EA Firm Ensures Accurate Transition from Lacerte to Drake Tax Software Ahead of Tax Season

Overview

In November, an Enrolled Agent (EA) firm made the strategic decision to switch from Lacerte to Drake Tax Software in preparation for the upcoming tax season. The primary motivation behind this move was the substantial annual licensing fee of $35,000 charged by Lacerte. Additionally, the firm was dissatisfied with Lacerte’s customer service and had heard excellent reviews about Drake Tax Software. With tax deadlines looming, the firm needed a smooth transition to avoid any disruption to their tax preparation workflow.

Understanding the complexities and risks associated with switching tax software—especially so close to tax season—the firm partnered with SuperAccountants to ensure the accuracy of their data after migration. While Drake Tax Software’s customer service handled the data migration, the EA firm sought SuperAccountants’ expertise to verify that all client data was correctly transferred and to identify any discrepancies that could affect their operations.

Challenge

Switching tax software just before the busy tax season is a significant undertaking in the accounting industry. The EA firm faced several challenges:

• Data Accuracy Concerns: Although Drake Tax Software’s customer service performed the data migration from Lacerte to Drake, the firm was concerned about potential inaccuracies or omissions in critical data such as depreciation schedules, carryover amounts, and basis calculations.
• Time Constraints: With tax season rapidly approaching, there was little time to thoroughly review and verify all migrated data internally.
• Staff Unfamiliarity with Drake Tax Software: The firm’s staff had extensive experience with Lacerte but were new to Drake. They were concerned that the learning curve would slow down productivity during the critical tax season.
• Risk of Compliance Issues: Any errors in the migrated data could lead to compliance problems, delays in tax filings, and potential client dissatisfaction.

Solution

SuperAccountants stepped in to provide the specialized support required to ensure data integrity and operational readiness. Our approach included:

• Comprehensive Data Verification: Our team, with over 15 years of experience using Drake Tax Software, meticulously reviewed the migrated data to identify and correct any discrepancies. We focused on critical areas such as depreciation schedules, prior year carryovers, and basis calculations.
• Expert Analysis: Leveraging our deep knowledge of Drake Tax Software, we ensured that all client data was accurately reflected in the new system. This gave the firm confidence that their records were reliable and complete.
• Workflow Continuity: By handling the data verification process, we allowed the firm’s staff to focus on familiarizing themselves with the new software’s functionalities and maintaining their regular client interactions.
• Risk Mitigation: Our thorough review minimized the risk of compliance issues and operational disruptions during the upcoming tax season.

Results

With SuperAccountants’ expertise and support, the EA firm successfully transitioned to Drake Tax Software ahead of the tax season. The key outcomes included:

• Accurate Data Migration: All discrepancies and errors in the migrated data were identified and corrected, ensuring the firm’s records were complete and accurate.
• Operational Readiness: The firm’s staff could focus on learning the new software without the added burden of data verification, enhancing their productivity.
• Time Savings: By outsourcing the data verification process, the firm saved valuable time during a critical period.
• Cost Savings: The switch from Lacerte to Drake resulted in significant annual savings, and the firm avoided additional costs associated with potential data errors.
• Enhanced Confidence: With accurate data and a reliable software system in place, the firm entered tax season confidently, ready to serve their clients effectively.

Conclusion

The EA firm’s decision to switch from Lacerte to Drake Tax Software was a strategic move that offered significant cost savings and operational benefits. By partnering with SuperAccountants to verify their data post-migration, the firm overcame the challenges associated with such a transition. Our specialized support ensured that their data was accurate, allowing them to focus on adapting to the new software and preparing for the tax season without setbacks.

About SuperAccountants

At SuperAccountants.com, we specialize in providing expert accounting support to CPA and EA firms undergoing significant operational changes. With over 15 years of experience in Drake Tax Software, our team is adept at assisting firms in verifying data integrity after migrations and ensuring seamless transitions. We ensure secure and confidential handling of all client data, working strictly with the materials you provide. While we possess substantial tax knowledge, we do not offer consulting or advice on interpreting tax law or its application.

We do not interact directly with your clients or e-file returns. All work is completed within your system, and you retain full control over the process, including final review, signing, and client communications. Every project we undertake is reviewed by a certified professional (EA, CPA, or CA) to uphold the highest quality standards.

By partnering with SuperAccountants, firms can navigate significant transitions smoothly, maintain service quality, and focus on what matters most—their clients and business growth.