CPAs are looking for new choices in accounting packages, according to Paychex CEO Martin Mucci. Mucci made the statement this week during the payroll services company's earnings webcast. He gave the explanation during a discussion about Paychex's recent launch of an online accounting application.

Avalara is preparing to offer sales tax certification to accountants. The Bainbridge Island, Wash.-based sales-and-use tax vendor says the program stemmed from the alliances it has created with state CPA societies and accounting firm associations. Ray Bigley, the company’s VP of business and corporate development compared the upcoming education opportunities to Intuit’s ProAdvisor designation.

The Instant Cash Advance program offered in 27 states last year by Liberty Tax Service as a test is being cut back. The program will go forward in 21 states during the upcoming tax season, Liberty said this week during an earnings webcast for its parent, JTH Holdings.