Both H&R Block and TurboTax are leaning on early-season discounts to attract filers, according to WIRED's latest coupon roundups. H&R Block is promoting a 25% discount on its DIY online filing with Pro Review, which drops the price from $75 to $55 for federal filing and includes $0 per state. TurboTax, meanwhile, is offering 10% off federal online tax products, with its Live Assisted service starting at $36 and Full Service temporarily capped at $150.
The two services differ in how they structure their free tiers. WIRED reports that roughly 55% of filers qualify for H&R Block's Free Edition, which covers simple Form 1040 returns with limited schedules. TurboTax's Free Edition is more restrictive, with about 37% of taxpayers eligible, and it also covers simple returns only. Both free editions include state filing at no cost.
For filers with more complex situations, the services take different approaches. H&R Block's paid tiers range from Deluxe at $48 to a self-employed option at $96, with state filing at $49 per state. TurboTax emphasizes its referral program, where new customers can get 20% off federal products and existing users can earn up to $500 in gift cards. Both sources agree that filing early is the best way to lock in the lowest prices, as costs tend to rise as tax season progresses.