2020 Review of AMS W-2 and 1099 Forms Filer

From the 2020 reviews of W-2 and 1099 compliance systems.

W-2/1099 Forms Filer is one of several compliance applications available with 1099-etc by Advanced Micro Solutions (AMS). Designed for both businesses as well as accounting professionals that typically prepare year-end compliance forms for a variety of clients, W-2/1099 Forms Filer is an on-premise application designed to be installed on a desktop computer, network computer, workstation, or laptop computer. All AMS applications are sold as modules of 1099-etc, though as the core application, W-2/1099 Forms Filer will need to be purchased in order to use other AMS applications.

W-2/1099 Forms Filer supports up to 1,999 payers or employers, and up to 99.999 employees per payer, making it a good option for accounting firms preparing a high number of year-end compliance forms for numerous employees. The application supports all common year-end forms which include W-2, W-2C, W-3, all 1099 forms, 1096, 1098, 5498, and 1042S, and also includes the new 1099-NEC which will be used to report non-employee compensation.  W-2/1099 also supports Puerto Rico forms including PRR-3, PRW-2, PRW – 2C, and others. 

Data entry is easy in W-2/1099, with the interface mirroring that of the form being completed. Users can opt to import data from various third-party applications that include QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel. The application can also import from a variety of file formats including print files, comma delimited text files, tab delimited text files, and columnar report files.  In addition, W-2/1099 will create an SSN verification file that will quickly verify all social security numbers with the SSA prior to filing.    

W-2/1099 Forms Filer uses pre-printed forms to print W2s and 1099s, though AMS does offer an add-on module that provides users with the option to print on blank paper if desired. In addition, users can create a PDF of all forms, and then email the PDF to clients or recipients, where they can be printed or downloaded as needed. E-filing is not included in the core W-2/1099 application, though users have the option to utilize the included pay as you go E-Filing Services or purchase an add-on option both offering complete electronic filing.  

W-2/1099 Forms Filer is considered the core application for AMS and is required in order to use any of the other applications offered by AMS including Software Generated Forms, Advanced Micro Solutions Payroll, E-Filer, and Forms Filer Plus, though the application can also be used as a stand-alone year-end compliance application as well. 

All products, including W-2/1099 Forms Filer can be downloaded directly from the AMS website, with current users able to download any product updates from the AMS website as well. A variety of support resources are also available on the website, including a software manual, complete instructions for all forms, and a searchable knowledge base.  Other support options available from the AMS website include requesting support via email and live chat.  Users may also  contact technical support by phone during regular business hours.

W-2/1099 Forms Filer is well suited for both businesses as well as accounting firms that need to process and file numerous year-end compliance forms. W-2/1099 Forms Filer’s 2020 version is available for $79.00, and like most AMS applications is sold as a module of AMS’ 1099-etc application. For those that wish to file forms electronically, E-File Services is available, offering multiple e-filing and mailing options that include both IRS/SSA filing and recipient mailing services. Fees vary, depending on the services purchased with volume pricing available for those a high number of forms.   

Strengths:

• Includes SSN verification
• Imports from QuickBooks and Excel
• Supports up to 1,999 payers

Potential Limitations:

• E-filing only available through add-on module or pay as you go E-Filing Services

2020 Rating: 4.5 Stars