TurboTax vs. H&R Block is a big battle in the for-profit tax preparation field. Each has its distinct strengths and drawbacks, so it’s worth investigating which option is best for you.

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Which is Better?

The right tax software for you varies depending on your preferences. If you’re looking for the most time-tested and simple do-it-yourself option — and don’t mind paying a little more — TurboTax might be the right choice. However, tax filers who prefer less expensive software or personalized assistance should consider H&R Block.

Whichever option you choose, don’t put it off; the longer you wait, the greater the chance for mistakes and stress.

About TurboTax

TurboTax offers plenty of tax preparation options, covering different filing situations and varying levels of tax expert support. This platform primarily has a do-it-yourself (DIY) route that asks straightforward questions to determine which tax forms you need and how to fill them out.

However, among DIY tax software, TurboTax is quite expensive and constantly tries to upsell products while you fill out paperwork. Other platforms are generally less expensive and some, like Cash App Tax, are free.

About H&R Block

H&R Block has do-it-yourself software and is known for its physical branches. It has thousands of offices across the U.S. so you can easily get started or upgrade for in-person assistance if needed.

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Key Features

Both tax preparation giants offer online and downloadable software, a full-service option, expert human support, and several guarantees including accurate calculations, maximum refunds, and audit assistance. Both also have time-saving features that allow you to snap a photo of your W-2 instead of manually entering numbers line-by-line.

TurboTax Key Features

Simple questionnaire. TurboTax asks you a series of questions about your income and life events so you can fill out the correct tax form.

Donation calculator and tracker. You can enter your donations into TurboTax so you can figure out their value and record them during the year.

In-person option. If you want one-on-one help, you can find a “TurboTax Verified Pro” through the platform and meet with them in person. Availability and pricing may vary.

H&R Block Key Features

Transparent pricing. H&R Block has a no-surprise guarantee: If you pay more than the originally quoted price, you’ll get a 20% discount on your next year’s filing.

Personal assistance. With branches in every state, you can meet with a tax face-to-face.

Tax Review Double Check. You can have H&R Block look at your last three years of tax returns to confirm you haven’t missed out on a big tax refund.

AI Tax Assist. H&R Block has developed an artificial intelligence (AI) to serve as a resource and it’s included in all online versions at no additional cost.

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Usability

Both companies give you the option to automatically fill in some of your information by uploading photos of your income tax forms. And, while Users can use a computer, both offer highly-rated mobile apps for iOS and Android to make their lives simpler.

Still, TurboTax shines with an easy-to-use platform. You’ll get a series of jargon-free questions that make the process feel more like sitting down with a tax preparer.

H&R Block’s setup isn’t questionnaire-style. Instead, you’ll get a series of forms to fill out. But, like TurboTax, the platform provides explanations and tips for a streamlined process.

TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Customer Service

It’s natural to encounter questions when filing your taxes or helping someone else file taxes. Both platforms also offer expert assistance to help you navigate the process, although you’ll likely have to pay more.

The exception is TurboTax Live Assisted Basic Edition, which features free live support for those filing simple returns. Plus, if you add the Live Assisted service (pricing for which starts at $99), you can get in touch via live chat, seven days a week.

With H&R Block, you’ll have more options for personalized assistance due to a larger network of stores. Although hours vary, you can generally expect these retail locations to be open during regular business hours and possibly a little late for the convenience of tax filers after work. 

Neither company has a great Trustpilot rating; both earned 1.2 out of 5 stars.

H&R Block vs. TurboTax: Comparing Free Options

TurboTax’s Deluxe option is a more comprehensive option for the average filer, but let’s briefly consider the free options again.

Both H&R Block and TurboTax offer free options for filers with simple returns. You can often use those options if you don’t own a home, you have no investment income other than ordinary dividends or interest and you don’t have rental property or business expenses.

You can’t use any of the forms if you itemize deductions. However, there are some deductions available with the free plans. Specifically, you can claim the EIC and the Additional Child Tax Credit. H&R Block also includes Schedules 1 through 6, unlike TurboTax.

So if your finances are simple, the biggest consideration is which forms you need to file, since H&R Block includes more forms and schedules with its free plan.

Which Online Tax Software is Right for You?

Start by thinking about what you want from tax prep software. If you’re hoping for a jargon-free experience, TurboTax may be right for filers with a simple tax situation. If you’re looking for personalized help or appreciate transparent pricing, H&R Block may be the right choice for you.

Of course, other tax services may be a good fit for you. Aside from the free government programs listed earlier, you can go for lower-cost software if you don’t mind a clunky user interface and fewer support options. 

You can file your taxes on your own with TurboTax Live or choose the TurboTax Live Full Service option. H&R Block offers both of these methods – and more.

H&R Block offers many other ways to get expert help or file your taxes.

File with a tax professional in an office – Sit down with your tax professional. With 10,000 offices nationwide, you can find an office near you. Set up an appointment.

File your taxes with a tax professional in an office – Gather your documents and submit them to the front desk. Once your taxes are ready, you can approve them in person or virtually. Find out more about drop-off taxes or schedule drop-off taxes.

Work virtually with your tax professional – Use your phone, computer or tablet to upload your documents. Connect with your professional whenever you want. Learn more about H&R Block Virtual or set up your virtual tax appointment.

File on your own – H&R Block online options let you take control and take advantage of our easy-to-use tax preparation program created by tax experts. Check out our online tax filing options.

File on your own with expert tax help – Leverage the expertise of an H&R Block tax pro with unlimited, on-demand access via live chat and screen share. Learn how with H&R Block Online Assist.