Skatt & EkonomiUppdateradnovember 06, 2025

Getting started with APIs in accounting firms

The accounting profession is undergoing a digital transformation, and APIs (application programming interfaces) are a key component. By providing access to firms' data and systems, the CCH Axcess™ Open Integration APIs enable firms to automate tax workflows, integrate disparate systems, or even build custom AI Agents. APIs offer a powerful way to unlock efficiency, accuracy, and innovation across your firm.

The comprehensive library of APIs provides access to the tax, audit and firm management data at the core of a modern accounting firm. By building API integrations, firms can improve client experiences, increase staff engagement and maximize firm efficiency.

Getting started with APIs in an accounting firm requires a strategic vision and careful planning. Many firms find the greatest success by starting small, automating a single step in the workflow, or even implementing an off-the-shelf API-based solution. Various approaches to implementing APIs are described below.

Why APIs matter for accounting firms

APIs allow different software systems to communicate and share data. In the context of accounting, this means your tax, audit, billing, CRM, HR, and document management systems can work together—reducing manual entry, improving accuracy, and enabling real-time insights.

Article: What are APIs and why are they important to accountants and CPA firms?
Start here if you're new to APIs or want a refresher on how they work and why they matter.

eBook: Leveraging integration and APIs to transform your firm
Learn how integrations and APIs can modernize your firm’s operations.

How to get started with APIs

Getting started with APIs doesn’t require a massive overhaul. In fact, many firms find success by starting small—automating a single step in a workflow or implementing an off-the-shelf API-based utility.

1. Build your own API automations

Tech-savvy firms with internal IT resources can build custom automations using the CCH Axcess Developer Portal. This includes integrating third-party software or creating homegrown tools in platforms like Excel.

Article: Automating tax workflows with APIs
A CCH Axcess expert shares real-world examples and advice for firms looking to scale automation with APIs.

eBook: Unlocking possibility with CCH Axcess APIs
Ideas and examples of API use cases, including integrations, custom applications and agentic AI.

2. Use off-the-shelf API-based utilities

Wolters Kluwer offers a suite of prebuilt utilities that automate common tasks like:

  • Batch printing
  • E-filing extensions
  • K-1 and passthrough imports
  • Business intelligence reporting

Article: API-first productivity utilities in CCH Axcess
Explore how these tools can save time and reduce manual effort.

3. Leverage the CCH Axcess Marketplace

The CCH Axcess Marketplace connects you with trusted third-party vendors offering ready-made integrations for scheduling, e-payments, cryptocurrency taxation, and more.

CCH Axcess Marketplace
Expand and enhance the CCH Axcess platform with powerful integrated solutions
Maximize the potential of your CCH Axcess software.

Real-world API use cases

Firms are already using APIs to:

  • Import tax data directly from workpapers
  • Automate return roll-forward and e-filing
  • Sync client and staff data across systems
  • Build dashboards with real-time KPIs

eBook: Putting APIs to use in tax prep
See how firms are applying APIs to streamline tax workflows.

Article: Frequently asked questions about tax preparation APIs
Get answers to common questions about implementation, security, and ROI.

Article: Integrating CCH Axcess with enterprise software via APIs
Explore the most common, and most impactful, systems that firms are connecting to CCH Axcess to streamline operations, reduce manual effort, and unlock new insights.

Product Marketing Manager, Tax
Aimee Hall is a Senior Product Marketing Manager at Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting US, bringing over a decade of experience in tax and accounting technology. She helps translate complex product capabilities into practical tools that empower professionals to work more efficiently. Her work centers on making tax technology more accessible, impactful, and aligned with the evolving needs of modern firms
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