2013 Review of SurePrep 1040SCAN Pro and 1040SCAN Organize

The interface for data-entry and verification is built into the 1040SCAN application, displaying the input screens in a similar format as the source document, which can streamline data review. Firms can also import data directly into their tax system immediately, and then perform data review within that system.

The 1040SCAN Review Wizard offers steps to verify form and data accuracy, as well as to determine the form and activity that certain source documents relate to. An example would be Form 1098, for which interest may be deducted on Schedule A for a primary residence, or Schedule E for a rental). When users make these associations between a specific source document and input form, the system remembers them for that client for future years. Once a client’s source documents have been uploaded by the firm, processed by 1040SCAN, and then received back at the firm, users can either create an SPbinder for the engagement or create a bookmarked PDF document.

Integration: 4.5 Stars

1040SCAN PRO can find and extract client data from forms, then populate that data into client the appropriate forms and schedules of a client return in GoSystem Tax, Global fx, Lacerte, ProSystem fx Tax and UltraTax CS. The 1040SCAN TRADES system also integrates with these tax systems, as well as any other that can import Schedule D transactions from an Excel file. The 1040SCAN ORGANIZE system, which creates the organized, bookmarked PDF workpapers, can be used alongside any tax program.

Help/Support/Training: 4.75 Stars

The initial installation and setup functions are somewhat involved, but necessary to get the full benefit of the integration between the firm’s tax system and SurePrep. The program includes step-by-step guides for all of the processes, including tutorials and screenshots for common functions, and options for setting firm preferences for workflow.

SurePrep’s website includes a support resource center where users can access webinars, whitepapers, CPE-eligible training and the company’s blog. Several training videos are also on the website, giving how-tos on system functions. The company offers optional workflow and implementation consultations. Technical support is included with system pricing.

Summary & Pricing

SurePrep offers several different options for firms, which can help them use workflow solutions as they might best apply to their practice. The core components, particularly the SPbinder and PDF output functions are comprehensive and flexible, allowing customization and annotation, while the Optical Character Recognition functions are highly accurate. The system provides excellent integration with GoSystem Tax, Global fx, Lacerte, ProSystem fx Tax and UltraTax CS for automatic population of client tax forms.

The four SurePrep workflow programs are available in a tiered structure, with the PRO version including all products. Pricing for SPbinder is $5 per engagement, regardless of the number of client source documents. 1040SCAN ORGANIZE costs $10 per engagement and includes SPbinder. 1040SCAN TRADES is $20 per engagement and includes the SPbinder and ORGANIZE programs. The comprehensive 1040SCAN PRO system, which includes the other three, costs $30 per engagement. SurePrep offers discounted rates to firms that make early-season or multi-year purchase commitments.

2013 Overall Rating: 4.75 Stars