H&R Block: Choosing Between Online Tiers, Desktop Software and Filing With a Tax Pro

H&R Block sells tax preparation in three main ways: online software you complete yourself, downloadable desktop software, and filing with a tax professional in an office or remotely. The same company can be your cheapest or most expensive option depending on the route you pick.

This guide covers how the H&R Block options differ, not what to claim on your return. Check eligibility, fees and what each tier covers on the site before you start, and ask a qualified tax professional about your own situation.

Online tiers from Free to Self-Employed

H&R Block Online has come in tiers such as Free, Deluxe, Premium and Self-Employed. The tier you need depends on which forms your return involves, not the size of your income.

The Free tier is for simple returns, and the paid tiers add support for more forms and situations, such as investments, rental property or freelance income. H&R Block lists what each tier supports, and the scope changes between tax years, so match your paperwork to the current list.

If you start in a lower tier and your return needs a form it does not support, the software will prompt you to upgrade. That is normal, but it means the price you saw at the start may not be the price you pay.

Desktop software

H&R Block also sells downloadable tax software for Windows and Mac, in versions such as Basic, Deluxe, Premium and Premium & Business. You install it on your own computer and work offline until you e-file.

Desktop software can suit a household preparing several returns, since some versions allow more than one federal e-file. Check how many returns and state programs each version includes, as state e-filing can cost extra.

Adding a tax pro to a DIY return

H&R Block has offered ways to get help from a tax professional while still doing much of the return yourself, such as Tax Pro Review and live expert help. It costs more than plain DIY, so compare its price with full-service filing, since the gap is not always large.

This middle option suits someone confident with the basics who wants a second look at one tricky section. Check exactly what the add-on includes: a review, a chat, a screen share or a professional signing the return.

In-office and remote filing

H&R Block runs thousands of offices across the US, where a tax professional prepares the return with you. You can also upload documents and have a professional file remotely, a service H&R Block has offered as Tax Pro Go.

Full-service filing is priced by the complexity of the return, so ask for an estimate when you book. Bring every form and last year's return to avoid a second visit.

Add-ons and fees to check

H&R Block sells optional extras such as Worry-Free Audit Support and the Peace of Mind Extended Service Plan. Read what each covers and decide whether you need it, rather than accepting it by default at checkout.

If you choose to pay H&R Block's preparation fees from your refund instead of upfront, check the extra fee for that option. Paying upfront avoids it.

State returns are often priced separately from federal. Add the state fee when comparing H&R Block with other filing options.

Timing and returning customers

H&R Block's online prices can change during the tax season, and early-season offers have appeared in past years. Starting early also leaves time to chase missing paperwork before the deadline.

Returning H&R Block customers can often import last year's data, which saves typing. Log in with the same account you used before.

Where the H&R Block savings are

The 15% off code is the largest percentage here and makes most sense on a Premium or Self-Employed online order, where the base price is highest. Check at checkout whether it covers state filing and add-ons.

The 10% off code is the fallback if the 15% code is refused. The $5 off code only beats 10% off on a small order: 10% saves more once the price passes $50.

Codes for H&R Block's online software may not apply to in-office filing, which is priced separately. For office visits, ask at booking what discounts apply.

The Free tier costs nothing to start, so a code only matters once you move to a paid tier or add a state return.

Common questions

Can I switch from DIY to a tax pro partway through?

H&R Block offers ways to move from DIY to professional help. Check the current options and how fees are handled before you switch.

Does H&R Block give tax advice in the software?

The software guides you through questions and explains terms. For advice on your own situation, speak to a qualified tax professional.

Is the desktop software a subscription?

It is sold per tax year. You buy a new version each year for that year's return.

Can I use H&R Block for a business return?

The Premium & Business desktop version and H&R Block's small business services cover some business returns. Check which entity types are supported.