The ProDesk Preparer Tool page is your central hub for accessing the features and tools available within the software. Designed for efficiency and ease of use, the dashboard provides quick access to the information and functions you use most throughout the tax preparation process.
The first section of the Preparer Tool page lets you confirm that you are working in the correct application and tax year before starting or continuing a return. This area displays:
- Current User – your username
- Application – Business Tax, 1099 + W-2, 1040 (Training), or 1040
- Tax Year – access to current and prior-year tax returns
- Current Product – your active purchased product
- Returns Remaining – the number of returns available based on your selected package
QuickStart New Return
The QuickStart New Return feature lets you create a new client return directly from the Preparer Tool page using only the client's name and Social Security Number.
Alerts
The Alerts section delivers important updates and notifications directly to your dashboard: software announcements, Support messages, and other communications from ProDesk. One of the most common uses of Alerts is notifying you when our Support Team has responded to a message you sent through the Secure Email feature. If you contact us through Secure Email, check your Alerts regularly so you'll know when a response is ready.
All Returns
The All Returns section provides convenient access to your recently worked-on returns. For faster navigation, use the Filter feature: enter the first four letters of your client's first or last name to narrow the results.