Best Partnership Tax Return Software (Form 1065) in 2026

To determine the best tax software for preparing Form 1065 partnership returns, I focused on how each platform addressed the unique complexities of partnership taxation.

• Compared DIY, assisted, and full-service options. I evaluated whether each software supported self-prepared returns, offered live assistance from tax professionals, or provided full-service filing to assess flexibility and support across different experience levels.
• Evaluated pricing models for different user types. I compared per-return pricing with flat-rate unlimited options, factoring in cost per filing as well as additional fees for state returns, extra users, and upgrades.
• Assessed QuickBooks and ecosystem integrations. I focused on whether each platform integrated with QuickBooks Online or Desktop, since many users rely on QuickBooks for bookkeeping.
• Reviewed workflow and document handling capabilities. I examined client portals, e-signature support, document request automation, and integration with practice management systems like TaxDome, which are especially important for collaborative Form 1065 preparation.
• Analyzed ease of use and support quality. I considered interface intuitiveness, learning curve, available support channels, and user feedback, including reviews that referenced depreciation handling and audit-related assistance.

TurboTax is well-suited for businesses required to file Form 1065, including partnerships and multi-member LLCs taxed as partnerships. It handles the full partnership filing package from preparing the Form 1065 and producing accurate Schedule K-1s for each partner, which are required for partners to correctly report their share of income, deductions, and credits.

It offers both assisted tax preparation and full-service tax preparation, making it the only provider in this comparison to offer both options. Certain plans also include audit support, meaning help responding to IRS notices, along with direct communication with the IRS when issues arise.

Standout features

• Dedicated experts: Full Service Business pairs you with a tax expert who prepares your return, reviews it with you, and files it once you approve.
• Audit support and representation: TurboTax offers audit support, providing one-on-one guidance if you receive an IRS notice, while full audit representation is available separately through TurboTax Audit Defense.
• Deduction support: TurboTax helps surface common deductions and credits based on the information you enter, helping reduce the risk of overlooking tax-saving opportunities.
• CompleteCheck™ accuracy checks: TurboTax runs automated checks to help catch errors and includes an accuracy guarantee that may cover certain penalties or interest if a TurboTax calculation error causes them.
• Guidance for straightforward partnership filings: TurboTax walks you through reporting partnership income, deductions, and credits on Form 1065, with additional help available if your situation becomes more complex.

I like that ProConnect Tax Online is cloud-based, making it easy to work remotely and check client e-file status in real time. While other providers, such as TaxAct, also offer online options, ProConnect stands out for its stronger integration with workflow management tools like SmartVault and built-in e-signatures, which simplify client review and approval.

Standout features

• Tax planning (Intuit Tax Advisor): Built-in planning tools help you create custom tax plans using strategies generated from client return data.
• QuickBooks integration: Integrates with QuickBooks Online Accountant to sync and map tax data, reducing manual entry and lowering the risk of data transfer errors.
• Document intake: Supports client document collection through a portal workflow (Intuit Link) and direct data import, allowing documents to be requested and added to returns in one place.
• Review and diagnostics: Uses diagnostics and review tools, including visual review indicators, to help identify issues before filing.
• Broad return coverage: Designed to support complex tax filings and includes a large library of forms, with Intuit citing coverage for approximately 5,700 forms.
• Preparation automation: Includes automation features such as external K-1 import and batch e-file to help speed preparation across multiple client returns.

I like TaxAct Professional’s flat-fee pricing with unlimited return filings, which removes per-return cost calculations and simplifies budgeting as volume increases. Unlike TurboTax, which does not advertise unlimited filing options, or ProConnect, which applies tiered discounts to a set number of returns, TaxAct lets you file as many returns as needed without tracking usage.

Standout features

• Tax Tutor guidance: Provides insights into deductions, complex law changes, strategies, and tips.
• Other useful tools: Includes what-if scenario tax calculators, custom client reporting, and depreciation and disposal summaries.
• Client-facing tax documents: Offers you client-facing tax documents — such as engagement letters, nonresident tax questionnaires, and new and returning customer tax questionnaires — that help streamline the tax preparation process.
• TaxAct ProAdvance: Features this online resource center that offers information and resources to enhance your practice.
• Practice management: Integrates with TaxDome for an extra $800 per user, per year, offering a client portal, customizable CRM, automated workflows, and unlimited e-signatures.
• High level of support: Provides alerts within the platform and has a strong customer support system, especially for new tax preparers. Along with offering phone and email support, you can also access help via training videos, online articles, and a setup and troubleshooting guide.