TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Which Is Better for Your Taxes?

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Online tax software allows you to file federal and state tax returns from the comfort of your home. TurboTax® and H&R Block® are two of the most popular tax software options. They both offer several tax return products and price points to meet various customer needs, from versions for simple returns to premium versions for people with more complex tax needs. 

Follow along as we compare TurboTax and H&R Block's online tax software offerings head to head. We'll look at products, pricing, features, guarantees, refund options and customer support to determine which is best for your tax needs.

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Overview

TurboTax	H&R Block
TurboTax Free Edition: $0 federal ~37% of taxpayers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 + limited credits only TurboTax Free Edition State: $0 state ~37% of taxpayers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 + limited credits only TurboTax Deluxe: $69 federal + $64 per state TurboTax Premium: $129 federal + $64 per state	Free Online: $0 federal + $0 per state Deluxe: $44 (sale) / $55 (regular) Premium: $68 (sale) / $85 (regular) Self-Employed: $92 (sale) / $115 (regular)  State: $49 per state
Guarantees Accuracy guarantee Maximum refund guarantee Audit support guarantee Satisfaction guarantee Expert approved guarantee options	Guarantees Maximum refund guarantee No Surprise Guarantee Accuracy guarantee Satisfaction guarantee Audit support guarantee (not in-person audit representation)
W-2 and Prior Year Import: Yes	W-2 and Prior Year Import: Yes
Audit Support: Free audit support and more extensive support for a fee	Audit Support: Free analysis to gauge the situation or audit support for a fee
Access to Tax Experts: Yes, for a fee	Access to Tax Experts: Phone, chat and AI support plus expert help with paid tiers

What Is TurboTax? 

TurboTax

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• Our Rating 4.5/5 How our ratings work

TurboTax shines when it comes to customers who have more complex tax returns. The Deluxe option helps maximize tax deductions and credits, while Premium covers investments—including cryptocurrency and and stock activity—and rental properties. Plus, you can easily import your investment income automatically with TurboTax.

• Overview
• Pros & Cons

Overview

Regardless of how complex your tax return is, you’ll likely be able to find a TurboTax service that meets your needs. TurboTax offers several pricing tiers, including the TurboTax Free Edition (Disclaimer: ~37% of taxpayers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 + limited credits only), as well as premium tiers geared toward more complicated returns. There’s even a full-service edition for anyone who’s worried about filling out their tax return incorrectly.

Pros

• A product for every tax situation, both simple and more complex
• TurboTax Premium includes investments and rental properties
• A comprehensive review of your return, ensuring nothing gets missed

Cons

• Some products are more expensive than competitors
• Pricing for specific packages can be hard to find at a glance

TurboTax is an online tax software that offers a variety of tax return and refund options to fit most taxpayers' needs. It offers both paid tax returns options and the TurboTax Free Edition (disclaimer: ~37% of taxpayers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 and limited credits only). The online software also comes with multiple return guarantees and customer support options. 

With TurboTax, you can file your taxes from anywhere with an internet connection. The service is a product of software company Intuit®, with multiple versions available to handle simple, complex and self-employment tax returns. TurboTax also features live support features, mobile access and various tax return tools for customers to use as needed. 

What Is H&R Block? 

H&R Block

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• Our Rating 4.5/5 How our ratings work

Straightforward and easy-to file tax prep that comes with accuracy and maximum refund guarantees, H&R Block can also handle complex tax needs. Additional support is available from brick-and-mortar locations if needed. Even those opting for the free tier can enjoy robust features, including state filings at no additional cost.

• Overview
• Pros & Cons

Overview

H&R Block makes tax filing simple and painless with its intuitive interface and navigation. The tax filing service comes in four tiers: Free, Deluxe, Premium, and Self-Employed. Its Free tier is robust in features and even includes state filings at no cost. The paid tiers cater to those with complex tax needs, including business owners, self-employed, freelancers and those with investments.

If you need additional support, H&R Block provides online and phone support with an agent. What sets H&R Block apart is its ability to offer in-person support through its many brick-and-mortar offices nationwide.

With its various guarantees (Maximum Refund, 100% Accuracy, Audit Support) and an array of add-ons to handle more complex needs, H&R Block is equipped to handle most taxpayer situations. Keep in mind that the prices can add up, especially if you aren’t mindful of your add-ons.

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Pros

• Multiple packages to fit most tax needs
• 24/7 customer support
• Option to work with a tax professional online or in person
• Free version available (with state included)
• Simple navigation & software interface
• Ability to upload tax documents

Cons

• More expensive than some competitors
• Extra fee for state tax filing
• Expensive add-ons

H&R Block is a tax preparation service known for its in-person tax services, but it also offers online tax support. The company offers four products, including a free version for simple tax returns. Additional features and add-ons include 24/7 customer support, audit support, tax return reviews by a tax professional, refund advances and tax return guarantees. 

H&R Block operates more than 10,000 retail locations worldwide but also offers four online tax software services for various tax needs. 

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TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Products 

TurboTax offers several versions of its online tax software, including TurboTax Free Edition that works for simple tax returns (disclaimer: ~37% of taxpayers qualify for TurboTax Free Edition. Form 1040 + limited credits only). You can also add TurboTax Live® to any package for an additional cost to receive live support or have a tax professional do your taxes for you. 

H&R Block offers a few tax software packages for people filing their own taxes. You can also file taxes with a tax professional for an additional fee. 

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Features

H&R Block

TurboTax users have access to several features, including: 

• Mobile app: The TurboTax mobile app is available for iOS and Android. 
• Audit support: All TurboTax returns come with audit support from trained tax professionals. 
• Self-employment tax center: TurboTax features a special library of articles for self-employed individuals.
• MAX benefits: Available as an optional add-on for all paid versions of TurboTax Online, MAX offers full audit representation, identity restoration and more.
• Unemployment center: There's also a special support section for unemployment tax help. 
• Other tools: TurboTax provides calculators, help videos, checklists and expense estimators to help you file your taxes. 

Here is a look at H&R Block's long list of features: 

• Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan: Get support and audit protection for the life of your tax return (additional cost) 
• Second Look® Review: If you filed your taxes on your own or with another company in the past few years, H&R Block can review your old returns for free and refile them if they determine you should have received more money. 
• Tax pro help: Upload tax documents online and connect with an H&R Block tax professional to match your specific tax scenario. 
• Tax Identity Shield®: H&R Block protects your tax identity from tax fraud. 
• Audit support: Receive audit help through H&R Block's resolution services.
• Expat services: H&R Block offers special tax support for U.S. citizens living overseas.
• Mobile app: Complete your tax return on your mobile device with the H&R Block Tax Prep app, and then access your tax return through the MyBlock App, both available for iOS and Android. 
• Tools: Other tools include calculators, the latest tax reform information, tax preparation checklists and a support knowledge database to answer questions on various tax topics and program features. 

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Guarantees

Along with a comprehensive review of your return before its filed, TurboTax backs its product offering with these guarantees: 

• Maximum Refund Guarantee: TurboTax will find every tax deduction and credit you qualify for on your tax return.
• 100% Accurate Calculations Guarantee: TurboTax will pay IRS penalties for incorrect calculations on returns. 
• Audit Support Guarantee: Free guidance from a tax professional if you are audited.
• Expert Approved Guarantee: TurboTax will pay IRS penalties due to advice received from a TurboTax professional. 
• Full Service Guarantee: Full service experts only sign off on your return after they know it's 100% accurate and you're getting the best outcome possible. 

H&R Block customers receive several guarantees as well (some vary depending on whether you file with tax software or a tax pro):

• No Surprise Guarantee: Get 20% off next year's tax preparation if H&R Block fails to provide these benefits—upfront transparent pricing, transparent process, free audit assistance and free mid-year care check-In.
• Maximum Refund Guarantee: H&R Block will refund software fees if you're eligible for a larger refund than calculated due to errors on its end. You can also use the software for free to amend your return or have H&R Block do it for you (if you filed with a tax pro).  
• 100% Accuracy Guarantee: H&R Block will reimburse IRS penalties if it makes an error on your tax return. 
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: If unsatisfied with the services received, you only have to pay H&R Block if you accept your return. 
• Audit Support Guarantee: H&R Block provides additional support if the IRS audits you. 

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Refund Options

TurboTax lets customers get their tax refunds in several ways:

• Direct deposit to a linked bank account
• Credit Karma Money™ Spend account
• Prepaid card
• Check mailed from the IRS

Users can log into their accounts and check the status of their e-file returns. 

H&R Block also offers several ways to get your tax return:

• Direct deposit
• Check mailed from the IRS
• Use it to pay for tax preparation costs and fees
• Spruce℠ mobile banking account (get refund up to two days early)

Like TurboTax, H&R Block allows customers to check the status of their refund online. 

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TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Customer Support 

TurboTax offers several ways to receive support without paying extra, such as:

• Live online support from a TurboTax specialist
• Community of users to ask questions and get answers
• Article library
• Tax and software FAQs
• Phone support

You can also pay for additional support with TurboTax's Live Assisted service.

H&R Block's customer service options include:

• Phone support
• Extensive knowledge database for common tax preparation and software questions

Is TurboTax or H&R Block Better for Your Online Tax Return? 

Both TurboTax and H&R Block offer user-friendly tax preparation solutions. Both offer multiple options and price points, but TurboTax does a better job of combining its services into nice and neat packages, while the same support with H&R Block may require paying for add-on services. 

TurboTax is the clear choice if you are looking for live, on-demand support while working through your return. H&R Block is the better option for simple tax returns, offering more robust features with its free version than TurboTax. For in-person support, H&R Block is your best bet with thousands of retail locations across the country. 

Savings Accounts for Your Tax Refund

Check out our picks for the best high-yield savings accounts. One of these could be the perfect spot to park your refund—or a good place to set aside funds for your next tax bill.

Recommended High-Yield Savings Accounts

Bank Account	APY	Features	Learn More
BrioDirect High-Yield Savings Account Open Account	4.85% More Info *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is variable and is accurate as of 11/15/2024. Rate is subject to certain terms and conditions. You must deposit at least $5,000 to open your account and maintain $25 to earn the disclosed APY. Rate and APY may change at any time. Fees may reduce earnings.	$5,000 min. deposit No monthly fee	Open Account
UFB Direct Portfolio Savings Account Open Account	4.31% More Info UFB Direct breaks balances into five tiers, but, currently, there is only one interest rate.	No minimum deposit No monthly fee	Open Account
SoFi Checking and Savings Open Account Member FDIC Member FDIC	0.50% - 4.20% More Info SoFi members with Direct Deposit or $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 4.20% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Only SoFi members with direct deposit are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/31/2024. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet	No minimum deposit No monthly fee	Open Account
CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account Open Account	4.55% More Info Earn 4.55% APY on balances over $5,000. Balances of less than $5,000 earn 0.25% APY. Annual Percentage Yield is accurate as of November 13, 2024. Interest rates for the Platinum Savings account are variable and subject to change at any time without notice.	$100 minimum deposit No monthly fee	Open Account