TurboTax Free vs H&R Block Free
Compare the free tiers of TurboTax and H&R Block. See which forms are supported, hidden limitations, and which free filing option is truly better for 2025.
TurboTax Free Edition
TurboTax's entry-level free tier for simple returns. Covers Form 1040 with W-2 income, limited interest and dividend income, the standard deduction, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and the Child Tax Credit.
H&R Block Free Online
H&R Block's free tier supports more situations than TurboTax Free, including retirement income (1099-R), unemployment income, student loan interest, and educator expenses on top of standard W-2 filing.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Category | TurboTax Free Edition | H&R Block Free Online | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| W-2 Income | Supported | Supported | |
| Interest & Dividends | Limited (1099-INT and 1099-DIV) | Supported (Schedule B if needed) | |
| Retirement Income (1099-R) | Not included; requires upgrade | Included free | |
| Student Loan Interest | Not included; requires Deluxe | Included free | |
| Educator Expenses | Not included | Included free | |
| Unemployment Income | Not included; requires upgrade | Included free | |
| Child Tax Credit | Supported | Supported | |
| EITC | Supported | Supported | |
| State Filing | One free state return included | One free state return included | |
| User Interface | More polished; better for first-timers | Clean and well-organized | |
| Upgrade Pressure | More aggressive upsell prompts | Less aggressive about paid upgrades |
The Verdict
H&R Block Free is the better free option for most filers because it supports significantly more tax situations at no cost, including retirement income, student loan interest, and unemployment. TurboTax Free has a slightly more polished interface but forces upgrades for common situations that H&R Block covers for free.
Choose TurboTax Free Edition if...
Filers with the simplest possible returns: only W-2 income, standard deduction, and basic credits. Best for those who value the TurboTax interface and do not need any forms beyond the basics.
Choose H&R Block Free Online if...
Retirees with pension or Social Security income, students with loan interest, teachers with educator expenses, and anyone who wants the broadest free coverage without being forced to upgrade.