system components via pull-down menus and tabbed workscreens.
The system accommodates heads-down users, with fast data entry for recurring
monthly journal entries and checks. Primary areas of the write-up suite are
available from separate program icons, allowing users to work in more than one
function at a time, including the core write-up system, as well as AP, AR, client
lists and payroll activities. Data-entry screens are user-friendly, with two
options for entering checks: the check register or a check entry screen. The
system can remember prior transactions and accounts, allowing users to automatically
have appropriate distributions on ensuing checks.

Both the ATX and TaxWise versions of the program have strong built-in ATF
payroll capabilities, while optional full-service payroll features are available
with support for MICR printing, e-filing of compliance returns and state forms,
as well as direct deposit. Alternatively, professionals can use the online automated
system from PayCycle, with data feeding back into GL accounts. A Computer Checkbook
program is also available, helping clients maintain more accurate account data,
and providing direct integration of data to the write-up program.

REPORTING & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — 4 Stars
Whether the professional is using TaxWise or ATX for their tax preparation,
the write-up system provides strong reporting features that are easily accessible
from appropriate menus, and provide good editing and formatting options. Financial
statements are also fully customizable, and the program offers templates for
all GAAP-required statements. After-the-fact and live payroll reports are automatically
maintained by the system as data is entered into the check register, providing
instant access to employee and vendor statistics. Preparation of W-2s and 1099s
is pretty much automatic, with data flowing to the appropriate forms.

INTEGRATION, IMPORT/EXPORT — 4.5 Stars
The TaxWise and ATX client write-up systems allow for import directly from QuickBooks
or Peachtree, or professionals can provide clients with “computer checkbooks”
that are used to track basic account data with information easily synched into
the program. It also has two-way integration to reflect reconciliation adjustments.
The write-up systems are specifically tailored to each of the tax programs,
enabling users to easily export year-end balances to TaxWise or ATX tax returns.

SUPPORT, TRAINING & HELP SYSTEM — 4.5 Stars
The programs utilize a traditional built-in Help utility with some right-click
functionality and context-sensitive guidance, along with an indexed primary
Help system. Both vendors offer live phone-in support, user guides and other
assistance on their respective support websites, and both have various CPE-eligible
live and web-based training options.

RELATIVE VALUE — 4 Stars
The TaxWise and ATX systems are great additions to small firms looking to either
add write-up and payroll as new services, or who simply want to change from
a program that doesn’t offer the same level of direct integration with
their tax program. The write-up program has an attractive price with good financial
reporting options, which should make it an easy fit for firms using either the
TaxWise or ATX preparation system.

2007 Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars