TurboTax
Consumer and small-business tax preparation software.
Alternatives · 2026
Alternatives to H&R Block
Tax prep software and in-person tax services.
1 hand-curated alternative from MintedSaaS's directory. See the H&R Block listing →
H&R Block is a tax preparation service available both online and through in-person visits at local offices. The company handles federal and state income tax returns for individuals and small businesses, with pricing tiers that scale from basic single-filer returns to complex returns involving self-employment income, capital gains, or rental properties. H&R Block's main draw is the option to work with a tax pro face-to-face—useful for people who find tax software confusing or who have returns messy enough that they'd rather outsource the whole job.
The typical H&R Block customer is someone who already knows they want human help, or someone whose tax situation is complicated enough that they're willing to pay for it. People choose it for the in-person appointment guarantee, the ability to get answers to specific questions on the spot, and the liability protection that comes from having a professional prepare their return. Others use it simply as a branded alternative to doing taxes themselves through an app, trusting the company's 70-year history. If your filing is straightforward—W2 income, standard deductions, no side business—you might never need H&R Block. But if your household has multiple income streams, investment income, or you just prefer working with a person rather than software, it's a common choice.
What we offer that competes
What to look for
- Whether the platform offers both self-service software and in-person tax prep appointments, or software-only
- Whether you can import prior-year tax data or data from competing software without manual re-entry
- Whether the service offers a free tier or qualifies you for IRS Free File without hidden paid upsells
- Whether the product guarantees electronic filing is included, or if there's an extra fee to e-file federal and state returns
- Whether the product provides audit support and representation, or if you must handle IRS communication yourself
- Whether pricing is per-return flat-rate or scales based on deduction count, income sources, and return complexity
FAQ
Is tax prep software cheaper than H&R Block?
Yes, in most cases. TurboTax and similar software run $60–$200 depending on return complexity, while H&R Block's assisted and in-person options start around $150 and climb to $400+ for complex returns. You pay more for human guidance and liability protection.
Can I do my taxes for free instead of using H&R Block?
If you earn under $73,000 (2024 threshold), you likely qualify for IRS Free File, which includes options like IRS Free File partners. For higher earners, you'll pay for either software or professional prep.
What are the best alternatives to H&R Block?
TurboTax is the most popular direct competitor, offering comparable features and tiers but entirely software-driven with no in-person option. If you want an in-person appointment without the H&R Block name, local CPA firms and tax preparers provide similar services with potentially lower costs or more personalized attention.
Are there free alternatives to H&R Block?
Yes, if you qualify for the IRS Free File program or if your income is below the threshold. Beyond that, the free tier of TurboTax is marketing material—it's heavily restricted. No-cost prep requires either qualifying for Free File or finding a community tax clinic.
Should I use tax software or hire someone to do my taxes?
Use software if your return is simple (single income source, standard deduction, no investments) and you're comfortable with forms. Hire someone—whether H&R Block or a CPA—if you have self-employment income, multiple properties, complex investments, or you'd just rather not spend the time learning tax rules.
Does H&R Block let you file electronically, or do I have to come in person?
H&R Block offers online tax prep (compete with TurboTax), live chat assistance, and in-person appointments. You can pick the format that suits you. The in-person option is what sets it apart from pure software competitors.
Can I switch to H&R Block if I've already started my taxes somewhere else?
Yes. H&R Block's software can import data from other tools via file upload, or you can start fresh. If you've already paid TurboTax, though, it won't refund you—so plan your switch before filing.
What platforms do H&R Block alternatives support?
Most competing tax software, including TurboTax, works on web, iOS, and Android. In-person tax prep (through CPAs or local firms) requires no platform—you just schedule a visit. Availability varies by region.