Tax software: TaxSlayer Simply Free vs. H&R Block Deluxe + State 2025
Quick Verdict
TaxSlayer is suitable for simple returns, while H&R Block Deluxe is better for more complex tax situations.
- TaxSlayer Simply Free is a budget-friendly option for simple tax situations.
- H&R Block Deluxe + State 2025 offers more comprehensive support and features for homeowners and those who itemize.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | TaxSlayer Simply Free | H&R Block Deluxe + State 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Tax Return Filing Cost | Free for those who qualify | Around $35 (prices can vary) |
| State Tax Return Filing Cost | Usually free for one state, additional states cost extra ($39.95 or $47.95) | Around $37 per state |
| Supported Tax Forms | Form 1040 for simple situations, unemployment income, student loan interest | Schedule A, investment income, stock options, retirement, HSAs |
| User Interface Intuitiveness | Clean and understandable, but not as user-friendly as competitors | User-friendly, interview-style system with step-by-step guidance |
| Customer Support Channels | Phone, email, FAQ. Premium/Self-Employed tiers may include live chat | Live chat, AI Tax Assist, in-person assistance at H&R Block offices |
| Accuracy Guarantee | 100% accuracy guarantee, reimburses penalties and interest | 100% accuracy guarantee, reimburses penalties and interest (up to $10,000) |
Overall Comparison
Cost: TaxSlayer is cheaper for simple returns; Support: H&R Block offers more options; UI: H&R Block is more user-friendly
Pros and Cons
TaxSlayer Simply Free
Pros:
- Free for those who qualify
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Comprehensive mobile apps
- Clean and understandable interface
- Transparent pricing
- Education expenses coverage
Cons:
- Limited availability of free version
- Additional state returns cost extra
- Audit assistance requires upgrading to Premium or Self-Employed tiers
- Help content not as comprehensive as competitors
- Not as user-friendly as competitors like TurboTax and H&R Block
- Designed for simple tax situations; complex situations may require upgrading
H&R Block Deluxe + State 2025
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with step-by-step guidance
- Accuracy guarantee with reimbursement for errors
- Multiple customer support channels including live chat and in-person assistance
- Strong import capabilities from other tax software
- Deduction maximizer to optimize credits and deductions
- Mobile app availability
- Offers a secure way to transfer personal tax information
- Often more affordable than competitors, especially the free version
Cons:
- No major disadvantages reported.
User Experiences and Feedback
TaxSlayer Simply Free
What Users Love
- Clean and understandable interface
- Comprehensive and easy to use mobile apps
Common Complaints
- Help content could be better and not as comprehensive as some competitors
Value Perception
- Often cheaper than competitors like TurboTax and H&R Block
H&R Block Deluxe + State 2025
What Users Love
- Easy to use, with step-by-step guidance
- Great features and easy-to-follow instructions
- Offers upfront pricing with a 'No Surprise Guarantee'
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- H&R Block is generally considered easy to use, with step-by-step guidance.
- The Deluxe version has great features and easy-to-follow instructions.