How to Build Your Own SmartVault
Replace SmartVault with a custom build. Document Management & Secure File Sharing Software
Build Difficulty: 4/5
A few focused days to build a solid replacement
Estimated Timeline
Based on 61 features at Few Days difficulty, expect about 3-5 days with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
File uploads and CDN-backed object storage
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 61 features
Security & Compliance(13 features)
Track every user interaction for compliance and peace of mind
Automatically lock files after a certain period
Create authoritative, immutable copies of critical documents
Track, secure, and retain documents to meet IRS, SOC 2 Type 2, and FTC compliance
Simplifying compliance for accounting firms with templated WISP documents to ensure compliance with the FTC Safeguard Rule
+8 more in this category
Workflow Efficiency & Automation(12 features)
Ability to archive clients
Standardize folder structures across clients and staff
Client interactions based on industry: Engagements, Projects, Matters, and Loans
Request, track, and receive documents in one workspace
Automated email notifications for document actions
+7 more in this category
Core Document Management(9 features)
Unified location for all documents
Get lightning-fast access to your documents in the cloud with the speed and performance of a desktop app
Cloud-based storage with organized workflows built for accounting firms
Search across all documents with full-text indexing
Mount SmartVault directly to your file system
+4 more in this category
eSignatures & Payments(8 features)
Collect signatures on tax documents, engagement letters, and approvals
Secure signatures via DocuSign, including KBA, with audit-ready workflows
Use structured PDFs for engagement letters and payment authorizations
Pin code authentication for digital signature
Create and reuse templates for forms and documents
+3 more in this category
Tax Prep Workflow(6 features)
Deliver files across multiple clients with just a few clicks
Bulk print organizers and returns
Streamline your end-to-end tax prep workflow with SmartVault's secure, automated solution
SmartRouting reads metadata from your tax software to identify the client, tax year, and document type; saving hours and reducing the risk of filing errors
Snap photos of documents from your phone or tablet, which upload to SmartVault as clean, cropped PDF files
+1 more in this category
Onboarding & Support(5 features)
Send engagement letters, collect documents, and onboard clients seamlessly
Seamless, secure migration from legacy systems with expert support
Self-paced learning to master SmartVault on your schedule
U.S.-based support and success coaching to keep your firm on track
Expert-led training to help your firm get up and running fast
Client Collaboration(3 features)
Branded portal for document sharing, requests, and client collaboration
Upload attachments or entire emails, request files from clients
Pre-built email templates for common communications
Pricing & Proposal Management(3 features)
Seasonal licenses from December 15 - April 30 (extended to Oct 15 for 2025)
Create, manage, approve, and record business proposals, sales documents, or pricing quotes via Quoters
Offer services with clarity and consistency using a customizable pricing model built for accountants
Cost Calculator
Keep Paying SmartVault
Build It Yourself
Total Cost Comparison
DIY hosting estimate based on Vercel + Supabase free/pro tiers (~$20/mo). Build time estimated from 61 features at easy complexity.