About H&R Block
H&R Block is a tax preparation and financial services company that provides various tax-related services, including income tax preparation, electronic filing, and tax advisory services. The company was founded in 1955 by brothers Henry and Richard Bloch, hence the name “H&R Block.”
H&R Block has over 11,000 company-owned and franchised retail locations worldwide, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, and India. In addition to its retail locations, H&R Block also provides online tax preparation services through its website.
The company offers various products and services to its clients, including tax preparation software, tax calculators, and financial planning tools. It also provides assistance with tax audits and tax resolution services for those who have received notices from the IRS or state tax authorities.
H&R Block has become a household name in the tax preparation industry and is known for its expertise in tax preparation, accuracy, and reliability.
Overview Of H&R Block
H&R Block is a tax preparation and financial services company that has been providing tax-related services since 1955. It is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, and has over 11,000 company-owned and franchised retail locations worldwide. The company is named after its founders, Henry and Richard Bloch.
H&R Block provides tax preparation services for individuals, small businesses, and corporations. Its services include income tax preparation, electronic filing, and tax advisory services. In addition to its retail locations, H&R Block also provides online tax preparation services through its website.
The company offers various products and services to its clients, including tax preparation software, tax calculators, and financial planning tools. It also provides assistance with tax audits and tax resolution services for those who have received notices from the IRS or state tax authorities.
H&R Block has a strong reputation for accuracy and reliability in tax preparation, and it is known for its expertise in the field. The company has a team of trained tax professionals who help clients with their tax-related needs. H&R Block is committed to providing quality service to its clients and helping them navigate the complexities of the tax code.
H&R Block Pros And Cons
Pros of H&R Block:
- Expertise and experience: H&R Block has been providing tax preparation services for over 65 years and has a team of trained tax professionals with extensive experience and knowledge in tax preparation.
- Convenience: H&R Block has over 11,000 company-owned and franchised retail locations worldwide, making it easy and convenient for clients to find a location near them.
- Online tax preparation: H&R Block also provides online tax preparation services, which is convenient for those who prefer to file their taxes from the comfort of their own home.
- Accuracy: H&R Block uses advanced software and systems to ensure accuracy in tax preparation, minimizing the risk of errors and ensuring that clients receive the maximum refund they are entitled to.
- Assistance with tax issues: H&R Block provides assistance with tax audits and tax resolution services for clients who have received notices from the IRS or state tax authorities.
Cons of H&R Block:
- Cost: H&R Block’s tax preparation services can be more expensive than some other tax preparation options, especially for those with more complex tax situations.
- Limited customization: While H&R Block offers a range of tax preparation services, some clients may find that their needs are not fully met by the standard offerings.
- Wait times: During peak tax season, wait times at H&R Block locations can be long, which can be frustrating for clients who need to file their taxes quickly.
- Online security concerns: While H&R Block takes online security seriously, there is always a risk of online security breaches, which can compromise sensitive financial information.
- Lack of personalized service: Some clients may prefer a more personalized tax preparation experience, which may not be fully offered by H&R Block’s standard services.
H&R Block Prices And Plans
H&R Block offers a variety of pricing plans for its tax preparation services, depending on the complexity of the client’s tax situation and the level of assistance they require. Here is an overview of H&R Block’s prices and plans:
- Free Online Plan: This plan is best suited for individuals with simple tax situations, such as those who have a W-2 and no deductions. The service is free, but there may be fees for state filings or additional services.
- Deluxe Online Plan: This plan is ideal for homeowners, those with charitable donations, and others with more complex tax situations. The cost for this plan is $49.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Premium Online Plan: This plan is designed for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who require assistance with complex tax situations. The cost for this plan is $69.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro Review: This plan is for individuals who want an H&R Block tax professional to review their completed tax return for accuracy and completeness. The cost for this service starts at $49.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro Go: This plan is a virtual tax preparation service where clients can work with an H&R Block tax professional remotely. The cost for this service starts at $99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro VIP: This plan provides clients with an in-person tax preparation experience with a dedicated H&R Block tax professional. The cost for this service varies based on location and the level of service required.
It’s important to note that prices may vary based on the complexity of the client’s tax situation and the specific services required. Clients should consult with an H&R Block tax professional to determine which plan is best for them.
H&R Block’s Features
H&R Block offers a variety of features and services to help individuals and businesses with their tax-related needs. Here are some of H&R Block’s key features:
- Tax Preparation: H&R Block provides tax preparation services for individuals, small businesses, and corporations. Its services include income tax preparation, electronic filing, and tax advisory services.
- Online Tax Preparation: H&R Block offers online tax preparation services through its website, which allows clients to prepare and file their taxes from the comfort of their own home.
- Tax Pro Review: Clients can opt to have an H&R Block tax professional review their completed tax return for accuracy and completeness.
- Tax Pro Go: This virtual tax preparation service allows clients to work with an H&R Block tax professional remotely.
- Tax Pro VIP: This in-person tax preparation service provides clients with a dedicated H&R Block tax professional to help them with their tax-related needs.
- Tax Audit Support: H&R Block offers assistance with tax audits and tax resolution services for clients who have received notices from the IRS or state tax authorities.
- Tax Calculators: H&R Block offers a variety of online tax calculators to help clients estimate their taxes and determine how various factors, such as deductions and credits, will impact their tax liability.
- Financial Planning Tools: H&R Block provides a range of financial planning tools, including retirement calculators, mortgage calculators, and budgeting tools, to help clients plan for their financial future.
- Mobile App: H&R Block offers a mobile app that allows clients to prepare and file their taxes on the go.
- Refund Advance: H&R Block offers a refund advance program that allows clients to get an advance on their tax refund, which can be useful for those who need funds quickly.
H&R Block’s Ease Of Use
H&R Block’s tax preparation services are generally considered to be easy to use, whether clients opt to work with an H&R Block tax professional in person or use the online tax preparation services. Here are some reasons why H&R Block is considered user-friendly:
- Simple user interface: H&R Block’s online tax preparation software has a simple and intuitive user interface, making it easy for clients to navigate and understand.
- Guidance and support: H&R Block provides clients with guidance and support throughout the tax preparation process, including helpful hints and tips to ensure that clients are maximizing their deductions and credits.
- Mobile App: H&R Block’s mobile app is user-friendly and allows clients to prepare and file their taxes on the go.
- Easy import of tax documents: H&R Block’s tax preparation software allows clients to easily import tax documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, directly into the software, reducing the likelihood of errors and saving time.
- Tax Professional Assistance: For clients who have questions or need assistance, H&R Block offers the option to work with a tax professional who can provide guidance and support.
- Online Resources: H&R Block provides a range of online resources, such as tax calculators and informational articles, to help clients understand the tax preparation process and make informed decisions.
H&R Block’s Pricing
H&R Block’s pricing varies depending on the level of service required and the complexity of the client’s tax situation. Here is an overview of H&R Block’s pricing for its different services:
- Free Online Plan: H&R Block’s free online tax preparation service is best suited for individuals with simple tax situations, such as those who have a W-2 and no deductions. The service is free, but there may be fees for state filings or additional services.
- Deluxe Online Plan: H&R Block’s Deluxe online tax preparation plan is ideal for homeowners, those with charitable donations, and others with more complex tax situations. The cost for this plan is $49.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Premium Online Plan: H&R Block’s Premium online tax preparation plan is designed for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who require assistance with complex tax situations. The cost for this plan is $69.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro Review: H&R Block’s Tax Pro Review service allows clients to have an H&R Block tax professional review their completed tax return for accuracy and completeness. The cost for this service starts at $49.99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro Go: H&R Block’s Tax Pro Go virtual tax preparation service allows clients to work with an H&R Block tax professional remotely. The cost for this service starts at $99, plus additional fees for state filings or other services.
- Tax Pro VIP: H&R Block’s Tax Pro VIP service provides clients with an in-person tax preparation experience with a dedicated H&R Block tax professional. The cost for this service varies based on location and the level of service required.
It’s important to note that the pricing for H&R Block’s services may vary based on the complexity of the client’s tax situation and the specific services required. Clients should consult with an H&R Block tax professional to determine which service is best for them and to receive an accurate quote for the cost of services.
Is H&R Block Safe And Reliable?
Yes, H&R Block is generally considered to be a safe and reliable option for tax preparation services. Here are some reasons why:
- Security measures: H&R Block employs various security measures to protect client information, such as encryption and firewalls. The company also adheres to strict data security and privacy standards.
- Expertise: H&R Block has been in business for over 60 years and employs thousands of tax professionals who are trained and experienced in tax preparation. This ensures that clients can trust that their tax returns are accurate and complete.
- Accuracy guarantee: H&R Block offers an accuracy guarantee, which means that if there is an error in the tax return prepared by an H&R Block tax professional, the company will reimburse clients for any resulting penalties and interest.
- Compliance with regulations: H&R Block adheres to all tax regulations and laws, and its tax professionals stay up-to-date on changes to tax laws and regulations.
- Reputation: H&R Block has a long-standing reputation as a trustworthy provider of tax preparation services, and the company has a large client base that returns year after year.
H&R Block Competitors
H&R Block has several competitors in the tax preparation industry. Some of the main competitors of H&R Block include:
- TurboTax: TurboTax is one of the largest tax preparation software companies in the United States. Like H&R Block, TurboTax offers both online and in-person tax preparation services.
- Jackson Hewitt: Jackson Hewitt is a tax preparation company that offers in-person tax preparation services in addition to online tax preparation services.
- TaxAct: TaxAct is a tax preparation software company that offers affordable online tax preparation services for individuals and small businesses.
- Liberty Tax: Liberty Tax is a tax preparation company that offers in-person tax preparation services and has locations throughout the United States.
- Credit Karma Tax: Credit Karma Tax is a free online tax preparation service that is available to anyone with a Credit Karma account.
FAQs
Q: Does H&R Block offer audit support?
A: Yes, H&R Block offers audit support for clients who purchase its Tax Pro Review or Tax Pro Go services. The company also offers an additional service called “Audit Assistance” that can be added to any tax preparation service for an additional fee.
Q: Does H&R Block offer a guarantee?
A: Yes, H&R Block offers an accuracy guarantee for all tax preparation services. If there is an error on a tax return prepared by an H&R Block tax professional, the company will reimburse clients for any resulting penalties and interest.
Q: Can H&R Block file state tax returns?
A: Yes, H&R Block offers state tax filing services in addition to federal tax filing services.
Q: Does H&R Block offer in-person tax preparation services?
A: Yes, H&R Block offers in-person tax preparation services at its offices across the United States. The company also offers virtual tax preparation services through its Tax Pro Go service.
Q: How much does H&R Block charge for tax preparation services?
A: H&R Block’s pricing varies depending on the level of service required and the complexity of the client’s tax situation. The cost for its tax preparation services ranges from free for its basic online plan to several hundred dollars for its in-person Tax Pro VIP service.
Q: Does H&R Block offer self-employed tax preparation services?
A: Yes, H&R Block offers tax preparation services specifically designed for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners. These services are available through its Premium online plan, Tax Pro Review service, Tax Pro Go service, and Tax Pro VIP service.
Q: Is H&R Block safe and reliable?
A: Yes, H&R Block is generally considered to be a safe and reliable option for tax preparation services. The company employs various security measures to protect client information, adheres to strict data security and privacy standards, and offers an accuracy guarantee.