Getting online W-2 software sooner rather than later is a desirable and practical solution for many businesses. An online tax program helps to increase the payroll team’s access to the necessary data and files wherever you may work. There are some features that businesses might not find readily available in disc-based programs. Consider a reasonable price range before you look into purchasing W-2 software. Make sure to also look into security to avoid potential security threats and data leaks.
Receive the best of both worlds when you explore Advanced Micro Solutions’ base W-2/1099 Forms Filer program. The secure, top-of-the-line system has trustworthy features in a desktop program that mirrors online tools. Our program is customizable and highly qualified to meet the needs of small businesses on a budget.
Does My Business Need Online W-2 Software?
Businesses may require W-2 software at different times, but it is beneficial to get the software before it is absolutely essential. A few of the common red flags that it may be time to invest in new or better W-2 software are if you notice the W-2 management process is not:
Fully Automated – Strive to automate your W-2 management process as much as possible. Take a look at how you complete new-hire forms and how the team calculates and reports all compensation. Employees may receive compensation in a more timely and efficient manner with comprehensive W-2 tools. Eliminate repetitive steps that take up your time and redirect your focus from other tasks.
Offering Enough Support – An online W-2 software vendor may boast that it consistently has your small business’s best interests in mind. Whether a business chooses online or disc-based software, make sure to discuss the accessibility of a vendor’s customer service arm. Guarantee that you will not end up troubleshooting on your own or missing deadlines if there is a software glitch.
Adequately Integrated – Complete integration makes W-2 reporting and filing easier than ever. An online system may make calculating and reporting employee compensation faster, but small companies should also have affordable solutions. An all-in-one W-2 program, like what AMS is offering, works with third-party applications and allows users to skip extra integration steps by building out a full accounting suite of tools.
Customizable – Online W-2 software may seem like a worthwhile investment that gives your small business the flexibility that it cannot find anywhere else. Try not to overlook programs that offer modules to users. You can purchase modules as needed rather than paying for what you do not need in an online system. Look for a system that handles more than one type of worker classification if that makes sense in the long term for the business.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Tax Tools
There are advantages and disadvantages for any software system. Weigh the major ones on either side before you purchase a new W-2 system for your business. Benefits of getting an online system may include being able to:
Protect your business from fraud. Most online W-2 software comes fully equipped with comprehensive fraud protection. Protecting all the sensitive data of your business and its employees makes a big difference in your reputation and their morale. Look for W-2 tools including encryption and other storage security features before you make a final decision.
Electronically file your documents. Flexible electronic filing options make a big difference when you purchase W-2 software. Sending forms directly to the Internal Revenue Service or Social Security Administration should be intuitive, cost-effective, and not time-consuming.
Common disadvantages with online tools may be that:
It costs too much money. There is no need for a small business to overpay for any software. Consider exactly what you need, and avoid the programs that offer endless bells and whistles. Online W-2 systems can be great, but a locally-stored program may be the affordable alternative that makes sense for your needs.
You have a harder time limiting access to sensitive files. Setting up access restrictions is a big part of introducing new W-2 tools. Printing a business’s client letters and recipient lists from more than one location may be practical, but only if you have adequate security measures.
Try AMS Software Today
Purchasing online W-2 software versus a disc-based solution is a judgment call. Our W-2/1099 program supports W-2, W-3, and many 1099 forms in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The core product has six optional add-on modules. They include: AMS Payroll, E-File, Software Generated Forms, 1042-S Filer, Forms Filer Plus, and an Affordable Care Act Filer.
Select a payee across payers or 1099 forms without re-entering your business’s information in our Common Payee File tool. Users can access the Browse command tool to enter data with a spreadsheet format. Download our free 1099-etc Demo software today and get started.