BNA Software — BNA 706 Preparer/BNA 709 Preparer

General Operations/Ease-of-Use – 4.5 Stars
BNA 706 Preparer and BNA 709 Preparer are separate programs that run independently of each other, each offering functions and built-in calculations specific to their type of return. That said, both systems utilize essentially the same interface, with the program providing a multi-paneled screen that includes traditional pull-down menus and icons across the top that include navigation functions, options for zooming in and access to diagnostics tools.

Both Preparer systems use the basic file menu system in Windows Explorer for client selection, with no filtering or sorting options. By default, the programs open a new return when the system is started, with a forms menu tree in a panel on the left, and the main work area of the interface split between a form view and a data-entry sheet. An additional panel across the bottom of the screen shows diagnostics and data validation, both of which run full-time while data is being entered, and offer a link back to potential problem areas. When entering data, the systems enable users to enter notes for each line on each form, schedule or worksheet, providing a good review tool.

In general, the programs provide easy data-entry functions with intuitive navigation through forms that can be performed either heads-down with the tab key or with a mouse, while additional functions include a spell checker, sticky notes, and cut and paste capability. Users can jump quickly to associated schedules using the left-hand navigation menu, and panels and form views can be easily modified. The programs include field-specific Help and links to official form instructions.

Workflow & Productivity Tools – 5 Stars
The two programs support different functions, but since they share a similar interface, they also provide many of the same general use benefits, including customization options, smart data-entry features, automatic transfer of data to supporting forms and schedules, live calculations, creation of return sets, and the use of sticky notes. The systems also allow authorized users to override calculations, and provide return histories that act as an audit trail. Each program also provides advanced functions specific to their return type.

BNA 709 Preparer includes a donee worksheet that allows users to enter this information once, and then routes it automatically to each gift as needed. The gift tax system also makes it easy to calculate split gifts, automatically posting the gift information to the return and allowing import of split gifts from a spouse’s return. Detailed gift histories can also be transferred into the next gift tax return. BNA 709 Preparer supports marital deductions related to gifts by noting qualification and posting the sum of all qualified gifts on Schedule A. The same treatment is used for gifts that qualify as charitable deductions. BNA 709 Preparer includes all subsidiary schedules and forms 56, 2350, 2848, 4868, 8275, 8275-R, 8821 and 8892. Reporting functions include the Allocation of Annual Exclusions, transmittal letters, the donee worksheet and supplemental schedules.

BNA 706 Preparer automates estate tax return compliance, with automatically updated Sec. 7520 interest rates, customizable return templates and optional state preparation modules. The system links directly to BNA Tax Management EGT Web Portfolios and offers import from several valuation systems. BNA 706 Preparer automatically calculates the minimum marital bequest for zero tax (or lowest tax), and provides GST and inclusion ration calculations. It supports back-out of community property, and can manage multiple residuary beneficiaries for inheritance tax states. Other calculations include interrelated marital and charitable deductions, such as charitable trust computations (CLATs, CRATs, CLUTs, CRUTs). A calculation wizard helps to determine appropriate treatments.

Integration/Import & Export – 4.5 Stars
Both programs transfer data internally, as needed, but not between the two systems. As noted above, BNA 706 Preparer offers integration with BNA’s Tax Management EGT Web Portfolios, and offers data import from EVP’s EstateVal, APPRAISE and Wallace Pricing. It offers an exportable asset list. BNA 709 Preparer can import prior year data and split gifts. Both programs can save reports into PDF format.

Support/Training & Help System – 5 Stars
Both systems offer a good collection of Help functions, including a spell checker, line-by-line form instructions and content-specific Help, while diagnostic tools help ensure data accuracy. BNA’s support website offers downloadable program updates, How Do I guides, access to CPE-eligible training and product documentation. Live tech support is included in pricing.

Relative Value – 5 Stars
For practices considering directly offering estate and gift tax services instead of referring the work out to legal firms, BNA’s 706 Preparer and BNA 709 Preparer offer comprehensive, yet intuitive compliance systems that streamline and automate most preparation tasks. The systems are moderately priced, but are exceptionally valuable to an accounting practice that services clients with large and complex personal assets.

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