Lacerte pay-per-return
Industry-leading software for complex returns, with the flexibility to file only what you need.
Pay-per-return rates
Prices shown for reference—billed when you file.
Due today
Industry-leading software for complex returns, with the flexibility to file only what you need.
Prices shown for reference—billed when you file.
Lacerte has everything you need to file even the most complex returns.
Easily convert client data from your previous software
Use the Lacerte Tax Data Conversion Wizard to quickly upload and convert client data. Prefer hands-on help? Our EasyStart team can guide you every step of the way. Our data conversion process supports the following software and modules:
Don't see your software? You can still move quickly—create clients and use available imports (e.g., QuickBooks trial balance, Tax Import), or get EasyStart to guide setup.
Client organizers
Let clients update prior-year information instead of starting from scratch. Available for individual and fiduciary returns (e-Organizer for individuals).
Tax Scan and Import (optional add-on)
Pull data from scanned W-2s, 1099s, and other PDFs directly into 1040 returns. Pay per use through your pay-per-return schedule.
Data import from financial institutions
Download transactions from more than 275 banks, payroll providers, and other institutions to reduce manual entry.
Data import from QuickBooks and accounting systems
Use the Trial Balance Utility and CSV imports to link data from QuickBooks and other accounting platforms, keeping books and returns aligned.
Comprehensive entity coverage included
Prepare virtually any return your firm needs with 7,200 forms, including:
Support for complex tax situations
Streamline K-1 entries, partner basis tracking, NOL carry-forwards, and multi-state returns with built-in worksheets, diagnostics, and guidance for precise, confident filing.
Powerful input screens with form help
Navigate by form or topic using line-by-line input screens. Form help shows how each line is calculated and where data flows.
Intuit Link
This integrated, free secure portal makes client data collection faster and more organized for business and individual clients.
Automated K-1 delivery NEW
Streamline high-volume partnership engagements by automating the generation and dissemination of partner K-1 packages, converting a multi-hour administrative process into an instantaneous, automated workflow.
Streamlined oil and gas data management
Import oil and gas data—as well as partner data—from Excel and update in minutes, instead of weeks.
Power-user tools
Built-in shortcuts help experienced users work at peak speed by enabling movement between modules, screens, and detail inputs without leaving the keyboard.
Trial balance utility
Import trial balance data (including from QuickBooks and EasyACCT via Excel), post adjusting journal entries (AJEs), and flow updates directly into returns to reduce rework.
Advanced error-checking technology
Runs 25,000-plus diagnostics to detect inconsistencies and potential errors, maximizing client savings and minimizing audits and rework.
Review and diagnostics view
Dedicated diagnostics tab and reporting make it easy for reviewers to scan issues, jump back to inputs, and clear errors before e-filing.
E-file included
Transmit federal and state returns within your selected return package at no extra e-file fee.
E-file Center tracking
See acknowledgments, rejections, and statuses in one place; fix errors and resubmit quickly.
Real-time diagnostics
Field-level checks flag missing data, math issues, and common rejection causes with easy-to-understand instruction.
PDF attachments and forms
Attach required statements and elections to keep filings complete.
Remote access (Hosting)
Run Lacerte in a managed cloud environment (via Rightworks) for work-from-anywhere access.
SmartVault and Document Management System (DMS)
Quickly and easily capture, manage, and share client information, with built-in integration for printing, scanning, and storing tax docs. Choose between SmartVault (cloud-based storage, billed monthly) or Document Management System (storage on your local hard drive, billed at purchase).
eSignatures
Save time and steps by sending and tracking IRS-compliant e-signatures (with KBA for Forms 8878 and 8879) without leaving Lacerte. Purchase as needed per return.
Pay-by-Refund
Simplify your client payment processes with no up-front fees using the integrated Pay-by-Refund feature.* Clients pay your tax prep fee directly from their refunds, so you can collect payments easily and clients receive quicker refunds.
Store data locally or on the cloud
Run Lacerte on your Windows system and store data on your local hard drive (default) or add Hosting for an additional fee to enable secure remote access and managed backups.
Billing and payments in MyAccount
View pay-per-return usage, statements, and payments in MyAccount. Set up AutoPay, manage cards, and download statements. Intuit doesn’t charge extra fees for supported payment methods.
Each feature is designed to streamline processes and help you file client returns quickly and confidently.
Get answers to your important questions about Lacerte tax software.
Lacerte will run on Microsoft operating systems that are still actively supported by Microsoft. When Microsoft sunsets an operating system, Lacerte will discontinue support. Please refer to our system requirements for more information.
Usually, you will receive your converted data within 1–3 business days.
Lacerte offers various levels of training courses and how-to video tutorials to help get you up and running quickly. New users can take advantage of our Easy Start first-year onboarding program.
When the product is released, you'll receive an email with a link to where you can download and install your software directly to your computer.
Yes. Add Hosting (purchased separately) to run Lacerte via a secure remote desktop—regardless of your computer’s operation system—and enjoy the same features with encrypted sessions and nightly backups. Without Hosting, Lacerte runs on Windows.
Yes. Users may access support year round, with extended hours during peak season, plus in-product and online resources.
Lacerte offers support in many ways to put answers at your fingertips.