How Much Does Jackson Hewitt Charge? 2026 Pricing Guide
Tax season is here, and if you are considering Jackson Hewitt, you probably want to know the price tag before you walk in the door. Here is the short answer: You will pay $25 flat if you file online yourself, but you are looking at $49 and up (often much higher) if you want in-person help.
Jackson Hewitt’s pricing model is distinct because they offer a "flat fee" online model that contrasts sharply with the franchise-based pricing at their physical stores. Before you book an appointment, check Groupon’s Jackson Hewitt discount codes to lock in a deal. Below, we break down exactly what you’ll pay and how it stacks up against H&R Block.
💰 Pricing Cheat Sheet
- Online Filing: $25 flat fee (Federal + State included).
- In-Person Promo: Starts at $49 (New clients, simple returns only).
- Standard In-Person: Varies by location (typically $150–$400+).
- State Filing Fee: Included online; usually extra in-store.
Jackson Hewitt Pricing: Online vs. In-Person
The price difference between filing online and going into a Walmart or storefront location is massive. Here is what you get for your money.
| Service Type | Estimated Price | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Online Filing | $25 Flat Fee | Federal + unlimited state returns. Covers complex forms. |
| In-Person (New Client) | Starting at $49 | Federal return only. Simple W-2 filers. |
| In-Person (Standard) | $150 – $400+ | Full service preparation. Price varies by complexity. |
The Online Deal: $25 Gets You Everything
This is Jackson Hewitt’s competitive "sweet spot." Unlike competitors who charge tiered prices (e.g., Deluxe vs. Premier vs. Self-Employed), Jackson Hewitt charges a flat $25 for online filing.
This covers federal filing and unlimited state returns. It applies even if you have a complex tax situation, such as unemployment income or stock sales. It is one of the cheapest ways to file a complex return online.
In-Person Help: The $49 Promo vs. Reality
If you prefer face-to-face help, you have likely seen the "$49 Switch" advertisements. This is a promotional price for new clients with simple federal returns.
The Catch: The $49 price tag usually does not apply if you:
- Are Self-employed (Gig workers/Freelancers).
- Have dependents (Child Tax Credit).
- Have rental or investment income.
- Need to file a state return (State is often an extra fee in-store).
Note: Since Jackson Hewitt locations are largely franchises, standard pricing for existing clients varies by location. Without a coupon, expect to pay standard market rates ($200+) for professional prep.
Price Battle: Jackson Hewitt vs. H&R Block
Is Jackson Hewitt actually cheaper than the competition? It depends entirely on how you file.
| Tax Situation | Jackson Hewitt | H&R Block | The Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Return (Online) | $25 | $0 (Free Edition) | H&R Block |
| Complex Return (Online) | $25 | $55 – $115+ | Jackson Hewitt |
| In-Person Help | $49+ (Promo) | $85+ | Jackson Hewitt |
The Verdict
- Choose H&R Block if you have a very simple return (W-2 only, no kids). Their free online tier is hard to beat.
- Choose Jackson Hewitt if you have a complex online return (investments, side hustles). The $25 flat fee is significantly cheaper than H&R Block’s Premium tiers.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Even with flat fees, tax services often have add-ons that bump up the final bill.
1. State Return Fees (In-Store)
While the $25 online plan includes state filing, the in-person promotional price ($49) is typically for the Federal return only. In many franchise locations, adding a state return can cost an additional $40–$60.
2. Refund Advance Fees
If you need cash immediately, you might opt for a refund advance loan. While these can be life-savers, they often come with high APRs or finance charges. If you are considering this option, check out our guide to Jackson Hewitt's holiday loan schedule and costs to see if the math makes sense for you.
3. "Switch & Get $100" Requirements
You may see an offer to "Switch and get $100." Read the fine print: this usually requires you to have a tax prep fee of at least $150 or more. You can’t use the $49 coupon and get the $100 cash bonus.
FAQs
Is H&R Block cheaper than Jackson Hewitt?
For simple online returns, H&R Block is cheaper (free). For complex online returns (freelancers, investors), Jackson Hewitt is usually cheaper due to their $25 flat-rate model.
How much does Jackson Hewitt charge to do taxes in person?
For new clients with simple returns, prices start at $49. However, for returning clients or complex returns, fees typically range from $150 to $400 depending on the number of forms required.
Does Jackson Hewitt charge for state taxes?
If you file online, state returns are currently included in the $25 flat fee. If you file in-person, state returns are usually an additional charge on top of the federal filing fee.
Does Jackson Hewitt offer free tax filing?
No, Jackson Hewitt generally does not offer a $0 free tier like TurboTax or H&R Block. Their strategy is offering a low flat fee ($25) for everyone, rather than a free tier for some and expensive tiers for others.
Final Tip: Check for Coupons
Jackson Hewitt is a franchise, which means pricing can vary by zip code, but they almost always accept digital coupons. Before you head to your appointment, check Groupon’s Jackson Hewitt promo codes to see if you can knock the price down.
