TurboTax vs H&R Block: Which Tax Software Is Better in 2026?
Written by
Andrew Lisa
Edited by
Melanie Grafil, M.A., CHFC™
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When it comes to filing your taxes online, two names dominate the conversation: TurboTax and H&R Block.
Whether you’re handling a simple W-2, juggling self-employment income or filing crypto transactions, comparing TurboTax vs H&R Block in 2026 can help you choose the best fit for your tax situation.
Both offer guided tools, live expert help and options for complex returns — but their features, pricing and user experience differ in key ways.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about what’s better: TurboTax or H&R Block, so you can file confidently — and affordably.
TurboTax vs H&R Block: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Free version | Basic 1040 only | Supports more deductions & credits |
| Paid tiers start at | $39 for Do It Yourself, state extra | $35 for Deluxe, state extra |
| Crypto support | Yes, up to 20,000 transactions | Yes, via CoinTracker |
| Live expert help | TurboTax Live or Full Service | Premium plans or in person |
| In-person locations | Limited availability | Thousands of U.S. offices |
| Ease of use | Very intuitive, Q&A style | Beginner-friendly with flexible navigation |
Which Should You Choose?
| Choose TurboTax if… | Choose H&R Block if… |
|---|---|
| You’re self-employed, freelance or invest in crypto | You want in-person support |
| You want access to on-demand live tax experts | You’re looking for a cheaper filing option |
| You prefer a fully online, guided experience | You need to file a simple return with deductions or credits |
For cost-conscious filers, H&R Block offers better value. But for high-income earners or gig workers, TurboTax’s advanced features and expert help may be worth the premium.
What Sets TurboTax and H&R Block Apart?
TurboTax and H&R Block both offer DIY tax filing tools for federal and state returns, but their approach to pricing and support sets them apart.
- TurboTax is known for its sleek interface and powerful help features, especially for freelancers, investors, or crypto traders.
- H&R Block tends to be more affordable and offers the widest in-person support network for those who want to talk to someone face-to-face.
Both platforms offer mobile apps, auto-import tools and refund tracking — but depending on your needs, one may be better suited than the other.
TurboTax vs H&R Block: Free Filing Options
Both services offer free filing options, but what’s included varies.
- TurboTax Free Edition covers only simple 1040 returns — no itemized deductions, child tax credits or student loan interest.
- H&R Block Free Online supports Form 1040 plus Schedules 1, 2 and 3, which means more filers can use it without upgrading.
H&R Block’s free version covers more tax situations, making it the stronger choice for budget-conscious filers.
TurboTax vs H&R Block: 2026 Pricing Comparison
| Filing option | TurboTax | H&R Block tier | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free filing | $0 for simple Form 1040 returns | Free Online | $0 for qualifying returns |
| DIY paid filing | $39 to $139 federal, state extra | Deluxe to Self-Employed | About $35 to $85 federal, state extra |
| DIY with expert help | $79 to $209 federal, state extra | Premium with Expert Help | Available with Premium plans |
| Full-service filing | Limited-time $150, otherwise $89 to $129 and up | Full Service | In person, drop-off, or online, price varies |
Bottom line: TurboTax offers more advanced digital features, but it comes at a higher cost. H&R Block is typically less expensive across all tiers, especially for users who don’t need live expert support or complex tools.
Feature Breakdown: TurboTax vs H&R Block
Looking for the best tax software in 2026?
Below is a side-by-side breakdown of how TurboTax and H&R Block compare across the most important features — crypto support, document uploads, user experience, expert help and customer satisfaction.
Crypto Tax Support
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto integration | Direct import of up to 20,000 transactions | Imports through CoinTracker |
| Supported platforms | Coinbase, Robinhood, Binance and others | Via CoinTracker or manual entry |
| Best for | Active crypto traders and investors | Occasional crypto users |
TurboTax wins for built-in crypto support and ease of tracking high-volume trades.
Expert Help and Human Assistance
| Service | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Live chat or video | Available through TurboTax Live | Available with Premium plans |
| Full-service filing | Online full service with a tax professional | In person, drop-off, or online |
| In-person locations | Limited availability | Thousands of offices nationwide |
Prefer face-to-face support or drop-off service? H&R Block offers unmatched in-person access.
Customer Support and User Feedback
| Support category | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Help center | Online help center available | Online help center available |
| Live agent support | Chat, video or phone with paid plans | Chat, phone or in person with paid plans |
| User feedback | Praised for ease of use and technology | Praised for affordability and in-person help |
| Common complaint | Upsells and final pricing | Online version less intuitive for some users |
TurboTax shines in digital convenience. H&R Block wins for human support and overall value.
TurboTax vs. H&R Block: Pros and Cons
| TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|
| Easy, step-by-step navigation | Budget-friendly pricing |
| Strong crypto and investment support | Covers more scenarios in the free version |
| Wide range of live tax expert options | Thousands of in-person locations |
| Higher cost for advanced features | Less advanced crypto automation |
| Limited in-person support | Online experience less guided for some users |
Final Take: TurboTax vs H&R Block in 2026
If your goal is convenience and support for complex returns, TurboTax offers one of the most user-friendly and feature-rich platforms available. It’s ideal for tech-savvy filers, crypto investors and freelancers who want live help from tax pros.
But if you’re looking for a solid experience at a lower cost, H&R Block is hard to beat. It offers more flexibility for free filers, cheaper upgrade paths, and the unique advantage of local, in-person support — something no other platform matches at scale.
Ultimately, both services will get the job done. Your best choice depends on what matters most to you: cost, complexity or comfort level.
If you want maximum control and convenience, go with TurboTax. If you want dependable help and better value, H&R Block is the smarter pick.
FAQ About TurboTax vs. H&R Block
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about TurboTax vs. H&R Block:- Which is better: TurboTax or H&R Block?
- H&R Block offers better value and free filing options. TurboTax is better for complex returns, especially with investments or crypto.
- Is H&R Block cheaper than TurboTax?
- Yes. In 2026, H&R Block’s paid plans start at around $35, while TurboTax's paid plans start as low as $39.
- Which is better for self-employed or gig workers?
- TurboTax offers more automation and better income-tracking tools, but H&R Block is more affordable and still solid for freelancers.
- Do both support crypto tax filing?
- Yes. TurboTax provides native support for up to 20,000 transactions. H&R Block requires CoinTracker integration.
- Can I switch platforms from last year?
- Yes. Both platforms let you import prior returns from TurboTax, H&R Block, or other tax software.
Information is accurate as of Jan. 21, 2026.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by H&R Block or TurboTax. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by H&R Block or TurboTax.
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