2012 Review of CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business — ProSystem fx Tax SaaS

CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business — ProSystem fx Tax SaaS
CCHGroup.com
800-739-9998

From the May 2012 review of "advanced workflow" professional tax compliance programs.

BEST FIT: Tax and accounting firms with a wide range of client complexity who need a top tier tax preparation product.

STRENGTHS

• Multiple platforms to choose from, including a state-of-the-art SaaS solution
• New interface should be familiar for users already converted to Office 2007/2010
• Strong electronic filing support for both state and federal returns

POTENTIAL LIMITATIONS

• Only a few SaaS Suite products have been released, and more than one is typically required to realize the Suite’s full potential
• SaaS solution performance may lag without adequate broadband speed, especially for multiple users

ProSystem fx Tax is now offered as three separate solutions, ProSystem fx Tax, ProSystem fx Tax SaaS and Global fx. All solutions are similar in function, capability and calculation but differ greatly in implementation. ProSystem fx Tax is the traditional desktop and network solution and is by far the most widely adopted ProSystem fx Tax platform. ProSystem fx Tax SaaS represents the next generation solution and is fully hosted through CCH. Global fx Tax is a web-based solution and provides the traditional offering in a hosted environment through CCH. Though all are similar in function, this review predominantly focuses on the newest offering, ProSystem fx Tax SaaS.

CORE PRODUCT FUNCTIONS/FEATURES  - 5 Stars

CCH prides itself in listening to and implementing client requests and ProSystem fx Tax SaaS fully incorporates this methodology. The newest offering has been developed on the latest .NET technology available through Microsoft. Upon opening the software, the client management screen looks and works very similar to the traditional desktop version and includes all of the same search and filter options to assist finding returns. When a return is opened, however, the new interface becomes apparent. ProSystem fx Tax SaaS borrows heavily from Office 2007 in that it has a similar icon layout and relies on a “ribbon” style menu for program navigation. The ribbon is not customizable but a small quick access toolbar is available which is fully customizable (again very similar to Office 2007). Navigation within each section of the return is done through a folder tree structure on the left side of the screen. Data input remains very similar but at times did appear a little slower than the traditional desktop interface.

ProSystem fx Tax SaaS has comprehensive support for electronic filing. Over 30 state electronic filing forms were added for the current year and nearly all state electronic filing is now supported. The individual return module is now fully compliant with Modernized e-file and all qualifying returns will default to this method when filing electronically. Most state returns for individuals have been converted to the new platform. A new electronic filing status report is present and indicates if returns qualify for electronic filing. This status report also serves as a layer of protection to prevent ProSystem fx Tax SaaS from uploading disqualified returns. Legacy electronic filing options are still available for those preparers that require them. Upon acceptance of an electronically filed return, an email may be automatically generated to notify clients of the acceptance of federal and appropriate state and local returns. These emails may also be generated for electronically filed extensions. Alternatively, CCH retains the option of sending postcard notification for clients without valid email addresses.