I use H&R mainly for the Amazon cash back. The software works reasonably well and is comparable to others. What I really don’t like is how you have to install the software. It seems like I am back in the 90’s with installers and after it installs it looks for an update and then installs again. Each time requiring a reboot. Seems like a ridiculous about of wasted time. Then after I have already filed it wants to update again. Really, cause I hope whatever you updated didn’t negatively effect my taxes. The worst is after paying for the state software, it won’t even compute my underpayment penalty. I might as well just write my own numbers into a fillable form.
I've always used the H&R Block software (formerly "Taxcut"). Generally it is intuitive and follows the IRS forms as you might fill the out on paper. I think it is more tricky than necessary to go back and check on something.
Federal was fine. It's the State version that has problems.
For two years running, I've had "carry-forward" amounts--one for a capital loss carry-forward from one year to the next, another for a 529 plan carry-forward--that the (Wisconsin) State software did not pick up on. In both cases, I would have had an increased state tax liability had I not noticed the errors. I had to enter the carry-forward amounts manually.
I've used a version of the H&R Block tax software since the early 1990's and it's been great! Easy to use, always accurate and easy to file. Worth every penny!
Pros: Easy to prepare, Easy to import documents, Fast
Not sure what's changed - tax codes or the program, but it's not as easy to use, doesn't feel like it's getting me the best deal and is aggressive in its program to repurchase for the following year. I feel like it wants my money more than it wants to save me money. Won't be recommending to a friend any more.
Cons: Time consuming, Doesn't maximize refund, Hard to import documents