H&R Block and Intuit have introduced programs to let tax software users receive help from professionals. In Block's case, the company says its Tax Pro Review is merely a new name for a decade-old program, formerly called the Best of Both Service.Block's name change comes on the heels of Intuit's launch of TurboTax Live, which enables customers to reach professional assistance without exiting the tax software package.
Intuit has had professional assistance programs before under different names, but pictures TurboTax Live as the most refined version and with its recent launch says thousands of CPAs, Enrolled Agents and tax attorneys are participating.
The language used by both companies to promote their programs is similar and cites the same factors that can prompt do-it-yourselfers to turn to pros for assistance.
"When DIY taxpayers have life changes, like marriage, a new baby or retirement, they could miss tax breaks," Heather Watts, senior vice president and general manager of digital at H&R Block, said in a prepared statement.
Both programs provide consumers with the ability to connect to professionals for one-on-one communications.
Block said its program, which begins on January 5, enables tax returns to be reviewed by a tax professional in as little as three days. Returns prepared this way cost from $59.99 to $89.99, based on complexity.
Customers can access TurboTax Live by clicking the "Expert Help" button in the software to begin one-way video communication. The cost is $149.99 for what is described as "all personal federal tax situations" with advice on state returns extra.
