If you want to file your taxes online, but think you’ll feel more confident using a long-established company, H&R Block is a player to consider. The company has been in the tax business for decades, since its founding by two Kansas City-based brothers in the 1950s.
quick facts
- Free option for federal returns
- Paid options for complex returns
- Multiple ways to take your refund
Using the free version
Taxpayers who file forms 1040EZ, 1040A or the relatively simple Form 1040 can use H&R Block’s free version. This version allows you to itemize, taking deductions for mortgage interest, charitable donations and more. It doesn’t let you file your state taxes for free, but does provide the service for much less than with paid versions.
The free version also allows you to electronically import information from your W-2 or your previous year’s tax returns, even from competitors TaxAct and TurboTax, to save time. And it includes free, in-person representation if you’re audited, something rivals charge for.
There’s no income limit for using the free online tax filing product.
- What’s free: You can file 1040, 1040EZ or 1040A, but some Schedules aren’t supported; state filing is subject to an additional fee. You can import information from last year’s return or your W-2 electronically.
- Basic ($24.99 online, $19.95 download) – This option lets you import last year’s data and store and access your tax files for six years.
- Deluxe ($34.99 online, $44.95 download) – H&R Block recommends this version for homeowners and investors.
- Premium ($49.99 online, $64.95 download) – If you’re self-employed or own rental property, this option can help you find deductions.
Using the paid version
If your return has more complexities, you may be better off with an upgrade. For example, you should consider paying for the program if you:
- Have freelance income or own a business
- Own a home or rental property
- Have investment income
H&R Block has three paid options for individual taxpayers and is currently offering 15% off of list prices. While the prices listed here are accurate at time of publication, note that some tax programs’ prices fluctuate during the tax-filing season. It’s a good idea to verify costs before purchasing.
Other considerations
H&R Block doesn’t offer free filing for state taxes. State tax filing costs $9.99 per state through the free program and $36.99 per state with any of the upgrades.
Those who use H&R Block’s free program aren’t entitled to free help at a bricks-and-mortar location, but can get free online support. Upgrade users can get free personal consultations if they’re near a branch.
How to get your tax refund
If you’re due a refund, H&R Block lets you get it via direct deposit, prepaid debit card (an Emerald MasterCard), gift cards or paper check. You can also use part of it to pay for the tax preparation service — but it’ll cost an additional $34.95. We recommend paying upfront with a credit or debit card and getting your full refund.
If you receive your refund on an Emerald MasterCard, be aware that ATM withdrawals cost $3 each, and if you don’t use the card for two months, a $4.95 per month inactivity fee kicks in — so don’t sock it away for holiday shopping in December. Our advice? Think twice about taking your refund this way.
If you receive your refund in gift cards (in $100 increments), you’ll get a bonus of 5% or 10%, depending upon which program you use. Merchants include Amazon, Target and others.
More from NerdWallet:
Compare Options: Prepare and File Your Taxes Online
9 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund
The Standard Deduction for 2015
Bev O’Shea is a staff writer at NerdWallet, a personal finance website. Email: boshea@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @BeverlyOShea.
Image via iStock.
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