I have been using H&R Block Tax Preparation software for over 5 years, but lost all my previous data files when my computer crashed and burned. I am a retiree with pensions and social security (1099-R forms, no W-2s). Initially the program would not let me enter the 1099 information. Phone calls did not work. I let it sit for a day. Went back the next day and it worked! I suppose all's well that ends well -- but it was very frustrating.
I have used this taxware for a few years, I was going to switch to Turbo Tax to compare, however Turbo would not work on my current windows operating system. I have had to go into the program and manually override some portions of the state program (Michigan) to insure that I received the correct credits. I would say that it does save a lot of typing and it's easy to get printouts and copies for your records. and it's convenient to file electronically. I will be looking into doing an online program next year.
I was extremely disappointed with the software product 2019. There appeared to be malware attached to it and tried to force me to make an additional purchase before I could file. I have trusted them for years but think I will go elsewhere when it comes time to file next year!
Pretty good software, and a reasonable value. It did my fairly simple taxes well, with clear instructions. I was disappointed that: you can't change the typeface size; it doesn't let you fill out a separate form 1041 (for a grantor trust, in my case); it doesn't default to separate names when you save off (as a PDF file) the Federal return and also save off a state return.
Also, when going back to the beginning of a return, to do your own double-checking that you've included everything, eventually you get into a loop situation when you've completed the Federal portion. That is, at the end of the Federal portion, when you hit Next, you're given an accuracy-check dialog. When you close that dialog (no errors, etc.), you're back on the same screen. And if you press Next, repeat, ad infinitum. What should happen after the final Federal accuracy check is that there is no longer a Next button, but instead -- as when FIRST completing a return -- you should be asked if you now want to (re-)work on your state return.
I have been using H&R Block tax software for many years and have never been disappointed. I feel they make it easy for me to get the maximum legal refund each year. I would highly recommend their line of products to anyone interested in preparing their own tax returns, both federal and state.
Pros: Easy to prepare, Maximizes refund, Easy to import documents, Fast