2012 Review of EG Systems, Inc. – The W-2 / 1099 Filer

Strengths

• Comprehensive state, federal and local form support
• Batch filing and printing options
• Supports multiple data formats
• Remote and local backup options available

Potential Limitations

• ATF Payroll offered as separate solution

The W-2/1099 Filer offers complete functionality for year-end compliance and reporting for multiple business clients. The software supports several data entry methods, federal and state forms, import formats and printing options. The W-2/1099 Filer also offers extensive e-filing capabilities as well as local and remote backup features. The e-filing feature has been enhanced to support checking the status of submissions. In addition, the billing and transmittal system is now compatible with Microsoft Word.

Basic System Functions: 4.75 Stars

The W-2/1099 Filer is an on-premise application installed on individual workstations. It can also be installed on networked servers and used by an unlimited amount of firm staff. Users can manage any number of payers and recipients within the program. Features include the ability to create user rights and access, filter and sort clients and recipient lists, quickly generate reports and create forms from within a client’s record.

Data can be entered in numerous ways including traditional data entry fields or interactive forms, which simulate the federal and state forms. Recipients can be used across multiple companies, which is helpful if a particular recipient contracts with multiple businesses. The W-2/1099 Filer automatically calculates FICA wages and withholding and offers a full-time audit trail. The software also supports multiple data formats for importing.

Reporting: 4.75 Stars
The W-2/1099 Filer supports all 1099 and 1098 forms, 1042-S, 5498, 3921, 3922, W-2, W-2C, W-3, W-3C, 1096, 940, 941, 943 and 944 forms. Users can connect directly to the IRS and SSA websites through the W-2/1099 Filer’s e-filing feature to submit forms and check the status of previously submitted forms. The software offers support for all states, plus D.C. and all US territories, and users have the option to print forms on either pre-printed forms or plain paper. Batch printing is also available, allowing users to select which states are printed.

Once generated, reports can be saved to PDF format and security features can be added for secure electronic distribution. The W-2/1099 Filer features a built-in document management feature that lets users attach scanned images and documents to files. Other reporting options include summaries, tally reports and state and local wage listings. Users can also print mailing labels and envelopes, or they can use EG System’s automated outsourcing service.

Import/Export Capabilities: 4.75 Stars

The W-2/1099 Filer supports multiple formats including QuickBooks, Excel, CSV and XML. The software can pull directly from QuickBooks and Peachtree and offers two-step integration with other payroll systems through the use of other data import formats. It also supports data rollover from the previous year’s data. Data can be exported to Excel or PDF formats and emailed directly from within the software.

Help/Support: 5 Stars

The W-2/1099 Filer offers remote desktop support, access to its user manual, email support and a built-in help guide. There are also built-in links to form instructions and websites for the IRS, SSA and state tax agencies. System updates, live support, a PDF user manual and system updates are also available on the website. The W-2/1099 Filer can be set to automatically update from within the program.

Summary & Pricing

The W-2/1099 Filer system offers extensive reporting capabilities for federal and state e-filing. Several options are available for report generation and printing as well. Pricing for the basic package starts at $109, while laser engine printing can be added for $40 and support for forms 940, 941 and 943 can be added for $10.

2012 Overall Rating: 4.75 Stars