Whether you manage the books for five clients or 50 clients, there are certain tools that you should look for when getting the best W-2 software for bookkeeping firms. Using software to keep your clients compliant is essential, but it is just as important to find a program that you have an easy time utilizing. Even the most knowledgeable bookkeepers need to navigate:
- A high volume of client W-2 and/or 1099 forms
- Tight deadlines around the holiday season
- An error-prone process
Eliminate major W-2 and 1099 late filing penalties while protecting your firm’s reputation. Using Advanced Micro Solutions’ base W-2/1099 Forms Filer program is a great choice for a smaller bookkeeping firm that is looking for an affordable, yet comprehensive option.
The core product can operate independently or alongside six optional add-on modules. One of the modules is our E-Filer, which produces required W-2 or 1099 files for the Internal Revenue Service and the Social Security Administration.
The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and select the direct deposit option.
Download our free 1099-etc Demo software and get started by learning how our system can work best for you and your clients’ needs.
Is the Best W-2 Software For Bookkeeping Firms Necessary?
The short answer is, yes. Getting comprehensive W-2 software for a bookkeeping firm protects everyone’s interests during tax season and throughout the year. Bookkeeping firms should look for features that include:
- Why W-2 Software Is Necessary for Bookkeeping Firms
- Ease of Use
- Less time spent on W-2 creation/filing
- Transparent Pricing
- No surprise or hidden fees
- Accuracy
- Fewer errors and compliance issues
- Collaborative Tools
- Easier for team member access
- Ease of Use
Ease of Use
Finding a system that is designed for bookkeepers does not mean that you should have more work ahead of you. An overly complex system will make it difficult, or even impossible, for you when it comes to meeting each client’s deadlines. Find a program that offers:
- Easy payer and employee setup
- Minimal training required or no major learning curve
- Easy data entry and review
- Simple payer backup and restore
Transparent Pricing
A fluctuating client list is not uncommon for bookkeepers. Investing in a scalable system that provides you with transparent pricing will help you to determine if a software is right for you. If your firm has a relatively low or steady number of clients, you might not worry about getting a program with a fee-per-form approach (like our E-File Services option).
However, getting a base W-2/1099 program might be most beneficial if you find one with:
- No hidden or surprise fees for essential features
- Flat and/or predictable pricing
Speaking early on with a vendor before making any purchases is always advisable.
Accuracy
Getting a W-2 software program with complete accuracy probably seems like a no-brainer. It is still sometimes easy to sacrifice accuracy and compliance tools for affordability. Our software is the most affordable on the market and, with that in mind, will make it easier for bookkeepers to prioritize getting software with:
- Built-in error checks
- Social Security number verification files
- Entry screens that reflect actual forms
- Regularly updated state and federal tax tables
There is a less than 1% error rate for e-filed returns compared to 21% for paper returns.
Collaborative Tools
Bookkeeping firms need to know that team members can work together in a system without the software slowing down their process. It requires making sure that bookkeepers can collect data from clients without running into major complications or delays. You might also decide to ask a prospective vendor about their practices for:
- Secure document sharing
- Batch printing of reports and forms
Testing out a trial or demo before getting software will help you to figure out whether your data can get the support that it needs from a specific program.
Why Bookkeepers Use AMS
If a time comes when you feel like you do not have the best W-2 software for bookkeeping firms, the most practical solution might be to explore W-2 software for small businesses. We designed our program with smaller firms and businesses in mind. As a small business, we understand the vital nature of providing customer support for prompt technology troubleshooting.
Our team of experts know our products and are ready to answer your questions. Call our support team at (405) 340-0697.
Our tax software is scalable and offers users a variety of forms as well. Bookkeeping firms can rely on the W-2/1099 Forms Filer to support up to 99,999 employees or recipients per payer. If you have clients who hire different classifications of workers, you may also appreciate how our W-2/1099 Forms Filer supports W-2, W-3, and many 1099 forms.