DIY tax filing is a good option for many people, but it's not the right fit for everyone. Starting or operating a business, owning a rental property or receiving an unexpected settlement can turn what felt like a straightforward return into something that warrants a closer look.
For filers in this position, working with a local tax professional can make a difference in the accuracy of your return, and H&R Block's nationwide network of tax pros makes that kind of in-person, expert help easy to find. H&R Block was the CNET Editor's Choice for best overall tax software this year, and with thousands of in-person locations, it's easy to get help in-person when you need it.
When does using a local tax preparer make sense?
The decision to work with a tax professional often comes down to your level of comfort with your own tax situation. Some filers have straightforward returns but simply prefer having an expert handle them, while other situations may warrant professional guidance.
For example, if you're self-employed, your return likely involves additional forms, estimated payments and business deductions. Rental property owners face their own set of rules around depreciation, repairs and passive income. And major life changes, like going through a divorce or moving to a new state mid-year, can each introduce new tax considerations that are easy to overlook if you're filing on your own.
Working with a tax pro can also be valuable beyond a single filing season. If you're thinking about how your financial decisions might affect your tax situation next year, a local pro can help you with long-term planning.
How local and state filing deadlines work
For many filers, the state filing deadline mirrors the federal one, but that's not universally true. A handful of states set their own deadlines, which may fall earlier or later than the federal date. For example, Louisiana gives filers until May 15, so it's worth confirming your state's specific date rather than assuming it matches the federal calendar.
States like Florida and Texas don't have an income tax at all, which means no state return is required. But depending on where you live, your city or county may have its own filing requirements and deadlines that are easy to overlook if you're not aware of them.
Keeping track of all of this on your own can be tough, and it's another area where working with a local tax pro can help. Someone who knows your state and local tax laws will ensure you're meeting the right deadlines.
Understanding the SALT deduction
The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction allows filers to deduct certain state and local taxes if they qualify to itemize their deductions rather than claim the standard deduction.
This year, the cap on the SALT deduction has increased from $10,000 to $40,000. For filers who pay a lot in state and local taxes, that higher cap could change the math on whether itemizing makes more sense.
Here's how it works: Your state and local taxes paid are reported on Schedule A, which feeds into your Form 1040. The total amount of eligible taxes can then count toward your itemized deduction amount. A local tax pro can walk you through what qualifies for the increased SALT deduction and other changes to taxes including the new deductions created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Finding a local H&R Block office near you
Once you've decided to work with a tax professional, the next step is finding one, and H&R Block's office locator makes it easy to search for locations near you. H&R Block has more than 9,000 offices across the U.S., and about 85% of Americans live within five miles of an H&R Block office, according to the company.
You can schedule an appointment or simply walk in, depending on what works best for you. And with more than 60,000 tax pros available nationwide, H&R Block can help match you with someone whose expertise fits your specific situation.
H&R Block offices are open late and on weekends. You can drop off your documents atx a local office and complete the process remotely through the MyBlock app. Virtual appointments are also available for filers who prefer to meet with a tax pro without leaving home.
However you choose to work with a tax pro, the process is designed to be efficient. In some cases, returns prepared with the help of a tax professional can be filed the same day they're completed.
What to expect from an H&R Block tax pro
H&R Block tax pros have an average of 11 years of experience, and H&R Block is America's No. 1 network of tax experts. The company also offers upfront, transparent pricing, so you'll know what to expect before your return is filed. A tax pro will walk you through your base price, explain how your state affects the cost and discuss any additional forms or products that may apply to your situation.
Working with a local tax professional can make a big difference in both the accuracy and outcome of your return. H&R Block makes that kind of help easy to access with more than 9,000 offices nationwide, walk-ins welcome and evening and weekend hours. Use H&R Block's office locator to find a location near you and explore your options before tax season gets away from you.