The delay in the tax season contributed to a 19-percent rise in revenue for the tax preparation business of Blucora, which owns the TaxAct line, for the second quarter ended June 30. The segment's operating profit rose to $14.4 million, a 20.8-percent increase from just under $12 million a year ago.

BigTime Software, which makes online practice management applications, says its BigTeam referral network now encompasses 250 firms. The Chicago-based company created the referral program for small and mid-sized accounting firms last year.

Avalara has formed a strategic alliance with AGN International-North America. The alliance gives the 45 members firms of AGN-NA access to sales-and-use tax and value add-tax information from Bainbridge Island, Wash.-based Avalara.