Tabs3 Billing and PracticeMaster provide Conflict of Interest Checks, and PracticeMaster also provides a Document Search. These options give you the peace of mind knowing that you can find what you’re searching for in either application. But how do they work?
Knowledge Base Article R11962, “Search Resources,” provides a list of resources with information regarding the Conflict of Interest Search and Document Search in Tabs3 Billing and PracticeMaster.
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 law firms who accept credit cards get paid sooner and collect on more billable work than firms that don’t?
With Tabs3Pay, accepting and managing electronic payments has never been easier for your law practice! Not only can you accept credit cards and electronic checks, but you can manage separate trust and operating accounts, and securely store payment information for future use. Additionally, by including a payment link in email statements, your clients can easily enter payment information through the secure Tabs3Pay portal.
Watch this six-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.”
The Advanced Client Costs Report makes it easier to verify that advanced client costs are in balance between Tabs3 Billing, Tabs3 Accounts Payable (AP), and Tabs3 General Ledger (GL). This report compares advanced client costs in Tabs3 Billing, checks and invoices in AP, and account balances of advanced client cost accounts in GL to ensure the balances in each program are accurate.
Setting up a new system to track advanced client costs between Tabs3 Billing, AP, and GL requires certain configuration settings in each application. If a firm has been using the applications for a while, it is possible that the accounts are not in sync and will show discrepancies on the Advanced Client Costs Report. Knowledge Base Article R11757, “Using and Troubleshooting Advanced Client Costs Integration,” will assist you with configuring the software to properly integrate advanced client costs, as well as troubleshoot the “reconciliation” when there is a discrepancy.
You can also check out this video on Tracking Advanced Client Costs in Tabs3 Software:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_oRC3CJFBQ
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.”
If you want to learn more in-depth information about individual features in the software, guides are the way to go. A guide is a closer look at how different features work, providing in-depth information and screenshots where appropriate. Guides are a great tool to use when you need to know more. From the table of contents, you can easily jump to the section you most want to learn about, or you can read it straight through. There are over 20 guides available, each focusing on a specific topic within the software such as clients and contacts, statements, Tabs3Pay, Matter Manager, and more.
Guides can be accessed from within the software, as well as on our website.
- To access the guides from within the software, in the Quick Launch, search for and select “Documentation,” or from the Help menu, select Documentation. You can expand and collapse each application to view the desired documentation.
- To access the guides from our website, browse to Tabs3.com/support/docs.html for a full listing of all available guides.
Take a look – you may be surprised to learn how many resources are available!
There are several ways to adjust work-in-process (WIP) transactions, but which way is best for your situation? If you’re not sure which method is best, or you’re not sure of what your options are, check out Knowledge Base Article R10772, “Adjusting Work-In-Process.” This article provides the advantages and disadvantages of the various methods to adjust WIP including editing individual transactions, writing transactions up/down, using the Change WIP Transaction feature, entering a courtesy discount, adjusting flat fee client, and entering credits.
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 want to accept credit cards, but aren’t sure where to start? Knowledge Base Article R11871, “Tabs3Pay Frequently Asked Questions,” provides information regarding using Tabs3Pay for electronic payment processing. Included in this article are questions regarding getting started, using and setting up credit card processing, integration, and online payments.
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.”
Are you looking for a report with certain criteria, but not sure how to find it? Knowledge Base Article R11697, “Report Finder: Info in Tabs3 Billing Reports,” provides a checklist of options that, when selected, displays a list of reports that will show the desired information. For example, let’s say you need a report that shows Billed Hours, Write-Ups/Downs, Write Offs, and the Amount Due. Select those check boxes, and you can see that there are two reports that have all of those options included. Additionally, you can easily access more information on the resulting reports by clicking on the View Report button, which opens the report pack to the page of the report.
Stop running random reports trying to find the perfect one; instead, use the Report Finder and get what you need without the guesswork.
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.”
Tabs3 Software provides context-sensitive help, but exactly what does that mean? Context-sensitive help means that you can quickly access the Help files based on where you are at in the software. Simply pressing F1 on your keyboard will take you directly to the Help file for the window that is currently open in the software.
For example, let’s say you’re on the Billing Preferences tab of the Client file in Tabs3 Billing. You notice the Bill On Demand check box, and wonder what it does. If you press F1, the Help for the Billing Preferences tab is displayed. Click the Bill On Demand link, and you can now read information on the purpose of the check box.
For another example, let’s say you have a Document Management record open in PracticeMaster. You’re not sure what the Automatically Manage Document and Protect Document check boxes are for, so you press F1 and the Help for the Document Management File is displayed. Scroll down to the File Information section, and information is provided for both check boxes.
Keep in mind that all information for fields and features may not be contained in a single Help topic. When a field or feature relates to additional topics, we provide links to those topics to learn more.
Note: The Help files provide general information on accessing and using the software, including information on every individual field. For information on troubleshooting the software, refer to our Knowledge Base instead.
Have you recently purchased a license for ODBC, or are thinking about it? Data files for the Tabs3 Software are ODBC capable. ODBC capability allows you to retrieve information from the Tabs3 Software data files using applications such as MSQuery, Crystal Reports, Microsoft Excel, etc.; however, you cannot write information to the Tabs3 Software data files via an ODBC driver. Writing directly to the data files will corrupt the data. The ODBC driver is written by FairCom Corporation, the manufacturer of the c-tree file storage method used by the Tabs3 Software. An ODBC driver license for the software can be purchased from the consultant from which you purchased the software license or from our Sales Department.
Knowledge Base Article R10017, “Working with ODBC,” provides setup information for the ODBC driver, as well as troubleshooting to get you started. If you’re working with Platinum SQL ODBC drivers, check out R11397, “Working with Platinum SQL ODBC Drivers,” instead.
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.”
Just getting started with Tabs3 Connect, or simply want additional information? There are several resources to provide you with all of the tools you need to know about Tabs3 Connect!
Quick Guide
At only eleven pages, the Tabs3 Connect Quick Guide is a quick but essential read when you want to know how to use Tabs3 Connect. The Tabs3 Connect Quick Guide provides information on getting started, logging in to Tabs3 Connect, the difference between the full site and phone site, accessing and entering data, and logging out. The Tabs3 Connect Quick Guide can be accessed via Knowledge Base Article R11500, “Tabs3 Connect Quick Guide.”
Knowledge Base
In addition to the Tabs3 Connect Quick Guide, the Knowledge Base also provides the following articles about Tabs3 Connect:
- R11480, “All About Tabs3 Connect,” provides an overview of Tabs3 Connect features as well as information on how to access it.
- R11613, “Tabs3 Connect FAQ,” provides answers to frequently asked questions.
- R11762, “Troubleshooting Tabs3 Connect,” provides troubleshooting information for Tabs3 Connect.
For more information on Tabs3 Connect, contact your Tabs3 Software consultant, call Support at (402) 419-2210, or visit Knowledge Base Article R11480, “All About Tabs3 Connect.”
Performing routine maintenance tasks can be easier using the Lock Out All Users feature. This feature allows any manager to lock all other users out of all Tabs3 Software applications. With the additional option to set a timer for the duration of the lockout, using the Lock Out feature means that you can perform server maintenance tasks or run integrity checks without interruption.
Watch this two-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.”
What are expressions, and how can your firm use them to improve your day-to-day activities? An expression is a set of criteria you define that tells the software what records to display, and in some cases, how to display it. Filters are the most common expressions, but expressions can also be used in Report Writer reports, WorkFlows, Word Document Assembly, and Outlook Synchronization.
- Filter expressions help narrow down the records that are displayed in Tabs3 Billing lists and PracticeMaster files, and can be used in QuickViews.
- Expressions in Report Writer reports can filter the records to be included as well as format how data is shown on the report.
- Expressions can be used in WorkFlows to filter the records affected by the WorkFlow, as well as to format text in records, email messages, and more.
- Expressions in Word Document Assembly can be used to filter records, as well as to format text that appears in the assembled document.
- Expressions in Outlook Synchronization can be used to filter the contact records that are synchronized with Outlook.
So how can you learn more about expressions? Knowledge Base Article R11493, “All About Expressions,” provides the basics on expressions by breaking information down to explain what expressions are, where they’re used, and common terminology associated with them. This article also shows you how to create both simple and advanced expressions, provides filter examples, and has tips for making the most of filter expressions. To go one step further, for a list of more than 60 filter expression examples, including the file and scenario in which it would be used, visit Knowledge Base Article R11515, “Filter Expression Examples.” Take a little time to check out these resources so you can put this powerful feature to work for you and your firm!
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.”
As a company, we take great pride in the documentation we provide for our software. We are very thorough in documenting how features work and how to troubleshoot when an issue arises. Because of this, there are multiple resources for finding information.
If you’re not sure where to look for the information you need, check out Knowledge Base Article R11194, “Help Resources: How to Find It.” This article includes information on the following resources, how to access them, and what they are used for:
- Help Files
- Knowledge Base
- Quick Guides
- Guides
- Report Packs
- Training Videos
A one-page printable Quick Reference guide is also included. You can keep this reference at your desk to quickly determine which resource to use for any of your needs.
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 release additional enhancements through the life of each Tabs3 Software version. We post interim release updates instead of only when a brand new version is released. So how can you tell what features are in the latest update? Because the software is regularly being updated with great new features, we have a resource for what’s in each update – Release Notes. Release Notes provide a list of changes in the software with the most recently released features at the top. Release Notes can be accessed in the Quick Launch by searching for and selecting “What’s New,” or via the Help | What’s New menu option in the software.
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.”
Are you ready to update to Version 2023? Check out all of the new features that are available in the What’s New in Version 2023 video!
You won’t want to miss out on new features like the Tabs3 Client Portal, Check Request, and updates to Tabs3Pay and Tabs3 CRM. This video will show you these powerful new features and how you and your firm can benefit from updating to the latest version.
Watch this two-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.”
Do you want to take your statements to the next level? Statements are at the heart of Tabs3 Billing, so you want to get the most out of this feature. We make it easy by providing a one-stop article with everything you need.
Knowledge Base Article R11582, “Statements Information Resources,” provides a list of Knowledge Base Articles, Guides, and Videos to help you become the office expert on statements. This article includes resources for printing, emailing, and customizing statements, along with general information. You can find information on frequently asked questions, statement numbering, finance charge, troubleshooting, 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.”
There are several methods for crediting a client’s account: write offs, write-downs, courtesy discounts, payment adjustments, credit transactions, or editing or deleting the original transaction. Knowledge Base Article R11760, “Best Practices When Applying Credits,” provides information on how each method affects reports, statements, GL integration, and more to help you decide how best to credit your client.
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.”
Antivirus software is a necessary component in any computer environment. However, occasionally antivirus software can adversely affect performance or cause errors using Tabs3 Software.
Knowledge Base Article R10760, “Antivirus Software Information,” provides information on how continual scans by antivirus software can slow down other software, how to exclude the Tabs3 Software’s Current Working Directory from continuous virus scanning, information on email antivirus scanning, and known issues with specific antivirus 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.”
Are you creating forms and letters manually? If so, you’re probably spending too much time on it. Take advantage of PracticeMaster’s document assembly feature instead! Not quite sure where to begin? First, take a look at how many documents your firm assembles and which documents would save you the most time by automating them. Start with those frequently used documents.
Then, take a look at Knowledge Base Article R11447, “Working with PracticeMaster Document Assembly.” This article provides information on how to create a document template, how to assemble a document, FAQs, 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.”
There are several ways to customize the heading for your statements. The Statement Setup window helps determine which method is used to print the statement heading. To access Statement Setup from the Quick Launch, search for and select “Print Setup,” select your printer, and click the Statement Setup button.
- If the firm’s name and address are entered on the Headings tab of Statement Customization (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Statement Customization”), they will be printed at the top of your statements using the font specified in the Statement Setup window.
- Selecting the Enable Statement Designer Layouts check box in the Statement Setup window will use the heading defined in the custom page layout created by the Statement Designer.
- Selecting the Bitmap check box in the Page One section of the Statement Setup window lets you specify a bitmap image of your firm’s letterhead to include on your statements.
Statement Designer (In the Quick Launch, search for and select “Statement Designer”) can be used to design your letterhead using text, image, and layout elements. This option has the advantage of no additional cost and the ability to make changes at any time. For more information, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10901, “Customizing the Sample Page Layouts Provided with the Tabs3 Statement Designer.”
Tabs3 Support also offers a bitmap scanning service for Tabs3 Software users. Bitmap files of a firm’s letterhead can be created and used to print the letterhead directly on statements generated by Tabs3 Billing. This eliminates the need to use preprinted stationery for statements. Once scanned, the bitmap file can be specified to print on a statement via Statement Designer or the Statement Setup button in Printer Setup. Knowledge Base Article R10168, “Bitmap Scanning Service,” explains what a bitmap file is and why resolution matters, as well as more information about our scanning service and frequently asked questions.
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.”
As more law firms switch to paperless environments, emailing statements can be a great solution for reducing your office paper needs while adding convenience for your clients!
The Email Statements Overview video walks you through the process of setting up email templates, changing statement delivery options for your clients, and reviewing emails before they are sent. If you use Tabs3Pay, you can also see how to include payment and trust request links in your emails, which makes it easy for your clients to pay.
Watch this four-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.”
How do you install the Tabs3 Software to a new user’s computer? What files are installed? How and when is the software updated on each user’s computer?
These are all common questions firms have at one time or another regarding how the Tabs3 Software is installed and updated locally (at the user’s workstation). Knowledge Base Article R11229, “All About the Local Install (SETUP.EXE) and Auto Update,” provides information on the location of files, how the auto update feature works, how to run the local install, frequently asked questions, and troubleshooting local installations.
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.”
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.”
With tax season just around the corner, Tabs3 E-file is here to help simplify your 1099 submission process! Tabs3 has partnered with Nelco to provide Tabs3 E-file, a complete solution to filing your Form 1099-MISC, Form 1099-NEC, and Form 1096. Learn how to easily upload your data to the Tabs3 E-file portal so that your 1099’s can be electronically filed, printed and mailed, or emailed on your behalf.
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.”
You already know how important it is to check for conflicts of interest in your practice. You are probably already using PracticeMaster’s Conflict of Interest Search, but are you taking full advantage of all of the features?
Conflicts of interest can greatly impact how a firm can operate; therefore, it is important that firms implement specific guidelines regarding when conflict checking must be performed. At the minimum, a conflict search is typically run before taking on a new client or matter, and when a new attorney, paralegal, or other employee joins the firm.
Take the time to review Knowledge Base Article R11445, “Using the PracticeMaster Conflict of Interest Search.” This article provides information on what conflicts and conflict searches are, how to run a conflict search, what the different fields on the Conflict of Interest Search window are, how to customize what shows on the Conflict Report, how to create and search a database of prior conflicts, tips and examples, frequently asked questions, and troubleshooting.
Make sure you don’t miss a conflict. Having firm members review conflict of interest guidelines on a regular basis, including how to use PracticeMaster’s Conflict of Interest Search, helps maintain your firm’s impartiality on every matter.
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.”
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.”
Being able to access information about your client’s fees, costs, and payments in one report can be helpful for running your law firm. Tabs3 Billing has just the report you need for your firm to succeed!
Using the Transaction File List, you can easily track work-in-process and archived transactions for any client, over any time period. The Transaction File List video walks you through the options available when running this versatile report, ensuring that your report includes as little or as much detail as you need.
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.”
Did you know that you can email statements to your clients? Emailing statements saves on postage and delivers statements to your clients immediately. You can also optionally include a Tabs3Pay payment link along with the email statement, allowing your clients to pay online.
Once you decide to email statements to a client, you must complete certain steps to ensure that the client, as well as the email, is configured properly. Knowledge Base Article R11913, “Emailing Tabs3 Billing Statements,” walks you through setting up and using the Email Statements feature.
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.”
Scheduling meetings doesn’t need to be complicated.
With PracticeMaster’s Calendar features, you can easily view everyone’s schedules, add a meeting to the calendar, and notify all attendees with just a few clicks. And when using the Auto Email Notification feature, this process becomes even more streamlined, which can save you time.
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.”
One of the most frequently asked questions our Support Department receives is, “Why isn’t my statement printing?” Whether due to client transactions that have a Status of Hold, client settings, printer drivers, or printer settings, you may have had statements that did not print at one time or another.
Knowledge Base Article R10004, “My Statement Doesn’t Print,” offers the most common reasons a statement doesn’t print and includes easy troubleshooting steps to follow. When your statements aren’t printing, use this article as a checklist to help you get back on track for your month-end activities.
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.”
Whether you are a new user or just have questions about a feature, finding the information you need is easy!
Using the Navigating Help Resources video, you’ll see how easy it is to quickly access relevant information. From the easy to access Help Topics to in-depth guides to helpful Knowledge Base articles and more, Tabs3 Software has all of the resources you need to find new information and learn about various topics!
Watch this four-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.”
Tabs3 Billing includes the ability to insert a personalized link or button to Tabs3Pay in your email templates used for emailing statements and sending trust deposit requests. These links can then be used by your clients to pay their bills or make trust deposits directly via credit/debit card or electronic check. Those payments and trust deposits can then be imported into Tabs3 Billing using the Import Online Payments program.
Knowledge Base Article R11905, “Requesting and Importing Tabs3Pay Online Payments and Trust Deposits,” guides you through the steps necessary to include payment links in your Email Statements and import any payments you receive.
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.”
Securely sharing documents and requesting eSignatures from your clients just got easier using LexShare!
LexShare is a cloud-based service that allows users to share files with your clients and request signatures from them over email, as well as import the signed documents back into the PracticeMaster Document Management file. LexShare’s features are designed with security at its core, which is essential for keeping client information confidential and for staying compliant.
Watch this one-minute video here:
LexShare Integration is available in PracticeMaster Version 2022 (Build 22.2.7) and later.
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.”
Depending on the level of PracticeMaster you have, there may be additional features we have to offer. If you want a quick list of which levels include which features, look no further!
There are four levels of PracticeMaster available. Each of these levels have basic features included; however, more features are included with each level. The following levels of PracticeMaster are available:
- Free Try Before you Buy PracticeMaster (Basic)
- PracticeMaster
- PracticeMaster Platinum
- PracticeMaster Platinum SQL
Knowledge Base Article R11548, “PracticeMaster Feature Comparison,” provides a table of PracticeMaster features available, broken down by each level of PracticeMaster.
Take a look at your current license of PracticeMaster to see what features you might be missing out on!
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.”
Finding that perfect report can be so satisfying! When it comes to tracking your clients’ billing and payment history, the Client Ledger Report has it all!
Check out the Client Ledger Report video to see how you can easily view detailed information about statements, payments, and write offs for your clients, all in one place. This report also includes drill-down capabilities, which makes it easy to view an updated statement or to find out more about how a payment was allocated.
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.”
Tabs3 Billing allows you to optionally assess finance charges on your clients’ past due balances, but how does the calculation work?
When a statement is generated for a client whose past due balances are subject to finance charges, Tabs3 Billing examines the statement date for each of the client’s past due statements, and compares each to the current statement date. A finance charge is then calculated for each of the past due statements, and these amounts are added together to determine the total amount of finance charges to be billed on the current statement.
Knowledge Base Article R10850, “All About Finance Charges,” provides a flowchart that breaks down exactly how finance charges work along with examples, and includes frequently asked questions and a finance charge worksheet.
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.”
If your firm creates the same documents for clients on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis, it can be a struggle to constantly rewrite and maintain your documents effectively. By using variables to automatically pull information into your commonly used documents, you can save time without the hassle of duplicate entry.
The Intro to Coding Document Assembly Templates video walks you through the basics of creating new templates and coding documents to your specifications. Learn how to insert variables, create logic statements, and automate functions like creating a fee based on the completion of a document.
Watch this five-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.”
When your firm prints the same set of reports every year, quarter, month, week, or semi-regularly, report suites offer a one-step option to print out a predefined set of reports using the report definitions you have set up. Creating report definitions in Tabs3 Billing for each of the reports your firm runs can help save time, and taking advantage of report suites can save even more. Knowledge Base Article R11908, “Setting Up and Running Report Suites,” provides the steps needed to create a report definition, a report suite, and to run a report suite.
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.”
Looking for a quick way to apply a discount to your client’s bill? Including a Courtesy Discount in your statements may be the solution you are looking for!
In the Using Courtesy Discounts video, see how easy it is to apply discounts to your clients based on a specified percentage or amount. Additionally, you can view how the discount will appear on your statements and how to customize the terminology and placement based on your needs.
Watch this two-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.”
Did you know that you can access guides and report packs for all of the versions we currently support? Knowledge Base Article R11902, “Documentation Resources,” contains links to Guides, Report Packs, and other sources of information for the current and previous versions of Tabs3 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.”
From taking notes about an upcoming meeting, to storing emails, to recording details about a phone conversation, PracticeMaster Journal records are essential for managing your clients and contacts on a daily basis.
The Working with the Journal File video walks you through the process of accessing and creating new records from the Journal File, Matter Manager, Client File and more! Since each type of Journal record is optimized to fit your needs, records like phone tasks or timers can easily be converted to billable time with one click. Additionally, using Tabs3 Connect, you can access your journal information on the go!
Watch this four-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.”
Want to make sure you are in the know about everything related to the Version 2022 Release?
Knowledge Base Article R11885, “Version 2022 Information & Resources,” provides a list of articles that have been added to the Knowledge Base regarding Version 2022. This includes basic articles such as the What’s New List, conversion information, and the introduction to new features. Additionally, you can quickly access detailed articles to learn all about great new features, such as the conversion of contact information and the Microsoft 365 Exchange Connector.
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.”
Being able to easily enter and track write offs is essential. With Tabs3 Billing, you can quickly enter write offs and apply them to a matter’s accounts receivable with just a few clicks!
In the Working with Write Offs video, see how easy it is to write off all or a portion of a client’s accounts receivable from the Statement Manager. When it comes to tracking Write Offs, use the convenient Write Off tab in the Matter Manager or use the Write Off Report to access detailed information about multiple write offs at the same time.
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.”
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 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.”
There are many great features in Tabs3 Platinum, but when you want more information, where do you start? Whether you are looking into Platinum, have just purchased a license, or have had it for a while, we provide many great resources to help you learn more about Platinum.
Knowledge Base Article R11406, “Platinum/SQL Resources,” provides information on accessing the Platinum Product Page, Platinum SQL white paper, Platinum Server Guide, and Platinum Help topics. Additionally, a list of more than 30 Knowledge Base Articles are grouped by general information, Platinum feature information, technical and troubleshooting information, and Platinum SQL information.
If you have any questions regarding Platinum features, contact your local consultant, or contact Technical Support at (402) 419-2210.
Tax season is here again and Tabs3 Software is ready to help you quickly file your Forms 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC.
The Working with 1099s video covers how to verify which vendors and payees need to report 1099 information, how to generate 1099s, and provides solutions for filing your 1099s. Since Tabs3 Software has partnered with Nelco to provide Tabs3 E-file, you can easily E-file your Forms 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, and 1096.
Watch this four-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.”
When you have a question or need technical support for the Tabs3 Software, do you know the best way to contact us?
Knowledge Base Article R11198, “Contacting Tabs3 Software,” provides our hours of operation, technical support contact information, how to find a local consultant, our mailing address, and where to send product improvement suggestions. In addition, a checklist of helpful steps to complete prior to contacting technical support is provided.
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.”
Some tasks, such as running a Data File Integrity Check or rebuilding search indexes, can be set to automatically run when the application is opened by using a startup option. This, coupled with Windows Task Scheduler, provides a way to run tasks that can take a while to run after hours when no one is working. Knowledge Base Article R11034, “Automating Tabs3 Software Maintenance Tasks,” provides information on setting up an Access Profile to use for automated tasks, an introduction to startup options, creating a desktop icon for maintenance tasks, and how to use Windows Task Scheduler for total automation.
One important task that can take a while to run is rebuilding the search indexes in PracticeMaster. Typically, it is not necessary to rebuild the search indexes until you receive a message that your intermediate conflict of interest files are getting too large. However, in certain circumstances, the Linked Documents should be rebuilt on a regular basis. This is because even if the Index Properties are set to Automatic, changes to linked documents may not be immediately searchable if changes are made to the document when PracticeMaster is closed. For more information, check out Knowledge Base Article R11659, “Rebuilding the PracticeMaster Search Index Files.” This article provides instructions on rebuilding PracticeMaster Search Indexes from within PracticeMaster as well as via a startup option.
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.
The Tabs3 Pre-Release program provides exclusive access to the very latest features in the software – before others get it. Being a part of pre-release gives you an opportunity to provide feedback on your software experiences and help improve our billing, practice management, and accounting software. Although you are helping test out new features, our pre-release software is close to release status. To see what features are currently in pre-release, and to sign up, check out Knowledge Base Article R11842, “Tabs3 Pre-Release Program.”
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.
Need to reverse a client’s payment or refund an unapplied overpayment? Tabs3 Billing has the tools you need to easily adjust payments and record the adjustment, all from one place!
The Working with Payment Adjustments video demonstrates how you can quickly locate a payment using the Matter Manager, access detailed information about the payment, and perform an adjustment in just a few easy steps. When integrated with Tabs3 Financials, you can specify how you want to handle creating journal entries and printing a check for the refund or reversal, which can save you time and reduce duplicate entry.
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.
Increasingly, insurance companies and other organizations are requiring that firms submit their bills electronically using specific formats. Tabs3 Taskbill software allows you to convert your updated statements into electronic bills that meet these requirements. There are multiple formats used for electronic bills, ranging from standardized formats used by multiple companies to formats specific to a single company. The amount of configuration required depends on the format you are using.
In Knowledge Base Article R11737, “Configuring and Using Taskbill,” you can select the Taskbill format instructions you want to view from either a list of known organizations, or by the name of the format. Once a format is selected, tailored step-by-step instructions with screenshots are displayed that walk you through configuring the format in both Taskbill and Tabs3 Billing, entering time in Tabs3 Billing, and exporting statements from Taskbill using the selected format.
For those of you who are not familiar with Taskbill, you can read more about it in R10435, “Tabs3 Taskbill Product Information.” If you submit bills electronically, but don’t have Taskbill, take a look at what we can do for you!
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.
You’ve probably heard that WorkFlows are a powerful tool, but what exactly are WorkFlows and how are they set up? WorkFlows provide the ability for users to initiate predefined actions to occur based on creation, changes, or deletions of other records. WorkFlows provide streamlining of common tasks by automatically starting another task related to the previous creation or change. For example, you can create a WorkFlow that automatically begins an email to a colleague when a new journal record is added for their client, that automatically begins Word Document Assembly to create a welcome letter when a new client is added, that automatically sends an eNote when a record is deleted, and more!
Knowledge Base Article R11307, “All About WorkFlows,” provides an overview of WorkFlows, examples that break down how WorkFlows are set up, best practices, technical information, and frequently asked questions about WorkFlows.
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 organizing your clients, transactions, statements, and more, the Quick Clicks pane in Tabs3 Billing and PracticeMaster provides an easy way to navigate and customize how you interact with records.
The Using Quick Clicks video demonstrates how to utilize filters, QuickViews, and column layouts, which means that you can save time by arranging information in a way that is relevant to you. The Quick Clicks pane is available on all lists and in the Matter Manager.
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.
Are you interested in creating PracticeMaster reports using the Report Writer, but not sure where to start? Take a look at Knowledge Base Article R11446, “Working with PracticeMaster Report Writer!”
This article walks you through the process of creating a Report Writer report, including planning the report, creating a basic report using the Report Wizard, editing the report using the Report Writer Editor, and optimizing your report. A list of common situations is also provided to help fine tune your report, as well as some troubleshooting scenarios.
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.
Did you know that you can customize the email templates used to email statements from Tabs3 Billing? Not only can you customize your own email templates, but we also provide four sample templates to help you get started.
Knowledge Base Article R11782, “Using and Customizing Sample Email Templates,” includes the contents of the email templates provided with Tabs3 Billing Sample Data, explains how you can make minor modifications so that they can be used to email your firm’s client billing statements, and provides troubleshooting information.
If you’re not already familiar with the Email Statements feature, take a look at KB Article R11338, “Emailing Tabs3 Statements.” Email Statements also allows you to include a link for your clients to pay online. See KB Article R11767,”Using the Tabs3 Payment Link,” for more information.
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.
Did you know that you can automate certain tasks in PracticeMaster, such as generating a document when a new client is saved or adding a fee when a calendar record is updated? Using WorkFlows, you can streamline your day by automatically starting designated tasks based on the creation, changes, or deletions of other records.
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.
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.
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.
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.
As a legal professional, it’s important to be able to track and utilize statements for your clients. Using the Tabs3 Statement Manager, accessing your updated statements has never been easier!
The Statement Manager allows you to easily review all of your updated statements, with one-button access to perform necessary actions, such as making a payment, adding a write-off, or reprinting a statement for a client.
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.
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.
The IRS changed several requirements for 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC submissions for tax year 2020. Stay up-to-date on how these changes affect Tabs3 Software!
Knowledge Base Article R11856, “IRS 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC Changes for Tax Year 2020,” provides a brief overview of upcoming changes to IRS Forms 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC tax filing, as well as recommendations to help your firm prepare.
As a result of these IRS form changes, we will be making future changes to Tabs3 Trust Accounting and Tabs3 Accounts Payable in an upcoming release. Once these changes have been implemented, this Knowledge Base Article will be updated with more information.
We are also offering two webinars to learn more about 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC form changes. You can sign up for the following dates at https://register.gotowebinar.com/rt/8704973605526448655:
- Tuesday, December 8 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm CST
- Thursday, January 7 from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm CST
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, we increased the sizes of various fields in the file structure. Your firm may be affected by these changes if you use ODBC reports or SQL queries to access the Tabs3 data.
Knowledge Base Article R11855, “Field Length Changes,” provides a list of changes sorted by application. You can quickly compare the Version 2020 field length to the Version 19 field length.
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 creating documents for your clients, manually entering all of the necessary information can be tedious. That’s where PracticeMaster’s Word Document Assembly feature can help!
PracticeMaster allows you to quickly and easily assemble individualized documents in Microsoft Word using templates to fit your firm’s needs.
Watch this two-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.
Have you ever needed to look back at a copy of a receipt paid in Accounts Payable? Using the Invoice Attachment feature makes it easy to do just that!
Starting in Version 2020, Tabs3 Accounts Payable Software provides the ability to link an electronic copy of a statement or receipt to an invoice, manual check, or EFT transaction.
Watch this one-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.
From installing and keeping the software up-to-date to setting up new workstations and user rights, we put all of our resources to help you install and update the software in one place.
Knowledge Base Article R11215, “Installation Articles,” provides a list of resources for installing, converting, and troubleshooting the software. Included are resources for where the software is installed, what you need to know about the local install, 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.
If your firm works with multiple areas of law, it can be difficult to organize your client’s information for each type of case. That’s why using customizable Area of Practice pages can work for you!
Using PracticeMaster’s Area of Practice feature, you can store and organize matter information unique to a specific area of law, making it easy to locate and track the details that matter to you most.
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.
Accepting and managing credit card and eCheck payments from your clients has never been easier!
Starting in Version 2020, Tabs3 Billing and Trust Accounting Software (TAS) supports integration with LawPay, making the process of entering payments, client funds deposits, and trust deposits both easy and secure.
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.
There are times when working from home is the best, or only, option to get the work done that is needed. However, determining how to accomplish everyday office tasks from home can be daunting for any of the roles in an active firm.
Knowledge Base Article R11851, “Work From Home Resources,” provides a list of common scenarios, broken down by office position, and how to handle them when working away from the office.
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 reviewing statements in a paperless environment, it can be difficult to know where to start. The Reviewing Pre-Bills Digitally video walks you through generating your pre-bills to PDF, allowing your attorneys to review them digitally and move toward a paperless process.
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.
Occasionally, it is necessary to generate a list of clients’ email addresses. This can be especially handy for mass mailings utilizing third-party communication systems.
Knowledge Base Article R11845, “Exporting Email Addresses from Tabs3 Software,” discusses options for creating a list of clients’ emails using Tabs3 or PracticeMaster. Typically these lists are exported to a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet or comma separated values file (.CSV). From there, you can use these lists to import your contacts into a Mail Merge in Microsoft Word or to a bulk email service such as MailChimp or Constant Contact.
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.
If you are new to Accounts Payable, or haven’t added a vendor in a while, it can be helpful to have a refresher on what options and fields are available.
The Adding a Vendor video walks you through adding a vendor that you will pay on a regular basis, shows you how to work with Miscellaneous vendors, and includes helpful tips for choosing the right 1099 options.
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 many ways in which you can filter your data in order to make it easier to find what you need?
If you aren’t already filtering, you may not know where to begin. Knowledge Base Article R11645, “Resources for Filtering Data,” provides a list of articles for both beginners and advanced users – everything you need to start filtering, create advanced filters, or to troubleshoot unexpected results.
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.
Want to make sure you are in the know about everything related to the Version 2020 Release?
Knowledge Base Article R11814, “Version 2020 Information and Resources,” provides a list of articles that have been added to the Knowledge Base regarding Version 2020. This includes basic articles such as the What’s New List, conversion information, and the introduction to new features. Additionally, you can quickly access detailed articles to learn all about great new features, such as LawPay and Positive Pay.
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.
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.
Did you know that you can add your letterhead to statements via the Tabs3 Billing software? If you have an image file of your firm’s letterhead, Statement Designer can insert .png, .jpg, and .bmp files into the header and/or footer of a statement page layout. Alternatively, you can add a .bmp image via Print Setup. These options mean that statements can be printed with your firm’s letterhead on any paper.
Knowledge Base Article R11829, “Adding a Letterhead Image to Tabs3 Billing Statements,” provides information about adding a header image to your Tabs3 Billing statements via Statement Designer or Print Setup.
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 a timekeeper’s rate changes, it can be tricky to make sure that all fees are entered correctly before and after the change. Tabs3 takes the stress out by providing the ability to change rates automatically based on the date of the fee.
The Effective Date of New Rates field in the Timekeeper file can be used to automatically switch to a new rate as of a specific date. Fees dated prior to the specified date will use the previous rate, whereas fees dated on or after the specified date will use the new rate. The How Can I Change the Rate for Future Billing video walks you through this process and provides an example of how it works.
Watch this two-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.
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.
If you don’t add to or change your firm’s information on a regular basis, it can be helpful to have a refresher on what fields are available. The Firm Information video shows you where to access your firm’s contact information in System Configuration and provides examples of how certain fields can affect your reports, statements, and 1099s.
Watch this two-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.
PracticeMaster provides integration with Microsoft® Outlook®, which is the standard for office email. Calendar and contacts can be synchronized between PracticeMaster and Outlook. Using the Outlook Toolbar Plug-in provides the ability to create PracticeMaster calendar records, fees, and journal entries for any email in Outlook.
So where can you get more information on these great features? Knowledge Base Article R11482, “Resources for Integrating PracticeMaster with Outlook,” provides a list of articles regarding the integration.
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 getting the most out of reports? There are several report features that can help optimize your results.
The Working with Reports video not only shows you how to access reports, but also walks you through running a Transaction File List. You’ll learn about options and settings that are common with all reports, how to filter reports so you only see what you need to see, print options, report preview benefits, and resources for finding the right report to meet your needs.
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.
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!
Updating the software is as easy as one-two-three! Although each new version release includes several new features or improvements, we also include additional enhancements throughout the release cycle by posting interim release updates. Unlike the full version updates (e.g., Version 18 to Version 19), which require an increased time investment due to the data conversion, these interim updates are designed to be quick and easy to install with minimal or no down time for your office.
Most updates do not require you to run DFICs or back up the software.
Knowledge Base Article R11804, “Keeping Tabs3 Software Up To Date,” walks you through checking for updates, downloading an update, and installing an update. Make sure you’re up to date and not missing out on features you might use!
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.
There are many shortcuts that can be used to help make entering data quicker, easier, and more convenient! In Tabs3 software, we include standard keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+N to make a new record or Ctrl+S to save a record, as well as program specific commands such as Alt+Home to open the Home page or Ctrl+Q to open the Quick Launch. However, we also have amount calculation shortcuts, date shortcuts, text macros, description field specific shortcuts, a date/time stamp keystroke, and field action buttons.
The Tabs3 Billing Data Entry Shortcuts video shows you these shortcuts in action, providing examples of how to use them and where they can come in handy.
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.
The Help | About window has more than just the serial number, software version, and copyright date. There’s also in-depth information about the program, workstation, and the network – and in Version 19, you can now quickly access the Current Working Directory by clicking the Open CWD button!
Although you don’t typically need to access the Help | About window very often, there is a wealth of information available such as the following:
- Serial Number and Version
- User ID logged in and whether they have Manager Rights
- Current Working Directory and Program Directory
- Platinum information
- Program specific information such as Active User Limit, integration settings, and restrictions
- Technical information about the workstation including disk space, memory, and processor
Knowledge Base Article R11758, “Information in the Help | About Window,” provides a list of information that can be found in the Help | About window broken down by section and program.
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 you don’t add users on a regular basis, it can be nice to have a quick refresher on the available settings. The User Configuration video walks you through adding a new user and includes brief information on credentials, contact information, Access Profiles, and other configuration options.
Watch this two-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 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.
If you haven’t tried out Platinum yet because you haven’t had time to read up on the features, then this video’s for you!
The Platinum Overview video goes over the core features that make Platinum great, including the following:
- Tabs3 Connect – Enter fees on the go; access your calendar and contacts away from the office; and access the Matter Manager to view a client’s billing summary, documents, and more.
- HotBackup – Schedule HotBackups and set up notifications for when HotBackups are successful and/or have failed. HotBackups can be run while others are working in the software.
- Recovery – If the software crashes, the software “rolls back” the data for key features so that you don’t have to restore from a backup.
- Accelerators – Reports and filters are sped up to 30x faster than on non-Platinum versions of the software.
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.
Making sure your data is secure is top priority. To help you with this, we have a resource that has everything you need in one place. Knowledge Base Article R11717, “Security Resources,” provides a list of articles related to security broken down into the following categories:
- Tabs3, PracticeMaster, and Financial Software
- Platinum
- Email and Antivirus
- Microsoft
- Other Documentation
In this article, you can find links to information regarding user rights in the Tabs3 software, maintaining ethical walls in the software, using Platinum data encryption, emailing Tabs3 statements, Windows security warnings, and much 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.
Do you want to get paid faster? Get paid quickly and securely by providing an online payment option to your clients!
In Version 19 we added the ability to include a ProPay payment link in your email statements. This provides a secure way for your clients to pay with a credit card when they check their email and see they owe your firm money. Once a payment is made online, import the payment into Tabs3 Billing, and you’re done!
The Getting Paid Using Online Payments video shows you an email statement template that includes a ProPay link, the ProPay payment portal, and then shows you how to import payments made via ProPay links into Tabs3. It’s never been easier to get paid!
Watch this two-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.
Have you customized the My Actions page on the Home tab yet? My Actions can be customized to only show the features you use the most, providing quick access to everything you use on a regular basis. If you’re not yet familiar with using or customizing My Actions, let us show you how easy it is!
The Using and Customizing My Actions video walks you through the following:
- Accessing My Actions
- Adding and removing features
- Adding, removing, and editing groups
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.
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.
We redesigned the Recap of Hours for Version 19, and included it on the new PracticeMaster Dashboard. Want to see how you can take advantage of this great feature?
The Recap of Hours can be displayed three different ways, and shows both billable and non-billable time, with the option of including unprocessed timer records in PracticeMaster. Check out the Recap of Hours video as it walks you through the new look, new features, and customization options.
Watch this two-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 if you use ProPay to process credit cards in Tabs3, you can now send a link to your clients so they can make a payment without you needing to get their credit card information? Once the payment is made by your client, you can then import those payment records into Tabs3 Billing.
This works by configuring your Email Statement template to automatically generate a personalized link to the ProPay website. The link can be used by your clients to pay their bills directly via credit/debit card or electronic check. Those payments can then be imported into Tabs3 using the new Import Online Payments feature.
Note: Each time an email is generated via the Email Statements program, a new and unique link is also generated specific to that client.
Knowledge Base Article R11767, “Using the Tabs3 Payment Link,” provides more information on how the Tabs3 Payment Link and Import Online Payments features work. Check out this article to learn how to modify your email template, process and email your statements, import online payments, and read frequently asked questions.
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 create separate tab groups in the Tabs3 software? Tab groups provide the ability to show two or more Tabs3 windows at the same time. This is especially handy when it’s necessary to compare data.
The Tabbed Mode Splitscreen training video shows you how to turn on the Tabbed Interface and then walks you through creating new horizontal and vertical tab groups by dragging and dropping tabs or via the Windows menu. You’ll also learn how you can move tabs between tab groups or reorder tabs within the same group.
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.
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.
Do you struggle with keeping track of where all of your pre-bills are at in the review process? Pre-Bill tracking makes it easy to track the progress of your billing cycle.
The Pre-Bill Tracking video provides an overview of how pre-bill tracking works in Tabs3 and how it can save you time. This video starts with how pre-bills are created via draft statements or work-in-process reports and then explains the Pre-Bill Tracking program. Each setting is explained as you are walked through the billing process.
Pre-Bill Tracking is a powerful productivity tool that lets you easily manage your firm’s billing workflow. It helps eliminate the problem of statements not being run for clients because the pre-bills were not returned.
Watch this six-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
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.
Working with a lot of data can be time consuming. However, PracticeMaster makes it easy by allowing you to restrict the records shown based on criteria you specify using filters. This powerful feature allows you to deal with just those records that apply to your situation.
The Filtering Overview video demonstrates how to select and clear filters via Quick Clicks on the List tab of data entry windows, how to select and clear filters in the Graphical Calendar, using the Search box, creating a simple filter, and how to rearrange filters in the Quick Clicks pane.
Watch this three-and-a-half minute video here:
Taking advantage of PracticeMaster filters will greatly enhance your ability to quickly and easily find exactly what you need.
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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Did you know that you can easily access several resources, besides Help files, from the Help menu in the software?
From the Help | Internet Resources menu, you can select the following:
- Web Site – Access the Tabs3 website and find basic information about our products and the various support options, learn more about our company, find a consultant, and get pricing.
- Knowledge Base – Access over 700 articles that provide feature overviews, best practices, “how to” articles, frequently asked questions, troubleshooting information, and more.
- User Newsletter – Access our User Newsletter, which you are reading right now!
- Slide Show Demos – Enter your contact information to attend a live demo of the software, or receive a recording of a past demo.
- Register Software – When you first purchase a license for the software, make sure to register the software. Registering your software ensures that we can contact you when there are software updates and new version available.
- Submit Log Files – Enter an Incident ID provided by Technical Support in order to send us log file information to help better troubleshoot certain situations.
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 easily produce graphs for several Tabs3 reports? Graphs provide a visual element and can be a great way to present information.
Graphs can be printed for the Timekeeper Productivity Report, Category Productivity Report, Timekeeper Profitability Report, and Productivity Report by Category for each Timekeeper. Twelve types of graphs can be printed, including bar graphs, pie charts, and line plots.
The About Graphs training video walks you through printing a graph, how to switch graph types in the Preview window, and explains each field on the Graphs tab of reports.
Take a look and see how graphs can improve your reports and presentation!
Watch this three-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Security in a law firm is a top priority. In addition to many other security features, Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software provides the ability to limit a user’s access to specific timekeepers’ transactions via the Assign Tabs3/PracticeMaster Timekeepers function. Users who are assigned to timekeepers can only view transactions that have their assigned timekeepers specified as the working timekeeper. Additionally, certain reports will filter their results based on assigned timekeepers.
To assign timekeepers via System Configuration
- From the File menu, point to Open and select Users.
- Select the User ID.
- Select the Assign Tabs3/PracticeMaster Timekeepers check box.
- Select the timekeepers to assign for the selected user.
- Press Ctrl+S.
For information on how this setting affects the Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software, Knowledge Base Article R11328, “Assigning Tabs3/PracticeMaster Timekeepers,” explains how assigning timekeepers works, provides a list of reports and tasks that are affected by this setting, and explains exactly how they will be affected.
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.
Determining conflicts in a firm is important. PracticeMaster helps make it easy.
PracticeMaster’s Conflict Search is a powerful tool that can be used to find all occurrences of specified text to help determine if any conflicts are present. Fully indexed files are used, providing lightning-fast search times.
The Conflict of Interest Search video provides information on how to access the Conflict of Interest, examples of a simple search as well as a more complex search, and shows the benefits of the drill-down feature in the Preview window.
By allowing you to search all of your records in seconds and helping you maximize your productivity, the Conflict of Interest Search is one of the ways in which PracticeMaster saves you time. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of this great feature.
Watch this three-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Do you use Taskbill to send electronic bills? You may have noticed that while many companies accept the LEDES 1998B format, they often require specific modifications in order to accept your bills. Over the years, numerous LEDES 1998B subformats have been created for Tabs3 to help firms get their eBills formatted correctly, but it is often difficult to determine which subformat is needed for a particular situation.
To help firms find the correct LEDES 1998B subformat for their situation, we are pleased to announce Knowledge Base Article R11769, “LEDES 1998B Subformat Information for Taskbill.” This article provides detailed information on the LEDES 1998B format, the fields it contains, and how those fields are modified by the numerous subformats.
For those of you who are not familiar with Taskbill, you can read more about it in R10435, “Tabs3 Taskbill Product Information.” If you submit bills electronically, but don’t have Taskbill, take a look at what Taskbill can do for you!
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.
Work-in-process reports can provide valuable insight into what can be billed to a client, as well as what will be owed once billed. These Reports provide detailed information about work-in-process transactions, along with client-related information.
The Detail Work-In-Process Report is one of the most customizable reports in Tabs3. You can set it up to include only the transaction details that you need to see, and you can even control which columns print on the report. The Detail Work-In-Process Report provides access to all of the unbilled transactions for your clients and can be used as a pre-bill to assist with billing decisions prior to generating final statements.
The Summary Work-In-Process Report provides a quick summary of clients’ status for reviewing previous balance and payment/credit information in addition to how much each client would owe if all work-in-process were billed today.
The Detail and Summary Work-In-Process Reports video walks you through the different options for each report, and shows you an example of what each report looks like. Information on the generated reports is also provided.
Watch this nine-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
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.
If you’re not already using client funds, you may be wondering how to set it up and start using it.
The Client Funds feature in Tabs3 can be used to maintain a separate accounting of client funds for non-refundable retainers. These funds are kept separate from the client’s accounts receivable balance and are typically deposited in the firm’s general account.
Before entering client funds transactions, you must first set up the client. Once the client is set up, you can use the Client Funds file to enter client funds transactions. Deposits, withdrawals, and payments to the firm can be made to the client funds account.
The Using Client Funds video walks you through setting up a client for client funds, including more information on each of the setup options. This video will also walk you through entering a Deposit and a Payment to Firm, explaining how each field affects how the transaction is handled.
Watch this eight-minute video here:
Note: Other funds such as trust funds, escrow funds, refundable retainers, etc., can be entered as Client Funds, but using a trust account system (such as Tabs3 Trust Accounting Software) is recommended to better comply with state bar recommendations.
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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
A majority of errors and problems that firms encounter result from a failure in their network software or hardware. So how can you tell if it’s a network error, and how do you stop these errors from occurring?
Fatal errors reported by the software can be shown with either three or four segments. For example, you may receive an error 1020-1-53 (three segments) or a 1400-0-36-64 (four segments). We can tell what most network errors are by looking at the last segment of the error. Network connectivity problems are typically reported with a last segment of 6, 53, 55, 59, 64, 121, 1231, or 10054. However, other errors can also signify an issue with the network connection. The examples used above are network connectivity errors because the last segments are 53 and 64.
There are many things to look at when diagnosing where a network problem resides. Since many network problems are intermittent, occur only under heavy workload, and may not be reproducible on demand, it can be difficult to determine and diagnose the problem. Any communication problems with the file server can cause errors.
Knowledge Base Article R10184, “Network Troubleshooting Guide,” provides ideas and tools to help you and your IT professional troubleshoot network issues. This article includes information on understanding errors, identifying the scope of the issue, and network troubleshooting suggestions.
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.
Do you manually add every calendar record individually for events that repeat on a regular basis? Save time by using PracticeMaster’s Recurring Dates feature!
PracticeMaster’s Recurring Dates feature allows you to quickly add multiple calendar records with the same information for different dates. This feature is quite useful for creating dates for repetitive tasks such as client review, filing deadlines, etc. You can even link a series of dates, making it easy to change or delete all records in the same series.
The Recurring Dates video walks you through adding calendar records for a meeting with a monthly recurring date. For this scenario, the video shows you how to create records on the third Thursday of every month for the next two years. The video then shows you how easy it is to change the date for all of the newly created meeting records to the third Friday of every month, instead.
Using PracticeMaster’s Recurring Dates feature makes it easy to create multiple linked calendar entries for a task or event that occurs on a regular basis.
Watch this three-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Is it time to review billing rates? The Client Rate Report allows you to print a list of clients, along with their default billing rates. Additionally, fee and cost rate tables, timekeeper level rates, and the client’s billing rate code can be included. This report is especially useful when reviewing rates or if you need to change the hourly rate for one or more timekeepers.
The Client Rate Report training video walks you through running the report, and then reviews the generated report.
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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
We are pleased to inform you that we now provide e-mail support to firms with a current maintenance plan! If you have a question for support, but prefer to reach us by e-mail, send us your questions.
To request e-mail support
- Go to Tabs3.com/support in your browser (e.g., Firefox, Edge, Internet Explorer, etc.).
- Click the Submit Support Inquiry button.
- In the e-mail window that is opened, enter the requested information (your name, firm name, the software product and serial number you are requesting support for, and your question) and then click Send.
An auto response will be sent to you confirming that we received your request. Our goal is to reply to e-mails within one business day. However, please keep in mind that time-sensitive inquiries or complex issues should be handled by phone.
Do you need a report that shows one or more clients’ billing histories, as well as a way to track the client’s balances due? Look no further than the Client Ledger Report!
The Client Ledger Report shows the amount of payments, fees, expenses, and advances. You can optionally include finance charge, fee sales tax, expense sales tax, advance sales tax, the balance due for each statement, and more. Detailed billed information that shows amounts billed by timekeeper and Cost Type can also be included on the detail reports.
Check out the Client Ledger training video to see how the options in this report can be used to maximize output, as well as see what the end result looks like.
Watch this four-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
PracticeMaster’s Report Writer is a powerful report creation utility, which allows you to pull information from any record in PracticeMaster and format the output as needed. This allows you to create virtually any report you need out of the system.
The Custom Report Writer training video walks you through creating a Client List that sorts clients by the city where the client is located. Additionally, this video will take a brief look at some of the other Report Writer options including report creation using the Report Writer Editor.
Watch this six-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
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.
During a typical monthly billing cycle, many steps are performed that lead to the production of statements. Once statements have been produced in their final form and sent to clients, do you follow the recommended steps to close the month in Tabs3?
It is important to follow Month-End procedures in order to make sure that statements are archived, you have the desired reports printed, data is error-free, and you have a solid internal backup. The Month-End Procedures video provides more information on performing these recommended tasks after statements have been run.
Watch this four-and-a-half-minute video here:
For information on Year-End Procedures, refer to Knowledge Base Article R10429, “Year-End Overviews for Tabs3 Software Products.”
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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
It’s common to want to compare report information, but not all reports in Tabs3 can be compared. A field on one report may be calculated one way, while on another report it is calculated another way. For example, on one report payments may be calculated based on transaction date, while on another report they are calculated by allocation date. So how do you know which reports can be compared?
Knowledge Base Article R11161, “Comparing Tabs3 Report Information,” provides guidelines for comparing the information provided on certain Tabs3 reports to the information on other related reports. Additionally, information about billing figures, archive data, and reports that cannot be directly compared is provided.
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 convert calendar, e-mail, note, phone, research, timer, and document records into fees? This allows you to easily bill your client for the time spent on their matter.
The Converting Records to Billable Fees video shows you how to convert records to fees via the Matter Manager, Calendar and Journal file, and the Process Timer Records utility. Additionally, this video walks you through the Convert to Fee Settings, which allow you to specify default settings to be used (e.g., Tcode, Minimum Time to Bill, etc.) for each type of record.
Watch this eight-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Matter mode is a special status for the address on the Address tab of the Client file that allows the address to be used for that matter only and not be shared by other matters for the same client. But what does this mean, and when should you use Matter Mode?
The Understanding Matter Mode video explains when Matter Mode is used, what the drawbacks of using Matter Mode are, and how to determine which clients are currently in Matter Mode.
Watch this one-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Most offices have standard hourly billing rates that they charge clients. Of course, there are also those clients whose rates differ from the standard rates, but what options are there for customizing rates?
The How Rates Work video discusses customizing client rates via the Rates tab in the Client file. The Rate Tables, Timekeeper Level, and Billing Rate Code options are discussed. Additionally, this video provides a recap of how Tabs3 determines the default hourly billing rate that will be used when adding a fee.
Watch this seven-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Have you customized PracticeMaster files to show the fields you want to see in the order you want to see them? The ability to add fields to any file in PracticeMaster and then organize them as desired is one of PracticeMaster’s most powerful customization features. Want to know how you can customize your files? Take a look at the Adding New Fields to Files & Form Designer video! This video walks you through adding fields to PracticeMaster via File Maintenance, and then making them visible via Form Designer.
Watch this two-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
You run an Accounts Receivable Report only to see clients or figures you weren’t expecting. Other reports, such as a Client Ledger Report, may show a client owes you a different amount or nothing at all, but Accounts Receivable tells a different story. Why is this, and how can you fix the issue?
When payments and credits are misapplied, Accounts Receivable reports can show unapplied payments, negative due values, or both. But what are misapplied payments and credits?
- Misapplied payments are payments that have been entered but were unable to apply. Most often this occurs when a payment is entered specifically as a fee payment and there are either no fees or not enough fees for the payment to apply to, or the payment is entered as an expense/advance payment and there are no expenses/advances or not enough expenses/advances for the payment to apply to.
- Misapplied credits occur when a credit is entered and there is nothing to apply the credit toward. Credit transactions only apply toward fees or costs for which payments have not yet been applied. Once a payment has applied toward a transaction that has been final billed and updated, credits entered after that can only apply when a new transaction of the same type as the credit is entered.
To determine whether unexpected figures in Accounts Receivable Reports are caused by misapplied payments, credits, or both, visit Knowledge Base Article R11673, “Fixing Misapplied Payments and Credits.” This article provides information on determining the cause and how to fix both issues.
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.
You may be using the default statements that came with the software, but did you know that there are many ways to customize statements? The Customizing Statements video provides an overview of the Statement Customization, Statement Designer, and Statement Templates programs.
When the video starts, you have the option of watching the video from beginning to end or jumping straight to one of the following three segments:
- Statement Customization – This five-and-a-half-minute segment provides information on the Statement Customization program. The information in this video pertains to statement terminology, headings, cover statements, and more.
- Creating Statement Designer Layouts – This three-minute segment provides information on the Statement Designer program. The information in this video pertains to creating, enabling, and assigning Statement Designer Layouts.
- Using Statement Templates – This ten-minute segment provides information on the Statement Templates program. The information in this video pertains to accessing and defining Statement Templates.
To learn more about how you can customize your client statements, watch this 19-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
You just accepted a client who requires that you start using Task Codes. What needs to be set up, and how does Task Based Billing work? Throw in Taskbill, which may be required if a third party will process the bills, and you may not know where to begin or how it all fits together.
The Task Based Billing and Taskbill Training Video walks you through setting up a client for Task Based Billing, setting up Task Budgets, entering fees and costs, and an example of what a statement may look like. Additionally, this video walks you through the process of using Taskbill, including configuration and exporting.
Get a jump start on Task Based Billing. Watch this 10-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
If you use PracticeMaster, do you use Quick Clicks? The Quick Clicks pane contains groups of links that allow you to customize your view, and provides access to many other features. The Quick Clicks pane can be pinned for immediate access to its features or hidden to maximize workspace. The Using Quick Clicks video covers all of the available options in this great feature!
Watch this five-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
When you have multiple active matters, combining matters creates a single statement file. Including a cover statement makes it easy for a client to see what they owe for each matter at a glance.
These options can be quite beneficial, but if you’ve run into a snag you may not know where to look for answers. You can always call Technical Support at (402) 419-2210, but if it’s after hours or you want to quickly look up an answer, check out Knowledge Base Article R11501, “Troubleshooting Combine Matters and Cover Statements in Tabs3.” This article not only provides troubleshooting information, but also provides a list of frequently asked questions.
Whether you have been working with combined matters and/or cover statements for a day or for years, R11501 may provide the necessary information for your current scenario.
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.
Watch this three-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
We recently reached out to local firms and encountered instances where hours were being spent on tasks that could have been accomplished in a matter of minutes. Because there are many features in the software that can streamline your tasks, a quick conversation with Tech Support could save you time! For example, did you know that multiple transactions can be edited at the same time in Tabs3 Billing, or that you can save documents to the Document Management file in PracticeMaster from Word? Tech Support is 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!
We can also show you how to find answers on your own by using the wide variety of written resources available including the Help files, Knowledge Base, and more! Phone support is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Central Time) at (402) 419-2210. And don’t forget! Tech Support is included with your maintenance plan at no additional cost – so give us a call!
Keeping clients secure in a law firm is part of maintaining ethical walls. Some clients may require that only certain users have access to reports and statements for the client. The Working with Secure Clients video walks you through setting up a secure client and explains how to also keep contact information secure by storing it in the client file only.
Watch this 2-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
You might be interested to learn how you can get the most out of PracticeMaster. If you already use PracticeMaster, maybe you want to know how you can make PracticeMaster faster. Or maybe you’ve been wondering how to prevent check fraud or if you should start accepting credit cards.
We offer several webinars that target key information on various features. These webinars are offered free of charge! Some of our webinars are live and allow for questions at the end, but we also provide webinars that are pre-recorded, making it easy for you to watch them at your convenience.
Knowledge Base Article R11726, “Webinars Provided by Tabs3 Software,” provides a list of links to both live and recorded webinars.
Take advantage of these great resources that are of no cost to you!
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.
Do you know who your top clients are? Run the Top Client Report to see how your clients or matters measure up in hours worked, amounts billed, amounts paid, current amount due, and more! The Top Client Report allows you to obtain a report of your top clients or matters in Tabs3, based on your preferred criteria.
Watch this four-and-a-half-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
When adding multiple calendar records, should you use Calendar Plan Templates or Recurring Dates? Both are great ways to create multiple records at once, but each option has distinct differences between them.
For example, Calendar Plan Templates provide the ability to enter custom information on records and are designed to generate a set of records relating to a specific job, court appearance, etc. On the other hand, Recurring Dates create a set of records with the same information with different dates, which is perfect for when you are scheduling repetitive records for meetings or tasks such as a weekly partner’s meeting.
For more information to help determine which option is better for your scenario, visit Knowledge Base Article R10692, “Calendar Plan Templates vs. Recurring Dates.” This article provides a direct comparison between Calendar Plan Templates and Recurring Dates in PracticeMaster in an easy-to-read table.
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.
From time to time, you may need to reduce a client’s outstanding balance, but how can this be accomplished? The Tabs3 Billing Write Off Clients training video walks you through the process of writing off all or part of a client’s balance.
View this three-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 | Documentation and then clicking the See also link for Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Training Videos.
Have you wondered if Tabs3 can run on “The Cloud?” The answer is yes, but there are many different cloud solutions. Which one is right for your firm?
Knowledge Base Article R11722, “Tabs3 Cloud Options,” explains the most common cloud options available, provides easy to understand diagrams, and helps you determine the best cloud solution for your firm’s needs.
The following cloud solutions are discussed:
- Mobile Access
- Remote Access
- Remote Desktop Service/Citrix
- Offsite Hosting
- Cloud Backups
This article provides a great starting point for your firm’s discussion on the various cloud options available.
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.
PracticeMaster is capable of integrating with CalendarRules to create and maintain Calendar Plans using rule sets from CalendarRules.com! CalendarRules offers general civil litigation-related court and agency rule sets for State, Federal, Appellate, and Bankruptcy courts across the United States. Currently, rules are available in all 50 states, with additional courts being added every month.
Knowledge Base Article R11713, “CalendarRules Integration Overview,” provides everything you need to get started: integration requirements, steps for configuring CalendarRules integration, frequently asked questions, and troubleshooting.
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.
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.
When you need to refund or reverse credit card payments, you want to be able to do it with the least amount of hassle. Tabs3 Billing and Trust Accounting Software (TAS) are designed to automatically issue a ProPay refund or reversal when appropriate.
Knowledge Base Article R11708, “Credit Card Refund Best Practices,” provides information on how ProPay handles credit card reversals and provides processes for reversing, refunding, or deleting credit card payments or transactions in Tabs3 Billing and TAS.
Be sure to check out this article so that you are using the recommended methods to refund or reverse ProPay credit card payments.
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 provide many resources for information on Tabs3 and PracticeMaster software which includes white papers. What are white papers? Tabs3 white papers are informative articles used to promote or highlight certain features of Tabs3 software.
Our most popular Tabs3 white papers include:
- The #1 Billing Mistake Attorneys Make
- Top Six Reports We Recommend to Every Attorney
- Windows Explorer is Not Document Management
- How Practice Management Software is Different from Outlook (See also this month’s Product Spotlight!)
- The Four Pillars of Successful Practice Management
These top white papers can be accessed via Knowledge Base Article R11694, “White Paper Resource List.” This article provides access to more than 15 white papers and articles that can be printed or saved.
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.
Many law firms are moving to the subscription-based Microsoft Office 365, which can be conveniently accessed via your computer, the Internet, and smart devices. With Office 365, you never have to worry about paying an additional fee for the newest version – Office 365 is always up to date.
Knowledge Base Article R11520, “Tabs3 and PracticeMaster Integration with Microsoft Office 365,” provides more information on what Office 365 is, including a link to Office 365 information on the Microsoft website; how Office 365 integrates with Tabs3 and PracticeMaster; frequently asked questions; and troubleshooting integration with Office 365.
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 are new to PracticeMaster, or you want a new employee to get a jump-start on learning about PracticeMaster, Quick Guides are a great place to start when there isn’t time to read everything there is to know right now. A Quick Guide is a short guide that highlights the main points of a specific feature. Graphics are included to help illustrate important menu options, tabs, fields, buttons, and more.
Knowledge Base Article R11130, “PracticeMaster Quick Guides,” provides links to each PracticeMaster Quick Guide as well as the number of pages and a brief summary of the guide. The following Quick Guides are currently available:
- Matter Manager
- Contacts
- Calendar
- Fee Entry
- Timer Window
- Quick Clicks Pane
- Journaling
- Outlook Plug-in
- Tabs3 Connect
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.
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.
Do you want to start charging sales tax, but don’t know where to start? Sales tax must first be enabled in Tabs3 Billing Customization. You can then optionally set up specific transaction codes and/or clients to automatically include sales tax when billed. You can also specify sales tax on an individual transaction. So how do you set all of this up? Knowledge Base Article R10952, “Using Sales Tax in Tabs3,” provides steps on setting up Tabs3 Billing to charge sales tax and answers frequently asked questions about the Tabs3 sales tax feature.
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 if you want to change the date and/or time on a calendar entry, you can drag and drop the entry to the desired date/time via the graphical calendar? The ability to drag and drop calendar entries saves you the time of having to open the record and manually change the necessary fields. Knowledge Base Article R11294, “Drag-and-Drop Functionality in PracticeMaster Calendar,” provides information on enabling the ability to drag and drop calendar entries and performing the drag and drop.
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 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.
Trying to create a document management record using the PracticeMaster toolbar and not sure what to expect? The behavior you see when using the PM Save or Capture Save functions depends on the current state of the document you are trying to save and whether PracticeMaster is configured to manage documents manually or automatically.
Knowledge Base Article R11630, “Document Management Quick Reference,” provides a quick reference table that shows you the result of saving a document for each scenario, along with definitions for all of the document states, and screenshots of the various windows listed.
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.
