The benefits that you get from the best tax filing programs align with how much thought you put into what you need and want from a system. Tax filing is rarely easy, but you should not feel so overwhelmed by the process as an individual or as a business. An easy-to-use program should allow you to prioritize the four A’s:
- Accuracy
- Affordability
- Automation
- Accessibility
Tax filing programs are not one size fits all. Finding the right system may require you to test out demos or free trials to make sure that it can handle your data and keep it secure at all times.
Advanced Micro Solutions’ 1099-etc E-Filer software is the most affordable solution on the market and is highly customizable for software users whose needs may evolve.
Our 1099-etc software offers its users two e-file options with distinct capabilities. These are:
- E-File Direct (add-on module)
- E-File Services (via third-party vendor)
What Features are in the Best Tax Filing Programs?
Tax software should have certain core features that make the process easier for all users.
- Accuracy and reliability
- Customer and expert support
- Ease of use
- Security and privacy
- Cost and value
Accuracy and Reliability
Whether you file your own taxes or want a program that makes it easier for your business, tax software should minimize the risk of any penalties or fines incurred from the Internal Revenue Service. The best software will also help you to:
- Find every credit and deduction that you are entitled to receive
- Receive the maximum refund possible
Making fewer mistakes and overlooking less tax benefits when you use one of the best tax filing programs will save you time on corrections and improve your overall efficiency.
There is a less than 1% error rate for e-filed returns compared to 21% for paper returns.
Customer and Expert Support
Support options will differ between tax filing programs, even those that specifically support small businesses and individual filers. Looking for a range of support options is the best way to ensure that you will have the assistance that you may need, such as:
- A Frequently Asked Questions page
- Live tech support
- Video tutorials for troubleshooting
“Free” software might seem like the way to go at first if you are filing on a budget, but you may want to reconsider. The most useful and best tax filing programs typically require users to pay for in-depth support features or more complex filing tools. Avoid backing yourself into a corner with software that you will need to upgrade now or after you already spent time entering data.
Ease of Use
The last thing that any tax filer wants is to spend more time than necessary on repetitive tasks. Automating how you use software is possible and it can be affordable when you get a program like ours that is not reliant upon cloud-based services. Look for software with:
- A well-designed, intuitive interface
- Easy data importing and exporting
- Clear, step-by-step guidance
Our E-Filer is an add-on to our base W-2/1099 Forms Filer system. What puts our core product among the best tax filing programs is that users can easily enter their data onto an entry screen that looks like an actual form.
Security and Privacy
Protecting your data from any internal mishaps or external threats is paramount. Tax software must offer its users trustworthy and robust data protection, ranging from its payer backup and restore features to any other user controls. Best tax practices to employ also include:
- Personalized encryption after you export any files
- Always using a secure network
- Never leaving computer and/or software passwords laying around
Cost and Value
Tax filing programs should not come with big surprises, especially where pricing transparency is concerned. Speak with a provider upfront so that they can inform you if your tax situation means you will need to upgrade to a more expensive tier for certain features.
The types of tax filers who tend not to do well with “free” versions of programs are:
- Self-employed individuals
- Homeowners
- Investors
- Landlords
Getting E-File Software from AMS
There is no need to shop around to learn more about the best tax filing programs. Download our free 1099-etc Demo software and see for yourself how our two options might work in your favor.
E-File Direct
- Flat fee
- Unlimited number of form filings
- Users can verify, view, and print files
E-File Services
- Volume pricing (fee per form)
- Forms are e-filed through a third-party vendor
- Different service levels available