Drake Tax
Drake Tax is a professional tax preparation software designed to help small to mid-sized accounting firms manage federal and state returns with integrated e-filing and practice management tools.
H&R Block
H&R Block provides comprehensive tax preparation software and professional filing services to help you maximize your refund and navigate complex federal and state tax requirements with confidence.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Drake Tax | H&R Block |
|---|---|---|
| Website | drakesoftware.com | hrblock.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 0 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1977 | 1955 |
| Headquarters | Franklin, USA | Kansas City, USA |
Overview
Drake Tax
Drake Tax provides you with a comprehensive suite of tools to handle federal and state tax returns for individuals and businesses. You can speed up your workflow using the built-in data entry shortcuts and automatic calculations that minimize manual errors. The platform includes integrated e-filing, allowing you to track the status of every return from transmission to IRS acceptance in real-time.
Beyond simple tax prep, you can manage your entire practice with included tools for document storage and client write-ups. The software is designed specifically for professional tax preparers who need a reliable, high-volume solution without the per-form costs found in other professional suites. You can choose between unlimited filing versions or pay-per-return options depending on your firm's specific volume and budget requirements.
H&R Block
H&R Block offers a flexible tax preparation platform designed to help you file your taxes accurately whether you prefer doing it yourself or working with an expert. You can navigate the filing process through a user-friendly interface that guides you through deductions, credits, and income reporting. The software addresses a wide range of financial situations, from simple W-2 filings to complex small business income and investment portfolios.
You can choose to file entirely online, download the software to your computer, or utilize the 'Tax Pro Review' feature for a final expert check. The platform focuses on ensuring you receive your maximum refund while providing audit support and a 100% accuracy guarantee. It is a reliable solution for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who need to simplify their annual tax obligations.
Overview
Drake Tax Features
- Lookback Tools View prior-year data instantly while working on current returns to ensure consistency and catch missed deductions for your clients.
- Automatic Calculations Update your tax results instantly as you enter data, with the software automatically choosing the most beneficial filing status.
- Integrated E-filing Submit federal and state returns directly to the IRS and track their acceptance status without leaving the application.
- Drake Documents Store and organize your client's tax records electronically to maintain a paperless office and meet record-keeping requirements.
- Multi-State Returns Generate and file multiple state returns simultaneously, with data flowing automatically from the federal return to save you time.
- Tax Planner Compare different financial scenarios for your clients to help them minimize their future tax liabilities and plan effectively.
H&R Block Features
- W-2 Photo Capture. Snap a photo of your W-2 with your phone to automatically import your data and save time on manual entry.
- Maximum Refund Guarantee. Get every credit and deduction you are entitled to, ensuring you receive the largest possible refund from the IRS.
- Audit Support. Receive professional assistance and guidance on what to expect and how to prepare if the IRS contacts you regarding your return.
- Prior Year Import. Switch from other tax software easily by importing your previous year's tax data to jumpstart your current filing.
- Real-Time Refund Tracker. Watch your refund amount update in real-time as you enter information so you always know where you stand.
- Expert Help on Demand. Connect with a tax professional via chat or video to get answers to specific questions while you file.
Pricing Comparison
Drake Tax Pricing
- Includes 15 tax returns
- Additional returns for $30 each
- All tax packages included
- Integrated e-filing
- Drake Documents and Scheduler
- Free online training
- Everything in Pay-Per-Return, plus:
- Unlimited individual returns
- Unlimited business returns
- Unlimited state returns
- Drake Tax Planner
- No per-return fees
H&R Block Pricing
- W-2 income reporting
- Unemployment income
- Student loan interest deduction
- Standard deduction
- Child Tax Credit
- Everything in Free, plus:
- HSA contributions
- Itemized deductions
- Real estate taxes
- Mortgage interest
- 6 years of tax return storage
Pros & Cons
Drake Tax
Pros
- Fast data entry with keyboard-driven shortcuts
- Excellent customer support with short wait times
- All-in-one pricing includes all states and forms
- Reliable performance even during peak filing dates
Cons
- Interface looks dated compared to modern web apps
- Learning curve for navigating complex form trees
- Limited cloud-based features in the desktop version
H&R Block
Pros
- Intuitive interface makes complex tax forms easy to understand
- Seamless data import from employers and financial institutions
- Reliable access to human tax pros for expert advice
- Transparent refund tracking throughout the entire filing process
Cons
- State filing often requires an additional per-state fee
- Prices tend to increase significantly closer to April
- Frequent prompts to upgrade to higher-priced tiers