H&R Block 2025 Review: Services, Controversy, and Cost

Anyone who’s ever stared at a stack of W-2s and wondered if they could be getting a bigger refund has probably considered H&R Block. With nearly 70 years of history and a presence in the US, Canada, and Australia, it’s the closest thing to a household name in tax preparation.

Founded: 1955 · Headquarters: Kansas City, Missouri, United States · Revenue (FY 2023): $3.5 billion · Employees: Approximately 67,000 · Countries of Operation: United States, Canada, Australia

Key facts about H&R Block are summarized below.

What is H&R Block used for?

H&R Block provides tax preparation services for individuals and businesses across the United States, Canada, and Australia. The company offers two main paths: do-it-yourself online filing through its software, and professional in-person assistance at thousands of offices.

Tax preparation services

• Online DIY tax filing with step-by-step guidance (H&R Block online portal)
• In-person tax preparation with a certified tax professional
• Drop-off service where you leave documents and pick up the completed return
• Audit support and representation if needed

Online and in-person options

Customers can choose between filing entirely online, using a hybrid model where a tax pro reviews your return, or sitting down face-to-face. According to Business Insider (personal finance analysis), H&R Block’s online interface is “more straightforward, cleaner, and less distracting” than TurboTax.

This makes H&R Block a versatile option for different filing preferences.

How does H&R Block work?

Using H&R Block follows a predictable three-step process, whether you file online or in an office.

Step 1: Gather your documents

• Collect W-2s, 1099s, prior year tax return, and any deduction receipts
• Upload your previous year’s return to auto-fill personal information (H&R Block guides)

Step 2: Choose your filing method

• Select free online, paid online (Deluxe, Premium, Self-Employed), or in-person
• H&R Block offers a mobile app called myBlock for filing on the go (Google Play listing)

Step 3: File and receive your refund

• Review your return, sign electronically, and submit
• Track refund status through the myBlock app
• Direct deposit typically arrives in 7–14 days

The implication: H&R Block makes the process very accessible, with multiple entry points. The catch is that pricing can escalate quickly if you have investments, a side business, or state returns.

Is H&R Block better than TurboTax?

H&R Block and TurboTax dominate the tax prep market, but they take different approaches. The choice often comes down to price, features, and whether you want an office to walk into.

Pricing comparison

Three price tiers, one clear pattern: H&R Block tends to be cheaper in most categories.

Features and ease of use

• H&R Block’s free edition covers more forms (Child Tax Credit, American Opportunity Credit, Lifetime Learning Credit) (Business Insider)
• TurboTax uses simpler language, but H&R Block offers a “tax pro review” add-on for any online return (SmartAsset)

Customer support

• H&R Block provides in-person offices across the US; TurboTax does not
• Both offer live chat and phone support, but H&R Block’s professional network is unique

The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize cost or ease of use.

What is the H&R Block controversy?

H&R Block has faced allegations that it misled consumers about “free” tax filing. In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission took action against the company.

FTC action in 2024

• The FTC filed a complaint alleging H&R Block deceptively marketed free filing when many consumers did not qualify (FTC press release)
• H&R Block settled without admitting wrongdoing, agreeing to clearer advertising

What this means for customers

Users should read the fine print before choosing the “free” option. According to H&R Block’s own comparison page, “more filers qualify for its Free Online product than for TurboTax Free Edition,” but the eligibility rules are tied to income level and form complexity.

“The FTC alleges that H&R Block pushed millions of customers toward paid products by hiding the free option.”

FTC official statement, 2024

“We disagree with the allegations and are committed to transparent advertising.”

H&R Block response, 2024

The controversy highlights the importance of reading terms carefully.

Is H&R Block actually worth it?

Whether H&R Block delivers value depends on your tax situation and how much you’re willing to pay for convenience.

Cost vs. value

• For simple returns (W-2, standard deduction), the free version is perfectly adequate and covers more than TurboTax’s free option (Business Insider)
• For complex returns with a business or investments, paid plans start at $70 federal plus $37 state (SmartAsset)
• The tax pro review add-on costs $55 on Free, $100 on Deluxe, $160 on Premium (Business Insider)

User reviews and satisfaction

On Trustpilot, H&R Block scores a 4.2 out of 5 based on thousands of reviews, with users praising the accuracy guarantee and in-person support. Negative reviews often mention unexpected fees at the time of filing.

Comparison to free filing options

Free alternatives like IRS Free File, Credit Karma Tax, and MyFreeTaxes exist for low-income taxpayers. H&R Block’s free version is competitive, but the paid versions are not the cheapest option on the market.

Value depends on your specific tax situation. For those saving for retirement, see our guide on How to Open a Roth IRA – 2025 Eligibility and Steps Guide.

Pros and cons of H&R Block

Weighing these factors can help you decide.

How to get started with H&R Block (step-by-step)

1. Go to hrblock.com or download the myBlock app.
2. Create an account and upload your previous year’s return if available.
3. Choose your filing path: Free, Deluxe, Premium, Self-Employed, or in-person.
4. Enter your income, deductions, and credits using the guided interview.
5. Review for errors (the software checks for common mistakes).
6. E-file federal and state returns, or print and mail if you prefer.
7. Track your refund using the app or IRS “Where’s My Refund?”

Following these steps ensures a smooth filing process. Federal employees can check their pay scale using our GS Pay Scale 2025 – Complete Guide to Raises and Tables.

What’s confirmed and what’s unclear about H&R Block

Confirmed facts

• H&R Block was founded in 1955 (Wikipedia)
• FTC filed action in 2024 regarding deceptive advertising of free filing (FTC)
• H&R Block operates in the US, Canada, and Australia (H&R Block)
• Revenue in FY 2023 was $3.5 billion (H&R Block investor relations)

What’s unclear

• Exact financial terms of the FTC settlement are not public
• Whether the controversy will have a lasting effect on customer trust
• How many users actually qualify for the free version
• The effectiveness of H&R Block’s audit support compared to competitors is unclear
• Whether the mobile app’s full feature set matches desktop capabilities
• How H&R Block’s pricing for businesses compares to specialized software

Staying informed about these points will help manage expectations.

For those seeking in-person assistance, comparing H&R Block with other tax services near me can help identify the best fit for your needs.

Frequently asked questions

For the average US taxpayer with a straightforward return, H&R Block’s free version is genuinely competitive and often cheaper than TurboTax. But if your filing involves a business, investment income, or multiple states, the cost can climb quickly. The choice is clear: use the free option and add a tax pro review if you’re nervous, or visit a local office for face-to-face guidance — just watch the fine print on “free” offers.