H&R Block is a tax preparation and financial services company headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, United States. The company was founded in 1955 by brothers Henry W. Bloch and Richard Bloch.
H&R Block offers a variety of tax preparation services, including in-person, online, and software-based options. The company also offers other financial services such as bookkeeping and payroll, business consulting, and personal finance management.
In addition to its tax preparation services, H&R Block also offers various products and services designed to help taxpayers maximize their tax refunds and reduce their tax liabilities. These include tax planning and consulting, audit support, and tax identity shield protection.
As of 2021, H&R Block operates approximately 11,000 retail tax offices in the United States, Canada, and Australia. The company has also expanded its online and software-based tax preparation services, which can be accessed from anywhere in the world.
Pros of H&R Block:
- Convenience: H&R Block offers a range of tax preparation options, including in-person, online, and software-based services, making it convenient for customers to choose a method that works for them.
- Expertise: H&R Block tax professionals are trained and certified to prepare tax returns accurately and efficiently, providing peace of mind for customers.
- Audit support: H&R Block offers audit support and representation to customers who are audited by the IRS or state tax authorities, providing additional peace of mind.
- Guarantees: H&R Block offers various guarantees, including a 100% accuracy guarantee, a maximum refund guarantee, and an audit support guarantee.
Cons of H&R Block:
- Cost: H&R Block’s tax preparation services can be more expensive than some other tax preparation options, particularly for in-person services.
- Limited services: While H&R Block offers a range of tax preparation services, it may not be able to provide the same level of personalized attention as a dedicated accountant or tax specialist.
- Limited availability: H&R Block’s in-person services are only available during tax season, which may not be convenient for customers who need tax preparation help throughout the year.
- Complexity: While H&R Block’s tax professionals are experts in tax preparation, the tax code can be complex, and some customers may still find the process confusing or overwhelming.
Online self-filing options
There are several online self-filing options available for individuals who want to prepare and file their taxes themselves:
- TurboTax: TurboTax is a popular online tax preparation software that offers a range of plans for individuals with different tax situations. It provides step-by-step guidance to help users prepare their taxes and offers a variety of features such as W-2 import, deductions and credits finder, and error-checking.
- H&R Block Online: H&R Block offers an online tax preparation software that allows users to file their federal and state taxes from their computer or mobile device. It provides guidance and support throughout the tax preparation process and offers features such as automatic error-checking and audit support.
- TaxAct: TaxAct is an online tax preparation software that offers a range of plans for individuals with different tax situations. It provides step-by-step guidance to help users prepare their taxes and offers a variety of features such as W-2 import, deductions and credits finder, and error-checking.
- Free File: The IRS offers Free File, which is a program that provides free online tax preparation and filing services to eligible taxpayers. The program is available to taxpayers with a gross income of $72,000 or less and offers a range of software options from reputable companies.
- Credit Karma Tax: Credit Karma Tax is a free online tax preparation software that offers step-by-step guidance to help users prepare their taxes. It offers a range of features such as W-2 import, deductions and credits finder, and error-checking.
Professional tax filing options
There are several professional tax filing options available for individuals who prefer to work with a tax professional:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): CPAs are licensed professionals who are trained to provide a range of financial services, including tax preparation and planning. They can help individuals with complex tax situations or who need personalized attention.
- Enrolled Agent (EA): EAs are licensed tax professionals who are authorized to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They are trained to provide tax preparation and planning services and can be helpful for individuals with complex tax situations.
- Tax Attorney: Tax attorneys are lawyers who specialize in tax law. They can provide legal advice and representation for individuals who are facing tax-related legal issues, such as an audit or tax-related litigation.
- Tax Preparation Services: There are many tax preparation services available that employ tax professionals to prepare and file tax returns on behalf of their clients. These services can vary in cost and quality, so it’s important to do research and choose a reputable service.
- H&R Block and other tax preparation chains: As mentioned earlier, H&R Block and other tax preparation chains offer professional tax filing options in addition to their online self-filing options. These options include in-person tax preparation services with a tax professional.
H&R Block Pricing
H&R Block’s pricing for tax preparation services can vary depending on the complexity of the tax return and the method of preparation. Here are some general pricing guidelines:
- In-person tax preparation: H&R Block offers in-person tax preparation services at its retail tax offices. The cost for this service can vary depending on the complexity of the tax return and the geographic location of the office. On average, H&R Block’s in-person tax preparation services cost around $150-$200 per federal tax return.
- Online tax preparation: H&R Block offers several online tax preparation options. The cost for these services can vary depending on the complexity of the tax return and the specific plan chosen. Prices for H&R Block’s online tax preparation services start at around $0 for a basic federal tax return and increase to around $100 or more for more complex returns.
- Software-based tax preparation: H&R Block also offers software-based tax preparation options for individuals who prefer to prepare their taxes on their own. Prices for H&R Block’s software-based tax preparation options start at around $30 for a basic federal tax return and increase to around $80 or more for more complex returns.
H&R Block Availability
H&R Block offers tax preparation services through a variety of channels, including in-person, online, and software-based options. Here is a breakdown of H&R Block’s availability:
- In-person tax preparation: H&R Block operates thousands of retail tax offices across the United States. These offices are typically open during the tax season, which runs from January through April. Some offices may also offer extended hours or year-round service.
- Online tax preparation: H&R Block’s online tax preparation services are available to individuals across the United States. These services can be accessed from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection.
- Software-based tax preparation: H&R Block’s software-based tax preparation options are available for purchase and download online or in stores. Once the software is downloaded or installed, users can prepare their taxes offline.
H&R Block Security
H&R Block takes the security and privacy of its customers’ information very seriously. Here are some of the security measures that H&R Block has in place to protect customer data:
- Encryption: H&R Block uses encryption technology to protect customer data while it is in transit and at rest. This means that customer information is scrambled using a complex algorithm that can only be decoded by authorized personnel.
- Multi-factor authentication: H&R Block requires customers to use multi-factor authentication when accessing their accounts online. This means that customers must provide multiple forms of identification, such as a password and a code sent to their mobile phone, to log in to their accounts.
- Data protection: H&R Block uses a range of physical, technical, and administrative measures to protect customer data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. These measures include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls.
- Regular security assessments: H&R Block regularly conducts security assessments and audits to ensure that its systems and processes are up-to-date and compliant with industry standards.
- Privacy policy: H&R Block has a privacy policy that outlines how it collects, uses, and protects customer data. The policy is transparent about the types of data collected and how it is used, and provides customers with the ability to opt-out of certain data sharing practices.
FAQs
What is H&R Block?
H&R Block is a tax preparation company that offers a range of tax preparation services to individuals and small businesses.
How much does it cost to use H&R Block?
The cost of using H&R Block can vary depending on the method of preparation and the complexity of the tax return. In-person tax preparation services typically cost around $150-$200 per federal tax return, while online and software-based options can start at around $0 for a basic federal tax return and increase to around $100 or more for more complex returns.
Does H&R Block offer online tax preparation?
Yes, H&R Block offers several online tax preparation options that can be accessed from any computer or mobile device with an internet connection.
Does H&R Block offer in-person tax preparation?
Yes, H&R Block operates thousands of retail tax offices across the United States that offer in-person tax preparation services.
Is H&R Block safe and secure?
H&R Block takes the security and privacy of its customers’ information very seriously and uses encryption, multi-factor authentication, and other measures to protect customer data.
What happens if I make a mistake on my tax return with H&R Block?
H&R Block offers a guarantee that it will pay any penalties and interest resulting from an error made by its tax professionals, provided that customers comply with the terms of the guarantee.
How long does it take to get my refund with H&R Block?
The time it takes to get a refund can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the method of filing, the accuracy of the return, and the time of year. Generally, customers can expect to receive their federal refund within 21 days of filing their return electronically.