H&R Block Fees?

Question

How much does H&R Block charge for a basic 1040 preperation? How about for more advanced 1040s?

I live in Denver, CO. I am interested in preparing returns on the side this busy season and I would like to get a general idea of the pricing for an H&R block type of operation.

Answer 1

Like most storefront tax preparation companies, fees can vary widely from area to area. Knowing where you live would be helpful to anyone trying to answer your question.

If my understanding is correct, Block charges on a per-form basis.

While not trying to cause controversy, I would recommend avoiding any storefront tax prep company if you have a sophisticated return. While I have seen some very good preparers who worked for storefront companies (and I've seen some CPAs who were weak in tax), generally the quality of storefront preparers is not up to par for advanced returns.

Answer 2

No matter who you use, interview the person who will be doing your taxes. How long have they been doing taxes? How many 1040s have they done? How many of your particular schedule set have they done?

I really wouldn't want an 18 year old doing a tax return for a year that you, say, exercised ISO stock.

While H&R Block employees have access to each other and the head office, they will be using computers and are more likely to hit SUBMIT before discussing your return with coworkers.

By the way (from a Colorado site):
NOTE: Individuals who prepare Income Tax or provide Bookkeeping have no state licensing requirements, but must have an education in tax preparation and a business license.

Answer 3

Fees are based upon the complexity of the return and the amount of time it taxes to prepare it. They also vary regionally. Here in the Midwest, a basic 1040-EZ costs $50, plus another $50 for the state return. A highly complicated return could run over $1,000 easily, though I'd never trust such a return to the likes of the storefront tax prep mills or a neophyte.