Spokane Computer Inc – MAG-FILER
800-565-6576
www.spokanecomputer.com
From the Nov. 2012 Review of 1099 and W-2 Preparation programs.
Best Fit: Accounting firms managing year-end compliance for multiple clients.
Strengths:
- Supports multiple import and export formats
- Offers service bureau option for entire reporting process
- Performs TIN Verification before submitting
Potential Limitations:
- No built-in invoicing feature
MAG-FILER allows users to manage the entire year-end reporting process from preparation to filing. The software supports all 1099s and W-2s and provides data verification. Federal and state e-filing is included in the program and batch printing capabilities allow users to select which forms to print, either on blank paper or pre-printed forms. The vendor also offers a comprehensive printing and mailing service.
Basic System Functions: 4.25 Stars
MAG-FILER is designed to be installed on individual workstations and can be used by multiple users. The program is designed to allow users to complete the process in as little as three steps: entering payer information, entering recipient information and e-filing with either the federal or state agency. MAG-FILER supports all 1099 forms and 1098, 1098-E, 1098-C, 1098-T, 3921, 3922, 5498, 5498-ESA, 5498-SA, 1042-S, W-2G and W-2 forms.
The software supports importing from various data formats and can export to CSV and PDF formats. Users have the option of printing completed forms on blank paper or pre-printed forms that can be purchased from the company. In addition, users can also print summary reports.
MAG-FILER has several security features built-in including the option to require a password to access the program’s data. Social Security Numbers are truncated when generating recipient forms to protect the recipient. The program also offers a TIN verification capability that matches TINs from the forms to the IRS database, checking for input errors before forms are e-filed.
Reporting: 4.5 Stars
MAG-FILER offers unlimited federal and state e-filing via the IRS and SSA websites. Once users create an electronic file, the software links to the IRS or SSA website to upload the file. The system also offers a log of previously submitted forms and e-file summary reports. W-2 information can be filed with the states using the SSA EFW2 format. The program also offers TIN verification and error checking.
Users can sort through and filter recipient data and print totals reports, showing summary amounts for all payee files for specific forms. Forms can be saved to PDF and emailed to recipients, with the SSN masked. MAG-FILER also offers the capability to export data to CSV format or use Microsoft Access to open the program’s data.
MAG-FILER also offers a comprehensive service bureau option that will print, e-file and mail copies of forms to recipients.
Import/Export Capabilities: 4.25 Stars
MAG-FILER supports importing Excel, QuickBooks and text data formats, as well as rolling over data from the previous tax year. Forms can be exported to CSV and PDF formats. MAG-FILER also supports email capabilities for electronic distribution of recipient forms.
Help/Support: 4.25 Stars
MAG-FILER’s Help menu provides access to the program’s user guide, link to the website, a popup help window, and data entry help. The popup help window provides links to the user’s guide, MAG-FILER’s website and the IRS and SSA websites. Users can also email MAG-FILER from this window and get help e-filing. The website hosts a quick start guide, user manual and FAQs. Users also receive free phone support during business hours. The startup window contains a link directing users back to the website to check for updates.
Summary & Pricing
MAG-FILER allows users to manage the entire year-end reporting process from preparation to filing. The software supports all 1099s and W-2s and provides data verification. Federal and state e-filing is included in the program and batch printing capabilities allow users to select which forms to print, either on blank paper or pre-printed forms. The vendor also offers a comprehensive printing and mailing service. The software can be downloaded from the company’s website for $324.
2012 Overall Rating: 4.25 Stars
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Tags: Financial Reporting, Income Tax
