All About Lacerte Tax Software

Executive Summary

• Lacerte supports over 5,700 tax forms, making it one of the most comprehensive solutions for tax professionals of all sizes.
• Cloud hosting for Lacerte enables secure, remote access with 99.99% uptime and seamless team collaboration.
• Integrated features like advanced error diagnostics, e-signature, and QuickBooks compatibility help firms reduce manual work and avoid costly mistakes.
• Verito’s dedicated private server hosting and managed IT services are purpose-built for tax and accounting firms, ensuring compliance, security, and uninterrupted operations.

Tax season brings high stakes for accounting professionals. The right tax software can mean the difference between a smooth filing process and a stressful scramble. Lacerte Tax Software, developed by Intuit, stands out as a robust, feature-rich platform designed to simplify even the most complex tax scenarios for individuals and businesses. When paired with secure, dedicated cloud hosting and managed IT services from a specialized provider like Verito, Lacerte becomes a powerful tool for firms seeking reliability, compliance, and peace of mind.

What Is Lacerte Tax Software?

Lacerte is an all-in-one tax preparation application trusted by accounting firms and tax professionals nationwide. It’s designed to handle a wide range of tax return types, from straightforward individual filings to intricate business and multi-state returns. Lacerte offers several package options, including Unlimited Modules, REP, and 200 Federal 1040, so you can choose the best fit for your firm’s needs.

While Lacerte is traditionally installed on local desktops, many firms now opt for cloud hosting to unlock remote access, enhanced security, and seamless collaboration[1].

Who Uses Lacerte?

• Small and large accounting firms
• Solo tax practitioners
• In-house finance teams
• Businesses with complex tax needs

Key Features of Lacerte Tax Software

Lacerte’s feature set is designed to save time, reduce errors, and support compliance. Here’s what sets it apart:

Comprehensive Form Library

• Supports over 5,700 forms, including K-1s, 1040, 1120, 1065, 1041, 709, 990, 706, and 5500.
• Direct import of tax data into Schedule D from Excel or CSV files, eliminating manual entry.

Intuitive, Customizable Interface

• Worksheet-based design with customizable columns and quick access to essential tools.
• Streamlined navigation for faster data entry and review.

Missing Client Data Tool

• Automatically identifies missing information and sends requests to clients for required documents.
• Reduces back-and-forth and keeps workflows moving.

E-Signature and Secure Document Handling

• IRS-approved e-signature for digital approvals and agreements.
• 256-bit encryption for secure data transfer.

Advanced Error Diagnostics

• Runs up to 25,000 diagnostics to catch errors and omissions before filing.
• Automated calculations help prevent IRS rejections and reduce costly mistakes.

Trial Balance Utility

• Modify journal entries, develop charts, and review trial balance reports.
• Saves annual trial balance sheets for quick reference.

Seamless QuickBooks Integration

• Direct integration with QuickBooks Accountant for unified tax and accounting workflows.
• Reduces reconciliation headaches and manual data entry.

Feature Table

Why Host Lacerte in the Cloud?

Running Lacerte on a local desktop limits your flexibility and exposes your firm to risks like downtime, data loss, and compliance gaps. Cloud hosting transforms Lacerte into a secure, always-available solution that supports modern, distributed teams[1].

Benefits of Lacerte Cloud Hosting

• Remote Access: Work from anywhere, anytime, on any device.
• Collaboration: Multiple users can access and work on returns simultaneously.
• Uptime: 99.99% or higher uptime guarantees keep your firm operational during peak season.
• Security: Data is stored in secure, compliant facilities with multi-layered protection.
• Disaster Recovery: Automated daily backups and rapid recovery options.
• Scalability: Easily add or remove users and resources as your needs change.
• Integration: Connect Lacerte with QuickBooks, OfficeTools, and other essential apps[1].

Example: A mid-sized CPA firm with remote staff uses cloud-hosted Lacerte to collaborate on complex multi-state returns, reducing turnaround time and eliminating version control issues.

Lacerte vs. ProSeries: Which Is Right for Your Firm?

Lacerte is ideal for firms handling complex, high-volume, or multi-entity returns, while ProSeries may suit smaller practices with simpler needs.

How Verito Elevates Lacerte Hosting and IT Services

Verito specializes in secure cloud hosting and managed IT services built for tax and accounting professionals. Here’s how Verito’s solutions help you get the most from Lacerte:

VeritSpace: Dedicated Private Server Hosting

• Always-on, isolated servers for Lacerte, QuickBooks, Drake, and more.
• 99.999% uptime guarantee and daily backups.
• Two-factor authentication and secure remote access.
• SOC 2 Type II compliant infrastructure for audit-ready operations.

VeritGuard: Proactive Managed IT Services

• 24/7 U.S.-based support with rapid issue resolution.
• Threat monitoring, patch management, and compliance with IRS and FTC standards.
• Built-in Written Information Security Plan (WISP) templates and guidance.

VeritComplete: Unified Solution

• One bill, one support team, zero finger-pointing.
• Seamless, secure migrations—often completed in under 72 hours.
• Transparent pricing with no surprise fees.

Real-world scenario: During tax season, a firm using VeritSpace for Lacerte experiences zero downtime, even as user demand spikes. VeritGuard’s proactive monitoring resolves minor IT issues before they impact client work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lacerte

What is Lacerte?

Lacerte is a tax preparation and filing application from Intuit, designed to help businesses and individuals file returns efficiently and accurately.

Is Lacerte an Intuit product?

Yes, Lacerte is developed and supported by Intuit, a leader in financial software.

How does Lacerte hosting benefit my firm?

Cloud hosting for Lacerte enables secure, remote access, better team collaboration, enhanced data security, and easy integration with other accounting software[1].

How are updates handled with cloud-hosted Lacerte?

Your cloud hosting provider manages all software updates, so you always have the latest features and security patches without manual intervention[1].

Key Takeaways

• Lacerte Tax Software is a comprehensive, feature-rich solution for tax professionals handling complex returns.
• Cloud hosting unlocks remote access, collaboration, and security, making Lacerte even more powerful[1].
• Verito’s dedicated hosting and managed IT services are purpose-built for accounting firms, delivering unmatched uptime, compliance, and peace of mind.
• Choosing the right hosting and IT partner lets your firm focus on serving clients, not fixing tech.

Ready to experience secure, always-on Lacerte hosting? [Contact Verito to schedule a demo or start your risk-free trial today.]

It just works. Securely.

Citations

[1] https://cloudvara.com/lacerte-hosting-services-benefits-and-features/