H&R Block vs TaxAct
H&R Block and TaxAct are both popular options in this category. After extensive testing, H&R Block leads with a 9/10 rating, though the best choice depends on your specific needs.
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Quick Answer
H&R Block beats TaxAct for most users. It scores 9/10 vs 8.4/10 and better free tier than turbotax. Choose TaxAct if you need significantly cheaper than competitors.
H&R Block
WinnerOnline + in-person tax help at competitive prices
Starting from
$55
TaxAct
Budget-friendly tax filing with expert support
Starting from
$34.99
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Starting Price | $55 | $34.99 |
| User Reviews | ||
| Filing Options | ||
| Free Filing | More forms than TurboTax | Federal only |
| State Returns | $37-49 each | $39.99 each |
| W-2 Import | ||
| Prior Year Import | ||
| Tax Types | ||
| Self-Employment | ||
| Investments | ||
| Rental Income | ||
| Support | ||
| Audit Support | ||
| Live Expert Help | ||
| Mobile App | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
H&R Block
- Better free tier than TurboTax
- In-person office option
- Competitive pricing
- Tax Pro review available
- Covers most tax situations
- Good mobile experience
- Interface less polished than TurboTax
- Upsells during filing
- State returns cost extra
TaxAct
- Significantly cheaper than competitors
- Covers complex tax situations
- Xpert Assist help available
- $100k accuracy guarantee
- Price lock guarantee
- Good for prior year returns
- Interface feels dated
- Slower than TurboTax
- Less hand-holding
Key Difference
The key difference: H&R Block offers in person offices while TaxAct provides rental income. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
H&R Block
Choose H&R Block if you prioritize better free tier than turbotax, want to start with a free tier, or value in-person office option.
TaxAct
Choose TaxAct if you prioritize significantly cheaper than competitors, want to start with a free tier, or value covers complex tax situations.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, H&R Block is our winner with a rating of 9/10 compared to TaxAct's 8.4/10. H&R Block stands out for its better free tier than turbotax and in-person office option. While TaxAct is more affordable, H&R Block's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, TaxAct remains an excellent choice if significantly cheaper than competitors is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Consider the migration effort before switching. Most services offer data export, but rebuilding workflows and configurations takes time. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the switching costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is H&R Block better than TaxAct?
H&R Block scores higher in our testing (9/10 vs 8.4/10). H&R Block excels at better free tier than turbotax, while TaxAct is better for significantly cheaper than competitors.
Which is cheaper, H&R Block or TaxAct?
TaxAct is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. TaxAct offers NaN% savings.
H&R Block vs TaxAct: which should I choose?
Choose H&R Block if you prioritize better free tier than turbotax. Choose TaxAct if you need significantly cheaper than competitors. Both are solid tax software options.
What's the main difference between H&R Block and TaxAct?
The main difference is H&R Block offers online + in-person tax help at competitive prices, while TaxAct focuses on budget-friendly tax filing with expert support.