TaxAct vs H&R Block
TaxAct and H&R Block 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.
TaxAct
Budget-friendly tax filing with expert support
Starting from
$34.99
H&R Block
WinnerOnline + in-person tax help at competitive prices
Starting from
$55
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Starting Price | $34.99 | $55 |
| User Reviews | ||
| Filing Options | ||
| Free Filing | Federal only | More forms than TurboTax |
| State Returns | $39.99 each | $37-49 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
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
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
Key Difference
The key difference: TaxAct offers rental income while H&R Block provides in person offices. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
TaxAct
Choose TaxAct if you prioritize significantly cheaper than competitors, want to start with a free tier, or value covers complex tax situations.
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.
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. H&R Block also offers better value at its price point. 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 TaxAct better than H&R Block?
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, TaxAct or H&R Block?
H&R Block is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. H&R Block offers NaN% savings.
TaxAct vs H&R Block: which should I choose?
Choose TaxAct if you prioritize significantly cheaper than competitors. Choose H&R Block if you need better free tier than turbotax. Both are solid tax software options.
What's the main difference between TaxAct and H&R Block?
The main difference is TaxAct offers budget-friendly tax filing with expert support, while H&R Block focuses on online + in-person tax help at competitive prices.