Randall

So are you saying the support test is the key? As long as the client is providing more than what he's receiving for the child, he passes the support test, can claim the dependent and not report as income the receipts? This is how I was seeing it.

Do you have a reference on this?

When printing to the PDF, ATX takes me to their document filing folders. I've been using my own filing folder system and now I have to go thru several clicks to get to where I want to save my files. Is there a way to change this so when I click on the PDF print option, I can be directed to the folder I want?

What's clean cut skin?

Same here. I have two sources of tax update info coming in throughout the year and I'm sure I saw this, but had forgotten about it. This was a good reminder alert for me.

I had this problem. Tried a number of things but didn't work. I just entered my info again. Checked in preferences for the info to load in the returns.

I try to keep it as simple for me as possible. I don't enter the completed check mark until paper return is delivered to client or 8879 received, returned sent, and acceptance notice received for both Fed and State. I then add completed check mark. Print a paper list of uncompleted returns and keep a close watch on the list.

I originally installed using three codes that came with the disc. I got some kind of MS runtime error message. The program seemed to install ok. Later I received an email from ATX saying that only the first two codes should have been entered. The third code for Payroll Compliance Reporting should not be entered. I re-installed and I did not receive the previous error code. I have not looked at the program other than open it and see the blank return manager. Hopefully all will be ok.

I've only read four, but this is my favorite of the four.

Is ice cream anything like building democracy in Afghanistan?

I've been scanning the past few years all new files. Gradually scanning old files and shredding the paper as time permits. I'm a one person office so I do it myself as time permits. I am downsizing my office from two rooms to one and trying to go as paperless as possible.

As for break-in concerns, I use PGP Encryption software. It allows me to encrypt my internal HD, external HDs and flash drives.

That's what I've done. Started scanning a few years ago. Still have some old paper files to scan. Doing it myself to save money, but it takes time so it's a gradual process. I throw out magazines, but for my old National Geographics, I take them to a local senior residence place, a few at a time. The Director said the residents love them. They may be old editions but they aren't that out of date. I kept the maps though. Love maps.

I'm no programming guru, but I think the ATX program is a spreadsheet type of language and therefore slower. Especially, when you have a more complex return with more forms, depreciation schedules, multiple states, etc.

From my perspective, I'll just have to see how it plays out. I understand it will be for net books at first. Later, maybe desktops. It'll take a lot to dethrone MS. A big question for me is the applications and compatibility. Similar to the Mac/Windows differences. How many small desktop users are using Linux? How many of our apps are practical with Linux?

Exactly what is the difference in the ATX folders named 'Backup' and 'Database'? Should we be including both of these folders in our backup procedures?

Can't you just use the Explore directory? Under Program Files, ATX2008, Backup subfile. Copy it to the location you want on your hard drive or flash drive.

Thanks Wayne. How new is your computer? If I understand the technical jargon, there's 32 bit and 64 bit hardware and there's 32 bit and 64 bit versions of Vista. There have been some comments here about trouble with the 64 bit version and ATX. Do you know if you have 32 or 64. I'd like to zoom up to the 64 bit system but I don't want to have to gerry rig things. I like easy but I like the latest and greatest stuff too.

Thanks. I was just curious. I plan to get a new computer later in the year. Windows 7 is scheduled out by the holidays but that could be delayed. Then there will probably be all the usual problems with that as well. I'd prefer not to get the new OS until SP1 is out. And ATX, QB, Peachtree usually are a year (version) behind. There's been a lot of negative talk about Vista but I wonder if that's just the techies doing their usual thing.

What operating system did you purchase? Vista? 32 bit? 64 bit?

I hope there are no dial up users out here. I know one poster didn't have a choice at one time. But DSL is slow enough at times. I'd hate to think about using dial up.

I can only guess that they see a lot of the smaller programs being bought by the bigger companies. Do you know if they are independently owned? I'm like you. I don't anticipate in changing from ATX. But you never kinow what might happen. I've got Drake on my mental list and was just wondering about TaxSlayer. I hope I'm outta of here by the time I would feel the need to switch.

I've never contacted them but receive their postcard as well as from others. I'm not planning to change from ATX unless the program goes down or the price jumps quite a bit. I hate and dread to change. But I like to keep a mental note of the alternatives. I think Drake would be high on my list if I were to make a change some day. I like to take note of comments on various programs.

Interesting questions. I've wondered about the business model on both sides of this too. If you believe some of the info a few years ago, there were about 70,000 ATX users. Of course, not all would purchase the full package. CCH must have paid a pretty penny to purchase ATX. So, they need to recoup that with as much profit margin as possible. I can understand why they got rattled with TRX selling the product so cheaply. They were probably hearing a stampede coming.

Wow. This is when I call my techie. I'll try to troubleshoot the software and the paripheral equipment (plug and play stuff). But opening the box, it's all greek to me.