Drake Tax
Drake Tax is a professional tax preparation software designed to help small to mid-sized accounting firms manage federal and state returns with integrated e-filing and practice management tools.
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer is a cloud-based tax preparation software providing individuals and professional tax preparers with tools to file federal and state income tax returns quickly and accurately online.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Drake Tax | TaxSlayer |
|---|---|---|
| Website | drakesoftware.com | taxslayer.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 0 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1977 | 1965 |
| Headquarters | Franklin, USA | Augusta, USA |
Overview
Drake Tax
Drake Tax provides you with a comprehensive suite of tools to handle federal and state tax returns for individuals and businesses. You can speed up your workflow using the built-in data entry shortcuts and automatic calculations that minimize manual errors. The platform includes integrated e-filing, allowing you to track the status of every return from transmission to IRS acceptance in real-time.
Beyond simple tax prep, you can manage your entire practice with included tools for document storage and client write-ups. The software is designed specifically for professional tax preparers who need a reliable, high-volume solution without the per-form costs found in other professional suites. You can choose between unlimited filing versions or pay-per-return options depending on your firm's specific volume and budget requirements.
TaxSlayer
TaxSlayer helps you take the stress out of tax season by providing a straightforward platform to file your federal and state returns. Whether you are a simple W-2 filer or a small business owner with complex 1099 income, you can navigate the filing process with step-by-step guidance. The platform ensures you receive your maximum refund by double-checking for missed credits and deductions as you enter your information.
You can import your prior year data from other providers to save time and reduce manual entry errors. The software scales to meet your specific needs, offering dedicated versions for active military members, self-employed individuals, and professional tax offices. It focuses on providing a high-speed filing experience without the high price tag often associated with premium tax preparation services.
Overview
Drake Tax Features
- Lookback Tools View prior-year data instantly while working on current returns to ensure consistency and catch missed deductions for your clients.
- Automatic Calculations Update your tax results instantly as you enter data, with the software automatically choosing the most beneficial filing status.
- Integrated E-filing Submit federal and state returns directly to the IRS and track their acceptance status without leaving the application.
- Drake Documents Store and organize your client's tax records electronically to maintain a paperless office and meet record-keeping requirements.
- Multi-State Returns Generate and file multiple state returns simultaneously, with data flowing automatically from the federal return to save you time.
- Tax Planner Compare different financial scenarios for your clients to help them minimize their future tax liabilities and plan effectively.
TaxSlayer Features
- Quick File Import. Upload your W-2 and import your prior year tax data to jumpstart your return and avoid tedious manual data entry.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. File with confidence knowing the software identifies every credit and deduction you qualify for to ensure you get your biggest refund.
- Step-by-Step Guidance. Follow clear, simple prompts that walk you through each section of your tax return so you never feel lost or overwhelmed.
- IRS Inquiry Assistance. Get support for up to one year after filing if you receive a letter or inquiry from the IRS regarding your return.
- Self-Employed Tools. Manage your 1099 income and business expenses with specialized tools designed to maximize your professional deductions and credits.
- Mobile App Filing. Start, finish, and e-file your taxes directly from your smartphone or tablet using the native iOS and Android applications.
Pricing Comparison
Drake Tax Pricing
- Includes 15 tax returns
- Additional returns for $30 each
- All tax packages included
- Integrated e-filing
- Drake Documents and Scheduler
- Free online training
- Everything in Pay-Per-Return, plus:
- Unlimited individual returns
- Unlimited business returns
- Unlimited state returns
- Drake Tax Planner
- No per-return fees
TaxSlayer Pricing
- One free federal return
- One free state return
- W-2 income filing
- Standard deduction claims
- Education credits
- Email and phone support
- Everything in Free, plus:
- All tax forms and schedules
- Itemized deductions
- Investment and rental income
- Prior year data import
- IRS inquiry assistance
Pros & Cons
Drake Tax
Pros
- Fast data entry with keyboard-driven shortcuts
- Excellent customer support with short wait times
- All-in-one pricing includes all states and forms
- Reliable performance even during peak filing dates
Cons
- Interface looks dated compared to modern web apps
- Learning curve for navigating complex form trees
- Limited cloud-based features in the desktop version
TaxSlayer
Pros
- Significantly lower cost than major brand competitors
- Fast and responsive cloud-based user interface
- Free federal and state filing for active military
- Simple navigation for straightforward tax situations
Cons
- Customer support response times peak during April
- State filing fees apply to most paid tiers
- Less educational content than premium competitors