How to convert Ultratax CS files to Lacerte

The process of converting UltraTax CS files into Lacerte is pervasive. People change tax preparation software for many reasons, and technology professionals face numerous difficulties.

This guide provides a complete breakdown of the conversion process. The data transfer should be accurate to avoid errors and address the client’s strategic needs.

Also Read: UltraTax vs. Lacerte: Which One You Should Pick For Filing Returns

Understanding the Conversion Process

Shifting from UltraTax CS to Lacerte is essential because the two software have different file format compatibility.

Ideally, the transfer process should maintain the client information details and transfer them effectively.

The conversion is seamless when implemented correctly, and all associated processes become fast.

Also Read: What Is The Difference Between Lacerte and ProSeries?

Clearing the Ground — Preparing for the Conversion

Before the conversion, the two applications should be updated. Install the current version of UltraTax CS as well as of Lacerte.

This reduces the chances of compatibility issues during the process. Ensure backup is done before conversion in UltraTax CS so that data remains safe if something goes wrong.

After this, prepare a list of all client files in the original program. Ensure that files are not password-protected or locked.

Users should also be able to open the Fixed Asset Software and access the client asset data where the backup will be performed.

Steps to Create the Backup of FIles

1. Create +New Folder on C: drive with name ConversionData
2. For example, C:\ConversionData.
3. As step 2, Open the C:\ConversionData folder.
4. Create subfolders for each tax type: 1040, 1065, 1120, 1120S
5. Open UltraTax.
6. Complete the following steps (for every tax type that is being submitted):
7. Click Backup from the File menu
8. Go to the Backup window.
9. Uncheck Exclude clients, which have been unchanged since their last backup in the lower-left corner.
10. For 1040 or 1065 clients:

• Select Only 1 type (under the Focus section)
• Press and hold the Ctrl Key and click on the clients you want to add
• Click Select

11. If you’re backup up 1120 or 1120S clients:

• Select only 1120 under the Focus section
• Click the Entity column
• Select Group of clients that need to be backed up
• Click on Select to select them for backup

12. Click Modify Backup Location. and keep the backup location as C:\ConversionData\YYYY.

13. Click OK and uncheck Encrypt client backup

14. Click Backup to begin the backup process.

15. Repeat steps for additional tax types.

16. Create an additional file. Open the UltraTax install directory & and browse to the UT23DATA folder.

17. Locate and right-click on the CltList.WT3 file.

18. Choose Copy.

19. Search the C:\ConversionData folder, right-click in a space, and choose Paste.

Also Read: Lacerte or ProConnect: Which one should you choose for tax practice

Exporting Data from UltraTax CS

Next, start UltraTax CS and click on the client files. Select clients to whom you would like to transfer data to Lacerte. From the available menu in UltraTax CS, select “Export.”

This lets you import from other file types, but with Lacerte, you must choose only the relevant one to increase efficiency. Copy the files into a folder that will make it easy to create guidance. It will be helpful for you to keep it orderly during execution.

UltraTax CS can export to many formats, so always check this setting. Please choose the correct format so Lacerte can interpret your files without destroying them.

All the data should be explicitly and systematically saved. The good news is that having a coded list of software titles will make it easier to import.

Preparing Lacerte for Import

Now, let’s start preparing Lacerte for importation. Make sure that Lacerte is updated completely. If that particular client was never onboarded, select "Add a new client to the Lacerte software" from the wizard.

For old clients, Update Data should be selected. After that, set Lacerte based on the import guidelines and continue. These import settings will depend on the software to which they must be imported.

Further elaboration on these specification settings is provided in the user manual.

Importing Data into Lacerte

Once the data is ready, users set up Lacerte and import it. Open the application, go to the menu, and tap import. Open the folder where the UltraTax CS files were exported with a check mark.

Import them into Lacerte and initiate the process. At this point, the progress of the import and any errors will be viewable at the software level. Be sure to look for any warning or error message during the process.

The file size usually defines how long it will take to import the data. Allow Lacerte to complete its data import work. It will populate those tax data fields as conventional personal, income, and deduction data shall fill it.

Verifying the Imported Data

The tax details of each client should be reviewed and rechecked to ensure that tax entries are correct. Check personal attributes, income, deductions, and every other dreary tax information.

This step ensures that all transformed data is accurate and nuanced. By doing so, any mistake that might occur should be corrected immediately.

Cross-check data on rare tax situations. Search for inconsistencies and missing inputs that could require manual adjustments. Lacerte usually highlights anything wrong at the end of the import.

Spend a few minutes analyzing client files and performing updates wherever applicable. Ensure that each import corresponds with the original UltraTax CS files.

Handling Conversion Errors

Track common errors that can occur during the import process. Understanding the core reason for mistakes is critical to avoiding replicating them.

Persistent issues require explicit support and assistance from Lacerte. Their personnel will lead you through troubleshooting steps regarding the errors.

Some data would not transfer due to software differences; in this case, any missing data should be manually entered on the tax return.

Conclusion

UltraTax CS file conversion to Lacerte requires a structured approach. Tax professionals can transfer data between systems by following the steps above. The process is tedious and entails many steps. Therefore, consulting a data migration or dedicated hosting expert will simplify many things.