Side by side
1040NOW vs H&R Block Online Tax Express
Both stand on tax software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
1040NOW separates free preparation from paid federal and state filing services. Check eligibility and the relevant filing add-ons before choosing a plan.
Visit 1040NOW Free plan Web
Online Tax Express provides guided online tax-return preparation with support for several income types and ATO data import. Its plan structure is based on income and deduction thresholds, with higher-refund cases routed to a dedicated professional service.
Visit H&R Block Online Tax ExpressThe facts
| 1040NOW | H&R Block Online Tax Express | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Standard: $19, paid once |
| Plans published | 3 | 4 |
| Maker | 1040NOW | H&R Block Online Tax Express |
| Website | 1040now.net | hrblock.com.au |
| On tax software | #78 of 149 | #74 of 149 |
1040NOW: what it does well
- Free preparation plan listed as free
- Supports self-employment income
- Supports investment and rental income
- Web access includes mobile browsers
- Federal filing covers 1040 and 1040-SR returns
What to know first
- Federal electronic filing costs $29.95 a month
- State filing costs $24.95 a month per state
- Free File eligibility has conditions
- No audit support
H&R Block Online Tax Express: what it does well
- Guided forms and deduction tips
- ATO income pre-fill
- Previous returns in one portal
- Supports rental and investment income
- Free plan available
What to know first
- Web-only access
- Expert help costs extra
- Refunds over $10,000 use Online Tax Adviser
Alternatives to 1040NOW Alternatives to H&R Block Online Tax Express The whole list