SmartVault

SmartVault is a cloud-based document management and client portal built almost exclusively for accounting and tax practices. With 30,000+ active users, it's one of the most widely adopted document management systems in the accounting space, and its deep integration with Intuit's tax software suite is a genuine differentiator.

Who it's for

SmartVault is purpose-built for accounting firms, tax preparers, and bookkeepers — particularly those running Intuit software. If your practice doesn't use tax prep software, the platform's value proposition weakens considerably. For general-purpose client file sharing or non-accounting industries, there are more flexible options.

Key Features

The core workflow is built around document requests, secure storage, and organized delivery: firms send structured document request lists to clients, clients upload through a branded self-serve portal, and SmartVault files everything automatically using folder templates.

SmartRouting is the standout automation feature. It reads metadata from your tax software to identify the client, tax year, and document type, then routes uploaded files to the correct folder without manual intervention — a meaningful time-saver during busy season.

SmartScan lets staff capture physical documents via phone camera, which upload directly to SmartVault as clean, cropped PDFs.

eSignatures are handled via a DocuSign integration, including Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) for identity verification. This is audit-ready and supports pin code authentication and certified vault delivery — but note that eSignatures are only bundled on the top-tier plan; lower plans treat them as an add-on.

SmartRequestAI, an AI-powered document request tool, was listed as coming in Q4 2025.

Integrations

Tax software integrations are the main draw: Intuit Lacerte, ProConnect, ProSeries, Thomson Reuters UltraTax CS, DrakeTax, Wolters Kluwer CCH, QuickBooks Online and Desktop, and Rightworks. There's also a Developer API and integrations with DocuSign, HubDoc, Canon, and Microsoft tools. A connected Windows desktop app lets users access files through a mapped drive rather than only the browser.

Security and Compliance

SmartVault is unusually thorough on compliance, covering SOC 2 Type 2, IRS 4557, FTC Safeguards Rule, HIPAA, FINRA, SEC, GLBA, GDPR, AML, and FERPA. It includes a Compliance Vault with WISP (Written Information Security Program) templates. Two-factor authentication, encrypted communications, password-protected PDFs, and granular audit logs are included across all plans. For accounting firms handling sensitive financial data, this breadth of compliance coverage is genuinely useful rather than checkbox marketing.

Pricing

Three plans, all requiring annual commitment for the lower rate:

• Business Pro — $50/user/month (annual) or $70/user/month (monthly), 3-user minimum. Aimed at general businesses needing secure storage and client file sharing. eSignatures, KBAs, and PDF form-filling are add-ons.
• Accounting Pro — $55/user/month (annual) or $75/user/month (monthly), 2-user minimum. Adds tax software integrations, compliance tools, workflow automation features, and SmartRouting. eSignatures still an add-on.
• Accounting Unlimited — $75/user/month (annual) or $100/user/month (monthly), 2-user minimum. Includes unlimited eSignatures, KBAs, PDF form-filling, quotes, and proposals.

All plans include unlimited cloud storage, unlimited clients and external collaborators, custom-branded portal, file versioning, full-text search, activity logs, and U.S.-based phone, email, and chat support.

One-on-one team training and data migration services are available as paid add-ons on all plans, which can add meaningful onboarding cost for larger firms switching from another system.