Did you know that H&R Block in Canada works with shelters and non-profit organizations to provide free services to help those in poverty get the proper support?
H&R Block is also one of Canada's leading tax filing software, with thousands of companies using their services each year.
Want to know more about the H&R Block Software? We will discuss the ins and outs of the program below.
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Is H&R Block Free?
First things first, when it comes to taxes, you will want to use a trustworthy program. If you use complicated software, you might run into issues such as filing the wrong information, making a mistake, or get audited due to false reporting.
H&R Block has three different options you can choose as your filing software.
Free Plan
The first is the free option and handles all your tax scenarios; you can use this option any time, whether you are self-employed or receive a T4 slip.
They include a few different features such as
Automatic return optimization
Personalized Guidance
Online help centre
AFR (Auto-Fill my Return)
SmartSearch
These features help you receive the most return and least amount of tax owing. In addition, they offer great support and are time-effective.
Automatic Return Optimization
This feature puts the software to work instead of you! It offers credits and deductions automatically so that you don't have to worry about finding the optimal return for you.
Personalized Guidance
The guidance for filing your tax returns with H&R Block is better than ever. Each step will have a little pop-up window that explains what the sections mean in layman's terms.
Online Help Centre
With 50 years of experience, H&R Block can answer all of your questions. Each representative is skilled and licensed to offer the best service.
AFR
Auto-Fill My Return is the fastest and most accurate way to file your income taxes. You can directly import the information you received from your employer or financial institution to generate an automatic return.
SmartSearch
SmartSearch allows you to find forms quickly and easily. All you need to do is look for the correct form and add it with the click of a button!
Assistance Plan
If you are nervous about filing your own taxes for the first time, selecting this option might be the right choice for you. For just $19.99 per return, you can rest assured knowing that you'll receive the proper support for each of your questions.
Additional to the free features mentioned above, you will also have access to:
Customized tax tips
Tech support
Transfer of data
SmartReview
The SmartReview especially is very helpful as it gives you a detailed summary of how your return is calculated.
Customized Tax Tips
This feature is excellent for those who are unfamiliar with a lot of the benefits they can apply for while filing for their return. In addition, this feature will give you tips and tricks to optimize your return whenever it is applicable.
Unlimited Tech Support
You can call or chat online with experts in IT if you have any issues. It is important to note that the Protection Plan gives priority to those clients.
Transfer Data
This is an easy-to-use feature that allows you to transfer data from other programs over to H&R Block. It also allows you to copy the data from last year so that you have accurate reporting. Of course, you have to review the data to ensure that all changes are edited.
SmartReview
This is particularly handy when you transferred your data from last year. You can review and edit your return quickly and efficiently. In addition, you can see the breakdown of the calculations of your return. This will help you make the right decision in future years since it allows you to make informed and optimized decisions.
Protection Plan
This option is excellent for complicated returns that are likely to be audited. However, it is a bit pricier than the previous options. Each return costs $44.99, but you'll have the best support with your returns.
The Protection Plan includes the free and assistance features but also has additional features that can help you overcome issues you might face.
These features include:
Unlimited priority support
Audit protection
Digital return storage (up to seven years!)
The priority support allows you to jump to the front of the waiting line for any questions you have, while the audit protection is an excellent feature that helps you through the process when the CRA wishes to audit your return.
As mentioned above, the Protection Plan clients have priority when they are looking for support. So be aware of that when you choose your plan, and you feel like you'll need plenty of support.
Is H&R Block Safe?
Each tax filing service requires to be certified by the CRA. Once they are certified, the CRA works together through NETFILE.
H&R Block is one of the leading software worldwide and is certified for filing from 2017-2020.
Additionally, H&R Block keeps all the returns encrypted. The support provided goes a long way in entering the forms correctly. You also need to verify your identity each time you log in.
Since 2019, H&R Block is diligent in staying away from misleading advertising that caused some of their clients to pay for services they did not need. This is because they were hiding their free product from search engines, which they have since changed.
How to Use H&R Block
H&R Block has an excellent user-friendly interface. All you need to do is log in and answer many questions, such as household, income, and more. Once these questions are answered, you'll receive options for credit and deductions.
You will need to fill out regular information of your income, such as your employer, alternative income sources such as rental properties, a side business, or other part-time work.
Additionally, you can upload receipts, T4 slips, and other hard copies directly to their software. Alternatively, you can request forms from your employer, bank, or other investment companies to directly import them to the tax return.
If you do not have access to a computer, you can use the mobile version to file your taxes.
If you are worried about completing your taxes, H&R Block provides great step-by-step guidance throughout the entire process.
The Reviews
Where to Download PC Based Cost Rating Reviews Developer Downloaded Count Name
iOS | Android Yes - Online Free NA NA H&R Block Canada Inc. NA H&R Block Online
H&R Block is one of the leading companies in tax returns. They originated in the States, but they have become a trusted service across Canada. Just recently, they have become a contender in the DIY tax filing system and are on par with services such as TurboTax.
It is important to note that when you are conducting your own research on H&R Block, many reviews state that there were many hidden fees. As mentioned above, H&R Block has addressed these issues. The advertized free version is actually free and does not require additional payments unless you wish to have more support.
Pros and Cons
Many Canadians are quite satisfied with the services H&R Block supplies. Although the paid plans are not the cheapest option, they have excellent features that allow for accurate reporting.
A common negative review across the board is that the software is not suitable for complicated taxes. However, H&R Block is one of the best in the business because they offer so much support.
In addition to their support, H&R Block also has pros that we have mentioned already, such as optimizing your return and refund, options for different budgets, and years of experience.
H&R Block also features immediate refunds. So, once you have filed your return, you can claim your refund right away. This does come with a high interest rate, however.
Is H&R Block Online Right for You?
It can be! As we have discussed, H&R Block is a great option for many Canadians. However, if you have a large business with complicated returns, you might be better off consulting an accountant in person.
However, if you have a simple tax return and are on a budget, it is a safe and secure way to file your income taxes.
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