The Tabs3 Software provides a wide range of reports, as well as documentation resources to help you get the most out of reports. Information on reports can be found in many places, so where should you look first?
Knowledge Base Article R11793, “Reports Information & Resources,” provides a list of resources with information regarding reports in the Tabs3 Software, making it easy to find what you are looking for. This article includes links to Knowledge Base Articles, Report Packs, Guides, and Videos. You can find information on comparing report information, report analyzation, specialty reports, and more!
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
Firm information can change for many reasons, such as when you move, add partners, or the firm splits. Updating the software with your new information is important so that your firm is accurately represented on statements, checks, and more. Informing Tabs3 Software is also important so that information regarding changes to the software reaches you in a timely manner.
The main changes to firm information are made in System Configuration; however, other changes may also be necessary depending on your use of the software and are outlined below.
System Configuration
You can change your firm’s name, address, phone, website, and Federal ID # in System Configuration’s Firm Information window (File | Open | Firm). Changes to the firm’s name, address, Federal ID #, or phone will prompt you to print and send us a form with the changes. This is so that we can update our records.
Making changes to the Firm Information will automatically change the following information in the software:
- Heading of all reports in Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, Trust Accounting (Trust), and Accounts Payable (AP).
- Firm name displayed on Trust and AP 1099 Forms.
- Firm name printed on Trust checks to your firm.
- Statement Designer layouts that use a variable for any of the fields that have changed.
- Document Assembly templates and report definitions that use any of the fields that have changed.
Note: When a change to the firm name is made in the Platinum edition, all users must exit the Tabs3 Software before the change will apply to the Tabs3 Software report headings or Trust checks to your firm.
Tabs3 Billing
The following changes to statement information may need to be made in Tabs3 Billing for changes to your firm’s information.
- If your firm uses the Headings tab in Statement Customization (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Statement Customization”) to enter up to nine lines to be printed as a heading on each statement, these lines may need to be updated.
- If your firm uses Statement Designer layouts that provide firm information manually entered, instead of using variables, these layouts may need to be updated.
- If your firm uses bitmaps on statements that include the changed firm information, the bitmaps will need to be recreated.
General Ledger (GL)
In GL, the Client Name field in the Edit GLS Client utility (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Edit GLS Client”) prints as a heading on all GL reports.
Tabs3 Remote
In Tabs3 Remote, the firm name is saved in Customization (Utilities | Customization) and is printed as a heading on all Tabs3 Remote reports.
If your firm information changes, make sure you update all of the necessary areas to help make the transition smooth.
Did you know that some activities are logged in the software, such as when the software is backed up or restored? This information can come in handy when you want to determine when something happened and who initiated it.
A Support Log is available for viewing or printing in every application, but provides different information based on the application. Not all activities are logged, but those that have a high impact are typically included.
To print a Support Log
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “View the Support Log.”
- Optionally enter a Date range.
- Optionally select the Specific option next to Users, and then select the desired users for whom you want the report to run.
- Optionally select the Specific option next to Features, and then select the desired features for which you want the report to run.
- Click the Print button.
There are many helpful features in the Support Log. For example, let’s say you are sure that you updated statements last week, but now those transactions are showing as work-in-process again. In Tabs3 Billing, you can print the Support Log and include the Undo Updated Statements feature. When reviewing the report, you will see a list that includes every time the Undo Updated Statements has been run. The following information for each time will also be included: Date, Time, User, Statement, Cnt (Count), Client Range, and Reporting Month. Now you can see who undid the statements and talk to them to find out why.
To view a complete list of what features are included in the Support Log for each application, visit Knowledge Base Article R11288, “Support Log Information.”
Is there a way to generate a list of unreconciled checks that originated in AP?
Yes, you can run a Journal Report with filters to display unreconciled checks from Accounts Payable.
To run a Journal Report for outstanding AP checks
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Journal Report.”
- Click the Account tab and select the desired account(s).
- Click the Dates tab. In the Date Range section, in the Date field, select All.
- From the Options tab:
- Set the Record Source to Specific. In the Multiple Record Source Lookup window, select Accounts Payable and click OK.
- Set the Record Status to Specific. In the Multiple Record Status Lookup window, select Outstanding and click OK.
- Click OK to generate the report.
Although reconciling your accounts each month might be necessary, it doesn’t have to be difficult.
In the Working with General Ledger Reconciliation video, you’ll see how easy it is to import transactions, compare records in General Ledger, and how to close out the month. Reconciliation reports are also available so that you can quickly look back at previous months without any hassle.
Watch this three-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Training Videos.”
We have accounts we no longer use that still show on the Balance Sheet or Income Statement. Is there a way to prevent these accounts from being shown on these reports?
Accounts can be configured to not show on the Balance Sheet or Income Statement via the Chart of Accounts.
To specify an account not be shown on the Balance Sheet and/or Income Statement
- From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Chart of Accounts.”
- Double-click the account. (Note: If the account is not shown in the list, select the Show Inactive check box in the upper-right corner of the window.)
- Click the Report Options tab.
- Clear the Display on Balance Sheet or Display on Income Statement check box in the Detail Report section.
- Clear the Display on Balance Sheet or Display on Income Statement check box in the Summary Report section.
- Click the Save button.
- Repeat steps 2-6 for any other accounts you want to hide. When you are finished, close the Chart of Accounts window.
Dashboards are an easy way to get a quick overview of important data. Dashboards can be accessed via the Dashboard tab of the Home Page and provide the following information:
Tabs3 Billing Dashboard – Displays Accounts Receivable and Work-in-Process for each aging period, as well as a Cash Receipts and a Billing History billing widget to compare figures for the past two years. The dashboard can optionally be filtered in Platinum edition applications for one or more timekeepers, categories, or locations.
PracticeMaster Dashboard – Displays the current month’s Calendar, a list of upcoming events, a My Task list that allows you to easily check off completed items, and a Recap of Hours graph. Additionally, buttons to Add Event, Add Task, and Add Fee are included.
Trust Accounting Dashboard – Displays a summary of your firm’s active Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Trust Transactions. Additionally, buttons to Import Bank Transactions, Print Checks, and Add Transactions are included.
Accounts Payable Dashboard – Displays a list of Unpaid Invoices. Additionally, buttons to quickly Print Checks, Post Checks, print a Check Register, and Add Invoices are included.
General Ledger Dashboard – Displays a summary of your firm’s Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Bank Transactions. Additionally, buttons to Import Bank Transactions and Add Journal Entries are included.
Did you know that you can choose whether or not to print the initials of the user who runs a report on the left side of the footer?
To print the user initials in the report footer
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Print Setup.”
- Select the desired Printer.
- Click the Advanced Printing Features button.
- In the Footer section, select the Print User Initials check box.
- Click OK.
- Click OK.
Do you have multiple AP checks and/or GL journal entries that need to be entered each month? Use recurring entries instead of manually entering them every time!
Accounts Payable Software (AP)
Recurring entries can be set up in AP and then added (posted) to the invoice file in a monthly batch. Rent, leases, parking, and mortgage payments are examples of recurring entries.
To add a recurring entry in AP
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Recurring Entry.”
- From the Recurring Entry tab, press Ctrl+N.
- Enter the desired information for the recurring entry.
- Press Ctrl+S.
Once recurring entries have been added to AP, they can quickly be posted using Post Recurring Entries. All recurring entries are posted to the invoice file unless the recurring entry is on “hold”. The word “AUTO” (automatic) is posted to the Voucher field for each invoice created from a recurring entry.
To post recurring entries in AP
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Post Recurring Entries.”
- Click OK.
General Ledger Software (GL)
Recurring entries can be set up in GL and then added (posted) to the journal file in a monthly batch. Examples of recurring entries include depreciation, amortization, notes payable, fixed investment income, rent, monthly lease payments, etc.
To add a recurring entry in GL
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Recurring Entry.”
- Press Ctrl+N.
- Enter the desired information for the recurring entry.
- Press Ctrl+S.
Once recurring entries have been added to GL, they can quickly be posted using Post Recurring Entries. Post Recurring Entries adds a batch of journal entries to the journal entry data file based on the information in the recurring entry file.
To post recurring entries in GL
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Post Recurring Entries.”
- Optionally remove the check from any items you do not want to post this month.
- Click OK.
Save time by posting all of your recurring entries at once instead of reentering the same information every month!
When I run my Balance Sheet Report, I see that some of the accounts are printing the right amount, but show as negative instead of positive. Is there a way to change this?
There is an option to Invert Balance Type. When this check box is selected, it will invert how an account’s balance is displayed on reports from positive to negative or vice versa.
To invert an account’s balance type
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Chart of Accounts.”
- Double click the account that is printing as a negative.
- On the Report Options tab, in the Advanced section, select or clear the Invert Balance Type check box.
- Click Save.
- Repeat steps 2-4 for any other accounts that are showing as negative and should be positive or vice versa.
Now when you print the Balance Sheet Report, the accounts will show the same amount but will no longer be negative.
I want to see all journal entries that were entered on a certain date, regardless of their transaction date. Is there a report that will show this?
The Journal Report is a flexible and option-rich report that can be run by transaction date or by entry date.
To run the Journal Report by Entry Date
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Journal Report.”
- On the Accounts tab, select the All Accounts option.
- On the Dates tab:
- In the Date Range section, select the desired Date criteria.
- In the Date Selection section, select the Date Entered option.
- Enter any other criteria as desired.
- Click OK.
The difference between Timekeepers and Users is often confused. So what exactly is the distinction between how timekeepers and users are used in the software?
Users represent anyone who uses the software, or a resource that needs to be scheduled, such as a conference room. Timekeepers represent any person whose time is entered or billed, such as attorneys and paralegals.
You work with timekeepers and users every day, possibly in ways you don’t even realize. Let’s take a look at some different ways timekeepers and users are used in the software below.
Timekeepers can be used to:
- Track time
- Assign billing rates
- Specify which timekeeper is primary, secondary, and originating for a matter
- Track billing and productivity
- Specify reporting ranges
- Specify fee compensation rules (Tabs3 Billing only)
- …and more
Users can be used to:
- Log in to the software
- Specify access rights
- Track who enters data in Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, Trust Accounting (Trust), Accounts Payable (AP), and General Ledger (GL)
- Add to groups to make entering calendar records easier
- …and more
Because there are such different uses for timekeepers and users, when, how, and why you should add or delete them vary. When adding or deleting timekeepers and users, keep the following in mind:
- You can only add as many timekeepers as your license allows. Because of this, it may be necessary to renumber or delete timekeepers or add timekeepers to your license.
- There is no limit to the number of users you can add; you are instead limited by how many users can be logged in to the software at the same time. Because of this, there is never a need to delete users. In fact, deleting users can cause Data File Integrity Check Errors.
It is important to note that Tabs3 Billing and Trust are licensed by Timekeeper whereas PracticeMaster, AP, and GL are licensed by User. For more information on timekeeper and user limits, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10788, “Active User Limits.”
Not sure what your timekeeper or user login limits are? These can be found in the About window (in the Quick Launch, search for and select “About”). The About window displays the Active User Limit in each of the applications. In Tabs3 Billing, you can also see the Maximum Timekeeper Limit, and in Trust you can see the Maximum Attorney Limit. For more information about what is contained in the About window, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11865, “Information in the About Window.”
For more information on deleting timekeepers and users, refer to Knowledge Base Articles R10969, “Renumbering vs. Deleting Inactive Timekeepers,” and R10840, “Deleting User IDs.”
Knowing the difference between timekeepers and users can help you know which settings may need to be changed when necessary, as well as when you should add or delete them, or update your license. For more information on timekeeper and users, refer to the Help by pressing F1 from any window.
Ethics are an integral part of any business, but in the field of law they are especially important. Tabs3 Software works to ensure that your firm has the tools to maintain ethical walls in order to protect your clients and cases.
Knowledge Base Article R11459, “Ethical Walls in Tabs3 Software,” discusses how to use Tabs3 Software to create ethical walls in your firm. The Tabs3 Software provides Conflict of Interest searching, the option to make clients secure and accessible by only certain users, the ability to control who sees work by assigning timekeepers, and the ability to set up access profiles to control who can access specific functions of the software.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
Verification lists are optional and can make it easy to confirm what activities have been done by whom in the software. Many firms review these on a regular basis, verifying which transactions have been added, changed, and deleted by the users in the firm. Verification Lists can be generated for much more than fees; there are more than 15 different verification lists in Tabs3 Billing, Trust Accounting (Trust), Accounts Payable (AP), and General Ledger (GL).
Knowledge Base Article R10793, “All About Verification Lists,” provides detailed information about the various verification lists available in the software including a breakdown of verification lists, how to enable or disable optional verification lists, which verification lists are temporary, how to delete verification lists, a complete list of all verification lists, and much more.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
Did you know that you can save reports generated from Tabs3 Software as PDFs? Instead of maintaining folders and/or boxes of paper, store your reports digitally instead!
When printing your reports, there are two ways to save the file as a PDF:
- Select an Output of Tabs3 DropBox. Tabs3 Software’s DropBox is a good option if you want to review the PDF report(s) before saving them to their final location. You can then save multiple files in the DropBox to another location simultaneously. Once all your reports are saved to the DropBox, simply drag them to the desired location.
- Select an Output of File, and then save the file as a PDF to the desired location. This is a good option if you’re ready to save the report and be done.
Once you start saving your reports as PDFs, think about saving them as document management records in PracticeMaster. When saved to PracticeMaster, your reports become easily searchable. Worried about security? Assigning documents to a secure client will limit the information available to users. When running a conflict search, any hits belonging to a secure client will display “This is a secure record.”
Tip: Use the Send to PracticeMaster option while in File Explorer to automatically create document management records in PracticeMaster for multiple reports. For more information on the Send to PracticeMaster feature, see Knowledge Base Article R11571, “Document Management Frequently Asked Questions.”
Our monthly reconciliation can take some time to perform. Our bank offers a digital file with all of the cleared transactions; is there a way to import this file and match them up to my General Ledger entries?
General Ledger’s Import Bank Transactions feature uses financial files in multiple formats (.OFX, .QBO, or .QFX) to help clear your bank transactions. This allows you to match up journal entries that are already in the system against the ones in the file.
To import bank transactions
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Import Bank Transactions.” Alternatively, you can click the Import Bank Transactions button on the Dashboard.
- Select the financial file downloaded from your bank. Once the import is complete, you will have the option to delete the import file. The Dashboard will be displayed, with the Last Import updated.
To match imported transactions to journal entries
- On the Dashboard, click the red number next to Last Import to see a list of imported transactions.
…or…
In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Bank Account Manager,” and then click the Confirm Transactions button. - On the Matched tab, transactions from the bank that already exist in GL are shown. The match is based off of several criteria; check number, date, and amount are all taken into consideration. Transactions can be edited and unmatched from this window if necessary.
- On the Unmatched tab, new GL journal entries can be made by using the Create button.
- After transactions are matched, click Confirm.
When you start your reconciliation, all cleared entries will be selected, cutting down the amount of time that the reconciliation takes.
With 2022 coming to a close, year-end tasks are also swiftly approaching. Get a jump on 2023 by reviewing the recommended year-end procedures! As always, look no further than our Knowledge Base and Help topics to guide you through the process.
Knowledge Base Article R10429, “Year-End Overviews for Tabs3 Software Products,” includes links to KB articles that provide checklists and frequently asked questions. The types of questions found in each year-end article are outlined below:
Tabs3 Billing – R11693
- Retaining Previous Year’s Information
- Backup Routine
- Next Year’s Entries
- GL Integration
Tabs3 Trust Accounting – R10433
- Backup Routine
- Bank Account Reconciliation
- Reports
- 1099s, including E-file
- GL Integration
Tabs3 Accounts Payable – R11278
- Backup Routine
- Checks
- Void Posted Checks
- Reports
- 1099s, including E-file
- Deleting Vendors
- GL Integration
Tabs3 General Ledger – R11600
- Advancing the Year
- Reports
- Backup Routine
Lists of basic year-end procedures are also available in Help for each Tabs3 Software application. Simply enter the keyword “year-end” on the Index tab to display the year-end procedures Help topic.
Are you planning on purchasing a new server, or moving from one computer to another? Sometimes it becomes necessary to move the Tabs3 Software from one location on the network to another location. Knowledge Base Article R11895, “Moving Tabs3 Software,” and Knowledge Base Article R11896, “Moving Tabs3 Platinum Software,” walk you through the steps to move the software to a different computer.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
I’ve completed reviewing the books for the previous fiscal year and am ready to close them. Is there a way to prevent users from posting or editing journal records for the previous year?
Once you are certain that no additional changes will be needed, you can update the Date through which books are closed setting. Once this value is updated, no additional changes can be made prior to the specified date.
To change the Date through which books are closed
- From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Edit GLS Client.”
- In the Journal Entry Date Restrictions section, specify the new value for the Date through which books are closed.
- Press Ctrl+S.
- Close the Edit GLS Client window.
Note: No user, regardless of assigned access profile or manager status, can make changes prior to the specified Date through which books are closed.
Did you know that you can have certain software features automatically run as soon as a Tabs3 Software application is opened? You can use startup options to help automate tasks by entering command line options in the Target field of the desktop shortcut icon.
For example, in Tabs3 Billing you can have the Fee Entry window automatically open, and in PracticeMaster you can have the Matter Manager window automatically open. Other popular startup options include opening the Calendar and the Timer window. Some startup options, such as the Data File Integrity Check, can be automatically started in every application. You can even use a startup option to automatically enter your User ID. If you do not use a password, the Logon window will be bypassed and you will automatically be logged into the software. However, if a password has been set up for the user, the User ID will be filled in and a password will be required.
To add a startup option to PracticeMaster
- Right-click the desktop icon used to start PracticeMaster and select Properties.
- From the Properties window, click the Shortcut tab. The startup option can be entered following the program file name in the Target field. An example of the Target field when using the User ID startup option is:”C:\Program Files\Tabs3\CM.EXE” ALICEAn example of the Target field when using the option to start the Data File Integrity Check at a specified time is:”C:\Program Files\Tabs3\CM.EXE” /DFIC /T 11:30p
Multiple startup options can be specified in the Target field if desired. Options must be separated by a space. An example of multiple startup options is:
“C:\Program Files\Tabs3\CM.EXE” /TIMER /CALENDAR /WEEKLY
- Click OK.
You can find a complete list of startup options applicable to the application you are working in by searching for “Help Topics” in the Quick Launch. On the Index tab, simply type “Startup Options”. For more information on automating tasks, including startup options, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11034, “Automating Tabs3 Software Maintenance Tasks.”
Did you know that you can quickly start other Tabs3 Software applications from within any application? Once you have opened one of the Tabs3 Software applications, simply click on the desired application button in the application toolbar! The application toolbar is located at the bottom of the Quick Launch pane.
When starting any application from the application toolbar, the new software will use the same User ID as the current application. An application’s button will not be displayed on the application toolbar if you do not have access rights to that application or if it is not installed on your workstation.
I need to be able to subtotal my GL accounts in a different order to report on income for the firm. However, the current order is what the firm usually needs. I would only need this alternate order for reporting purposes. What can I do?
GL has the ability to set an additional account order in your Chart of Accounts, specifically for this purpose. This can be particularly useful when you need to subtotal accounts in more than one way.
To print reports using an alternate account order, you must enable the use of an alternate account order, and then specify the order in the Chart of Accounts.
To enable the use of an alternate account order
- From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Edit GLS Client.”
- Select the desired Client Number.
- In the Options section, select the Allow an alternate account order to be defined in the Chart of Accounts check box.
- Press Ctrl+S.
To set up an alternate account order
- From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Chart of Accounts.”
- Right-click and select View Alternate Account Order.
- Drag and drop accounts to their desired position.
Once defined, reports can be run using the alternate account order by selecting the Use Alternate Account Order check box on the Account tab of many GL reports.
When was the last time you backed up your Tabs3 Software data and tested the viability of your backup? If your firm was required to restore from a backup right now, how much data would be lost?
Regular backups are critical to the safety of your data. Tabs3 Software automatically prompts you to run a backup when a function cannot be easily reversed or when interruption of a process can cause errors in the data. When prompted to make a backup, review the date and time of the last backup shown on the prompt, and ask yourself how much data will need to be reentered if a restore is required. If you are not comfortable with the amount of work required after restoring, then you should back up your data before going any further. If you regularly find yourself skipping backups because it’s difficult to get every user to exit the software, consider the Platinum edition of Tabs3 Software. The HotBackup feature allows you to make backups while other users are still working in the software and Tabs3 Platinum Software can automatically recover from interruptions to many functions, including Update Statements.
Tabs3 Software provides the ability to back up and restore data from within the software. If you are using the non-Platinum edition of the software, you can keep up to three internal backups with a size limit of 2GB each. If you are using the Platinum edition of the software, backups are practically unlimited! You can keep up to 198 user-defined HotBackups, each limited in size only by the available hard drive space.
But is that enough? Backups made via the Tabs3 Software are considered temporary backups and only include your data files. These backups do not include executable files to run the programs, nor is every file in the Tabs3 Current Working Directory included. We recommend making regular backups of the entire Tabs3 Current Working Directory via a third-party backup program for purposes of recovering from a catastrophic failure, such as flood, theft, server hard drive failure, etc. If you already have a third-party backup in place, make sure that it is periodically tested to verify it is working correctly.
Now may be the perfect time to take a closer look at your current backup strategy and to verify the procedures you have in place. If you cannot take the time to review procedures now, add a reminder to your calendar to review them as soon as possible. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security; backups that don’t restore correctly, or not having a backup, can cost you a great deal in both time and data loss.
For a list of resources on backing your data up and restoring, visit Knowledge Base Article R11524, “Backup/Restore Information Resources.”
Network and hardware failure can cause data corruption in any firm, regardless of preventative measures. Auto-Recovery helps provide peace of mind when faced with these issues.
For example, if you are updating statements and you lose network connectivity in the middle of the update, without Platinum you would have to restore your data and potentially lose many hours of work. Not so with Auto-Recovery! Auto-Recovery monitors the software. When it recognizes a transaction has not completed properly, it rolls back the database to its previous state before the database transaction began.
In the case of Update Statements being interrupted, Auto-Recovery means that if the interruption occurs during the update to client 1240.00’s statement, then all statements prior to client 1240.00 will remain updated, while client 1240.00 will be “rolled back” to the state before you started Update Statements. You will simply receive a message indicating that Update Statements needs to be run again.
This is a powerful feature that can save your firm time and money. Power failures, computer crashes, and network failures can occur on even the best networks. Auto-Recovery helps greatly reduce the impact of these issues.
For more information about Platinum features, see Knowledge Base Article R11379, “Platinum Overview.” If you have any questions regarding Platinum features, contact your local consultant, or call Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
Did you know that there are several files throughout the software in which you can mark people or accounts as inactive? Selecting the Inactive check box provides the ability to keep the associated history, but removes the ability to accidentally add associated records. You can also typically choose whether or not you want to include inactive people or accounts on lookup windows and reports.
Records in the following files can be marked as inactive:
- System Configuration – User file
- Tabs3 Billing – Client, Contact, and Timekeeper files
- PracticeMaster – Client and Contact files
- General Ledger Software (GLS) – Chart of Accounts file
- Accounts Payable Software (APS) – Vendor Information and Bank Account Entry files
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – Contact and Bank Account files (Note: Clients must be marked as inactive in Tabs3 Billing)
For more information on marking files inactive, press F1 to open the Help, enter “inactive” on the Index tab, and select the desired topic.
We are changing our firm’s fiscal year from the standard calendar year to one that ends in October. How do we update General Ledger to reflect this change?
General Ledger allows you to specify the starting month of your fiscal year. This option is reflected in reports and Account Information windows, and can be changed at any time.
To specify a new Beginning Fiscal Month
- From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Edit GLS Client.”
- Change the Beginning Fiscal Month to the new beginning month of your firm’s fiscal year.
- Press Ctrl+S.
Our firm has been making adjustments to our spending and investing. Is there a way to see how this has affected our income since the beginning of the year?
General Ledger has a Statement of Cash Flows Report that allows you to see how changes in Balance Sheet and Income Statement accounts affect the firm’s cash flow.
To run the Statement of Cash Flows report
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Statement of Cash Flows.”
- Select a Date period of “Current Year,” and select Include columns for each month.
- Specify any additional options, and then click OK to generate the report.
Tip: If you preview the report, you can click on any of the displayed accounts to access the Account Information window, where you can access additional information.
If any account is printing in the incorrect section, you may need to designate it as Operating, Investing, or Financing.
To designate an account as Operating, Investing, or Financing
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Chart of Accounts.”
- Double click the account, then select the Report Options tab.
- In the Statement of Cash Flows Classification section, select Operating, Investing, or Financing. This will change the section where the account displays in the Statement of Cash Flows.
- Click Save.
What if you had a place in each Tabs3 Software application that allowed you to add your most frequently used icons, and then group them together? With My Actions, you can!
The My Actions page view of the Home Page can be customized to display the features you use most, including reports. You can even create groups of features for easy categorization! My Actions can be customized in Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, Trust Accounting (Trust), Accounts Payable (AP), and General Ledger (GL).
Customizing Actions
Add your favorite features for quick access.
To add an action
- Click the
(Customize My Actions) icon. - Click the Add Actions button.
- Select the desired features in the Available Actions column.
- Click the Add button to move them to the Actions to Add column.
- Click Finish on the Add Actions window.
- Click Finish on the My Actions tab.
You can also add actions by right-clicking an item in Quick Launch and selecting Add to My Actions, or by hovering over an action on the All Actions tab and clicking the 
star.
To remove an action, click the 
minus sign on the action you want to remove.
Groups
Groups can be created to help categorize your favorite programs. For example, you could create groups for Daily Tasks, Monthly Reports, or Year-End just to name a few! Assign a color to the folder to make identification easier.
To create a group
- Click the (Customize My Actions) icon.
- Click the Add Group button.
- Enter the desired group Name.
- Optionally enter a Description.
- Select the desired Color.
- Click Next.
- Select the desired features in the Available Actions column, click the Add button to move them to the Actions to Add column, and then click Finish.
You can add actions to an existing group by dragging and dropping an action onto the group icon, or by clicking the group and then clicking the Add Actions button.
To remove a group, click the 
(Edit Group Properties) icon and click the Delete button.
Did you know there is a calculator built into number and amount fields? When your cursor is in any 
number or amount field, you can use the math operators (+, -, *, /, or =) to add, subtract, multiply, and divide values just as you would on a calculator. When you press Enter, the total of your calculations will be displayed in the field that you are currently in. This feature can be used to easily perform calculations without using a separate calculator. The popup calculator can be accessed from a number or amount field by pressing M or one of the math operators.
Is there a way to keep users from logging into the software while I run maintenance tasks?
The Lock Out All Users feature was designed for exactly this reason. This option allows a user with manager rights to lock out all other users in the Tabs3 Software applications. In addition, users will be able to finish the task they are working on when the Lock Out is initiated, but will receive a Conflicting Activities window if they try to do anything else before they exit.
To initiate Lock Out All Users
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Lock Out All Users.”
- Enter a Reason.
- In the Keep users locked out for field, select the desired amount of time.
- Click OK.
The lockout will automatically end at the designated time. Alternatively, you can click Unlock to unlock the software sooner or click the Reset lockout time link to extend the lockout.
While I was running a report, I noticed that an account was given the wrong account number. Is there a way to change the account number without losing any journal entries?
This can be accomplished by running the Renumber GLS Account utility. All associated journal entries, deposit slips, and recurring entries are also renumbered.
To renumber an account
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Renumber Account.”
- In the Old Account Number field, select the account you want to renumber.
- In the New Account Number field, enter the new account number you want for the account.
- Click OK.
Note: Renumbering an account in GL will automatically update the references to that account in Tabs3 Billing, AP, and Trust integration settings. However, GL report definitions and GL Report Writer reports that use the Old Account Number will not be updated to use the New Account number.
All Tabs3 Software applications include navigation features, such as the Home page, Quick Launch pane, and tabbed interface, in addition to the typical menus. Knowledge Base Article R11877, “How to Navigate Through the Tabs3 Software,” discusses these navigation elements, provides information for those updating from prior versions, and answers some frequently asked questions. Information on All Actions, My Actions, the Dashboard, Guided Tour, and the Getting Started Checklist is included.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
Do you ever wonder how figures on reports are calculated? Report Packs take the mystery out of reporting. Sample reports are available for every Tabs3 application and each report is broken down field by field to explain exactly how the information is represented.
Each report consists of three sections: a sample report, the description of the report, and field definitions.
Sample Reports
At least one example is provided for each report so you can see how the report looks. More than one example is shown if there are significant differences in the formatting when different options are selected.
Description
An overview of each report briefly explains the purpose of the report and provides a summary of available options. You can use the overview to help determine if the report suits your current reporting needs.
Definitions
The Definitions section for each report provides a detailed breakdown of every field available on the report. This may be as simple as a Report Date field on a report representing “The date the report was printed,” or a calculation based on multiple fields. For example, on the Client Analysis Report, the Effective Rate field shows that it is calculated as “Hourly billing rate based on original hours. (Fees Billed minus Fee Write Offs) divided by Original Hours.”
To access the Report Packs
- Open the report for which you want to view the Report Pack.
- Press F1.
- Click the
icon at the top of the Help topic (Report pack in PDF format).
When this icon is clicked, the Report Pack is opened. Alternatively, the Tabs3 Report Packs can be accessed from the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Documentation,” or Tabs3.com/docs.
It’s officially a new year! In the fuss of all your regular year-end tasks, don’t forget to review these sometimes overlooked items: Timekeeper Rates, Timekeeper Profitability Figures, Client and Task Based Billing Budgets, and General Ledger Budgets!
Timekeeper Rates
It’s a new year and you want to increase your timekeeper rates, but how can you make the change happen for all applicable timekeepers on a specific date?
Tabs3 Billing makes it easy to seamlessly update timekeeper rates. You can specify the new rates and the effective date for the change, and the software will then automatically use the new rates for any applicable fees saved for that date or later. Transactions entered for a prior date will use the old rates.
To easily determine current timekeeper rates, run the Timekeeper List (From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Timekeeper List”).
To update rates and set an effective date for the new rates
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Timekeeper Information.”
- Select the desired Timekeeper.
- In the Effective Date of New Rates field, enter the date when you want the new rates to take effect.
- In the New Rate 1-6 fields, enter the new rate(s).
- Press Ctrl+S.
Tip: Once you are certain fees will not be entered for dates prior to the new rates, use the Move Rates button in the Timekeeper file to easily move rates from the New Rate 1-6 fields to the Hourly Rate 1-6 fields.
If any time was entered with old timekeeper rates prior to updating the Effective Date of New Rates and New Rate fields, and the transactions are still in work-in-process, you can use Change WIP Transactions (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Change WIP Transactions”) to change transactions all at once. (Note: Because Change WIP Transactions can make changes to a large number of transactions in the software at one time, we strongly recommend making a backup prior to using this program.)
Timekeeper Overhead
If you run the Timekeeper Profitability Report, or you plan to start, you may want to review and update the profitability figures (overhead) set up for each timekeeper. Firms typically update a timekeeper’s overhead when their salary or benefits, such as insurance, change. These figures can be used by the Timekeeper Profitability Report to determine a timekeeper’s realized profit.
To easily determine current timekeeper overhead, run the Timekeeper List (From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Timekeeper List”), making sure to select the Overhead Amounts check box.
To update a timekeeper’s overhead
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Timekeeper Information.”
- Select the desired Timekeeper.
- Click the Profitability button.
- From here, you can manually enter each month’s Overhead figures, or click the Allocate button to open the Overhead Allocation Window and allocate the timekeeper’s overhead amounts to all 12 months at once.
- Click OK.
- Press Ctrl+S.
Tabs3 Budgets
Now that your firm’s timekeepers are squared away, consider reevaluating any budgets you currently have set up for your clients and adjust as necessary.
Client Budgets
Setting up client budgets, and keeping them updated, helps ensure you are not spending more time than desired on a client’s matter. You can optionally select to display a warning when a fee or cost transaction is added if the budgeted hours or amount for the client has been exceeded.
To easily determine current budgets set up for each client, run the Client Budget Report (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Client Budget Report”).
To update a client’s budget
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Client Information.”
- Select the desired client.
- On the Budget tab, make any desired changes to the Budget section.
- Press Ctrl+S.
Task Based Billing Budgets
Like client budgets, it is a good idea to review how much you have budgeted for task based billing clients’ activities and expenses. You can optionally display a budget exceeded warning when more than the amount entered for the phase or task is saved.
To easily determine current task based billing budgets for each client, run the Task Code Budget Report (From the Quick Launch, search for and select “Task Code Budget Report”).
To update a client’s task based billing budget
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Client Information.”
- Select the desired client.
- On the Budget tab, in the Task Based Billing section, click the Budget button.
- Make any desired changes and click OK.
- Press Ctrl+S.
General Ledger Budgets
Budgets for your general ledger expense accounts are a must, and Tabs3 General Ledger (GL) makes it easy to set up budgets for a new year!
To easily determine current budgets for each account, run the Budget Report (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Budget Report”).
To update budgets in GL
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Account Information.”
- From the Budgets tab, select the desired Account #.
- Click the Set Budgets button.
- Enter or select the desired Year.
- From here, you can manually enter each month’s budget figures, or click the Allocate button to open the Create New Budget window (for a new year) or the Budget Allocation window (for previously set up years), and allocate budget amounts to all 12 months at once.
- Click Save.
It’s easy to overlook these periodic maintenance items. Be sure to schedule some time to make sure rates, overhead figures, and budgets are all current!
Do you have a question about the software? Any questions that you want to ask have likely been asked by others as well. Because of this, we have created several Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) articles, and made it easy to access them all in one place.
Knowledge Base Article R11567, “Frequently Asked Questions for All Products,” provides a list of articles answering FAQs. Articles are grouped by general, software features, and version specific questions.
- General FAQs include year-end and software specific articles, such as Platinum, Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, and more.
- FAQs for software features include articles on printing, credit card processing, Tabs3 Connect, and more.
- Version specific FAQs include articles geared toward questions about new features in each version.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “Knowledge Base.”
We finished with our books for 2021 and want to close them out. Is there a way to stop anyone from making changes to the journal entries from previous years?
Your books can be closed as of a certain date. Once closed, no edits can be made to journal entries through the date selected.
To change the date through which books are closed
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Edit GLS Client.”
- In the Journal Entry Date Restriction section, select the desired Date through which books are closed.
- Press Ctrl+S.
When it comes to tracking your advances, Tabs3 Software provides the tools you need to accurately manage your advanced client costs from start to finish.
See how the integration between Tabs3 Billing, Accounts Payable, and General Ledger makes it easy to enter and track your advances. The Tracking Advanced Client Costs in Tabs3 Software video covers how to set up integration, enter an invoice, and track your advances using the Advanced Client Costs Report.
Watch this five-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
I have a transaction with many accounts being debited and credited. Is there a way to print the journal entries so that I can review and make notations?
A Journal Entry List by Transaction Report will contain all the activity for a specific transaction. This report can then be printed or saved to a file.
To generate a Journal Entry List by Transaction Report
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Journal Entries.”
- Select the desired Trans #.
- Press Ctrl+P.
- Click the Print button.
Do you sometimes forget where to access programs or reports in the software that you only use occasionally? Use the Quick Launch to find what you need!
The Quick Launch provides a Search Actions field to quickly find actions in the current application. Simply start typing,
and a list of possible choices that contain the characters entered will be displayed, allowing you to easily select an action to launch. For example, searching for “check” will include Check for Updates and Data File Integrity Check in the list of options. In addition to the program names, common acronyms and alternate references are included. For example, searching for “attorney” in Tabs3 Billing will include all references to “timekeeper” in the list such as Timekeeper Information, Timekeeper Productivity Report, etc.
In addition to search capabilities, the Quick Launch displays the most recent actions and matters accessed and provides the ability to pin actions and matters. To pin an action or matter, hover over the item and click the 
icon. Pinned actions or matters are removed from the Recent Actions or Recent Matters sections and added to the Pinned Actions or Pinned Matters sections. Pinned items can be reordered by dragging them to the desired position in the list. To unpin an action or matter, hover over the item and click the 
icon.
Another great feature is the ability to access other applications using the application icons at the bottom of the Quick Launch pane. This provides quick access to all of the Tabs3 Software installed. No need to find the shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu.
Tip: You can instantly access the Search Actions box by pressing Ctrl+Q.
We want to add an extra layer of security to our financial information in General Ledger. Users are already restricted from accessing General Ledger, but is there a way to protect the PDF files created for our reconciliation reports so only authorized users can open them?
General Ledger provides the ability to apply password protection to the reconciliation report PDF files to help keep the firm’s financial information protected both inside and outside the software.
To specify a password for a bank account’s reconciliation report PDFs
- In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Account Information.”
- Select the desired Account #.
- Click the Account Setup button.
- Click the Bank Info button.
- Select the Use a password to protect PDF reconciliation reports check box.
- In the Password field, enter the password you want to use.
- Click OK.
- Click Save.
Future reconciliation reports will now require a password to be entered in order to open.
As a company, we take great pride in the documentation we provide for our software. There are multiple resources for finding information about how the software works. The following provides information on the various documentation resources, including how to access them and the primary uses for each resource.
Help Files
While in the software, Help can be accessed via 
, F1, or Help | Help Topics. Help files provide topics on the following:
- Field by field information on the software, including any potential limitations
- General procedures
- Quick links to Knowledge Base Articles, Guides, Report Packs, and Training Videos
There are multiple ways to find information in the Help:
- Opening the help will open a Help topic for the specific window that is currently open. For example, let’s say you are on the Setup tab of the Client file, and you want to find out more information about how to set up Fee Compensation Rules. Pressing F1 will open the Help topic specifically for the Setup tab of the Client file. From here, click the Fee Compensation Rules link to start reading about how this option is set up.
- The Contents tab on the Help window can be used to find information grouped by subject. For example, in the PracticeMaster Help, the Contents tab provides expandable sections on Data Entry, Calendar, Journal, Reports, Documents, File Maintenance, and more.
- The Index tab on the Help window can be used to jump to topic keywords. For example, let’s say you are in General Ledger and want more information on reconciling your bank statement. On the Index tab, enter “reconciliation” and multiple topics will be listed to choose from.
- The Search field on the Help window can be used for more finite searches, such as words or phrases that do not have a keyword. You can optionally use quotes to search for an exact phrase.
Knowledge Base
The Knowledge Base can be accessed from within the software via Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base or at support.Tabs3.com. The Knowledge Base provides articles on the following:
- Overviews
- Best Practices
- “How to” articles
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Troubleshooting specific scenarios
- Troubleshooting errors
- More in-depth information on various features
The Knowledge Base can be used to Search by Article ID or Search all Text. There are more than 800 Knowledge Base Articles.
Quick Guides
Quick Guides can be accessed via the icon in the Help topic, via Help | Documentation, or at Tabs3.com/docs. Quick Guides spotlight basic information on specific features in a brief, graphical format and range from 6 to 11 pages.
Guides
Guides can be accessed via the icon in the Help topic, via Help | Documentation, or at Tabs3.com/docs. Guides provide the following:
- Detailed information on various features
- Basic software setup
- Various procedures
Guides range from 8 to 107 pages. There are more than 35 Guides, including Quick Guides.
Report Packs
Report packs can be accessed via the icon in the Help topic, via Help | Documentation, or at Tabs3.com/docs. Report packs provide the following:
- Purpose of each report
- How fields on reports are calculated
- Examples of reports
Report packs range from 11 to 151 pages.
Tip: You can use KB Article R11697, “Report Finder: Info in Tabs3 Billing Reports,” to help determine which report will suit your needs.
Training Videos
Training videos can be accessed via the 
icon in the Help topic, via Help | Training Videos, or at Tabs3.com/videos. Training videos provide audiovisual tutorials of specific software features. There are more than 90 training videos. Videos range from 1 to 5 minutes.
Did you know that the Tabs3 DropBox serves as a temporary holding area for reports and statements that are output as PDF files via the Tabs3 DropBox print option?
To send reports and statements to the Tabs3 DropBox, select Tabs3 DropBox from the Print window and click OK. The 
files sent to Tabs3 DropBox are temporary files that will be removed when all Tabs3 Software is closed. This is perfect for reports that need further action. You can run and review several reports for comparison, or email them to another party for review before printing or saving. This can save you from unnecessary time spent finding, retrieving, and ultimately deleting temporary files.
All of the Tabs3 Software applications use a common Tabs3 DropBox, so all of your files will be accessible from one location. A separate Tabs3 DropBox is maintained for each user. The name of each file is determined by the name of the report. If a report is sent to the Tabs3 DropBox more than once, a number will be appended to the end to differentiate them. For example, if a Client List is run twice, Tabs3 DropBox will display “T3_Client_List.pdf” and “T3_Client_List_1.pdf”. To rename any of the files, right-click on the file and select Rename.
You can also drag and drop files to the Tabs3 DropBox from any Windows folder, as well as drag and drop files from the Tabs3 DropBox to any Windows folder. Items in the Tabs3 DropBox can be opened, saved, printed, emailed, and deleted either individually or in a group. When emailing Tabs3 DropBox items, your default email program is used to create a new email, and the file(s) selected will be attached. All you need to do is add recipients, your message, and then click Send!
Tabs3 DropBox is a great way to group files for easy handling. All of your files will be in one place for quick review, retention, or removal!
Resetting users incorrectly can be a costly practice in terms of lost time and productivity. It is important to realize the risks involved when users reset other users.
If you are using the Platinum edition of Tabs3 Software, performing any exclusive function when other users are in the software is easy. Use the Log Off Users function to safely close any Tabs3 programs that other users have open, even when users are away from their desks, without worrying about data loss. However, performing those same exclusive tasks in the non-Platinum edition with active users in the software requires that you ask each person to close the software because resetting a user who is in the software can have consequences.
Why is resetting a user not recommended? When the software is used, files are opened, saved, and closed by the server as they are requested by the workstation. When a user exits the software improperly, either by an unexpected computer shutdown, or being reset by another user, files that were opened by the server are not closed. Therefore, errors can occur when another user tries to access the same files. Users should always exit the software properly, and the resetting of users should only be performed for specific scenarios.
When is it ok to reset a user?
- Once you have confirmed that the user is not currently logged into the software on any computer.
- In some situations, such as if the computer shuts down unexpectedly, a “Duplicate User IDs were found. Would you like to reset the User ID?” message is displayed. In this scenario, because the User ID is locked in the software, you must reset the user.
When resetting a user, a Reset Confirmation window will be displayed. You must select each check box before the 
Reset Now button is available. This is intentionally designed to help prevent unnecessary resetting of users.
Manager access rights are required in order to reset other users. Users who are not managers can reset themselves, but cannot reset other users.
If you suspect that users are being reset at your firm without first verifying that they are out of the software, there is an easy way to check. Each time a user is reset, an entry is made to the Reset Log (View | Log Files | Reset Log). We strongly recommend that you periodically review the Reset Log to help ensure best practices are being implemented.
For more information on resetting users, check out Knowledge Base Article R10789, “Resetting Users.”
Taking the time to be prepared and educating your employees about resetting users and how to properly exit the software can prevent future problems and save you time and money.
It is important to have a good backup of your data. To ensure that the data from your backup routine is good, you should periodically test your backup system. We recommend that you schedule and perform the testing of your third-party backup procedure periodically throughout the year.
Knowledge Base Article R10456, “Testing Your Backup System,” provides information on different ways to test your backup, including step-by-step instructions to test restoring both a single file and an entire directory, and how to compare restored files using the FC command.
Do you want to be able to back up data throughout the day, helping to ensure you always have a viable backup that requires less reentry of data? HotBackup, a Platinum feature, provides the ability to back up data while users are working! HotBackups can be scheduled, or can be run on demand.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
When it comes to tracking your matters, accounts receivable, work-in-process, and funds balances at a glance as well as providing quick access to individual entries for fees, costs, payments and more, the Tabs3 Billing Matter Manager can be used to organize your matters all from one place.
See how Tabs3 Billing’s powerful Matter Manager can save you time by making it easy to maintain your clients’ matters.
Watch this three-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
Did you know that there are several keyboard shortcuts you can use to quickly adjust the date in any Date field?
- To quickly set the date to the current system date, press T (Today) or D (Date).
- To open the QuickDate Calculator, which can be used to calculate a past or future date, press Q (QuickDate) or M (Date Math).
- To change the value of the Date field to mm/dd/yyyy, press C (Clear).
- To increase or decrease the month, press PgUp/Page Up or PgDn/Page Down, respectively.
- To increase the day, press one of the following:
- Up-Arrow
- >
- . (period)
- To decrease the day, press one of the following:
- Down-Arrow
- <
- , (comma)
Additionally, if either no portion of the date is highlighted or the entire date is highlighted, pressing + (plus) or – (minus) will increase or decrease the day, respectively. However, keep in mind that if any segment of the date is highlighted, pressing + or – will increase or decrease that segment.
The Knowledge Base is a great resource for more in-depth information on a subject, including overviews, best practices, strategies, troubleshooting, frequently asked questions, and more. To help streamline your research, we have several articles that contain a list of articles related to a particular area of interest. This makes it easy to determine which articles you want to review, and provides a place you can come back to so you can quickly pick up where you left off.
The following articles contain a list of articles on the given subject:
- R11194 – Help Resources
Provides information regarding the various help resources available for using Tabs3 Software including Help, Knowledge Base, Guides, and more. - R11861 – Version 2021 Information & Resources
Includes information about the Version 2021 update and includes a list of information that has been added to the Knowledge Base regarding Version 2021 including What’s New in Version 2021, Version 2021 Introduction to New Features, and more. - R11567 – Frequently Asked Questions for All Products
Includes a list of resources with frequently asked questions, both general and feature-specific, regarding the software. - R11524 – Backup/Restore Information Resources
Includes a list of resources with information regarding backing up and restoring your data including having a good backup strategy, troubleshooting, testing your backup, and more. - R11582 – Statements Information Resources
Includes a list of resources with information regarding Tabs3 Billing statements including printing, emailing statements, customization, and general information. - R11482 – Resources for Integrating PracticeMaster with Outlook
Includes a list of resources with information regarding Microsoft Outlook and its integration with PracticeMaster including Outlook synchronization, the Platinum Exchange Connector, and the Outlook Toolbar Plug-in. - R11715 – Tabs3 Financial Software Resources (Trust, AP, GL)
Includes a list of resources with information regarding Tabs3 Financials including general articles, integration articles, reconciliation articles, and more. - R11638 – Document Management Resource List
Includes a list of resources with information regarding PracticeMaster’s Document Management feature including training videos, the Document Management Guide, a quick reference, troubleshooting, and more. - R11645 – Resources for Filtering Data
Includes a list of resources with information on filtering data in PracticeMaster and Tabs3 Billing including information on indexes, filters, QuickViews, Report Writer, WorkFlows, and more. - R11406 – Tabs3 Platinum/Platinum SQL Resources
Includes a list of resources with information regarding Platinum software and Platinum Server including guides, Platinum information, Platinum SQL information, troubleshooting, and more. - R11506 – Resources for Importing Data into Tabs3 Software
Includes a list of resources with information regarding programs that can be used to import data into Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, and Tabs3 Financials.
When looking for additional information on these subjects, save yourself some time – skip the searching and check out one of the resource lists above.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
When previewing reports, you always get the best formatted view of the information for reading. However, when saving a report to an .html or .txt file, you may see different formatting or missing text. So how do you get better output? By using the Optimize for Print to File setting.
When selecting to Optimize for Print to File, the software will make adjustments that help with formatting and eliminate clipping problems. This can help significantly when printing to .html or .txt format.
To Optimize for Print to File
- From the File menu, select Print Setup.
- Select the desired Printer.
- Click the Advanced Printing Features button.
- Select the Optimize for Print to File check box.
- Click OK on the Advanced Printing Features window.
- Click OK on the Printer Setup window.
The next time you print a report to a file, try selecting Optimize for Print to File and see the difference it makes.
Note: We do not recommend selecting this option for your normal printing jobs because of adjustments made to avoid clipping problems. When saving output to a file, the best solution is to configure a special printer for print-to-file output.
Want to see all of the new features in Version 2021? Check out Knowledge Base Article R11860, “Version 2021 Introduction to New Features!”
This article provides information on each new feature. Features are listed by program and include screenshots and links to additional information when applicable. Each time we add a new feature to Version 2021, this article is updated so that you can get the information you need to begin using the feature.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Drill-down capabilities provide the ability to quickly access data while previewing reports. Additionally, drilldown is available in entry lists (WIP only), the Tabs3 Billing Matter Manager, PracticeMaster Matter Manager, and Tabs3 Billing Recap of Hours.
- Reports – While previewing a report, when you mouse over a drill-down field, the field will be highlighted in yellow. Clicking the field will open an information page or a data entry window allowing you to view or edit the record. If an edit is made to a record, clicking the Refresh button (or pressing F5) in the Preview window will update the report to reflect the change made.
- Tabs3 Billing Matter Manager – Drill down to the client or contact as well as fees, costs, payments, client funds, statements, write offs, and Trust entries.
- PracticeMaster Matter Manager – Drill down to the client or contact as well as fee, cost, calendar, journal, and document records.
- Tabs3 Recap of Hours – Click on a day to display transactions for the selected timekeeper, and then double-click the transaction to open it.
For a complete list of reports and features with drill-down capabilities, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10646, “Drill-Down Features in the Software.”
Tabs3 Software occasionally links to external files that can contain sensitive information, such as contact information, bank balances, or payment information. Some firms will restrict access to those files by setting the access rights on the folders where those files are maintained to prevent access by users who do not require such information.
Knowledge Base Article R11841, “Folders with Special Rights,” discusses the access rights that can be adjusted, and provides some best practices for maintaining these locations.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
In Version 2020, multiple improvements have been made to the Lock Out All Users feature (File | Lockout All Users). This feature can be useful when you want to keep others from logging in while you perform maintenance.
- When initiating a lockout, you can now exit the software to perform server maintenance tasks, such as external backups, server moves, etc., without worrying about users opening the software. The user performing the lockout will continue to have full access to the Tabs3 Software, including applications that were closed prior to the lockout.
- Lockouts can now be assigned an optional duration. Once the assigned duration has expired, the lockout is automatically lifted and users can begin using the software again. If you need additional time to complete your tasks, the lockout can be extended. In the event a lockout must be ended early and the user who initiated it is unavailable, another user with manager rights can override the lockout.
- If other users are currently in the Tabs3 Software, initiating a lockout now opens a Conflicting Activities window, indicating which users need to exit the software before the lockout can begin. Additionally, with Tabs3 Platinum Software you can use the Request Log Off feature to request that users exit the software and, if necessary, force them to exit the software after a specified time period.
- The Active User List (View | Active User List) now includes two new features:
- A Start Time column to determine when users began their activities.
- A Lock Out All Users button so you can initiate a lockout directly from the Active User List.
Note: These feature enhancements are included in Version 20.3.4.
Have you started using the great new navigation features, or are you still using Task Folders? If you’re using Quick Launch, All Actions, and My Actions, then you already know that we provide several customizable ways to access the features you need whether they’re tasks you perform every day, only once a year, or somewhere in the middle.
Theme Settings
The following options for navigating the software can be turned on or off via View | Theme Settings.
When selected, the Quick Launch can be used to search for a feature, pin frequently accessed actions and matters, or quickly access a recent action or matter.
When selected, the Home Page adds options for quickly accessing features and information:
- The All Actions tab provides a way to access every feature in the application, grouped by like action. For example, client and contact related features are located in the People group.
- The My Actions tab provides the ability to customize your experience. This tab can be used to add frequently accessed features or create your own groups, such as frequently used reports, month-end, and more. (Tip: If you’re still using Task Folders, you’re missing out on customization that can help streamline your processes!)
Other Navigation
The menus in each application provide access to all of the features in the application.
Many keyboard shortcuts are included in the software for power users. Keyboard shortcuts can help save time by keeping your hands on the keyboard more, instead of repeatedly moving to and from the mouse.
For more information on these navigation features and more, check out the Navigating Through Tabs3 Software Video. If you’re not using these navigation features, you’re missing out!
Whether your firm works with Tabs3 General Ledger journal entries manually or integrates with Tabs3 Billing and Tabs3 Accounts Payable, it’s important to understand how journal entries are stored and tracked in General Ledger.
The Working with Journal Entries video walks you through the basics of entering journal records in General Ledger and provides insight on how to track journal activity using various resources.
Watch this three-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
Did you know that the autofill feature allows you to type in certain fields in order to quickly find what you’re looking for?
All fields with lookup windows have autofill capabilities. As you enter characters into a lookup field, the field will autofill based on the information entered. The first available result will be displayed as highlighted text, with additional characters entered replacing the autofill and updating the results.
When an autofill suggestion exists, a list of possible choices matching the characters entered will also be displayed, allowing you to easily select the entry you want to complete the field. For records that use an identifier, such as the Client ID field for Client records (Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, and Tabs3 Trust Accounting) or User/Group field for Calendar records (PracticeMaster), a second column will be shown containing additional information about the record (e.g., the client’s Name and Work Description, or the User Name).
Note: This feature can be disabled by selecting the Disable Autofill for all lookup fields check box in User Configuration (System Configuration | File | Open | Users).
Want to know who backed up the data last and when, or who restored it? You can easily confirm who performed these actions and many more.
The Support Log (View | Log Files | Support Log) can help you determine which processes were run at what time by which user. This log is present for each application, including System Configuration. When running a Support Log, you can optionally specify a date range and/or select specific users. Manager users can access support logs for all applications at the same time via System Configuration (View | Support Log).
Every application includes the options to see when Back Up Data, Data File Integrity Check, and Reindex Files were run, in addition to when data was last restored and updates were last installed, and more. Each application also has information logged that is specific to the application, and although information included can vary, each feature includes who ran it and when it was run. The following are some of the features that are tracked in the Support Log:
Tabs3 Billing
- Customization
- Transfer Transactions
- Update Statements
- Undo Updated Statements
- …and more
PracticeMaster
- File Maintenance
- Form Designer
- Import Data
- …and more.
Trust Accounting
- Finalize Reconciliation
- Positive Pay Export
- Undo Reconciliation
- …and more
Accounts Payable
- Positive Pay Export
- Vendor Changes
General Ledger
- Edit GLS Client
- Finalize Reconciliation
- Undo Reconciliation
- …and more
With these tools in place, it is easy to quickly assess the various software events that occurred while you were out. This allows you to remain up to speed, even after a well-deserved vacation. More information regarding the Support Log is provided in Knowledge Base Article R11288, “Support Log Information,” and in each program’s “Support Log” Help topic.
We have just added several new features! Use the Check for Updates feature (Help | Check for Updates) to make sure you are running the most recent release of Version 2020.
Update to Version 20.2.6 to access the following:
- Tabs3 Billing Matter Manager – The Client Manager has been revamped and renamed to the Matter Manager. Like the PracticeMaster Matter Manager, the Tabs3 Matter Manager acts as a central hub for matter-related information and activities in Tabs3 Billing. The Matter Manager allows you to view relevant information for each matter at a glance, perform common tasks, and run reports.
- Statement Information Window – Clicking on a Statement from the Matter Manager in Tabs3 Billing displays a Statement Information window for that statement. The Statement Information window includes matter information, statement totals, a preview of the statement, and the ability to perform common tasks.
- Time Zones – PracticeMaster now allows you to specify a time zone for calendar events and tasks. If you opt to enable the time zone feature, new calendar records will be shown relative to the local time for each user. The PracticeMaster Calendar, PracticeMaster Dashboard, and Tabs3 Connect Calendar will all utilize the time zone setting on the device where records are being accessed. This also provides a more seamless integration of calendar records with Microsoft Outlook.
- Field Length Changes – Increased the field length for several fields in the software, such as the Work Description in the Client file and the Amount field in the Payment file.
For more information on these great new features, as well as a detailed list of all new features in Version 2020, check out Knowledge Base Article R11812, “Version 2020 Introduction to New Features.”
Tabs3 Financial Software is the best accounting solution for your law firm because it is specifically designed to meet the accounting requirements of law firms. With minimal setup and zero workarounds to satisfy most bar associations, you can print financial statements, write checks, reconcile bank statements, and manage client trust accounts in one easy-to-use and fully integrated software package. Additionally, because Tabs3 Financials is designed to work with Tabs3 Billing, you only need to call one support phone number if you ever have questions.
General Ledger Software (GLS) provides insight into your firm’s business with detail and summary financial statements. The following features are highlights of what GLS has to offer:
- Reports – Create Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Trial Balance, Journal Reports, and Advanced Client Cost Reports for you and your accountant. The General Ledger Report shows the opening balance, all journal entries, total debits and credits, and the closing balance for each account that is printed. Financial statements for your firm can be created for individual departments and locations.
- Chart of Accounts – GLS provides a chart of accounts that your firm can use as-is, or modify to fit your current account structure. You can also create budgets for each expense account. GLS allows multiple sets of books with unique charts of accounts and fiscal year-ends. Easily reconcile bank statements to cash accounts.
- Journal Entries – Add or adjust journal entries for prior months. Import transactions downloaded from your bank’s website to make reconciliation easy.
- Dashboard – The Home Page in General Ledger features a Dashboard that includes an easy to use graphical view of the firm’s financial standing. The Bank Accounts widget provides a summary of your active bank and credit card accounts. The Recent Bank Transaction widget shows the most recent journal entries and deposit slips made to bank and credit card accounts.
Accounts Payable Software (APS) makes bill paying easier. The following features are highlights of what APS has to offer:
- Write Checks – Print a batch of checks or use the Print Check feature to print a single check. Record handwritten checks. Print memos on checks. Enter invoices and let APS calculate the vendor discount. Use the partial payment feature to control how much you want to pay and how often. Put invoices on hold to prevent them from being paid until you want them to be paid. Combine multiple invoices from the same vendor on a single check.
- Integration – Categorize expenses for General Ledger Software when you enter invoices and checks. Include other Tabs3 information on reports such as the cost information if a cost was assigned through Tabs3 Billing, or which General Ledger account was used for the transaction. Post unpaid invoices to General Ledger to provide an accrual financial statement snapshot.
- Dashboard – The Home Page in Accounts Payable features a Dashboard that includes an easy to use graphical view of your payables, all on one screen. The Unpaid Invoices, Unposted Checks/EFTs, Paid this Month, and Unpaid Invoices widgets show summaries of outstanding invoices, printed and manual checks, and EFTs.
- Create 1099 Forms – Electronically file or print 1099 forms and combine amounts paid to vendors and Trust Accounting payees to meet IRS thresholds.
- Recurring Transactions – Automatically enter recurring transactions and summarize vendor payments. See all of your checks in one easy-to-use check register.
- Positive Pay – Accounts Payable includes a Positive Pay Export program that allows you to export a list of approved checks that can then be uploaded to your bank or financial institution’s fraud prevention program.
Trust Accounting Software (TAS) manages trust accounts for your clients accurately and easily. The following features are highlights of what TAS has to offer:
- Integration – Tabs3 Trust Accounting Software provides seamless integration with Tabs3 Billing Software, Tabs3 Accounts Payable Software, and Tabs3 General Ledger Software, with the same look and feel as Tabs3 Billing Software.
- Ease of Use – Track an unlimited number of trust accounts and manage up to 99 different bank accounts. The software warns you when an account goes below a minimum balance, and helps you easily reconcile your bank statements.
- Easily Manage Your Trust Accounts – Electronically file or print checks, ledgers for individual trust accounts and bank accounts, and IRS 1099 forms. You can also process client deposits via credit card (merchant account required, click here for more details).
- Dashboard – The Home Page in Trust Accounting features a Dashboard that includes an easy to use graphical view of the firm’s trust account standing. The Bank Accounts widget provides a summary of your firm’s active trust bank accounts. You can easily start a reconciliation or bank transaction import right from the Home Page. The Recent Trust Transactions widget shows the most recent trust transactions and combined trust transactions.
- Positive Pay – Trust Accounting includes a new Positive Pay Export program that allows you to export a list of approved checks that can then be uploaded to your bank or financial institution’s fraud prevention program.
Did you know that you can easily review past reconciliation reports when needed, right from the software? Both General Ledger (GLS) and Trust Accounting (TAS) store Reconciliation Reports as PDFs for quick review.
To review a past Reconciliation Report
- From the Reports menu, select Reconciliation Reports.
- Select the report you want to view.
- Click Open.
Note: Reconciliation reports are stored in the Reconciliation folder of the Current Working Directory.
When was the last time you backed up your Tabs3 and PracticeMaster data and tested the viability of your backup? If your firm had to restore from a backup right now, would any data be lost? Regular backups are critical for your firm to make and maintain properly.
Internal Backups
Tabs3 Software ensures you are provided the opportunity to backup when needed.
- You will be prompted to make a backup in the software when the function cannot be easily reversed or when interruption of the process can cause errors in the data.
- When presented with a prompt to make a backup, ask yourself when the last backup was made and how much data will need to be reentered if a restore is required. If you are not comfortable with the amount of work required after restoring, then you should back up your data before going any further.
- If you regularly opt to not make a backup because it’s difficult to get every user to exit the software, consider the Platinum version. Platinum includes a HotBackup feature that allows you to make backups while other users are still working in the software and doesn’t require backups be made for as many functions, including Update Statements.
- If you are using the standard version of the software, you can keep up to three internal backups with a size limit of 2 GB each.
- If you are using the Platinum version of the software, backups are practically unlimited! You can keep up to 198 user-defined HotBackups, each limited in size only by the available hard drive space.
Third Party Backups
We also recommend making regular backups of the entire Tabs3 program directory via a third-party backup program.
- Third-party backups can help you recover from a catastrophic failure, such as flood, theft, server hard drive failure, etc.
- Backups made via the Tabs3 Software only back up your data files and do not include executable files to run the programs, nor is every file in the Tabs3 Current Working Directory included.
- If you already have a third-party backup in place, make sure that it is periodically tested to verify it is working correctly. For more information on testing your backup, see KB Article R10456, “Testing Your Backup System.”
Now may be the perfect time to take a closer look at your current backup strategy and to verify the procedures you have in place. If you cannot take the time to review procedures now, add a reminder to your calendar to review them as soon as possible. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security; backups that don’t restore correctly, or not having a backup, can cost you a great deal in both time and data loss.
For a list of resources on backing your data up and restoring, visit Knowledge Base Article R11524, “Backup/Restore Information Resources.”
As your firm deals with the spread of COVID-19, we want to help you prepare to work from home.
Resources for working from home can be found at Tabs3.com/WorkFromHome.
Tabs3 remains committed to providing top rated customer support, and are available to help. As usual, Technical Support can be reached at (402) 419-2210, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central Time) Monday through Friday.
While in PracticeMaster, I received a message and accidentally selected the “Do Not Show Again” check box. Is there any way to get the message back in case I need to select a different option next time?
The Do Not Show Again check box can help speed up processes by remembering a user’s response so that the same answer will be used the next time the message comes up. Each program has its own list of these messages that can be reset using the Reset Optional Messages function within the program.
To reset options messages
- From the Help menu, select Reset Optional Messages.
- Click Yes.
- Click OK.
Note: When resetting optional messages in PracticeMaster, all messages with the Do Not Show Again check box will be reset for your User ID in PracticeMaster. This option is also available in Tabs3 Billing, General Ledger, Trust Accounting, and Accounts Payable.
Besides the many reports included in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software, you have several options for creating your own custom reports.
PracticeMaster
PracticeMaster comes with several built-in reports that will provide insight into the details of your clients, appointments, to-do lists, and pending assignments (e.g., calendar reports, client reports, and task lists). One of PracticeMaster’s most powerful features is a comprehensive Report Writer with the ability to create customized reports based on any information stored in PracticeMaster. You can create basic or complex reports using the Report Wizard or the Report Writer Editor. Furthermore, PracticeMaster comes with a collection of pre-defined reports that can be customized as needed.
Haven’t purchased a license of PracticeMaster yet? Not a problem! You can access the Report Writer using the free license of PracticeMaster that comes with Tabs3.
For more information on PracticeMaster Report Writer, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11446, “Working with PracticeMaster Report Writer,” or the PracticeMaster Report Writer Guide.
Output to Excel
Information from Tabs3 Software can be copied to or printed to Microsoft® Excel. This allows you to rearrange columns as needed, or compile data from several areas into one workbook.
- Copy from a list – When selecting items from any list, you can copy the selected item(s) to the Windows clipboard using Ctrl+C. You can also use the Copy All feature to copy all items from any list to the Windows clipboard using Ctrl+Alt+C. You can then paste the list into Excel.
- Print to File – When printing reports, in the Print Dialog Box, you can select File and then save the report as an Excel file. Although any report can be output to an Excel format, many reports have been specially optimized for Excel output.
For more information on Output to Excel, including a list of reports optimized for Excel output, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11280, “All About Outputting Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Data to Excel.”
Tabs3 Report Writer
Right out of the box, Tabs3 is equipped with more than 50 reports. However, if you need a report that is not already available in Tabs3, consider purchasing a license of Tabs3 Custom Report Writer. The Tabs3 Report Writer allows users of Tabs3 Billing Software to define and print reports and forms based on information in Tabs3. Reports can be saved in a report format or various file formats including fixed or variable length field format, Microsoft Word mail-merge format, WordPerfect merge format, and more. The Forms Writer portion of the software is ideal for printing mailing labels, client file labels, and much more.
For more information on Tabs3 Report Writer, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10394, “Tabs3 Billing Custom Report Writer Product Information.”
GLS Report Writer
Tabs3 General Ledger Software (GLS) automatically includes necessary financial reports such as General Ledger, Trial Balance, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Statement of Cash Flows, Budget Report, and more. However, if you need a report that is not already in GLS, consider purchasing a license of General Ledger Custom Report Writer. Tabs3 General Ledger Custom Report Writer is a program that interfaces with GLS. It allows users of GLS to define and print customized reports based on user defined formulas. Easily create and modify reports such as Current Ratio, Working Capital, Return on Owner’s Equity Ratio, Current Liability, and more. Balances from any balance sheet account (both detail and total accounts) can be used in formulas. Budget Figures, as well as Month-to-Date, Quarter-to-Date, and Year-to-Date balances from income statement accounts (both detail and total accounts) can also be used.
For more information on General Ledger Report Writer, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10395, “Tabs3 General Ledger Custom Report Writer Product Information.”
ODBC Driver
Data files for the Tabs3 Software are ODBC capable. Purchasing a license of the ODBC Driver lets you export data from Tabs3 Billing software, PracticeMaster, and Tabs3 Financial software using various third-party ODBC compliant applications such as Crystal Reports® Pro Report Writer, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Query. The ODBC driver is written by FairCom Corporation, the manufacturer of the c-tree file storage method used by Tabs3 Software.
For accelerated server-side ODBC performance, consider upgrading to the Platinum SQL edition of Tabs3. Platinum SQL provides detailed access rights for ODBC users and a license of the ODBC driver for each user. For example, one user can have rights to the Tabs3 Billing data files without having access rights to the Tabs3 General Ledger data files. Both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of the SQL ODBC driver are included with the Platinum SQL software.
For more information on ODBC, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10017, “Working with ODBC,” or R11397, “Working with Platinum SQL ODBC Drivers.”
More Info
For more information or to purchase a license of PracticeMaster, Tabs3 Report Writer, GLS Report Writer, or an ODBC driver, contact your consultant or Sales at (402) 419-2200.
Beginning in Version 2020, you can now select whether you want the Newsletter Reminder window to pop up each month or not! Once you have updated to Version 20.1.5 or later, the Newsletter Delivery Options window will be displayed when logging in. You can select to either subscribe to the Email Newsletter, or to have the Newsletter Reminder window continue to open after the 14th of each month.
You can always change your mind later. Newsletter Delivery Options can be accessed via the Delivery Options button on the Newsletter Reminder window as well as via the Help | Internet Resources | Newsletter Delivery Options menu.
Thinking about purchasing a license for our Trust Accounting, Accounts Payable, and/or General Ledger software, but not sure what they offer? Take a quick tour!
The Tabs3 Financials Overview video walks you through the highlights of our financial software. Learn more about how you can easily manage trust accounts, get financial statements, write checks, reconcile bank statements, and print 1099’s in one seamlessly integrated software suite!
Watch this four-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
If you haven’t updated to Version 2020 yet, you are missing out on some great new features! The following features are only some of the enhancements we made for this version:
LawPay
- Tabs3 Billing – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic payments and client funds deposits.
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic Trust deposits.
New Dashboards
- Tabs3 Billing – displays Aged Accounts Receivable, Unbilled work, and graphs comparing the last two years of Cash Receipts and Billing History.
- Accounts Payable Software (APS) – displays Unpaid Invoices, Unposted Checks and EFTs, and the total Paid this Month with shortcuts to Print Checks, Post Checks, and the Check Register report.
- General Ledger Software (GLS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Bank Transactions.
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Trust Transactions.
Positive Pay
- Positive Pay export from APS and TAS helps provide fraud protection.
APS Bank Balances
- The GLS Account balance is now displayed when adding invoices and printing checks. Additionally, you will now be alerted if the check or EFT you are entering could result in an overdraft.
Updated Help
- The Help files for each program are now opened in your default browser, and have a new look. Find what you’re looking for more quickly using the improved Search and Index features.
For in-depth information on all of the new Version 2020 features, including screenshots, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11812, “Version 2020 Introduction to New Features.” A list with links to all Version 2020 information can be found in R11814, “Version 2020 Information and Resources.”
To download Version 2020, select Check for Updates from the Help menu, visit Tabs3.com/update, or contact your local consultant.
If you have any questions about the update, please contact your consultant, or contact Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
Want to be able to quickly tell if the software is up to date? Beginning in Version 2020, when an update to the software is available, a badge 
is shown on the Check for Updates icon in the Quick Launch pane. This option is available for users who have rights to check for software updates.
Additionally, a notification banner is displayed on the Home Page when an update has been available for 15 or more days. For additional information about updates, see Knowledge Base Article R11804, “Keeping Tabs3 Software Up To Date.”
Want to see all of the new features in Version 2020? Check out Knowledge Base Article R11812, “Version 2020 Introduction to New Features!”
This article provides information on each new feature, both big and small. Features are listed by program and include screenshots and links to additional information when applicable. Each time we add a new feature to Version 2020, this article is updated so that you can get the information you need to begin using the feature.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Are you familiar with everything the Platinum version of the software offers? Platinum provides many great features including Tabs3 Connect, the ability to back up the software while others are working in the software, accelerated features, auto-recovery if errors occur, eNotes, special report options, and more.
Knowledge Base Article R11379, “Platinum Overview,” provides information on why we recommend everyone be on Platinum, how Platinum works, key features, frequently asked questions, and more.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Version 2020 has been released, and there are many great new features! The following features are only some of the enhancements we made for this version:
LawPay
- Tabs3 Billing – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic payments and client funds deposits.
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic Trust deposits.
New Dashboards
- Tabs3 Billing – displays Aged Accounts Receivable, Unbilled work, and graphs comparing the last two years of Cash Receipts and Billing History.
- Accounts Payable Software (APS) – displays Unpaid Invoices, Unposted Checks and EFTs, and the total Paid this Month with shortcuts to Print Checks, Post Checks, and the Check Register report.
- General Ledger Software (GLS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Bank Transactions.
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Trust Transactions.
Positive Pay
- Positive Pay export from APS and TAS helps provide fraud protection.
APS Bank Balances
- The GLS Account balance is now displayed when adding invoices and printing checks. Additionally, you will now be alerted if the check or EFT you are entering could result in an overdraft.
Updated Help
- The Help files for each program are now opened in your default browser, and have a new look. Find what you’re looking for more quickly using the improved Search and Index features.
For in-depth information on all of the new Version 2020 features, including screenshots, refer to Knowledge Base Article R11812, “Version 2020 Introduction to New Features.” A list with links to all Version 2020 information can be found in R11814, “Version 2020 Information and Resources.”
To download Version 2020, select Check for Updates from the Help menu, visit Tabs3.com/update, or contact your local consultant.
If you have any questions about the update, please contact your consultant, or contact Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
The Statement of Cash Flows Report (Reports | Statement of Cash Flows) in GLS shows how the firm’s cash position has changed over a period of time. It shows the amount of cash earned from profit, where you received additional cash, and where your cash was spent. The report shows how much cash was provided or used by the following types of activities:
- Operating Activities – Shows how much cash was provided by profit-making activities, such as the sale of goods and services.
- Investing Activities – Shows how much cash was invested in assets such as equipment and furniture.
- Financing Activities – Shows how much cash was provided by long-term liabilities and equity. These financing activities often include loans and investments by the owner. They also include any reductions in equity due to owner draws.
Accounts can be classified into the three sections via Account Setup. All Detail Balance Sheet Accounts, except for ones marked as a Bank Account and the Retained Earnings account, can be configured to display in one of the three designated sections. Bank Accounts are excluded because the purpose of this report is to calculate the cash amounts based on the other information. The Retained Earnings account is also excluded because the Net Income (the net change in Retained Earnings) displays at the beginning of the report as a starting point.
To classify accounts as operating, investing, or financing
- From the File menu, point to Open and select Chart of Accounts.
- Double-click the desired account.
- From the Report Options tab, in the Statement of Cash Flows Classification section, select the desired classification.
- Click Save.
- Repeat steps 2-4 for each account as needed.
You access sensitive client information on a daily basis, and may even have access to information that others in the firm do not. You know that maintaining client confidentiality is crucial, but who might have access to all of that data? The following features are built into the software, helping maintain client security and confidentiality.
- Assign users to Access Profiles. Access Profiles (System Configuration | File | Open | Access Profile) are used to control which users have access to which features in the software. For example, you can set up an Access Profile to allow for browsing clients, but not changing or deleting clients. You can also specify that an Access Profile not allow access to reports, certain utilities, or an entire system, such as General Ledger Software (GLS). Once Access Profiles have been set up, they can be assigned to users via the Users file (System Configuration | File | Open | Users). Each user can be assigned up to five Access Profiles.
- Assign Timekeepers to User IDs. Users who only need to see information for specific timekeepers can be restricted to accessing only those timekeepers. The Assign Tabs3/PracticeMaster Timekeeper option in the Users file (System Configuration | File | Open | Users) provides the ability to specify which timekeepers’ information a user can access. Users can add, change, and delete fee and cost transactions that are work-in-process; access archived transactions; and access productivity figures only for the selected timekeeper(s).
- Use Secure Clients. Access to client information can be specified at the client level. By selecting the Secure Client check box (File | Open | Client | Address tab), you can then select which users in the software have access to the specified client’s information including transactions, reports, and statements. Additionally, when you select the Secure Client check box, you will be prompted to either keep or remove related contacts from the Contact file. This is because only clients can be marked as secure, not contacts.
- Delete the (BLANK) user or assign it a password. The (BLANK) user is meant for initial access to the software when it is first installed. After users are set up in the software, we recommend deleting or assigning a password to this user in order for access to the software to be password protected.
- Platinum SQL Data Encryption. The Platinum SQL Data Encryption utility is used to encrypt Tabs3 and PracticeMaster data files that may contain sensitive information. Once data files are encrypted, they can only be read by the Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Platinum SQL software. Software can be encrypted via the Platinum | Data Encryption menu option in System Configuration.
- Platinum Data Security. Firms running a Platinum system can limit each user’s network access to the data files to the “read only” level, providing protection against the accidental moving or deleting of data files via Windows Explorer. In order to secure the Database folder, your system administrator will need to manually configure the Windows file sharing settings for that folder to ensure that only authorized users have Full Access rights.
For more information on these features, as well as more security features, see Knowledge Base Article R11717, “Security Resources.”
Various log files are maintained by different Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software products. These log files can be used as tools for troubleshooting errors and problems using Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software.
Knowledge Base Article R10013, “Log Files in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Software,” contains a comprehensive list of the various log files and a brief description of the information contained in each file. Log files track errors encountered when running Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software as well as the date and time when a particular function was performed. Most log files can be accessed using any text editor such as Microsoft Notepad or WordPad.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Do you have Access Profiles set up? Access Profiles help with security by controlling what functions each user can access in the software. The Access Profiles training video walks you through creating a new access profile that limits a user to certain Tabs3 Billing functions. Once you know the basics of setting up one Access Profile, you can set up the profiles you need for your firm.
Watch this three-and-a-half-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
Although we strive to provide superior documentation in our Help files, Knowledge Base, and Guides, we know that sometimes you want direct guidance with a human touch. Technical Support can be reached by phone or email! We are here to help, so reach out to us. Here are some examples of items we regularly assist our clients with:
- Are you new to the software and need guidance? We can help!
- Want to update to the most recent version of the software? We can help!
- Not sure how to do a procedure? We can help!
- Receiving a message you’re not sure of? We can help!
- Want to start using a new feature in the software, such as keeping track of client communications within PracticeMaster? We can help!
Phone and email support are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central Time). We can be reached by phone at (402) 419-2210 or by email via Tabs3.com/support. And don’t forget! Technical Support is included with your maintenance or subscription plan at no additional cost – so give us a call!
We are looking for firms to provide early feedback on Tabs3 version 2020. The following features will be available in Tabs3 Version 2020:
- LawPay
- Tabs3 Billing – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic payments and client funds deposits
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic Trust deposits
- Dashboards
- Tabs3 Billing – displays Aged Accounts Receivable, Unbilled work, and graphs comparing the last two years of Cash Receipts and Billing History
- Accounts Payable Software (APS) – displays Unpaid Invoices, Unposted Checks and EFTs, and the total Paid this Month with shortcuts to Print Checks, Post Checks, and the Check Register report
- General Ledger Software (GLS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Bank Transactions
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Trust Transactions
- Positive Pay
- Positive Pay export from APS and TAS helps provide fraud protection
If you are using Version 19 and are on maintenance, you can jump on board early with these new features. To sign up, visit Tabs3.com/prerelease. If you have any questions, please email signup@tabs3.com.
If you don’t already use the Tabs3 Financial software, you may not realize the power of fully integrated software.
Trust Accounting – Track and reconcile deposits and payments for an unlimited number of client trust accounts. See warnings when an account goes below a minimum balance and prevent negative balances. Payments to your firm from a client’s trust account can automatically create payments in Tabs3 Billing. Trust balances also appear on work-in-process reports and on client statements in Tabs3 Billing. Print checks from your clients’ trust accounts. Use the Three-Way Reconciliation Report to ensure the accuracy of your trust balances.
General Ledger – Create Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Trial Balance, Statements of Cash Flow, and Journal reports for you and your accountant. General Ledger software comes with a chart of accounts for law firms that you can use or modify to fit your current account structure. Reconcile bank statements, print financial statements, and ensure your accounts stay balanced. Track all Advanced Client Costs across Tabs3 Billing, Accounts Payable, and General Ledger.
Accounts Payable – Stay on top of your cash flow by tracking cash requirements, invoice aging, and vendor accounts. Track invoices and keep a list of all vendors in one place. Print a batch of checks or use the Quick Print feature to print a single check. Easily see when cost advances billed in Tabs3 have been paid. See all of your checks in one easy-to-use check register. Save time and avoid having to re-enter payables on a regular basis by using recurring transactions.
To learn more about what you may be missing out on, take a look at Knowledge Base Article R11715, “Tabs3 Financial Software Resources (APS, TAS, GLS).” This article provides a list of resources pertaining to the Tabs3 Financials software, including integration, reconciliation, frequently asked questions, year-end overviews, checks, trust account regulations, troubleshooting, guides, report packs, and more.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
We are looking for firms to provide early feedback on Tabs3 version 2020. The following features will be available in Tabs3 Version 2020 later this year:
- LawPay
- Tabs3 Billing – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic payments and client funds deposits
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – LawPay integration adds a new option for processing electronic Trust deposits
- Dashboards
- Tabs3 Billing – displays Aged Accounts Receivable, Unbilled work, and graphs comparing the last two years of Cash Receipts and Billing History
- Accounts Payable Software (APS) – displays Unpaid Invoices, Unposted Checks and EFTs, and the total Paid this Month with shortcuts to Print Checks, Post Checks, and the Check Register report
- General Ledger Software (GLS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Bank Transactions
- Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – displays an overview of your Bank Accounts and a list of Recent Trust Transactions
- Positive Pay
- Positive Pay export from APS and TAS helps provide fraud protection
If you are using Version 19 and are on maintenance, you can jump on board early with these new features. To sign up, visit Tabs3.com/prerelease. If you have any questions, please email signup@tabs3.com.
A new look, faster processing time, and better reporting – Data File Integrity Check (DFIC) has been updated for Version 19!
New Look
The Data File Integrity Check window has been updated to include information on the last completed integrity check and provides a link to the last report with errors. You can optionally run a Full Scan or a Limited Scan (previously Read Only). The Full Scan requires exclusive access to the program, providing a complete check of your data and automatically fixing certain errors. The Limited Scan can be run while other users are in the software; however, it is typically slower to complete, may not report all errors, and cannot automatically correct any issues that it identifies.
Faster Processing Time
In the Platinum version of the software, the Tabs3 Billing and PracticeMaster DFIC is now processed at the server using the Platinum accelerators. This reduces network traffic as well as the time it takes to complete.
Better Reporting
When errors are encountered, a PDF of the Data File Integrity Check Error Report is automatically created and stored in the Current Working Directory. The software will maintain the last five reports for each program. The latest report can be accessed from the Data File Integrity Check window, and all five can be accessed from the Support Log (View | Log Files | Support Log). The DFIC Report has been enhanced to be easier to read, and includes information about how long the report took to complete and what options were used. See KB Article R11796, “Data File Integrity Check Error Reports” for additional information about what is included on these updated reports.
Did you know that software updates are included with maintenance at no additional charge? Our maintenance plan is best known for its first class technical support; however, there are more benefits to having maintenance!
The following benefits are included for firms on maintenance:
- You are assured of having access to the most up-to-date software available, including new reports and features, at no additional cost. The cost to receive each major update to the software for those without maintenance will be more than the annual cost of maintenance.
- You have access to free technical support from our trained representatives during business hours. Without maintenance, technical support charges are currently $50 for each 15-minute interval or fraction thereof.
- Maintenance preserves the value of the software license so you may apply the full purchase price toward an upgrade (traditional license).
If you’re considering not renewing your maintenance, consider how losing access to new versions, new features, and technical updates may affect your firm. Staying on maintenance not only ensures that you have someone to call for help, but that you have access to the most up-to-date software.
Not only can you easily search for any actions, file, or report in the software via Search Actions, but you can also customize the Quick Launch pane to always show your most used actions and most accessed client matters!
The Customizing and using Quick Launch video shows you how to make the most out of the Quick Launch pane. Learn how to pin and unpin the Quick Launch pane, use the Search action feature, pin items to the Pinned Actions and matters to the Pinned Matters groups, move items around, and more!
Quick Launch makes it easy to navigate the software, lets each user customize the contents, and is available in all Tabs3 and PracticeMaster programs.
Watch this three-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access the videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
Wondering what all the fuss is over the new look of Version 19, but don’t have time to read up on it? It takes less than two minutes to watch it in action.
The What’s New in Version 19 video provides a quick overview of some of the coolest new features in 19 – the new look and navigation! Watch this video to see how the new font and text size changes the way you view the software. You can also see how to access the features you use most quicker than ever via the Home Page, Tabbed Interface, Quick Launch, and the PracticeMaster Dashboard.
Watch this two-minute video here:
Training Videos can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at Tabs3.com/videos. You can also access Training Videos while in the software by selecting Help | Training Videos.
You may have already heard that Version 19 has been released, but you might have a few questions prior to updating, or while using the new version for the first time. Knowledge Base Article R11745, “Version 19 Frequently Asked Questions,” provides a list of questions that may come up while working with the new version.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) in this article are broken down into categories for each program (e.g., Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, etc.). Many FAQs are also provided regarding the new look, including questions on the new tabbed interface, how to quickly get to the Home page and the Quick Launch, changing Theme Settings, and more.
For in-depth information on all of the new Version 19 features, including screenshots, see the What’s New List or Knowledge Base Article R11744, “Version 19 Introduction to New Features.” A list with links to all Version 19 information can be found in R11746, “Version 19 Information and Resources.”
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
If you’ve updated to Version 19, then you’re familiar with the new look. But did you know that you can customize it? We introduced several updates to the look of Tabs3 including a new font, larger text size, a tabbed interface, Home page, Quick Launch, and more. Many of these options can be changed via Theme Settings (View | Theme Settings). Let’s take a look at all of the options in the Theme Settings window.
General Settings tab
The General Settings tab of the Theme Settings window allows you to configure what features of the application are shown when you start the software. Theme settings are saved for each user.
The following Navigation options can individually be shown or hidden:
- Quick Launch –The Quick Launch is used to find any program or report quickly and easily via the Search Actions box, as well as to see recently used programs and reports, and pin those you use frequently for easy access.
- Home Page – Much like the Task Folders in previous versions of the software, the Home Page contains groups of icons used to access the various programs and reports within each application.
- Task Folders – Task Folders were used for navigation in Version 18 and prior.
- Application Toolbar – A moveable Application Toolbar is shown. Keep in mind that regardless of this setting, the application icons are always shown at the bottom of the Quick Launch.
- PracticeMaster Task Bar – The PracticeMaster Task Bar provides the ability to start commonly used PracticeMaster programs and tasks. This option is only available in PracticeMaster.
The following Interface options are available
- Tabbed – Select this option to display the various windows in the current system’s main application window as maximized, with tabs across the top to easily switch between active windows.
- Windowed – Select this option to display the various windows in the current system’s main application window in separate windows that can be positioned as desired.
- Open Maximized – Select this option if you always want windows opened in a maximized state. Open Maximized is only available when Windowed is selected.
- Minimize PracticeMaster to Tray – When this option is selected and PracticeMaster is minimized, the PracticeMaster taskbar button is removed. A PracticeMaster icon is displayed in, and can be opened via, the Windows system tray. This option is only available in PracticeMaster.
- Set to Standard Theme – Clicking the Set to Standard Theme button will select only the Quick Launch, Home Page, and Tabbed options.
- Set to Classic Theme – Clicking the Set to Classic Theme button will select only the Task Folders, Application Toolbar, PracticeMaster Task Bar, and Windowed options.
Text Size tab
- The Text Size tab of the Theme Settings window allows you to configure how large the text is displayed throughout the software. Theme settings are saved for each user.
- Large – Select this option to use a 10pt font size.
- Medium – Select this option to use a 9pt font size.
- Small – Select this option to use an 8pt font size. This matches the font size used in prior versions of the software (i.e., Version 18 and earlier).
- Note: Depending on your operating system, screen resolution, and scaling options, one of the Text Size options will be noted as Recommended.
Tabs3 version 19 has been released, and there are many great new features! The following features are only some of the enhancements we made for this version:
All Tabs3 & PracticeMaster Software
- New Look – Includes larger font, new color, theme, and navigation options.
- New Quick Launch – Provides a search bar to search for actions, includes your recent matters and recent actions, and lets you pin and reorder your frequently used matters and actions.
- New Tabbed Interface – Quickly switch between open windows.
- New Home Page – The new Home Page provides a modern look and feel while keeping the accessibility of the classic Task Folders.
- New Theme Settings – Each user can customize their own theme for each product.
Tabs3
- Tabs3 Online Payments – Added the ability to include a ProPay payment link with your emailed statements allowing clients to pay their bill online.
- Recap of Hours – New graphical Recap of Hours with daily, weekly, and monthly options that shows billable and non-billable hours and amounts.
- Reorder Fees on Statements – The new Reorder Fees utility allows you to change the order in which fees with the same date appear on statements.
- Write-Up/Write-Down Fees and Costs Across Matters – You can now write-up or write-down all matters for a client at the same time.
- Apply Payments to Multiple Matters – Payments for multiple matters can now be applied to individual statements.
- Better Handling of Credit Transactions – Entering credits for paid transactions will automatically apply the credit to accounts receivable when the statement is updated. Produce a credit memo by running a statement with only credit transactions.
PracticeMaster
- Batch Journal Record Creation from Outlook – Added the ability to create journal records from multiple Outlook email messages at the same time.
- Designate Restricted Fields – Added the ability to prevent editing of specific fields by designating which users have rights to edit restricted fields in a file.
- Recap of Hours – New graphical Recap of Hours with daily, weekly, and monthly options that shows billable and non-billable hours and amounts and optionally includes unprocessed timer records.
- Dashboard – New dashboard on the Home page shows the user’s calendar, task list, and recap of hours.
- Outlook Plug-in – Added a new Attach PM Document button to the Outlook Plug-in toolbar that makes it easy to attach PracticeMaster documents while composing email in Outlook.
General Ledger
- New Statement of Cash Flows Report – Added a new Statement of Cash Flows Report that shows how changes in Balance Sheet and Income Statement accounts affect the firm’s cash flow.
- New Advanced Client Costs Report – Added a new Advanced Client Costs Report that makes it easier to reconcile advanced client costs between Tabs3, Accounts Payable (APS), and General Ledger (GLS).
Accounts Payable
- Designate Vendors and Bank Accounts as Inactive – Added the ability to designate vendors and bank accounts as inactive.
- New EFT Transaction Type – Added a new Transaction Type of EFT, making it easy to record invoices that were paid electronically.
- Print Checks – The Select Invoices to Print feature now displays the number of invoices selected and total amount to pay. Added a Tabs3 column that shows if the invoice is paid, unpaid, or not associated to a Tabs3 cost. Added the ability to exclude invoices with unpaid Tabs3 cost transactions.
- Check Register & Report Improvements – The Tabs3 section of the reports has been enhanced to include the Tabs3 Tcode number, Transaction Type (“E” for Expense or “A” for Advance), and Payment Status (Paid or Unpaid), thus making it easier to reconcile Advanced Client Costs.
Trust Accounting
- Designate Bank Accounts as Inactive – Added the ability to designate a bank account as inactive.
Tabs3 Connect
- Recap of Hours – New graphical Recap of Hours with daily, weekly, and monthly options that shows billable and non-billable hours and amounts.
- Fee Entry – Added the Timekeeper field making it easy to add fees for other timekeepers. Added the Bill Code field making it easy to override the default billable or printable status.
For in-depth information on all of the new Version 19 features, including screenshots, see the What’s New List or Knowledge Base Article R11744, “Version 19 Introduction to New Features.” A list with links to all Version 19 information can be found in R11746, “Version 19 Information and Resources.”
To download Version 19, select Check for Updates from the Help menu, visit Tabs3.com/support/update/v19upd.html, or contact your local consultant.
If you have any questions about the update, please contact your consultant, or contact Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
Have you ever wanted to change the size of the windows, menus, page tabs, lists, and messages in the software? How about changing the font face and size on your PracticeMaster forms? Version 19 introduces a new, larger default font in the software and allows you more control over font via new customization options.
Knowledge Base Article R11778, “Customizing Fonts and Colors in Tabs3 Software,” discusses customizing the appearance in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster programs, customizing the printed output, and some common questions and answers. Included in this article is more information on the new Theme Settings, form designer changes, how to manually change the font, and how Windows personalization settings affect the color and font size in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
We wanted you to know that our family of products has grown – we recently acquired CosmoLex! CosmoLex is a leading provider of cloud legal practice management, billing, and accounting software.
Our three product lines together – Tabs3, Kurent, and CosmoLex – now serve over 100,000 legal professionals in the United States and Canada. By adding CosmoLex to our Kurent and Tabs3 product lines, we now have the most complete offering of billing, financial, and practice management software for solo to midsized law firms; whether you want a desktop or cloud solution.
The following products are now offered by Tabs3 Software:
Want to learn more about what CosmoLex can do for you? Check out this CosmoLex overview video!
As a Tabs3 client this news does not affect you unless you are interested in a cloud product. If you are, please email sales@tabs3.com for more information about Kurent and CosmoLex. For more information on this exciting news, check out our CosmoLex Press Release.
Did you know that you can press Ctrl+Shift+F to open the Fee file and Ctrl+M to open the Matter Manager or Client Manager? Most people are aware of standard keystrokes, such as Ctrl+S to Save, Ctrl+C to Copy, Ctrl+V to Paste, etc. However, there are many more shortcuts to help save time in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster without your hands leaving the keyboard!
Tabs3 and PracticeMaster provide two lists of keyboard shortcuts and keystrokes to help speed up your data entry. These can each be found via Help in any of our software by pressing F1 and then entering “keyboard shortcuts” and “keystrokes” on the Index tab. We recommend printing these lists out as a reference until you get used to the ones you need most.
Going between keyboard and mouse to access everyday tasks may not seem very time consuming, but the time it takes for those extra clicks can add up. Check out which keyboard shortcuts and keystrokes will save you time today!
Are you familiar with how the Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software integrates? One of the key features of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software is how tightly our billing, practice management, general ledger, accounts payable, and trust accounting software all work together.
Knowledge Base Article R11143, “Integration Overview of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Software,” provides an overview of how the Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software integrates. Brief information and notes on how each piece integrates are provided for the following:
Tabs3 Billing Software
- TAS to Tabs3
- APS to Tabs3
- PracticeMaster to/from Tabs3
- Tabs3 Remote to Tabs3
- Cost Recovery to Tabs3
- Tabs3 to Taskbill
Tabs3 General Ledger Software (GLS)
- Tabs3 to GLS
- TAS to GLS
- APS to GLS
- Payroll to GLS
- Third Party Software Journal Entries to GLS
Tabs3 Trust Accounting Software (TAS)
- Tabs3 to TAS
- Third Party Software Trust Transactions to TAS
Tabs3 Accounts Payable Software (APS)
- TAS to APS
- Third Party Software Invoices to APS
Take a moment to review how our software integrates and see what will help your daily, weekly, and monthly process!
If you want more details on how integration between various software works, check out our comprehensive Integration Guide at Tabs3.com/docs.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Did you know that you can see who is currently logged into the software? The Active User List shows you who’s in, and which programs they are currently accessing. This can be helpful when you want to get everyone out of the software for maintenance. By accessing the Active User List via View | Active User List, you can see who you need to have close the software.
When opening the Active User List, a window is displayed with all users who are in the currently open software (e.g., if you open the Active User List from PracticeMaster, users in PracticeMaster will be displayed). Additionally, you can see which computer they are logged into, and which file they are accessing in the software. Manager users will also have an All Systems check box and a Reset button. When the All Systems check box is selected, all users in all programs will be listed. The Reset button allows managers to reset a user, which closes the software on that user’s computer. (Note: Resetting users is not recommended in most situations, and should only be used when the user in question is not in the software.)
Manager users can always access the Active User List, but other users can be given access rights, or have access rights removed for this feature.
To add or remove rights to the Active User List
- From the System Configuration File menu, point to Open and select Access Profile.
- From the System Activity tab, select the desired Access ID.
- In the System Options section, select the Display Active User List check box.
- Press Ctrl+S.
The next time you want to see who is currently in the software, check out the Active User List!
We are pleased to announce that we have selected ProCirrus as our Preferred National Cloud Hosting Partner. Hosting providers like ProCirrus can make managing your technology much easier. Instead of installing and maintaining programs like Tabs3 on your server, you login to the programs from a secure website that ProCirrus maintains. ProCirrus is a full-service cloud hosting company that specializes in providing hosting services for the legal industry. You can find more information about ProCirrus on their website at:
- ProCirrus – www.procirrus.com
“We are very excited to become the Preferred National Cloud Hosting Partner for Tabs3 Software and combine their feature-rich applications with our full-service cloud,” said Dan LeBaron, Chief Technology Officer. “With over a decade of successful Tabs3 hosting, our partnership represents a better overall solution and support for both our current and future mutual clients.”
You can learn more about the various cloud options available in the following resources:
- Knowledge Base article R11722 – Tabs3 in the Cloud
- Our Tabs3 in the Cloud white paper
If you are thinking about switching to a hosted provider, be sure to include ProCirrus on your list of potential service providers.
Do you have a question about the software? Any questions that you want to ask have likely been asked by others as well. Because of this, we have created several targeted Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) articles, and made it easy to access them all in one place.
Knowledge Base Article R11567, “Frequently Asked Questions for All Products,” provides a list of articles answering FAQs. Articles are grouped by general, software features, and version specific questions.
- General FAQs include year-end and software specific articles, such as Platinum, Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, and more.
- FAQs for software features include articles on printing, credit card processing, Tabs3 Connect, and more.
- Version specific FAQs include articles geared toward questions about new features in each version.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Effective immediately, we have reduced the monthly subscription plan rates for our Platinum SQL levels of Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software by 20%. Tabs3 Billing and PracticeMaster software are now each $32/month per user and Tabs3 Financial Software is $8/month per user.
“We are excited about this reduced pricing for clients choosing to pay for our Platinum SQL level of our software on a monthly per user subscription basis,” said Dan Berlin, President and CEO of Tabs3 Software. “This makes it even more affordable to have the ability to enter fees and costs from your mobile device via Tabs3 Connect, take better advantage of the speed of your firm’s computer, and more.”
The subscription pricing model features a low monthly cost that includes all the benefits of being on maintenance, including free technical support and free updates, plus access to the most award-winning software in the industry.
If you are interested in upgrading to Platinum SQL via monthly subscription, contact either your local consultant or our sales team at (402) 419-2200.
You have a special font you downloaded for your firm to use for statements and reports. Although you print some statements and reports, you also e-mail PDFs of statements and reports to certain clients and third parties. However, did you know that if the e-mail recipient doesn’t have that font installed, the font will be replaced by a different one? When a designated font in a PDF file is not installed on the reader’s computer, the closest substitution font is found and used, but sometimes this can make the PDF more difficult to read.
The solution? You can specify that the font be embedded into the PDF, so that it reaches your recipients as expected.
To embed fonts in PDF files
- From the File menu, select Print Setup.
- Select the Printer you use to print statements.
- Click the Advanced Printing Features button.
- Select the Embed Fonts in PDF Files check box.
- Click OK on the Advanced Printing Features window.
- Click OK on the Printer Setup window.
Note: PDF files with embedded fonts have a larger file size, which may lengthen the processing time when e-mailing statements. Additionally, some fonts cannot be embedded due to copyright laws.
You don’t need to skip the specialty font for your firm; embed the font so that others can view the file as intended!
Did you know that you can set up your General Ledger Software (GLS) accounts in an alternate order for reporting purposes? This can be particularly useful when you need to subtotal accounts in more than one way.
In the example below, you can see how the alternate account order can be used for profit centers. The chart of accounts on the left represents accounts broken down by type (i.e., fee income, expense income, etc.), whereas the chart of accounts on the right represents accounts broken down by profit centers (i.e., Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island, etc.).
To print reports using an alternate account order, you must enable the use of an alternate account order, and then specify the order in the Chart of Accounts.
To enable the use of an alternate account order
- From the Utilities menu, select Edit GLS Client.
- Select the desired Client Number.
- In the Options section, select the Allow an alternate account order to be defined in the Chart of Accounts check box.
- Press Ctrl+S.
To set up an alternate account order, right-click in the Chart of Accounts (File | Open | Chart of Accounts) and select View Alternate Account Order. You can now drag and drop accounts to their desired position. Once defined, reports can be run using the alternate account order by selecting the Use Alternate Account Order check box on the Account tab of any report that has an Account tab.
Did you know that we release enhancements to the software on a regular basis? Enhancements can range from fixing issues we have found to adding new functionality that helps make the software work better. Although we don’t typically announce these changes, you can quickly and easily check to see if there are any new updates available from within the software.
When checking for updates (Help | Check for Updates), you can see if the software is up to date, an update is available, or a new version is available. Additionally, if we make a change to the software that fixes an issue that may have caused any inaccuracy in your data, we will release a Critical Update. A Critical Update will be displayed when you start the software so that you know it is available right away and can download the update.
For more information on update notifications, visit Knowledge Base Article R11539, “Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Update Notification.” This article provides information on the various notifications, downloading an update, configuring access profiles for rights to check for updates, troubleshooting, and frequently asked questions.
Keeping the software up to date is important. Make checking for updates part of your regular task list.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
When working in General Ledger Software (GLS), your accounts do not typically change much once they have been established. Because of this, it’s easy to forget the ins and outs of making changes to the chart of accounts.
Here are some quick instructions to add a new account or make adjustments to existing accounts when the time comes.
To add a new account
- From the File menu, point to Open and select Chart of Accounts.
- Select the account directly above where you want the new account to appear in the Chart of Accounts.
- Press Ctrl+N.
- The New Account window will be displayed. Select the desired option and click OK.
- The Account Setup window will be displayed. Enter the remaining information for the account and click Save.
- If you are adding a heading or total account, the Create Paired Account window will be displayed, allowing you to select the account number for the paired account.
- Select the desired option for the paired account’s account number and click OK.
- The Account Setup window is displayed. Enter the remaining information for the account and click Save.
- If you are adding a heading or total account, the Create Paired Account window will be displayed, allowing you to select the account number for the paired account.
Changing and moving accounts
When you want to make changes to an account, there are different types of changes you can make:
- Edit the settings for the existing account by double-clicking the account and then making the desired changes.
- Drag and drop the account to a different location in the chart of accounts to adjust the location of the accounts on reports:
- Select the account you want to move.
- Grab the
icon by clicking on it; the pointer will become a 
. - Drag the selected account to the desired position and release the mouse button.
- Change the Account # by using the Renumber Account utility (Maintenance | Renumber | Account).
Now, when you need to make changes to your Chart of Accounts, you’ll be ready!
System Configuration isn’t a program you work in everyday like Tabs3 Billing, but is geared toward setting up certain features of the software. So what settings are controlled in System Configuration, and how do you access it?
Many settings in the software can be set up once and you’re done, but others may need to be updated such as when employees come and go, your server equipment changes, or your firm changes and grows. Although each individual program (Tabs3 Billing, PracticeMaster, etc.) has program-specific customization settings, many System Configuration settings affect more than just a single program.
Note: Manager Access Rights are required to access many of the settings in System Configuration.
System Configuration is used to set up the following features:
- Users and Groups, including Calendar Rights and Tabs3 Connect settings
- Access Rights
- Firm Info
- Outgoing E-mail Configuration
- Microsoft Exchange Integration
- Platinum settings
- …and more!
How to access System Configuration
You can open System Configuration via your desktop shortcut, if present, or via the 
Application Toolbar from any of the Tabs3 software. The Application Toolbar is typically located on the right-hand side of the main window and includes buttons for all Tabs3 software for which you have access rights. For more information about accessing System Configuration, press F1 while in the Tabs3 software and enter “System Configuration” on the Index tab.
The Data File Integrity Check (DFIC) and Archive File Integrity Check (AFIC) are important tools used to test data files for valid information and structure. The DFIC can be run from any Tabs3 and PracticeMaster program via Utilities | Data File Integrity Check, whereas the AFIC is run from Tabs3 Billing via Utilities | Archive Integrity Check.
If errors are found when the DFIC or AFIC is run, a report is available to preview or print out. The report provides information on the error(s), including the Error Code and where the error is located in the system (e.g., field, file, client, etc.). DFIC Error Codes can be found in Knowledge Base Article R11653, “Data File Integrity Check Errors,” and AFIC Error Codes can be found in Knowledge Base Article R10771, “Archive File Integrity Check Errors.” These articles provide links to information on what the error means, potential causes of the error, and how to resolve the error.
But when and how often should you run the DFIC and AFIC? We recommend running these checks at the following times:
- Before backups.
- During month-end procedures.
- When moving the data to a new server.
- When updating the software to a new version.
- If anything unusual occurs in the software, such as loss of network connectivity or loss of power, or when a fatal error occurs and after it is corrected.
It is very important that errors are taken care of right away. Ignoring errors in the data can compound into larger issues, making the original error more difficult to correct and in some cases not possible. Since some errors require restoring the data, ignoring these errors for long periods of time can lead to data loss, or the need to have your data repaired.
When was the last time you ran the DFIC or AFIC? You can easily see when each of these utilities has been run via the Support Log.
To use the Support Log to determine when a DFIC and/or AFIC have been run
- From the View menu, point to Log Files and select Support Log.
- Next to Features, select Specific.
- In the Select Features window, select Data File Integrity Check and/or Archive File Integrity Check (Tabs3 Billing only).
- Click OK.
- Click Print.
The DFIC and AFIC can be set up to run when opening the program or at a specific time using a startup option of “/DFIC” or “/AFIC”. Using a startup option in conjunction with a batch file can automate your DFIC and AFIC to run at any time, including after regular business hours. More information on startup options is available in the program’s Help using “startup options” for the Index keywords. Information on automating tasks can be found in Knowledge Base Article R11034, “Automating Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Maintenance Tasks.” Take the time now to verify how often your firm is running the Data and Archive File Integrity Checks so that you can implement any necessary procedural changes.
Help keep your data error free by running the DFIC and AFIC regularly.
It’s after hours and you’ve run into some trouble printing. Something doesn’t look right, it’s printing off the page, or you need to make just a few tweaks to finish your project. However, you’re not sure what to do. What do you do? Check out the Knowledge Base, of course!
Knowledge Base Article R10469, “Frequently Asked Questions About Printing,” provides frequently asked questions regarding the following subjects:
- Printing Statements – Using letterhead for statements, centering statements on the page, reference numbers not printing on draft statements, and what the Compress Address check box in Statement Setup does.
- Printing Reports – What to do when the font is too small, and how to print landscape reports.
- Printing Checks – Printing, printing a second copy of checks, printing a duplicate stub, and printing trust information on checks.
- General Printing Questions – Stopping a print job, specifying different margins, adjusting the Preview window, changing the Offset Adjustment, fixed pitch fonts vs. proportional fonts, and configuring an additional printer.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Tabs3 version 18 has been released, and update notifications have been sent to all eligible users! There are many great new features in Version 18! The following features are only some of the enhancements we made for this version:
Tabs3 Billing
- Date-Based Reports – All productivity reports are now date-based and no longer rely on advancing the current reporting month. Use the Set Current Reporting Month feature to see productivity figures from prior years.
- Print Receipts – Print a receipt for all forms of payment from the Payment window, or print a receipt for deposits from the Client Funds window.
- and more…
PracticeMaster
- Fee and Cost Entry – The Rate, Rate Code, and Sales Tax fields can now be shown. When changes are made to the Timekeeper, Date, Tcode, Activity Code, or Expense ID, the Amount can be recalculated.
- Fee Recap – A new Fee Recap button has been added to the PracticeMaster toolbar. This button lets you review fees for a timekeeper and date.
- OL Synchronization Settings Report – You can now run an Outlook Synchronization Settings Report to view synchronization settings for yourself or for all users.
- Graphical Calendar Agenda – Selecting Agenda when printing a Graphical Calendar Report will print items in a list format.
- ScanSnap™ Integration – Integration with Fujitsu® ScanSnap scanners imports documents to PracticeMaster’s Document Management program once the scan has completed. Selecting the Optical Character Recognition (OCR) option in the ScanSnap Manager makes text searchable in PracticeMaster.
- Form Designer – Align fields using the new Magnetic Snaps, or show the familiar grid and use Snap to Grid. Magnetic Snaps help align fields with other fields, whereas Snap to Grid helps position fields based on grid dots. Use keyboard shortcuts to Copy (Ctrl+C), Paste (Ctrl+V), Cut (Ctrl+X), and Undo (Ctrl+Z).
- and more…
General Ledger Software (GLS)
- Account Information Report – Print from the Balances, Budgets, or Journal Entries tab of the Account Information program to view a report with that tab’s information.
- Reports – Many changes were made to GLS reports. You can now select a Date Range for any report, making it easy to select a preset period or specify a custom range; pick multiple ranges of accounts or departments; and sort accounts in Chart of Accounts order or Account Number order. New Include options are provided for the Balance Sheet and Income Statement reports, and more.
- Bank Account Manager – View a summary of all bank and credit card accounts from one window. Optionally open a Reconciliation for the selected account, or select to Import Bank Transactions.
- Import Bank Transactions – Import Bank Transactions from an OFX, QFX, or QBO file provided by your bank or credit card company. Match imported bank and credit card transactions with General Ledger journal entries.
- Reconciliation – Optionally enter interest and service charge in the Reconciliation Settings window. View a Reconciliation Discrepancy Report if the Beginning Balance entered does not match the calculated Beginning Balance. The Reconciliation window has been updated to show side-by-side sections for transactions going out and coming in. Additionally, you can now password protect reconciliation PDFs generated by GLS and undo reconciliations finalized in Version 18.
- and more…
Accounts Payable Software (APS)
- Vendor Information – Moved the MTD, YTD, and TD Paid and Discount figures to the Vendor Activity window. These figures are all calculated automatically based on the system date.
- Vendor Analysis Report – The Vendor Analysis Report is now transaction based. Figures are based on the report date.
- and more…
Trust Accounting Software (TAS)
- Auto Trust Payments from Tabs3 – Tabs3 can now be set up to automatically create a Payment to Firm trust transaction when generating final statements, thereby paying current work, accounts receivable, or both.
- Combine Trust Transactions – Optionally combine deposits, EFTs, or checks into one combined transaction, making reconciliation easier.
- Bank Account Manager – View a summary of all bank and credit card accounts from one window. Optionally open a Reconciliation for the selected account or select to Import Bank Transactions.
- Import Bank Transactions – Import Bank Transactions from an OFX, QFX, or QBO file provided by your bank or credit card company. Match imported bank and credit card transactions with Trust Transactions.
- Reconciliation – Optionally enter interest and service charge in the Reconciliation Settings window. View a Reconciliation Discrepancy Report if the Beginning Balance entered does not match the calculated Beginning Balance. The Reconciliation window has been updated to show side-by-side sections for transactions going out and coming in. Additionally, you can now password protect reconciliation PDFs generated by TAS and undo reconciliations finalized in Version 18.
- Three-Way Reconciliation Report – A new Three-Way Reconciliation Report is available that compares the Client Trust Ledger, Reconciliation, and Check Register balances.
- Print Receipts – You can now print a receipt for deposits in addition to credit card deposits.
- and more…
For in-depth information on all of the new Version 18 features, including screenshots, see the What’s New List or Knowledge Base Article R11647, “Version 18 Introduction to New Features.” A list of all Version 18 information can be found in R11646, “Version 18 Information and Resources.”
To download Version 18, visit Tabs3.com/support/update/v18upd.html.
If you have any questions about the update, please contact your reseller and consultant, or contact Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
Did you know that you can change your Tabs3 and PracticeMaster workspace by specifying whether toolbars are shown or not, and where they are positioned if they are shown? These options can increase the available workspace horizontally, vertically, or both.
Showing or hiding toolbars
From the View menu, a 
indicates that the Status Bar, Application Toolbar, and in PracticeMaster, the PracticeMaster Task Bar is shown. To change which toolbars are shown or hidden, simply click the menu option to change the status of the toolbar.
Changing the toolbar position
The Menu toolbar, Application Toolbar, and in PracticeMaster, the PracticeMaster Task Bar, can all be moved to 
the top, bottom, right, or left of the Tabs3 or PracticeMaster program window. Simply click the toolbar gripper, and drag it to the desired location.
Alternatively, you can drag a toolbar away from any 
side of the program to make it a floating toolbar. When the toolbar is floating, you can optionally move it outside of the Tabs3 or PracticeMaster program window. This allows for maximum workspace, while still having access to all of the available tools.
Did you know that you can drag files other than those generated via Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software into the DropBox? This can really come in handy when you are e-mailing multiple files of mixed origins to clients, co-workers, or other third parties; when you want to save related items together in a mutual location; and more.
Once all of the desired files are in DropBox, simply select the files and choose the desired option. If you want to e-mail a group of files in the DropBox, click the e-mail icon to attach all of the files to a new e-mail message. Alternatively, you can drag the icons into the new e-mail message. If you want to save all of the files to a mutual location, click the save icon; you will be prompted to save each file individually.
Note: Files that have been dragged into DropBox are not removed from their original location.
Backing up your firm’s data is the most important form of maintenance you can do, but many firms overlook this task. Backup prompts from within the software are skipped, and external backups are not regularly tested to verify they are working as expected. Often, this is simply due to not understanding the process.
You may have quite a few questions about backups:
- What is the difference between the built-in backup and external backup?
- How do backups work?
- What’s included in the backup?
- How is a backup restored if needed?
- How can I make sure that my strategy for backing up data is working right?
- Where do I start?
All of these topics and more can be found in Knowledge Base Article R11524, “Backup/ Restore Information Resources.” This article provides a complete list of links to articles with information and processes for backing up and restoring your data.
Don’t overlook how your firm is backing up data until it’s too late and you have to restore. Make sure you are on top of maintaining your data.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3. com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
The Tabs3 Accounts Payable Software (APS) makes paying bills easier. You can print checks, track vendors, generate 1099-MISC forms, run reports and check registers, and more!
APS lets you write checks to saved vendors as well as vendors that are not individually tracked in the software. For monthly payments, set up recurring entries to create multiple invoices in one step. Writing a check by hand? Enter a manual check that will show up in your check register.
Tracking vendors is a snap. In addition to name and address, you can save information for frequently used vendors such as the Federal ID number, 1099-MISC information, vendor discount information, and more! Month-to-date, year-to-date, and to date paid figures for each vendor are also tracked for easy reference.
APS integrates with Tabs3 Billing and Tabs3 General Ledger Software (GLS) to bring things together. Costs can integrate with Tabs3 when adding, changing, or deleting an invoice or manual check. When integrating with GLS, journal entries are automatically created when checks are posted, and voided checks will create reversing journal entries.
APS also offers many reports that can be run to determine activity in the software, including a Check Register, Pre-Check Register, Cash Requirements Report, Aged Unpaid Invoice Report, Vendor Analysis, and lists for vendors, bank accounts, recurring entries, and voided checks.
If you are not currently using APS, try it out! You can install APS Trial Software using the Tabs3 CD, or download a free trial. Contact your Tabs3 reseller or consultant, or our Sales Department at (402) 419-2200 for pricing and information.
Note: Tabs3 works exclusively with Nelco to provide you with checks guaranteed to work with Tabs3 software.
Do you know how to restore from an incremental backup? Make sure you are familiar with the process of restoring before you need to do it. Incremental backups work by backing up the full dataset, and then only backing up those files that have changed from then on. This means that if you need to restore, you cannot just restore to yesterday’s incremental backup because that is only one piece of the picture. The files in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster are all connected. If only some of the files are restored, then information is missing from other files and errors can occur in the software. Instead, if a restore is necessary, you must first restore the last full backup and then restore every incremental backup in order. For more information on how your backup system works, and if it is the right system for you, talk to your IT professional.
Tabs3 General Ledger Software (GLS) is a general ledger accounting program that is based on a double-entry accounting system. Chart of accounts and financial statement formats can be defined, allowing you to use your current chart of accounts. The availability of multiple departments allows you to create reports based on certain departments or the firm as a whole. Journal entries track debits and credits. Optionally create budgets for each expense account, and compare budget and actual amounts from year to year.
GLS offers bank and credit card reconciliation, printable deposit slips, summarized or detailed reports to help track your financial data, and more. If you have journal entries that must be made monthly, you can set up recurring entries to easily post a batch of entries once a month in a single process.
GLS can be used as a stand-alone ledger program for any business, or it can be combined with other Tabs3 software for full integration. Journal entries can be submitted to GLS through Tabs3 Billing, Accounts Payable, Trust Accounting, and also Peninsula Software’s PenSoft® Payroll software. Additionally, a standard input format is included, providing the ability to import journal entries from other software.
For more information regarding Tabs3 General Ledger Software, contact your local reseller or our Sales Department at (402) 419-2200.
Did you know that you can import data into all of the Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software? Knowledge Base Article R11506, “Resources for Importing Data into Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Software,” provides a list of resources with information regarding programs that can be used to import data in Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software including the following:
Tabs3 Billing – Importing costs from photocopiers, telephone systems, fax machines, and more.
PracticeMaster – Importing data from third-party programs, documents into document management, Platinum Exchange Connector, Outlook, and more.
General Ledger Software (GLS) – Integration with PenSoft Payroll and importing data into GLS using an ASCII data file.
Trust Accounting Software (TAS) – Importing data into TAS using an ASCII data file.
Accounts Payable Software (APS) – Importing data into APS using an ASCII data file.
Our Knowledge Base can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at support.Tabs3.com. You can also access our Knowledge Base while in the software by selecting Help | Internet Resources | Knowledge Base.
Drill-down capabilities provide the ability to quickly access data while previewing many reports. When you mouse over a drill-down field on a report while viewing it in a Preview window, the field will be highlighted in yellow. Clicking the field will open the appropriate data entry window for that field, allowing you to edit the record. After saving the change and closing the data entry window, you will be returned to the Preview window. Clicking the Refresh button (or pressing F5) will update the report to reflect the change you just made.
For a complete list of reports with drill-down capabilities, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10646, “Drill-Down Features in the Software.”