2017 Review of CCH ProSystem fx Tax

From the 2017 Review of Professional Tax Preparation Systems.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax offers a traditional desktop/network installation. For those interested in the application, but desire 24/7 online access, the product is available in a cloud-based platform — CCH Axcess Tax – which is also reviewed in this issue. Though mobile apps are not available to access the application, users can check the status of returns using a mobile device.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax contains a fully customizable user interface screen that offers access to all client engagements, including status and any pending activity. Data entry fields are easily navigated, with data entry following the format of the form that is being utilized. Calculations are performed automatically, and navigational panels guide users through the entire data entry process.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax supports thousands of forms and schedules, with preparation capability available for 1040, 1041, 1065, 1120, 1120s, 990, and 5500 along with state forms, where relevant, and both estate and gift tax returns. The product supports e-filing for all federal and state forms where applicable, with an automated notification system sending an email when returns are accepted by the IRS.

CCH Axcess Portal offers a secure way to both access and provide access to client tax returns and other confidential data, so accountants can send returns and related files electronically to their clients for review, with the client able to upload new or edited files as needed. CCH Axcess Portal supports a variety of file types and sizes, and offers search capability, where users can search for documents using file type, title, creator or keyword search terms.

Using CCH ProSystem fx Scan, users can quickly scan large quantities of source documents, with CCH ProSystem fx Scan automatically identifying each document to determine what it is. Next, the scanned documents are organized into a single, bookmarked PDF document that accountants can quickly access. Better still, AutoFlow Technology, included in the applicationan application add-on, can extract data from both 1040 and 1041 source documents and import it directly into the client’s tax return. 

CCH Axcess Document offers additional paperless workflow solutions, offering electronic document management capability, storing all types of documents for future access. All files are stored in a single, searchable database with version control ensuring that the most recent version of the document is accessed at all times.

Though CCH ProSystem fx Tax can be used as a stand-alone application, the ability of the solution to integrate with other CCH ProSystem fx Suite software can be beneficial to firms using other Wolters Kluwer products. Along with seamless integration with CCH ProSystem fx Scan and CCH applications such as CCH Axcess Document and CCH Axcess Portal, CCH ProSystem fx Tax also integrates with CCH ProSystem fx Practice Management, CCH ProSystem fx Planning and CCH ProSystem fx Engagement. It’s also integrated with numerous CCH Axcess applications such as CCH Axcess Workstream, designed to manage all work deliverables, and CCH IntelliConnect, a research platform that works as a central information resource application. Integration with third-party applications such as Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, and other accounting applications is available as well. The end result is a completely integrated system that offers tax planning, tax preparation, practice management, document management, and even tax research capabilities.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax also includes a comprehensive diagnostic system, which tests all data input and forms for omissions and errors, with users able to easily return to the specified error/omission in order to correct the data.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax offers comprehensive help functionality throughout the product, with users able to easily access line and form-specific help directly from the data entry screens. If used with CCH IntelliConnect, users also have access to additional research capabilities as well. In addition to these resources, CCH ProSystem fx Tax, like all Wolters Kluwer applications, offers a multitude of online resources such as a searchable knowledgebase, FAQs, various user guides, a user forum, and access to various training options. Both telephone and chat support are available, with the cost of support included in product pricing.

CCH ProSystem fx Tax is a comprehensive program designed to provide users with excellent tax preparation capability, as well as seamless integration with numerous CCH ProSystem fx Suite and CCH Axcess products designed to reduce workload and paper, as well as increase productivity. Pricing is available by calling 1-800-739-9998.

2017 Rating – 4.75 Stars