TurboTax vs H&R Block: Which One's Best in 2026?
Tax season’s coming, and you’re staring down two big names: TurboTax and H&R Block. Both promise to get you the biggest refund possible, but which one actually delivers more bang for your buck?
We dug into the real costs, features, and refund potential to help you make the smartest choice for your wallet. Here’s the thing — the marketing makes everything sound amazing, but the real value comes down to what you actually pay versus what you get. Before you commit to either option, check Groupon's latest TurboTax discount codes for extra savings.
Quick jump: Costs | Refund potential | Features | Verdict | FAQ
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Quick takeaway:
- If you want the most free-file flexibility: H&R Block Free supports more common situations than TurboTax Free (like student loan interest, tuition and fees, and unemployment income).
- If you value a super-guided experience: TurboTax is often praised for user experience and may feel easier when things get more complex.
- Refund reality check: neither platform “creates” a bigger refund — the win is how well it helps you find deductions and credits you qualify for.
Which One Actually Costs Less?
If you’re watching your pennies (and who isn’t?), H&R Block generally comes out ahead on pricing. For most comparable filing situations, H&R Block tends to be slightly cheaper than TurboTax.
But here’s where it gets interesting — the “cheaper” option isn’t always the better deal. Think of it like buying a car: the sticker price matters, but so does what you get for that money. H&R Block might save you a few bucks upfront, but TurboTax often includes features that could be worth the extra cost.
Free Filing: H&R Block Takes the Lead
Here’s where H&R Block really shines. Their free online version supports way more tax situations than TurboTax’s free option — student loan interest, tuition and fees, unemployment income. Stuff that TurboTax makes you pay for.
TurboTax’s free version is pretty bare-bones. It covers basic W-2 income and the standard deduction, but that’s about it. If your taxes are super simple, it’ll do the job. But if you’ve got even slightly complicated finances, you’ll need to upgrade.
| Feature | H&R Block Free | TurboTax Free |
|---|---|---|
| W-2 Income | ✓ | ✓ |
| Student Loan Interest | ✓ | ✗ (Upgrade required) |
| Unemployment Income | ✓ | ✗ (Upgrade required) |
| Tuition & Fees | ✓ | ✗ (Upgrade required) |
Paid Plans: Where Your Money Goes
When you move beyond free filing, both platforms offer similar tiers, but the pricing can vary. H&R Block typically charges less for comparable features, which is great news for your budget. However, TurboTax often bundles in extras that might justify the higher price tag.
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Who Gets You More Money Back?
Refund reality check: Neither one magically creates money that wasn’t already yours.
Your refund size depends on your tax situation, not your software choice. Both TurboTax and H&R Block use the same tax code and the same IRS forms. The difference comes down to how well each platform helps you find deductions and credits you might’ve missed.
What Those Guarantees Really Mean
| Guarantee | What it means in plain English |
|---|---|
| Maximum refund guarantee (both) | They’ll find all the deductions and credits you’re legally entitled to — basically the baseline you’re expecting (like a restaurant guaranteeing they’ll cook your food). |
| TurboTax “Lifetime Guarantee” | Covers your return for seven years from the filing date. |
| 100% accuracy guarantee (both) | Promises to cover any penalties and interest if their software makes a mistake. |
What Actually Boosts Your Refund
The real refund boosters aren’t about which software you use — they’re about finding every deduction and credit you qualify for. This is where the platforms start to differ:
- TurboTax: More thorough in asking questions that might uncover hidden savings
- H&R Block: Offers unique tools, like their donated item deduction calculator
Features That Actually Matter for Your Money
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| User experience | Often praised as intuitive and polished (PCMag winner for 2024) | Transparent pricing and easy to use (CNET “Best Overall” for 2026) |
| Support | Purely digital | Thousands of physical offices for in-person help |
| Mobile + convenience | More feature-rich app; photo W-2, import data, file on phone; auto-import + integrations | App covers the basics but isn’t as comprehensive |
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
After comparing costs, features, and real-world value, here’s how to make the smartest choice for your specific situation.
| Your Situation | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Simple W-2, standard deduction | H&R Block Free | More features for free |
| Investments, rental property | TurboTax Premium | Better complex situation handling |
| Moderate complexity | H&R Block | Lower cost, in-person help option |
Quick Answers to Your Questions
Which is cheaper, TurboTax or H&R Block?
H&R Block is generally slightly cheaper than TurboTax for comparable online filing situations. The difference isn’t huge, but it can add up over time, especially for basic to moderately complex returns.
Do TurboTax or H&R Block users get bigger refunds?
Neither software creates bigger refunds — your refund depends on your tax situation, not your software choice. Both platforms use the same tax code and help you find the deductions and credits you’re entitled to.
Is H&R Block’s free version really better than TurboTax’s?
Yes, H&R Block’s free online version supports more tax situations, including student loan interest, tuition and fees, and unemployment income. TurboTax’s free version is more limited and requires upgrades for these common situations.
Which tax software is easier to use?
TurboTax generally gets higher marks for user experience and interface design. It tends to guide you through the process more smoothly, though H&R Block is also user-friendly and has improved significantly in recent years.
Should I pay for in-person help at H&R Block?
If you’re comfortable with technology and have a relatively straightforward tax situation, the online version will save you money. In-person help is worth considering if you have complex taxes or prefer face-to-face guidance.
Your Next Move
Ready to tackle your taxes without overspending? Both TurboTax and H&R Block can help you file accurately and find the refund you deserve.
Before you check out, explore Groupon's latest TurboTax discount codes. It’s an easy way to stretch your budget without extra effort — because saving money on tax prep means more money staying in your pocket where it belongs.
