StackMatch / Compare / Intuit Lacerte vs Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS
Honest Tool Comparison

Intuit Lacerte vs Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS

An honest, context-aware comparison. No affiliate links. No paid placements. Just the data that helps you decide.

Intuit Lacerte

professional
Tax Compliance

Advanced tax software for complex returns and high-volume firms

$3,999-$6,999/year depending on package
4.3 / 5

Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS

professional
Tax Compliance

Professional tax preparation software for accounting firms (1040, 1120, 1065, 1041)

$3,000-$15,000/year depending on modules and firm size
4.2 / 5

Side-by-Side Comparison

Objective metrics, no spin.

4.3 (G2)✓ Better
Rating
4.2 (G2)
professional
Pricing tier
professional
medium
Learning curve
medium
2-4 weeks
Setup time
4-8 weeks
2 listed
Integrations
✓ Better3 listed
medium, large
Best company size
medium, large, enterprise
Top Features
All entity types
Complex K-1 handling
Multi-state returns
Extensive diagnostics
Features
Top Features
All entity types (1040, 1120, 1065, 1041, etc.)
Federal & 50-state returns
E-file integration
Diagnostic review tools
Choose Intuit Lacerte if...

For complex returns (multi-state, partnerships with many partners, high-net-worth individuals) or high-volume firms.

Avoid Intuit Lacerte if...

For simple returns or small practices (ProSeries is more cost-effective). Steeper learning curve.

Choose Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS if...

For tax return preparation in public accounting firms. Essential for firms with >50 business returns annually.

Avoid Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS if...

For tax provision work (use OneSource), tax planning (use different tools), or if you're a sole proprietor (use ProSeries or Lacerte).

Both suited for: medium, large companies

Since both tools target medium and large companies, your decision should hinge on the specific use case above rather than company fit. Try the AI Advisor to get a recommendation tailored to your exact stack.

Still not sure? Describe your situation.

The AI advisor knows both tools and your full stack. Tell it your company size, current tools, and what's not working — it'll tell you which one actually fits.

Ask AI Advisor →

Other Tax Compliance Tools to Consider

If neither is the right fit, these are the next best alternatives in the same category.

Intuit ProSeries

professional

Professional tax software for small-to-medium CPA firms

View profile →

Drake Tax

starter

Affordable professional tax software for all entity types

View profile →

TaxAct Professional

starter

Budget-friendly tax software for solo practitioners and small firms

View profile →
← Browse all tool comparisons