The cost of professional tax help has gone up in recent years. As a result, a growing number of Americans are choosing to prepare and file their own taxes using online tools that have become more accessible and intuitive. If you have a straightforward tax situation, DIY filing can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.
H&R Block was named the CNET Editor's Choice for best overall online tax service in 2025, thanks to its transparent pricing, easy-to-use platform and AI assistant. Let's look at how DIY filing works and how to determine if it's right for your situation.
Is DIY tax filing right for you?
You may be interested in DIY filing, but worry that your tax situation is too complex to handle on your own. H&R Block's online tools are built to handle a wide range of tax situations, and you don't need to be an expert to start using them yourself.
H&R Block's software walks you through a guided interview process where you answer questions about your income, deductions and life situation. This approach works well for a wide range of filers and isn't limited to simple returns. If you receive a W-2 and plan to take the standard deduction, the process is often straightforward. But H&R Block's online tools also support more complex situations, like itemized deductions, self-employment and rental properties.
Before getting started, it helps to have any necessary documents on hand, like W-2s, 1099 forms and Social Security Numbers for any dependents. H&R Block's tools can import W-2 and 1099 data directly, so the information flows into your return without manual entry.
Security, e-filing and accuracy
Filing your taxes online involves sharing sensitive personal and financial information, so security matters.
H&R Block protects your data with multiple layers of security technology, including:
- Web browsing encryption
- Multi-layer account authentication
- Industry-standard encryption when your return is transmitted to the IRS
- A dedicated security team that monitors for threats around the clock
H&R Block's online filing tools are also IRS-authorized for e-filing, so your return is transmitted through systems that meet federal requirements for secure submission. And H&R Block backs its software with a 100% Accuracy Guarantee. If an error in H&R Block's software results in a penalty or interest charge, H&R Block will reimburse you for those charges. And if you're ever selected for an audit, H&R Block offers audit support to help you navigate the process.
What you get for the cost
Many people choose DIY filing to save money, and H&R Block offers plans at multiple price points. Roughly 52% of filers qualify for the Free Edition, which is designed for individuals with simple tax situations. H&R Block Free Online includes Form 1040 and a few select schedules, like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Student Loan interest and retirement plan distributions.
For more involved returns, paid tiers start at $60 for the Deluxe plan, which adds support for itemized deductions. The Premium plan covers investment and rental income, and the Self-Employed plan is designed for business owners and freelancers with 1099 income. State filing costs an additional $49 across all tiers.
Every paid plan includes unlimited access to a live tax expert via chat, so if a question comes up mid-filing, you can get a real answer without scheduling an appointment or starting over. You can also add Tax Pro Review to any plan, where a tax professional will review your completed return before it's filed.
Federal and state returns can be both prepared and submitted within the same platform, so there's no need to jump between tools or services to finish your filing. And if you already started filing with another platform, H&R Block makes it easy to switch by importing last year's return, so you're not starting from scratch.
What if you have questions while filing online?
A common concern about DIY filing is that you'll get stuck halfway through the process with no one to turn to. H&R Block's paid plans include unlimited access to a live tax expert via chat, so if a question comes up at any point during the filing process, you can get real guidance and keep moving. AI Tax Assist is also available for quick answers as you work through your return.
If you'd prefer more hands-on support, H&R Block offers virtual appointments with tax professionals and in-person assistance at thousands of office locations nationwide. These options let you start your return on your own and receive extra help if your situation calls for it.
The MyBlock app can also help you stay organized through the process. Use H&R Block's app to upload and manage your tax documents and track the status of your return right from your phone.
DIY tax filing is easier than you think with H&R Block
Regardless of how complex your tax situation is, the right tools can make the process more manageable. And more than half of filers qualify for the free edition, so it's a simple way to find out if DIY filing works for you.
If you're not sure where to start, H&R Block's free tax calculator lets you preview your tax situation before you commit to filing. There are no required documents and it shows you what your return might look like and what refund you can expect.