Income Tax
2013 Review of Advanced Micro Solutions 1099-ETC
Oct. 31, 2013
Advanced Micro Solutions’ 1099-Etc software offers compliance tools for paper and electronic filing of federal and state 1099, W-2 and 940 series forms, as well as unemployment forms. Customers can also purchase additional add-ons including live and after-the-fact payroll.
Basic System Functions – 4.5 Stars
1099-Etc offers support for all federal and state 1099 forms. The Import Assistant makes it easy to import documents and data in a variety of formats. The software doesn’t require any special licenses or keys, allowing it to be installed on a network and multiple computers at an office. 1099-Etc supports up to 9,999 payers each with up to 99,999 employees.
The programs data entry screens are formatted similar to the actual forms to allow for simpler data input. The initial setup process allows users to set access rights and a PDF encryption key for each client. The encryption key lets users securely email forms and reports directly from the program. Other features include print preview and backup and restore capabilities. Users can also use the software’s batch process to perform TIN and SSN Verification in bulk.
The after-the-fact Payroll module allows for direct deposit, MICR check printing and the management of standard and customizable deductions. Some deductions allowed include benefit plans, allowances and unemployment. The program also supports multiple state income reporting.
Reporting – 4.75 Stars
1099-Etc offers compliance for all states and Puerto Rico, supporting all 1099 forms, 1098, 5498, 3921, 3922, W-2, W-2c, W-3, W-3c, 1042-S and annual Puerto Rico wage reporting forms. 1099-Etc’s sorting capabilities allows users to search by recipient’s name, TIN, OAN or another specified field. In addition, payee data can be shared by using the Common Payee File. Users can print forms on pre-printed forms or on plain paper, reports, client letters and mailing labels. 1099-Etc has an align option that will ensure the printer places values properly on pre-printed forms. AMS also offers several e-filing and mailing options, which include outsourcing the entire process to an AMS partner.
While 1099-Etc offers several options for reports and templates for client communications, it does not offer integrated billing or the ability to integrate with other time and billing systems. Generated reports can be saved in PDF format for electronic distribution and/or printing.
Import/Export Capabilities – 4.5 Stars
The Import Assistant Menu makes it easy for users to import data from various file formats, such as Excel, CSV and QuickBooks, giving users access to data from most financial management systems. In addition, 1099-Etc can also export data to Excel, CSV and PDF formats.
Help/Support – 4.75 Stars
Free technical support is available to customers via phone, fax, email and online chat. The company has extended support hours during tax season. In addition, support and tutorial materials are available on the website and in the program. An electronic version of the manual and a list of FAQs are available to users. The tutorials walk users through setting up payers and data entry. The Help menu allows professionals to search for specific topics. The program can be set to automatically check for and install updates as well.
Summary & System Pricing
The 1099-Etc base programs costs $75 per year with additional add-ons available for a total cost of $405. Additional add-ons include: Laser Generation Option for $75, E-Filing Direct Option for $105, Forms Filer Plus for $45 and AMS Payroll for $105. E-Filing Services are also available, starting at $0.33 per return.
Best Fit: Firms managing after-the-fact payroll, as well as quarterly and year-end information reporting for multiple businesses.
What’s New:
- New PDF viewing and printing features
- Payer reminders
Strengths
- Imports from a variety of file formats
- Supports federal, state and local forms
- Comprehensive e-filing and mailing options
Potential Limitations
- No time and billing integration