The software was a bit more expensive than I wanted, but somewhat less expensive than personal visit. And . . . I didn't have the additional stresses of going back and forth to collect forgotten documents, not to mention having to make additional appointments.
Pros: Easy to prepare, Easy to import documents, Fast
Software Easy, but not filing... For some reason this year they want to verify who I am? They ask stupid questions that maybe they found info on my credit report that I did not give permission to look at or off my facebook. I do not like them accessing that info or trying to get me to verify. So I have printed my tax return and sent it in and I will no longer buy their tax program to do my taxes.
Interview should start out with what kind of a job do you have - w-2 employee income? gig economy? graduate student supported by fellowship? etc... and these should be check boxes as someone might fall into more than one category. Then it should go into detail about the various "tricky bits" related to these types of income. It took a few iterations with H&R Block support (who were great once you connect with them) to sort some of these things out and even then, they had to rely on their experts to get the answers. In the end though, it did the job. Also, its cheaper to acquire a 2nd state program by buying a 2nd copy of the software. However, installing the 2nd state on the same computer is a bit tricky, at least on Windows because it won't let you install two copies on one computer. Allowing a 2nd registration code to be entered to add an additional state would be helpful. You can get both states on one computer but its is awkward and there will be issues getting updates for the 2nd state on that computer (it won't work on Windows, maybe ok on a Mac).
This is my sixth year using the HR Block Tax Program. This program is very easy to use. It has on line and off assistance if needed. From the beginning to the end the HR Block Tax Program have you covered!!
Pros: Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import documents, Fast