Filing taxes can be overwhelming, for you or your business. Thankfully, tools like ProConnect Tax from Intuit make it simpler, quicker and more precise. Regardless of whether you need to process individual returns or complicated business returns, ProConnect provides everything in a single secure, cloud based environment. It was built for tax professionals but is accessible enough for anybody to learn.
If you are considering employing an accountant, this software can assist with the communications. In case you currently have an individual accountant or professional accountant on staff, ProConnect makes it easier for them to file on your behalf. In this article, we will learn how to make use of ProConnect to file individual and business tax returns.
What Is ProConnect?
ProConnect is cloud based tax software from Intuit. It was created for accounting professionals but may be useful in case you do your own returns or work with an individual accountant. It runs online so you don't install anything, you log in and get started.
Steps to File Individual and Business Returns Using ProConnect
Below are the 9 steps to file individual and business returns using ProConnect:
Step 1 : Make an Account and Sign In
To begin with, make a free account on the ProConnect Site. You'll be entering some fundamental details about yourself or your business. When your account is ready, you are able to log in from any device with a connection to the internet.
In case you've hire an accountant you employ to file for you, they will set all that up for you. However, you need to know what is happening in the back.
Step 2 : Select the Right Tax Form
All the main tax forms are supported on ProConnect:
- 1040 for individual returns.
- 1120 for C corporations.
- 1120S for S corporations.
- 1065 for partnerships.
- schedule C for sole proprietors.
Whenever you start a brand new return, ProConnect asks you what kind of return you are filing. Pick the one that suits your circumstances. In the event you've no clue, your private accountant or professional accountant can help. They help you avoid filing the wrong form or missing crucial deductions.
Step 3 : Enter Personal & Business Information
Next enter your name, Social Security Number, address and filing status. In case you are submitting a business return, you'll also require your EIN, company name & business structure (LLC, partnership, etc).
This step might take a while in case you're doing both individual and business returns. However ProConnect has a simple layout that makes it easy.
Step 4 : Import or Upload Documents
Upload W-2s, 1099s, expense spreadsheets along with other forms into ProConnect. In case you make use of QuickBooks for bookkeeping, you are able to import information in a few clicks. This saves you time and errors.
Your accountant might also require you upload documents by way of a secure customer portal. In case you employ an accountant or maybe an expert, this aspect is generally handled by them, however you need to know the way it works.
Step 5 : Add Income Details
For individual returns, you add earnings from side businesses, rental properties, investments, and jobs. For business returns, enter revenue, price of goods sold, along with other income sources.
ProConnect takes you through every step and checks for typical errors. If anything appears off, it warns you what to fix.
Step 6 : Enter Deductions & Credits
Among the biggest ways to bring down your tax bill is by deductions and tax credits. ProConnect makes it easy to claim:
- Standard/itemized deductions.
- Business expenses.
- Child tax credit.
- Education credits.
- Home office deductions.
A personal accountant or professional accountant might find deductions you miss. Not sure exactly what you can claim? No problem in asking them.
Step 7 : Review the Return
Right after entering the info, ProConnect produces a summary of your return. That includes:
- Total income.
- Total deductions.
- Estimated refund or sum due.
Look everything over. The software will show missing sections or unusual numbers. In case you've an accountant dealing with things, they'll review your submission.
Step 8 : E-file the Return
When you are ready, e-file from ProConnect. The system mails your return to the IRS along with your state tax agency. You'll get a confirmation once it is accepted.
If you employ an accountant they will file it for you. But you will still receive email updates or emails within your client portal.
Step 9 : Save & Print Copies
Keep a copy of your tax return for your records. With ProConnect, everything is downloaded or printed at a click. This is crucial in case you get audited or maybe have to relate to previous tax years.
You may even send a copy to your personal accountant to help plan for the year ahead.
Features That Make ProConnect Useful
These are some bonus features that make ProConnect special:
- Multi User access: Great for remote teams or working with an accountant.
- Secure document sharing: Safeguards your private data and company.
- Built-in tax law updates: Keeps you current with new IRS rules.
- Client messaging: Communicate with your accountant inside the platform.
Still Need an Accountant If You Are Using ProConnect?
Yes! ProConnect is powerful but does not replace human insight. A professional accountant knows tax strategy, legal changes and business planning in ways software can not.
In case you operate a small company, own a residence, or have investments, an accountant will save you money and time. They can:
- Find tax saving opportunities.
- Handle complicated filings.
- Help with audits.
- Plan for next year.
Tips For a Smooth Filing Experience
The last few tips for filing your taxes better and easier with ProConnect:
- Get all your documents organized before starting.
- Checklists for personal and business info.
- Communicate clearly with your accountant.
- Review your return very carefully prior to submitting.
- Take a backup of everything.
Also read: What’s New in ProConnect for 2025: Features & Updates
Conclusion
Filing taxes need not be a troubling issue. Individual and business returns can be filed securely and correctly with ProConnect. So, if you are doing the work yourself, employing an accountant, or hiring an in-house accountant, this software is with you every step of the way.
It is simple to use, cloud-based and filled with helpful tools. And while it simplifies tax filing, human advice is still indispensable. Your personal accountant will enable you to get through the rough areas and make sound financial choices. Learn more with our experts at The Fino Partners.
