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Best H&R Block Tax Preparation Software

Updated March 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
H&R Block Premium
H&R Block
Premium
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Bottom Line

For investors, homeowners, and self-employed filers with more complex tax issues, this fits the bill – but be sure to update the software when prompted to keep up with tax updates.

Pros

Includes federal and 1 state filing. Guides users through Schedule C and Schedule A form filing. Installs without a problem. Has an intuitive, easy-to-use interface.

Cons

May not include forms needed for more complex situations. Multi-owner businesses will need a business-specific tax prep program. Customer support can be hard to reach.

Best Bang for the Buck
H&R Block Deluxe
H&R Block
Deluxe
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Bottom Line

Very accurate tax preparation software. However, filers with complex tax situations, such as investors, may want to opt for Premium.

Pros

Easy to install and configure. Automatically downloads W-2s and 1099s from many companies. Can import previous year’s data from other tax prep brands like TurboTax. Generally up to date on 2017 tax rules.

Cons

Many buyers are unaware that Deluxe comes in 2 versions: either with 1 state package included or federal only. Check the specs closely. Software updates can be slow and may glitch, requiring repeat downloads. Investors or those with more complex tax situations may be frustrated.

H&R Block Basic
H&R Block
Basic
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Bottom Line

A good choice if you have uncomplicated taxes and want to make the most of your money and time.

Pros

Easy, straightforward, and affordable. Ideal for basic taxes and optimizing up to 350 deductions. Allows importing of last year's taxes, 1099, and W-2 forms, even from other popular tax software. Includes a Schedule A that makes itemizing easy.

Cons

Not ideal for handling more complicated reporting, such as mortgage interest, Earned Income Credit, and Schedule Cs. Doesn't do state taxes.

H&R Block Premium & Business
H&R Block
Premium & Business
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Bottom Line

Provides fairly clear guidance for individuals with complex tax situations, and for businesses from LLCs to S corporations, but can have some compatibility issues with printers.

Pros

Quickly installs and updates with few or no problems. Guides filers through tricky tax matters like starting a new business, buying a home and more.

Cons

Some state exemptions and rules may be missing from non-updated software. Business tax prep interface isn’t as intuitive as the personal tax prep software. Importing data from other financial software may be problematic. Issues with printer compatibility.

H&R Block Online
H&R Block
Online
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Bottom Line

An easy-to-use option for filers who have fairly basic returns plus some investments and charitable deductions. However, not suitable for reporting self-employment earnings.

Pros

A good choice for investors and owners of rental properties, as it handles Schedules D and E. Easy to import previous year's taxes. Available online or by download. Excellent customer support.

Cons

Add-ons throughout the filing process and for per-state add up quickly.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
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