TurboTax vs H&R Block
By Itai Varochik | Updated 2026
Quick Verdict
Overall Winner: TurboTax (4.5/5)
We tested TurboTax and H&R Block side-by-side. TurboTax comes out ahead overall, but H&R Block may be better for specific use cases.
Score Breakdown
| Criteria | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Features | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Ease of Use | 9.5/10 | 8/10 |
| Value for Money | 6.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Customer Support | 8.5/10 | 9/10 |
| Overall | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Step-by-Step Filing | Yes | No |
| Live Expert | Yes | No |
| Import | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Support | Yes | No |
| Max Refund | Yes | No |
| Online Filing | No | Yes |
| In-Person | No | Yes |
| Tax Pro Review | No | Yes |
| Refund Advance | No | Yes |
Pricing Comparison
TurboTax: Free – $129+
H&R Block: Free – $110+
TurboTax Pros & Cons
Pros
- Most user-friendly tax filing experience
- Excellent step-by-step guidance
- Live expert access (CPA/EA)
- Accurate calculations with guarantee
Cons
- Most expensive tax software option
- Aggressive upsells
- Free tier is very restrictive
H&R Block Pros & Cons
Pros
- 9,000+ retail locations for in-person help
- Free tier for simple returns
- Tax Pro Review adds CPA oversight to DIY filing
- Accuracy and maximum refund guarantees
- 3 years of free audit support
- Import prior year returns from TurboTax
Cons
- Add-on fees increase total cost quickly
- Premium tiers more expensive than FreeTaxUSA
- Interface less polished than TurboTax
- Upselling during filing process
- State filing costs extra ($37+)
Key Specifications
| Spec | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Pricing | Free – $129+ | Free – $110+ |
| Year Founded | 1984 | 1955 |
| Headquarters | San Diego, CA | Kansas City, MO |
| Employees | Part of Intuit (15,000+) | 80,000+ (seasonal) |
| Best For Region | United States | United States |
| State Filing Cost | $49/state | $37/state |
| Live Expert Access | Yes | N/A |
| In-Person Offices | N/A | 12,000+ |
Our Verdict
TurboTax wins overall. Choose TurboTax if you value First-time filers. Choose H&R Block if you prioritize Filers wanting optional in-person help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TurboTax better than H&R Block?
Based on our testing, TurboTax scores higher with a rating of 4.5/5 compared to H&R Block's 4/5. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs.
What is the main difference between TurboTax and H&R Block?
TurboTax is known for: The most popular tax filing software with step-by-step guidance and expert help.. H&R Block is known for: Tax preparation software with the backing of 70+ years and physical office support..
Which is cheaper, TurboTax or H&R Block?
TurboTax pricing: Free – $129+. H&R Block pricing: Free – $110+.
Can I use TurboTax and H&R Block together?
While both tools serve similar purposes in the Tax Software category, some users do use complementary features from both platforms.
What are the pros of TurboTax?
Most user-friendly tax filing experience. Excellent step-by-step guidance. Live expert access (CPA/EA)
What are the pros of H&R Block?
9,000+ retail locations for in-person help. Free tier for simple returns. Tax Pro Review adds CPA oversight to DIY filing
Which tax software should I choose?
Choose TurboTax if you value First-time filers. Choose H&R Block if you prioritize Filers wanting optional in-person help.