Deciding whether your small business should get tax preparation software with unlimited e-file features is essential. Using tax software with unlimited e-file tools does not make sense for every small business operating on a tight budget. Your software should help the business:
- Save money
- Streamline its tax filing tasks
- Maintain a competitive advantage
- Remain flexible
Even though tax filing software is not created equally, it does not mean that your business will need to settle. Take some time to consider what you need and want out of your software. The best program will provide you with some customizable options rather than restricting you.
Advanced Micro Solutions’ 1099-etc E-Filer software is an affordable and customizable solution for small businesses who require in-house tax filing support.
Users have a choice with our E-File Direct (add-on module) and E-File Services (via third-party vendor). Our E-File Direct has a flat rate and unlimited number of filings, if that is necessary for your business’s requirements.
When is Tax Preparation Software with Unlimited E-File Tools Beneficial?
Getting unlimited e-filing software offers a number of benefits that you will not find in per-return pricing software. Some benefits are not essential for each small business, but the ones that you should look for include:
- Cost savings
- Competitive edge
- Greater efficiency
- Guided filing services
Consider the circumstances that might make getting tax software with unlimited e-file features the more appropriate option for your business.
You need to save money. High-volume tax practices can become expensive for any business if they are paying per form instead of getting an unlimited filing program. Opting for a flat fee when you get tax preparation software with unlimited e-file capabilities allows for:
- Easier and more predictable budgeting
- Fewer variable costs for a client
- Extra money to spend on other resources
You want a more competitive edge. Business firms that invest in unlimited filing capabilities can potentially offer more competitive pricing for their clients. Using that type of solution is the surest way to avoid sacrificing your profit margins.
You need more flexibility or scalability. The most comprehensive and customizable software does not need to be out of your price range. E-filing software, like our 1099-etc E-Filer, can and should grow with your business. Your unlimited e-filing plan should be designed so that your tax preparation software with unlimited e-file capabilities is not all over the place with filing costs.
Your existing tax filing process is overly complex. A robust suite of tools like our software solution offers is designed to improve a small business’s workflow efficiency. Features to fully utilize include:
- Built-in error diagnostics
- File verification
- Creating files in the program’s directory
These and other features will also support each business’s goal of ensuring greater accuracy. The average error rate is 21% for paper returns versus 1% for e-filed returns.
Unlimited vs. Fee-Per-Form Software: How to Decide
Some small businesses believe or may discover that fee-per-form software is better for their requirements. Getting your business a flat-rate or subscription model tends to complement a company that plans to embrace regular usage.
Getting a fee-per-form program rather than tax preparation software with unlimited e-file tools might make sense if you:
- Want to reduce upfront costs
- Are doing a trial period
- Are looking for pricing transparency
- Have a low or fluctuating workload
If you only require software for a small number of documents or for a seasonal tax practice, it might make more sense to pay per form than investing in a recurring monthly or annual fee. A trial period is also a good time to consider a pay-per-use plan. Doing so lets you:
- Move a limited number of forms or clients to a new system
- Get comfortable before committing to a program
Certain pay-per-use programs also offer greater pricing transparency. Tax preparation software with unlimited e-file capabilities is not always clear on what users pay for each form or use. Take a beat and make sure that whichever software vendor that you choose makes its cost clear for users. It will allow you to better align your long-term expenses.
E-File with AMS Software
There will always be pros and cons whether or not you choose tax software with unlimited e-file functions. We do not expect prospective users to take our word on what makes the most sense for their small business either. Download our free 1099-etc Demo software today and see how E-File Direct and E-File Services are similar and unique.
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