Software guide · Updated November 2026
Drake Tax vs. CCH Axcess vs. ProConnect: which tax software should you learn?
Learn the software you’ll actually use. Drake Tax is a common choice for independent preparers and small firms. CCH Axcess is widely used by mid-size and larger CPA firms. ProConnect is Intuit’s cloud-based professional software, popular with firms that work with QuickBooks Online. If you’re applying for a job, ask which software the firm uses.
Side-by-side comparison
| Drake Tax | CCH Axcess Tax | ProConnect Tax | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Made by | Drake Software | Wolters Kluwer | Intuit |
| How it runs | Installed desktop software (Windows) | Cloud-based | Cloud-based |
| Often used by | Independent preparers and small firms | Mid-size and larger CPA firms | Small and mid-size firms, especially QuickBooks Online users |
| Good fit if you want to | Run your own practice or join a small firm | Work at a larger accounting firm | Work in a cloud-based firm or with QuickBooks clients |
| Not So Boring CPA courses | 1040, 1120S, 1120, 1065 (2024) | 1040, 1120S, 1120, 1065 | 1040, 1120S, business returns (1120 + 1065) |
| Complete bundle | 4 courses · 113 lessons & resources · $499.99 | 4 courses · 156 lessons & resources · $499.99 | 3 courses · 91 lessons & resources · $499.99 |
| Single courses | $139.99–$199.99 | $199.00–$199.99 | $139.99–$199.99 |
Vendor details are general. Check each vendor for current features, system requirements and pricing. Not So Boring CPA is not affiliated with Drake Software, Wolters Kluwer or Intuit; product names are trademarks of their owners.
How to choose
- You have a job offer or interview: learn the firm’s software. Ask during the interview if it isn’t listed.
- You plan to start your own practice: many independent preparers start with Drake Tax.
- You want to work at a larger CPA firm: CCH Axcess is a strong choice.
- Your clients use QuickBooks Online: consider ProConnect.
- You’re brand new to tax: learn the concepts first with the $9.99 mini-course, then pick software.
Whichever you choose, start with individual returns (Form 1040), then add S-corporation (1120S), C-corporation (1120) and partnership (1065) returns.
Courses by software
Drake Tax
- Individual returns (1040) · $199.99
- S-corporation (1120S) · $199.99
- C-corporation (1120) · $199.99
- Partnership (1065, 2024) · $139.99
Frequently asked questions
Which tax software is best for beginners?
The best software to learn is the one you’ll use at work or in your practice. Drake Tax is a common starting point for independent preparers; CCH Axcess is common at larger firms; ProConnect suits cloud-based firms and QuickBooks Online users.
Is Drake Tax or ProConnect better for a new tax business?
Both are used by small practices. Drake Tax is installed desktop software; ProConnect is cloud-based. Compare current vendor pricing and how you want to work before choosing.
Do the courses include a software license?
No. The courses are recorded demonstrations. Check the checkout page for any included practice access; a demonstration doesn’t itself provide a software license.
Can I learn more than one tax software?
Yes. Once you understand how a return works, switching software is mostly about learning where the inputs go. Many preparers learn a second program when they change jobs.
What if I need Lacerte, ATX or TaxSlayer?
Those aren’t offered yet. Request software training to help choose what’s next.