H&R Block Self-Employed
Affordable professional tax software with real CPA access.
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H&R Block Self-Employed is the best alternative to TurboTax for freelancers who want a full-featured Schedule C tax filing experience at a lower price. It includes everything self-employed filers need — Schedule C, home office, mileage, vehicle expenses — plus the option to have a real H&R Block CPA review your return.
Our Scores
4.4
Ease of Use
4.4
Features
4.6
Value
4.5
Support
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓More affordable than TurboTax for comparable coverage
- ✓Option to get in-person help at H&R Block offices nationwide
- ✓Schedule C with full deduction support
- ✓Price Lock Guarantee — no surprise upsells
- ✓Competitive audit support
Cons
- ✗Interface is slightly less polished than TurboTax
- ✗No direct QuickBooks import (unlike TurboTax)
- ✗State filing is an additional cost
- ✗In-person H&R Block services cost significantly more
Best For
- →Cost-conscious freelancers who want full-featured filing
- →Anyone who wants optional in-person or CPA help
- →Freelancers who find TurboTax too expensive
- →Self-employed filers with moderate complexity
Not Ideal For
- ✗QuickBooks Self-Employed users (no direct import)
- ✗Freelancers needing very complex tax planning
- ✗Those who want the most intuitive step-by-step experience
Pricing
Self-Employed Online
$85
federal return
- ✓Schedule C
- ✓1099 income
- ✓Home office
- ✓Mileage
- ✓Vehicle expenses
- ✓State included
Self-Employed + CPA Assistance
$145
federal + state
- ✓Everything above
- ✓Live CPA review
- ✓CPA checks for accuracy
- ✓Audit representation
Estimate Your Tax Bill First
Use our free quarterly tax calculator to estimate how much you owe before filing.
Free Quarterly Tax Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
How does H&R Block Self-Employed compare to TurboTax?
H&R Block Self-Employed is typically $40-60 cheaper than TurboTax for comparable coverage. Both handle Schedule C well. TurboTax has a more polished interface; H&R Block offers more affordable in-person help.
Does H&R Block Self-Employed include state filing?
Yes, the Self-Employed Online plan includes one state return in its base price, which makes it better value than TurboTax where state filing is an add-on.
Can I use H&R Block if I have 1099s from multiple clients?
Yes. H&R Block Self-Employed handles unlimited 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC income from multiple payers, which is common for freelancers.
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Tax Information Notice
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Tax laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified CPA or Enrolled Agent for your specific situation.