2020 Review of Laser Link by Tenenz

Laser Link from Tenenz is well suited for businesses and accounting firms that need to process year-end compliance forms. LaserLink is an on-premise, stand-alone application that can be installed on any computer using Windows 10 and up, and does not offer integration with any third-party applications. 

Laser Link is available in two versions; Laser Link, which offers up to 15 free e-filings and is ideal for small businesses, and Laser Link XL, which offers free e-filing for up to 200 forms, with each version including the option to e-file additional forms. Both versions support an unlimited number of payees and recipients, though neither version offers remote or mobile access. Those interested in Laser Link have the option to purchase a CD of the application, or receive instructions to download from the Tenenz website.

Laser Link supports all common year-end compliance forms, including the new 1099-NEC for reporting non-employee compensation. Also included are forms W-2, W-2G, W-2C, 1099(A, B, C, CAP, DIV, G, H, INT, LTC, MISC, OID, PATR, Q, R, S, SA), 1096, W-3 & W-3C, 1098, 1098-T, 1098-E, 3921, 3922,  5498, 5498-ESA, 5498-S, ACA(1094-B, 1094-C, 1095-B, and 1095-C). Both Laser Link and Laser Link XL support e-filing of all forms except for ACA form 1094 and 1095, which can be processed using Laser Link, but are not able to be e-filed.  

Though no integration is available in Laser Link applications, users can choose to import data using a Microsoft Excel template, which is included in both applications. Users can also enter data manually, with data entry screens designed to resemble the form being completed. Data from the prior year is stored on the platform for easy access, eliminating the need to reenter the same payers and recipients each year.

Both Laser Link and Laser Link XL support an unlimited number of payers and recipients, and the application will automatically scan all W-2s entered into the application to ensure accuracy. The application can print using pre-printed forms or on blank paper, with Tenenz recommending the use of a laser printer when printing any forms.

Laser Link does not offer integration with any third-party applications, though users can use Excel to import data into the application. Reporting is available in Laser Link, with both payer and recipient summary and totals reports available to review.

Laser Link offers good help functionality, with a complete user manual available on CD that can be downloaded and printed. The application also includes step by step instructions for all new system users, with product updates easily accessible from the Tenenz website as well. Both telephone and email support are offered as well.

A good option for businesses and accounting firms that prefer to process year-end compliance forms in-house, Laser Link offers two versions; Laser Link with E-File, which is available for $71.99 and includes up to 15 free e-filings, and Laser Link XL, which is an excellent solution for firms that process a large number of forms for a variety of payers. Laser Link XL runs $229.99 and includes 200 free e-filings, with additional e-filings available for $1.65 each. Both applications can be downloaded via instructions from the Tenenz website, or can be purchased as a CD Rom if desired.     

Strengths:

• Easy to use
• Includes all necessary forms
• Supports an unlimited number of payers and recipients

Potential Limitations:

• No online or mobile access
• Not as suitable for very large businesses or firms

2020 Rating: 4.5 Stars