Best Software for Tax Professionals to Use in 2025

As a tax professional, your software isn’t just a tool; it’s your command center. The right software for tax professionals helps manage everything from gathering sensitive tax documents to handling e-signatures and storing verified files. You need a reliable, secure, and easy-to-use system.

In 2025, CPAs in the U.S. are leaning on tech more than ever. That’s why choosing the right software is critical not just for workflow efficiency, but for client trust and compliance.

In this guide, you’ll discover the five best tax software options for professionals. Each solution includes modern must-haves like document portals, digital signatures, and secure file storage. Let’s explore what works best for your firm.

Why Software Matters for Tax Professionals

Choosing the right tax preparation software for professionals is no longer optional; it’s a necessity for staying competitive and compliant in 2025. CPAs and tax preparers work with deeply personal and financial information. With that responsibility comes the need for airtight security, streamlined communication, and robust features that go beyond just e-filing.

Your software should:

Store and organize tax files safely.
Offer branded client portals for uploads and communication.
Request missing documents automatically.
Support secure e-signatures (including IRS-compliant KBA).

Today’s platforms do more than handle tax forms; they act as your virtual assistant. They help reduce errors, speed up processes, and offer clients a polished, professional experience.

Top 5 Software for Tax Professionals

Best Software for Tax Professionals to Use in 2025

Below are the five best tax software for tax professionals. Each offers essential features, plus bonus tools that can help you work smarter, not harder. Each offers essential features, plus bonus tools that can help you work smarter, not harder.

1. TaxDome

TaxDome is a cloud-based all-in-one workspace built for CPAs and small to mid-sized firms. It eliminates the need for multiple tools by combining client communication, task tracking, document management, and billing in one system.

It eliminates the need for multiple tools by combining client communication, task tracking, document management, and billing in one system.

Users love TaxDome’s client portals, where clients can securely upload files, respond to organizers, and sign documents, all in one place. With automated workflows and customizable templates, firms save hours every week.

Key Features:

Unlimited portals and document storage
Built-in e-signature with KBA support
Custom workflows and task automation
White-labeled portals for firm branding

Pricing: Starts at $800/Year per user

2. Drake Portals

As part of the Drake Software ecosystem, Drake Portals provides a secure and intuitive solution for sharing documents, collecting signatures, and facilitating remote collaboration with clients. It’s ideal for firms already using Drake Tax software.

The platform supports both in-person and remote signing of tax forms, allowing preparers to send document requests and track completion. Its integration with desktop-based tax software makes it popular among traditional firms transitioning to hybrid workflows.

Key Features:

Secure file uploads and client messaging
Remote and in-person e-signature options
Customized client checklists and reminders
Seamless integration with Drake Tax

Pricing: Starts at $359.99/year (Drake Portals only)

3. TaxCaddy by Thomson Reuters

TaxCaddy streamlines document collection and improves the client experience with automation and a mobile-first approach. It’s designed to reduce the back-and-forth during tax season by auto-generating document request lists based on last year’s return.

Clients can snap and upload receipts from their phones, respond to checklists, and sign documents, all from a clean, intuitive interface. Firms appreciate how TaxCaddy bridges communication gaps and improves response time.

Key Features:

Smart document request lists
Mobile upload and e-signature support
Real-time client notifications
Seamless integration with tax software

Pricing: Free for clients; CPA firms must contact for pricing

4. Canopy

Canopy is a tax practice management platform designed to simplify workflows and enhance document security. Its intuitive interface and customizable workflows make it a strong choice for firms that want to automate tedious admin tasks.

Canopy’s e-signature system is IRS-compliant and supports templates with KBA, making it easy to send repeat forms. You can also track task progress, send portal messages, and automate file requests.

Key Features:

IRS-compliant e-signature with audit trail
Custom document request links
Task templates and workflow automation
Portal-based client messaging

Pricing: Free trial available; Paid plans start at $36/month

5. SmartVault

SmartVault is recognized for its secure file storage and extensive integrations with tax and accounting software, including Lacerte, ProSeries, and QuickBooks. It’s ideal for companies seeking a branded, professional file-sharing solution.

With SmartVault, you can store client returns, allow access by permission, and collect e-signatures all within a protected environment. Its drag-and-drop file interface makes file handling seamless for both staff and clients.

Key Features:

Branded client portal with access controls
Integrated digital signature features
Drag-and-drop document uploads
Version control and audit logging

Pricing: Starts at $50/month (Business Pro Plan)

Core Features to Expect in Modern Tax Software

Before choosing a platform, it’s important to compare top tax preparation software for professionals and understand which features offer the best value for your workflow.

Any software you consider should cover more than just e-filing. Here are the non-negotiable features every tax preparer needs:

Document Management: Efficient storage and access to files is a must. You should be able to categorize by client, tax year, and type. Look for tools that offer unlimited or scalable storage with built-in security measures.
Client Portal Access: The client experience matters. A secure portal allows clients to upload forms, receive updates, view signed documents, and ask questions. Branding the portal with your firm’s identity enhances trust.
E-Signature Integration: Digital signatures speed up compliance and save time. IRS-compliant e-signing (with KBA and audit trail) ensures security. Most tools offer reusable templates and mobile signing options.
Document Request Automation: Automated checklists or reminders reduce delays in document collection. Some software builds these based on last year’s return or custom templates, ideal for repeat clients.
Workflow and Task Management: While not essential for all, it’s a huge bonus. Automate steps like client reminders, internal reviews, and status updates.

Choosing the Right Tax Software

If you’re comparing online tax software for tax professionals, focus on core needs like e-filing, client portals, and digital document handling.

Your ideal solution depends on your firm’s structure and the level of automation you want. Choosing the best software for tax professionals ensures a smoother workflow, better client engagement, and the level of automation you want.

Solo CPAs benefit from all-in-one platforms like TaxDome and Canopy. These tools keep costs low while offering maximum control.
Growing Firms may prefer SmartVault or TaxCaddy to improve client-facing processes and streamline file sharing.
Traditional Offices Using Drake will find Drake Portals a natural extension that connects securely with their existing tools.

Before deciding, ask:

Do I need full automation or just secure sharing?
Will clients be comfortable with mobile uploads and portals?
Do I want e-signature tracking and document request automation?

Prioritize ease of use, integration with existing systems, and flexible pricing. Always opt for IRS-compliant e-signature tools if handling federal forms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any free tax software for professionals?

TaxCaddy is free for clients. Firms should inquire about business pricing.

Can I use this on a Mac?

Yes. All listed tools are cloud-based or browser-accessible, making them ideal for Mac users.

Do these platforms support IRS-compliant signatures?

Yes. All five tools offer e-signatures, but TaxDome, Canopy, and Drake Portals specifically provide KBA verification and audit trails that comply with IRS standards.

Which software is best for a solo CPA just starting out?

All five tools listed are strong contenders. You can choose the best one based on your firm’s specific requirements. TaxDome and Canopy are ideal for solo CPAs seeking all-in-one solutions, but Drake Portals, TaxCaddy, and SmartVault also offer powerful features that may better suit your practice depending on your workflow.

Can clients upload tax documents from their phones?

Absolutely. These tools allow mobile uploads, making it easier for clients on the go.

What if I need to request missing documents from clients?

Canopy and TaxCaddy are well-known for their robust document request automation features, including smart checklists and deadline tracking. However, TaxDome and Drake Portals also provide document request capabilities.

Final Thoughts

The right software for tax professionals doesn’t just help you file faster, it builds trust with your clients and streamlines your business.

As a CPA, you need a system that’s secure, flexible, and simple for your clients to use. Whether you’re a solo preparer or a growing team, these five tools offer solutions that scale with you.

Choose your software based on your workflow, client expectations, and how much time you want to save. Then commit. The best software is the one you actually use, and use well.