ATX Tax Software: A Complete Guide for Tax Professionals 2025

In the current accounting scenarios, efficiency, accuracy, and reliability are everything. Whether you’re an independent tax preparer, CPA, or managing a full-fledged accounting firm, having dependable tax preparation software is a non-negotiable part. ATX Tax Software has long been one of the most popular tools for U.S. tax professionals, recognized for its comprehensive compliance and user-friendly interface.

In this blog, we will provide you with an in-depth look at ATX Tax Software, covering its core features, pros, cons, pricing, and how ATX Cloud Hosting enhances its accessibility and performance.

What Is ATX Tax Software?

ATX Tax Software is a professional tax preparation solution developed by Wolters Kluwer, a global leader in tax and accounting technology. The platform is designed for accounting professionals, CPAs, and tax firms who handle multiple clients and complex tax filings. ATX stands for “Advanced Tax eXperience”, which aims to deliver a simplified, automated, and accurate tax preparation process. It supports a vast range of federal, state, and local tax forms, making it especially useful for firms serving clients across multiple jurisdictions.

ATX’s intuitive interface allows even mid-level preparers to efficiently manage individual and business returns without getting bogged down in complicated menus. From e-filing and form calculations to error diagnostics and compliance tools, ATX provides a comprehensive tax preparation environment.

Key Features of ATX Tax Software

The success of ATX is attributed to its enhanced features. Below are the key ATX Tax Software features that set it apart from competitors:

1. Extensive Forms Library

ATX is renowned for its extensive tax form library, which encompasses over 6,000 forms across federal, state, and local jurisdictions. Whether you’re preparing individual returns (1040), partnerships (1065), corporations (1120/1120S), or fiduciary returns (1041), ATX has you covered.

This vast coverage ensures compliance with even the most niche or region-specific filings, saving professionals hours of manual form tracking.

2. Built-in E-Filing System

The integrated e-filing capability allows you to file both federal and state returns electronically. The system includes an automatic validation tool that checks for common errors before submission, reducing rejection rates and streamlining your workflow.

3. Real-Time Error Checking

ATX provides real-time diagnostics that flag inconsistencies or incomplete data as you enter information. This proactive feature significantly reduces rework and client callbacks.

4. Client Manager Dashboard

Managing multiple clients during peak tax season can get overwhelming. ATX’s client management dashboard streamlines tracking, organizing, and filtering returns by client, form type, or filing status; all from a single screen.

5. Integrated Research Tools

ATX includes research integration with the CCH AnswerConnect database. This enables preparers to access authoritative tax references, IRS updates, and compliance guides directly within the software.

6. Bank Product Integration

For professionals offering refund transfers or refund anticipation loans, ATX integrates directly with popular financial partners to streamline banking processes securely.

7. Customizable Data Entry

The data entry screen in ATX mirrors the IRS form layout, making it intuitive for preparers already familiar with paper forms. You can also customize fields, templates, and input preferences for faster processing.

8. Reporting and Analytics

ATX offers pre-built and customizable reports for client summaries, e-file tracking, billing, and performance analytics. This provides firms with valuable insights into their workloads and profitability.

9. Security and Compliance

Since tax data is highly sensitive, ATX includes multi-level user access controls, password protections, and automatic backups to safeguard client data.

10. ATX Cloud Hosting Compatibility

One of the significant enhancements for today’s remote-first work environments is ATX Cloud Hosting. It allows you to host the desktop software on secure cloud servers, making it accessible from anywhere, at any time, with all the same features and performance.

ATX Tax Software Pros and Cons

Every software comes with strengths and trade-offs. Understanding the pros and cons of ATX software will help you make an informed decision.

ATX Tax Software Pricing Plan

ATX Tax Software price varies depending on the version and package you select. Exact pricing can change annually, but as of recent updates:

• ATX 1040 Package: around $700–$900 per year.
• ATX Advantage: approximately $1,500–$2,000 per year.
• Pay-Per-Return: roughly $400 base license + $10–$15 per return.

Additionally, when you pair ATX with cloud hosting, you’ll typically pay an additional monthly hosting fee (usually $30–$60 per user).

Who Should Use ATX Tax Preparation Software

ATX Tax Preparation Software caters primarily to small and mid-sized accounting firms, independent CPAs, and tax service providers. It’s particularly beneficial for:

• Tax professionals managing a mix of individual and small-business clients.
• Firms that prioritize accurate compliance and prefer form-driven interfaces.
• Preparers need access to a wide range of state and local forms.
• Professionals who want to move to the cloud affordably with ATX Cloud Hosting.

ATX Cloud Hosting: The Modern Upgrade

While ATX is a desktop-based application, the fundamental transformation happens when it’s hosted in the cloud. ATX Cloud Hosting enables you to run the software on virtual cloud servers, providing the flexibility of a web-based solution without compromising the full power of the desktop app.

Here’s why more firms are migrating to the cloud version:

1. Remote Accessibility

Host ATX on a virtual desktop and access it from anywhere, on Windows, Mac, or mobile devices, without requiring local installation. This enables hybrid and remote tax teams to collaborate seamlessly.

2. Enhanced Data Security

Reputable hosting providers offer bank-level encryption, multi-factor authentication, and 24/7 data monitoring, which is far more secure than local desktops.

3. Automatic Backups

With cloud hosting, all your tax files and client data are backed up daily. You never risk data loss from hardware crashes or accidental deletions.

4. Multi-User Collaboration

Multiple preparers can work on the same client data simultaneously in real-time. The system manages concurrent sessions without file corruption or version conflicts.

5. Scalability

You can add or remove users instantly as your firm grows or during peak tax season. There’s no need for new installations or hardware upgrades.

6. Reduced IT Burden

Cloud hosting eliminates the hassle of manual updates, patch installations, and server maintenance. The provider handles all technical operations, letting you focus on tax work.

7. Integration with Other Tools

Many cloud environments support integration with other accounting and productivity tools, such as QuickBooks, Drake, or Microsoft Office.

Popular providers like Sagenext, Ace Cloud Hosting, and Right Networks specialize in hosting tax software, such as ATX, offering tailored solutions for accounting firms with U.S. data centers and 24/7 support.

ATX Tax Software vs. Other Tax Platforms

When comparing ATX with other professional tax software such as Drake Tax, Lacerte, or UltraTax, ATX stands out for its balance of affordability and comprehensiveness.

Tips to Get the Most Out of ATX Tax Software

• Use Cloud Hosting for Speed and Flexibility
  

  Hosting ATX in the cloud reduces performance lag and enables remote collaboration.

• Stay Updated
  

  Always install the latest annual and interim updates from Wolters Kluwer to ensure compliance with new tax codes.

• Customize Templates
  

  Personalize frequently used forms and client letters to save time during the busy season.

• Utilize the Research Integration
  

  Don’t overlook the built-in access to CCH AnswerConnect; this feature alone can save hours of manual research.

• Train Your Staff
  

  ATX provides training videos and resources. Proper onboarding helps avoid errors and improves efficiency.

Conclusion

ATX Tax Software has earned its reputation as one of the most dependable professional tax preparation solutions for small and medium-sized accounting firms. Its massive form library, intuitive interface, and comprehensive compliance tools make it a solid investment for any tax practice. While it’s primarily a desktop tool, integrating it with ATX Cloud Hosting takes it to the next level, providing remote accessibility, stronger data security, and simplified collaboration.

If you’re searching for a tax preparation solution that blends affordability, reliability, and professional-grade performance, ATX deserves serious consideration. With the proper setup and hosting environment, it can easily become the backbone of your firm’s tax operations, season after season.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do I download ATX tax software?

Follow the steps to download ATX tax software:

Step 1: Go to the website: https://support.atxinc.com/

Step 2: Log in with your credentials. To download ATX tax software, you need to log in to your account. 

Step 3: After logging in, navigate to the Download Tab and click on it

Step 4: Now, choose the year and product you need. 

Step 5: Now, click on the download option located under the download heading. Your download should start successfully. 

How much does ATX tax software cost?

ATX software cost starts around $700 per year. However, if you choose TaxSofwareHosting ATX software tax hosting, you can opt for a more affordable annual plan that includes three months of additional usage at no extra cost. 

What is the most used tax software?

There are many options available on the market, but TurboTax and TaxSlayer stand out due to their features and options. 

What are the key features of ATX Tax Software?

• Remote accessibility
• Robust security
• Multiple user option
• Real-time team collaboration
• Automatic backup plans
• Scalable solutions
• Many integration flexibility

How does ATX compare to other tax software like Drake or ProSeries?

These various types of tax software have their own distinct features and functionalities. Refer to our table of comparison to understand the difference. 

Can I integrate ATX with QuickBooks?

Yes, you can integrate ATX with QuickBooks through a cloud hosting provider like TaxSoftwareHosting, Sagenext and Rightwork. We offer end-to-end, reliable, and affordable hosting plans.