2018 Review of MAG-FILER

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From the 2018 reviews of W-2 and 1099 preparation systems.

MAG-FILER, from Spokane Computer is a comprehensive W-2 and 1099 processing and filing solution. MAG-FILER is an on-premise application and is suitable for businesses and accounting firms of just about any size. MAG-FILER can be installed on a desktop, laptop, or network, but does not offer online or mobile access.

MAG-FILER easily processes year-end compliance forms such as W-2’s and 1099’s, with both paper and electronic filing capability included in the product. MAG-FILER is a stand-alone application and does not require any additional modules in order to be operational. Users can enter 1099 and W-2 data manually or chose to import data from other applications including Microsoft Excel. New this year, MAG-FILER has added a Correction Wizard that is designed to streamline the form correction process. The product also includes a bulk TIN matching capability, ensuring accuracy.

MAG-FILER data entry screens mirror the form being processed, so data entry is routine. Users can choose to process a single form or use the batch option to process a high number of forms.

MAG-FILER will print on both pre-printed as well as blank paper. MAG-FILER supports all 1099 forms along with 1098, 1097, 3921, 3922, 5498, 8935, 1042-S, as well as W-2 and W-2G for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The product supports e-filing to both the IRS and SSA and can e-file 1099’s under the IRS Combined Federal/State program. The product will also file corrected 1099’s, and MAG-FILER can be used to electronically file with states not in the IRS Combined Federal State program that require 1099 State Filing of 1099’s, which includes California, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

MAG-FILER also includes a PDF printer, with users able to print all forms directly to a PDF if desired. Users can also import data from a variety of resources, including Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, and text files. The product also transfers data from the previous year’s product, eliminating the need to re-enter data.

Users can also run a Totals Report for each payer or each form type to ensure that the balance is correct. Users can print out totals of all original forms or corrected forms. MAG-FILER also prints to PDF. A processing service is also available that will input data, print and mail forms, and e-file forms to the appropriate agency.

MAG-FILER has several preconfigured integration with a number of accounting and payroll system and services as well as an easy way to import data from third-party applications such as QuickBooks, Excel, CSV, and other applications.

A comprehensive user manual is available on the MAG-FILER website, along with a variety of short videos and brief product tutorials. The Getting Started option provides new users with a general checklist of tasks that must be completed prior to processing and filing forms. A FAQ section is also included, and users can contact support to ask a question via the website, if desired. Regular product support is also available via telephone, email, or fax, with product support included in the cost of the product.

MAG-FILER from Spokane Computer is an on-premise, year-end compliance product that easily processes both W-2’s and 1099’s. MAG-FILER is suitable for both businesses and accounting professionals. Those interested in trying out MAG-FILER can download a free demo from the Spokane Computer website. MAG-FILER can be downloaded from the website for $364.00, or users can request a USB Flash Drive of the program for $404.00. Users can typically download an earlier version of the product to begin entering data and download the final version when it’s released, with all data transferring to the latest version.  

2018 Overall Rating: 5 Stars