User's Manual - Drake Software

Drake Software User’s Manual
Learn new phaseout limits — Be prepared to explain to your clients why they no longer receive
benefits they’ve received in the past.
Review or learn EIC rules — Prepare for EIC due diligence interviews.
Review staffing needs — Set staff software security levels.
Train your staff — Make sure everyone understands his or her duties and is familiar with the software.
Train your staff through Drake ETC.
Upgrade computers as needed — Ensure that your computers comply with system requirements.
Test printers and modems to be used with Drake Software.
Check phone cords and connections to be used during tax season.
Check scanner — Review Drake-recommended scanners. If necessary, purchase a scanner to use
with the Drake Document Manager. For a Drake recommendation, see “Compatible Scanners” on
page 349.
Purchase office supplies — These include folders, envelopes, paper, and toner.
Install and Set Up Software
Review system requirements for installation — See “System Requirements” on page 12.
Install the 2012 Drake Software CD — Refer to your shipment letter, or see “Installing from
CD” on page 12.
Customize program settings — Complete required and optional program settings. Check the
packing slip to verify your EFIN. Enter your new password and account number at Setup > ERO.
(Keep your packing slip, which contains your serial number and account number, in a safe place.)
Perform database updates — Update the EIN Database from the prior year.
Set up your office’s network — See “Running Drake on a Network” on page 15.
Perform configuration updates — Update configurations for firm information, macros, etc.,
from the prior year.
Establish billing amounts — Save time later by setting your billable amounts now.
Help Clients Prepare for Tax Season
Prepare proformas and organizers for prior-year clients — Note that reports, organizers, proformas,
and returns can be stored and e-mailed as PDF files.
Prepare preseason letters and coupons to send with organizers.
Tax Year 2012 A-3