This is the first time I use H&R Block. It is very good. It is user friendly and answer the questions when I have. It really makes my life much easier. I will highly recommend it to my friends.
Pros: Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import documents, Fast
This software is somewhat incomplete. Forms have to be filled in manually and it only tells you about it in the final error check stage. Also, there are hidden charges for e-filing with the state even when the state charges nothing for this service. It works and its easier than doing things manually, but you still have to get into the weeds quite a bit.
Cons: Time consuming, Doesn't maximize refund, Hard to prepare, Hard to import documents
Fairly easy to use. They do a decent job of how well they integrate the State and Federal returns. Could use a slight improvement there. Nice use of scanning or snapshots via the phone. Nice touch there.
As a retired tax professional(CPA and lawyer). I have used professional software for 40+ years. H & R Block software is far more difficult to use than software designed for the professionals.
The Maryland State decoupling of section 179 depreciation and NOL left me hitting a brick wall. This information should have been contained in the Federal return and should not have left me wondering how to figure out where the information as hidden and what was the Maryland state 502 form really asking me. I have 2 rentals and the Depreciation section had me wondering if I was assigning the depreciated items to the correct property and the Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation process also left me wondering if I was doing it correctly.
Software is no different from the others. My only but major issue is the software is not compatible with my Macbook Pro. I was able to upload the software and use it, however I was not able to print. Because of this I had to borrow a pc to complete my taxes.
I had previously used Turbotax for many years, until the software bugs started cropping up more and more frequently through the years with their released products. I had to look for an alternative because I couldn't trust their software, so I ended up with HR Block's software. I'm glad I did, because the user interface has been intuitive, and the software has been reliable through the years.