Software is fast. People are accountable. You need both.
DIY software leaves the judgment calls to you. A seasonal preparer sees your numbers once a year. ExcelTax combines a connected system with a tax pro who knows your file — every month, not just every April.
How we compare
An honest look at your three options. DIY and seasonal preparers are right for some people — just usually not for people with business income.
| DIY software | Seasonal preparer |  ExcelTax | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Help outside of tax season | Help articles | Usually by appointment | Year-round, named pro |
| Quarterly estimates from real books | You calculate | Vouchers based on last year | Recalculated each quarter |
| Bookkeeping tied to the return | Separate tool | Year-end cleanup | Same ledger, all year |
| Audit representation | Paid add-on, if offered | Billed hourly | Partner CPA, file prepped by us |
| Proactive planning before year-end | No | Rarely | Twice-yearly review |
| Pricing | Low, plus upgrades | Per form or hourly | Flat monthly |
Six things we do that most firms don't
One ledger, start to finish
The numbers that drive your estimates are the numbers on your return and in your audit file. Nothing is re-keyed, so nothing drifts.
Audit-ready by default
Every deduction is linked to its receipt, log or statement when it is booked — not hunted down after a letter arrives.
A named pro, not a queue
You work with the same tax pro year after year. They know your history, your entities and your goals.
Two sets of eyes on every return
A preparer and a separate reviewer check each return, with a variance report that explains every big change from last year.
Plain English, always
You'll never get a reply that is just a form number. We explain what it means, what it costs and what happens next.
Your data stays yours
Export your full file — returns, books and workpapers — whenever you want. No lock-in, no hostage documents.
Our promises, in writing
These are in every engagement letter. If we miss one, tell us — and we'll make it right.
Book a free review- 1 dayNotice response timeUpload an IRS or state letter and hear back within one business day.
- 14 daysEstimate heads-upYour exact quarterly amount arrives two weeks before each deadline.
- 2×Review on every returnPrepared by one pro, checked by another, explained to you before you sign.
- $0Surprise invoicesQuestions and quick calls are part of your plan. Bigger projects are quoted before we start.