H&R Block Review
By Itai Varochik | Last updated January 30, 2026
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Our Verdict
H&R Block is the best tax software for filers who want the safety net of professional help. The ability to start online and walk into a retail location for assistance is unmatched. While not the cheapest option, the accuracy guarantees and hybrid model justify the premium for complex returns.
GetASearch Score: 8.2/10
Rating: 4/5 (1567 reviews)
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+)
Score Breakdown
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Features | 8.0/10 |
| Ease of Use | 8.0/10 |
| Value for Money | 8.5/10 |
| Customer Support | 9.0/10 |
| Overall | 8.2/10 |
What is H&R Block?
H&R Block is America's largest tax preparation company, combining 70+ years of expertise with modern digital filing tools. With 9,000+ retail locations and a robust online platform, H&R Block serves 20+ million clients annually - offering everything from free simple returns to expert-assisted complex filing. The free tier handles W-2 income, unemployment, and retirement income (limited). Deluxe ($55+) adds itemized deductions, HSA, and student loan interest. Premium ($85+) covers self-employment, rental income, and investments. The Self-Employed tier ($115+) handles freelancer deductions, 1099 income, and business expenses. What distinguishes H&R Block from TurboTax is the hybrid model: you can start online and walk into any retail location for in-person help at no extra charge. Tax Pro Review ($35+ add-on) provides a CPA or EA review of your DIY return. The interface guides you through each section with plain-language explanations. H&R Block's accuracy guarantee promises maximum refund or they pay the difference, plus free audit support for 3 years. The mobile app supports photo upload of tax documents and real-time refund tracking. For complex situations involving multiple states, business income, or international filing, the combination of software and professional access is hard to beat.
Integrations: Major brokerages, IRS e-file
In-Person Support: H&R Block's Unique Advantage
No other tax software company has 12,000+ physical offices staffed with trained tax professionals. The 'start online, finish in office' hybrid option bridges the digital-physical gap perfectly.
The Value Proposition
H&R Block's software handles everything TurboTax does at 20-30% lower prices. In our side-by-side testing, both platforms calculated identical refund amounts.
H&R Block Features
| Feature | Available | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Online Filing | Yes | Step-by-step digital filing |
| In-Person | Yes | 12,000+ office locations |
| Tax Pro Review | Yes | Expert reviews your return |
| Import | Yes | Import prior year returns |
| Refund Advance | Yes | Early refund access |
Key Specifications
| Best For Region | United States |
| In-Person Offices | 12,000+ |
| State Filing Cost | $37/state |
H&R Block Pricing
- Free: Simple returns
- Deluxe: $55
- Premium: $85
- Self-Employed: $110
- State: +$37 each
Best For
- Filers wanting optional in-person help
- Self-employed and freelancers
- Multi-state filers
- Those switching from TurboTax
- Complex returns needing professional review
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious filers (FreeTaxUSA is cheaper)
- Simple W-2 returns (free options exist)
- Those who dislike upselling
- Tech-savvy users who prefer streamlined UI
Final Verdict
H&R Block is the best tax software for filers who want the safety net of professional help. The ability to start online and walk into a retail location for assistance is unmatched. While not the cheapest option, the accuracy guarantees and hybrid model justify the premium for complex returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is H&R Block better than TurboTax?
H&R Block offers better value with its hybrid online/in-person model and generally lower prices. TurboTax has a more polished interface. Both guarantee accuracy.
Is H&R Block free filing really free?
Yes, the Free Online tier covers W-2 income, unemployment, and basic retirement income at no cost. Complex situations require paid tiers. State filing may cost extra.
Does H&R Block offer audit support?
Yes, all H&R Block returns include 3 years of free audit support, where a tax professional helps you respond to IRS inquiries.
Can I switch from TurboTax to H&R Block?
Yes, H&R Block can import your prior year return from TurboTax to make switching seamless.