H&R Block's tax preparation fees vary widely based on your filing method (online DIY, in-office, or assisted), complexity, and location, typically ranging from $0 for simple returns to $300+ for complex in-person filings in 2026.

Online DIY Pricing (Most Affordable)

H&R Block's online plans are the go-to for many, with transparent tiers updated for the 2025-2026 tax season. Free filing covers basics like W-2 income and standard credits, but upgrades kick in for deductions or investments.

Plan| Federal + State Cost (Est.)| Best For| Key Limits
---|---|---|---
Free| $0 (state included) 13| Simple W-2, EITC, Child Tax Credit| No itemizing, investments, or business
Deluxe| $35–$50 + $37/state 1| Homeownership, itemized deductions| Adds mortgage interest, property taxes
Premium| $65–$85 + $37/state 1| Investments, rental income (Schedule E)| Handles stocks, crypto, HSA 3
Self-Employed| $115–$122 + $37/state 1| Gig workers, freelancers (Schedule C)| Business expenses, depreciation 3

Extra fees : Refund transfers (~$42), multi-state filings, or e-filing upgrades. Prices rose slightly from 2025 due to inflation, but H&R Block remains competitive vs. TurboTax.

In-Office or Assisted Pricing (Higher End)

For hands-on help, expect $150–$500+ depending on forms and location—urban offices charge more. A Reddit user reported $310 ($200 federal, $70 state, $40 fee deduction) for a moderately complex return.

  • Basic returns: $100–$200
  • With kids/business: $250–$400
  • Complex (e.g., rentals, foreign income): $400+

Pro tip: Start online and upgrade to live chat or in-person if needed—saves 50%+ vs. full office.

Real-User Insights & Trending Context

Forums buzz about H&R Block's AI assistant (new for 2026) making DIY easier, but some gripe over "hidden" upgrades—like needing Premium for HSA contributions. FTC fined them $7M in 2025 for "free" filing bait-and-switch, forcing clearer disclosures this year.

"I got my taxes done in person... $310 total... worth it for peace of mind?" – Reddit user, 2025

Comparisons show H&R Block edges FreeTaxUSA ($15/state) on usability but trails Cash App Taxes ($0 limited). In early 2026 chatter, filers love the searchable Q &A database for quick W-2 fixes.

Tips to Minimize Costs

  1. Qualify for Free : Single W-2? No deductions? You're set.
  1. File State Free : Use state sites if possible.
  1. Import Data : W-2/1099 uploads cut errors/time.
  1. Shop Around : Check Groupon for discounts; avoid refund fees.
  1. DIY First : 80% of users stick online post-start.

TL;DR : Expect $0–$125 online , $200–$400 assisted —shop your situation for the best deal this February 2026 season.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.