provided by: 
800-824-9631
www.spokanecomputer.com
Spokane Computer, Inc. proudly offers MAG-FILER, a comprehensive software solution for the filing and preparation of annual wage/tax statements and information returns. MAG-FILER costs $299 (download version) and $339 (CD mailed version).
Having just completed its 19th year, MAG-FILER supports preparation and filing of all Form(s) 1099 (plus 1042-S, 1098, 5498, and W2-G) and Form W-2. It supports electronic filing and print filing capabilities. Spokane also offers a service bureau that can perform all or any part of the filing process, including data entry. (The vendor noted that Spokane Computer clients have never had and IRS violation or a fine in its history of processing millions of records and that its service bureau will correct and re-file for clients if they encounter any filing issues.)
Roxanne Olsen of Tracy Bressler, CPA, in Lemoore, California, says her firm selected MAG-FILER because of its electronic filing abilities and its ease of use with QuickBooks. The firm has a staff of 13, including bookkeepers, CPAs and office support, and it has over 95 payroll clients and more than 100 bookkeeping clients. "We use MAG-FILER for electronically filing W-2s and 1099s," she said. "This program is very easy, and it saves time and paper."
USABILITY/NAVIGATION
MAG-FILER begins with manual entry of payer and recipient information, or users may import from *.CSV or other electronic files. The program features easy review and reporting of imported information, streamlined laser or pre-printed form printing in a variety of formats, and a one-step electronic filing process. All required processes and forms are created by MAG-FILER.
The Payer Information screen provides a sortable listing of available clients and basic client information. Upon selection of a Payer, MAG-FILER opens the Payee Information screen for that client, with similarly sortable information. These steps are intuitive, and the program's simplified interface aids in navigation.
MAG-FILER data files are generally created via file import. Manual data entry, editing and corrections are performed on data input screens that follow a logical layout, although they are not replicas of actual tax forms. Users can override automatically calculated data, if desired. All user screens provide navigation menus across the top with links to assorted functions, including the following: adding new payees/payers, starting the filing process, print options, report options, importing data and the program's Help utility.
MAG-FILER supports an unlimited number of payers (clients) and payees (client employees). The screen interface is fairly straightforward with Help links to full documentation.
REPORTING & IMPORT/EXPORT CAPABILITIES
MAG-FILER uses a multi-step process for import of client/payee data. Users export data from an accounting program into ASCII or *.CSV file formats. Users then import the data file using a mapping template that routes data to appropriate fields. The MAG-FILER supplied mapping templates work with most accounting programs and offer users the option to print to preprinted or plain paper, including printing W-2s and W-3s to laser-created forms.
SUPPORT FOR PAPERLESS TRANSMISSION
MAG-FILER provides the ability to submit returns electronically for submission via the IRS and SSA websites and supports states that accept the SSA MMREF-1 format. It can submit Form(s) 1099 via the IRS Combined Federal/State Program and can e-file corrected Form(s) 1099.
HELP/TRAINING
Spokane Computer, Inc. offers a built-in Help utility, a user's guide and free traditional telephone support. Context-specific Help would greatly improve functionality and make the program more efficient.