Nobody likes to pay taxes on their hard-earned money, but it’s an inevitable part of life. Every YEAR, Canadians file their taxes for the previous calendar year. And while you can always hire an accountant or tax specialist to do your taxes for you, there is always the option to do them yourself. But you can make things much easier by using a tax filing platform like H&R Block’s Tax Software.
H&R Block is a popular tax preparation company that serves millions of people every year come tax time. But in addition to providing traditional tax services, H&R Block also offers software that Canadians can use to file their taxes on their own.
H&R Block Overview
| Types of tax situation supported | H&R Block can help file income tax returns for various tax situations including: – Simple tax returns – Newcomers – Students – Seniors – Self-employed individuals/businesses |
| Cost | $0 – $49.99 for self-filing options |
| Extra Features | Expert help is available Audit protection Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan Instant tax refunds |
H&R Block Review By Customers
| Capterra | 4.3/5 stars |
| ConsumerAffairs | 2/5 stars |
| BBB | A+ Business accredited since 1993 |
What Does H&R Block Tax Software Offer?
The H&R Block tax preparation software offers a comprehensive platform to file your taxes accurately and quickly.
Whether you have simple or complex tax filings. Here are some of the features you’ll get with the software.
Straightforward Platform
H&R Block’s interface is simple and makes it easy to use and navigate. It helps you file your taxes by providing explanations as you go along.
Terminology Definitions
Terminology is hyperlinked so you can get more information about what certain concepts are on the spot. There is also a help menu that stays updated according to where you are in the process.
Audit Protection
There is always the chance of getting audited by the CRA, which involves having your financial information and accounts reviewed to make sure all tax filings are reported correctly and that the amount of tax is correct. Being audited can be stressful, especially if you’re on your own to handle it.
When you purchase H&R Block’s audit support, you’ll receive personalized assistance from a tax expert to help ease this financial burden and stress of the audit.
For added protection, you can opt for the Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan, which offers audit protection plus a Maximum Refund Guarantee.
| What Happens If You Owe The CRA Money? If you end up owing a lot of money to the CRA, you can make payment arrangements with the CRA.You can also use a personal loan to help cover the debt. Just be sure to check your credit score prior to applying for any loan as it can affect your chances of approval and ability to qualify for the best rates and terms. |
Expert Review And Compatibility
Real-life tax experts are available (for a fee) to help answer your questions and even go over your tax return before you file to maximize your refund or reduce what you owe.
You can log on to your platform from a computer or mobile device.
How Much Does The H&R Block Tax Software Cost?
The cost of H&R Block varies depending on the plan you get. If you’re filing it yourself, you’ll have 4 plans to choose from:
- The Free Plan – For simple tax returns.
- The Deluxe Plan – For those who want to maximize their tax credits and deductions.
- The Premier Plan – For those who have rental income, investments or foreign income.
- The Self-Employed Plan – For self-employed individuals
Generally the more complex your finances and the more expert help you need, the more expensive it’ll be.
The Free Plan
| Best Suited For | Simple tax returns |
| Cost | $0 |
| Key Features | – Automatic return optimization – Claim RRSP deductions – Claim student tax credits and deductions – Report Income from T-slips and RL forms |
The Deluxe Plan
| Best Suited For | Anyone who wants to maximize tax deductions and credits. |
| Cost | $19.99 per return |
| Key Features | – All the features from the Free Plan – Claim medical expenses, donations, employment expenses, and dependent transfers and credits – Personalized suggestions to help save you more money |
The Premier Plan
| Best Suited For | Those who have rental income, investments or foreign income. |
| Cost | $39.99 ($0 for those aged 25 and under) |
| Key Features | – Includes everything from the Free plan and the Deluxe plan – Claim rental property expenses – Claim capital gains or losses and any foreign income |
The Self-Employed Plan
| Best Suited For | Those who are self-employed (freelancers, consultants, online sales, etc) |
| Cost | $49.99 ($0 for those aged 25 and under) |
| Key Features | – Includes everything from the Premier plan – Calculators and tool kits to find and calculate self-employed credits and deductions |
Need Help From A Tax Expert?
If you’re new to filing or simply want expert help this tax season, you can get expert help by filing at an H&R Block office near you.
You can also work with a tax expert online by using H&R Block’s Remote Tax Expert service. All you have to do is upload the required documents, and the tax expert will do the rest.
You’ll be quoted a price once you’re financial tax situation is assessed.
Support Offered By H&R Block Tax Software
To receive additional support from H&R Block when filing your taxes, feel free to call or contact them through the following channels:
| Telephone | 1-800-HRBLOCK (1-800-472-5625) Monday to Friday: 9 am – 9 pm EST Weekends & holidays: 10 am – 7 pm EST |
| H&R Block Canada Headquarters 2600, 700 – 2nd Street SW Calgary, AB T2P 2W2 | |
| Visit an office or phone | Find an office near you |
Pros And Cons Of Using H&R Block Tax Software
There are numerous benefits to using H&R Block’s tax software. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider as well.
Pros Of H&R Block Tax Software
- Affordable. The free version is easy to use and is enough for the average tax preparation. Even the upgraded versions are affordable compared to other tax software programs.
- Modern layout. The interface is straightforward to follow and use.
- Resources available for each field. If you need more information, each field offers more detailed explanations of what is required.
- Access to tax experts on demand. If you want extra guidance, you can get in touch with a tax expert to ensure that you’re filing your taxes correctly.
- Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan – If you purchase the Peace of Mind plan, you’ll not only receive help from a tax expert, but you’ll get audit assistance and a Maximum Refund Guarantee.
- Security. The H&R Block tax software is NETFILE certified, your information will remain entirely secure when filing your taxes electronically with the CRA or Revenu Quebec.
Cons H&R Block Tax Software
- Free version missing features. The free version may not come with all the features you need to claim common tax credits and deductions.
How To File Your Income Taxes Using H&R Block Tax Software?
To file your income taxes with H&R Block, you’ll need to first create an account using your email address.
Once you’ve created an account, choose the plan and topics that apply to your tax situation. Then simply follow the prompts to complete your tax return.
Is The H&R Block Tax Software Right For You?
H&R Block offers a great option for those who would prefer to have their taxes done at home, either entirely by themselves or with the help of an expert. Fortunately, there are different price options available to suit your budget and your exact tax filing needs, which are far more affordable than other tax software tools available. H&R Block’s tax software is a cost-effective way to file your taxes while still getting some expert assistance backed by security.
