For Tchalikian, CPA., Inc., it was a combination of all the above.
Making the switch to new tax software with confidence
Tchalikian, CPA, a small professional tax firm founded in 2019 by Michael Tchalikian, specializes in serving mental health professionals, actors, writers, and W2 employees in law and insurance. Preparing 500–550 returns annually, the firm faced ongoing challenges with rising professional tax software costs, limited functionality, inconvenient software updates with its previous on-premise tax solution, and a stronger need for reliable tax research.
To overcome these challenges, Michael decided to make the switch with conviction and adopted CCH Axcess™ Tax Essentials and CCH® AnswerConnect.
This strategic move delivered significant improvements:
- Cost savings and value: Previous software costs were up to four times higher, offering fewer features. CCH Axcess Tax Essentials provided far more robust functionality at a fraction of the price, reducing overhead and improving ROI.
- Efficiency gains: The cloud-based platform eliminated manual updates and downtime, streamlining tax preparation and freeing time for client service and growth opportunities.
- Enhanced compliance and confidence: With CCH AnswerConnect, Michael now has access to AI powered expert-vetted tax research, ensuring accurate decisions for complex scenarios like multi-state laws and court case interpretations – avoiding unreliable research from unconfirmed AI generated internet sources.
Conclusion: Saving in costs and a boost in tax compliance efficiencies
The results were clear and evident: lower costs, faster workflows, and proactive compliance. Switching to new tax software, including prior year data, was quick and software adoption was relatively effortless due to Do-It-Yourself style training and learning. The newly gained efficiencies have positioned Tchalikian, CPA to keep serving niche markets, consider further expansion into advisory services, while safeguarding against compliance risks and reputational damage.
Reflecting on the transition, Michael notes, “I beat myself up for not having made the switch three years earlier… CCH Axcess Tax Essentials is exponentially better than what I previously had.”, confirming that intimidation or hesitation to switch should not be a roadblock for tax professionals.
By leveraging modern tax technology, Tchalikian, CPA has transformed its operations – proving that small firms can achieve big efficiencies with the right tools.
