SmartVault vs. Wolters Kluwer CCH ProSystem fx

SmartVault sends out a cover letter with the tax returns that includes a link for them to download their tax returns, avoiding the insecurity of an email attachment. It does not include a statement retrieval feature but does work very nicely with a third-party app called FileThis. The majority of the users in the office have not been able to install the Outlook plug-in due to "a certificate error." In five years, SmartVault has not addressed this issue.

Incentivized

It does well with preparing tax returns once all the updates are in. It does a good job of providing report creation flexibility. Their multiple applications communicate well with each other. The Engagement module which is designed for audits needs improvement. So does their Scan module which is designed for document management.

Incentivized

• Easy navigation
• Email notifications
• Document previews

• Easy to use platform
• Document retention accessibility
• Digital library to prevent duplication of work

Incentivized

• They have cut back on support as have many SaaS companies recently.
• The documentation can sometimes be a little difficult to follow.

Incentivized

• Sometimes opening the Document program can be slow--I have to be patient.
• Lots of options and commands, takes some time to get used to and master the programs.

Incentivized

Reaching someone is more difficult than it should be. Also, they don't take possession of known issues always suggesting it is a local PC issue in initial conversations. That, of course, can be frustrating for the end-user.

Incentivized

Sales team was responsive, price was good, functionality was acceptable

We use Thomson Reuters suite for payroll purposes but they do offer the same services as Wolters Kluwer does. I have heard from companies that do use Thomson Reuters tax and they are happy with it. As mentioned, I was not present at this firm when CCH was purchased so I am not sure if any comparisons were done between the two

Incentivized

• has made sharing documents with large numbers of clients easier
• has forced us into using their service, or spending time to find a better alternative, in my experience.
• Speaking personally the product has cost us several thousand dollars over predicted budget costs for a 3-year projection