TurboTax vs H&R Block: Which Tax Software Is Better in 2025?
Written by
Andrew Lisa
Edited by
Joe Evans
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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 2025 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 | $89 (Deluxe) | $35 (Deluxe) |
| Crypto Support | Yes, up to 20,000 transactions | Yes, via CoinTracker |
| Live Expert Help | TurboTax Live / Full Service | Premium+ chat or in-person help |
| In-Person Locations | Limited (Verified Pro) | 9,000+ 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: 2025 Pricing Comparison
| Plan | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Free Edition | $0 federal, $0 state | $0 federal, $0 state |
| Deluxe | From $89 + $39 per state | From $35 + $37 per state |
| Premium | From $129 + $39 per state | From $65 + $37 per state |
| Self-Employed | From $169 + $39 per state | From $85 + $37 per state |
| Full Service | Starts at $219+ (online only) | In-person or drop-off (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 2025?
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 | Works through CoinTracker |
| Supported Platforms | Coinbase, Robinhood, Binance, and more | Requires syncing or manual entry |
| Best For | Active crypto traders and investors | Occasional crypto users who want simple support |
TurboTax wins for built-in crypto support and ease of tracking high-volume trades.
Document Upload & Integration
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| W-2 Upload | Photo, PDF, or direct employer integration | Photo, PDF, or direct employer integration |
| 1099 Import | Full support for gig apps (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash) | Same, but may require manual adjustments |
| Bank/Form Integration | Strong automation and sync | Slightly more manual, but still user-friendly |
Both platforms make tax form imports easy, but TurboTax offers a smoother, more automated experience.
User Experience & Navigation
| Feature | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation Style | Guided, Q&A-style interview | Guided, with the option to skip ahead |
| Interface | Clean, modern design | Clear layout, slightly more traditional |
| Best For | Beginners or users who want hand-holding | Experienced filers who want more control |
TurboTax walks you through each step. H&R Block gives more freedom if you know what you’re doing.
Expert Help & Human Assistance
| Service | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Live Chat or Video | Yes (TurboTax Live – additional fee) | Yes (included with Premium+ plans) |
| Full-Service Filing | Yes – hand off to a tax pro via TurboTax Live Full Service | Yes — in-person, drop-off, or online with local offices |
| In-Person Locations | Limited (Verified Pro pilot) | 9,000+ local offices across the U.S. |
Prefer face-to-face support or drop-off service? H&R Block offers unmatched in-person access.
Customer Support & User Feedback
| Support Category | TurboTax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Help Center | Yes | Yes |
| Live Agent Support | Yes (chat, video, phone) | Yes (chat, phone, in-person) |
| User Reviews (2025) | High marks for tech and ease of use | Strong praise for affordability and in-person help |
| Most Common Complaint | Upsells and pricing | Slight learning curve for online 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 |
| Powerful crypto and investment support | Covers more scenarios in free version |
| Extensive live tax expert options | 9,000+ in-person locations for support |
| Higher cost for premium features | Less advanced automation for crypto |
| Limited in-person help | Covers more scenarios in the free version |
Final Take: TurboTax vs H&R Block in 2025
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. But 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 2025, H&R Block’s paid plans start at just $35, compared to $89 for TurboTax.
- 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 June 6, 2025.
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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