H&R Block Reviews

1.5

3,211 reviews

5
7%
4
2%
3
2%
2
10%
1
79%

Write a review

Are you this business?

4,946,968reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified

We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.

Updated Aug. 14, 2026

By: Ashley Eneriz

+1 more

Edited by: Tammy Burns

About H&R Block

This profile has not been claimed by the company. See reviews below to learn more or submit your own review.

H&R Block is a tax preparation and financial services company that has been providing its clients with tax advice and assistance for over 60 years. With a network of over 10,000 retail tax offices in the U.S. and around the world, as well as an online tax filing platform, it offers both in-person and do-it-yourself tax preparation services.

Visit www.hrblock.com

Pros

Free basic file
In-person services
Max Refund Guarantee

Cons

In-person help can be pricey
Limited time for Refund Advance loans

H&R Block Reviews

Popular Mentions

How do I know I can trust these reviews about H&R Block?

4,946,968 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

Sort by:

Recent

A link has directed you to this review. Its location on this page may change next time you visit.

How do I know I can trust these reviews about H&R Block?

4,946,968 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

Page 21 Reviews 2780 - 2930

BrianValencia, PA

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

We went to have our taxes done at HR block, simple fedaral and state return, we spent 2 and 1/2 hours there towards the end when we wanted to look into any deductions for mileage and misc. things we were then informed that those forms were an additional cost and hadent been told that we were allready up to 334.00.When I called to set up the appt. I was told it typically costs between 100-200 dollars. We got less back than the year before and charged way more than EVER! Then informed that the stimulas package from last year is deducted off of your taxes this year, its was more or less just a loan. We are absolutely discuted with HR block and will never ever go back. Total RIP OFF, They should inform you as you are doing your taxes as to the cost and what you may have to pay so you can RUN for your life. Go to the little tax people, (mom and pop) who charge a flat rate and dont take 2 hours of your life and your money. Then the receptionist when we called for the number to the district office told us she was new and didnt know that info and wouldnt get it for us, and if we werent happy with her we could file a complaint against her. She was RUDE!!!!

Thanks for your vote!

TrondaJackson, TN

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

On January 30, 2008 I sent my mother to wester union to wire $400.00 to my hr block prepaid emerald card. She got the receipt for the transaction. The money never got to my account. Its listed as a reversal transaction on my statement. When hr block bank recieved the wire transfer they have to send western union a sequence number to let them know they got it. Hr block bank sent them a sequence number to verify thay they had my money but I never got the money from hr block bank. For a whole week I've been calling western union and hr block bank to find out what happened to my money. I've been talked rude to and hung up on. Nobody wants to pay me my money. If I owed them they would take me to court and try to sue me. I would have to pay court cost and intrest. I feel they should do the same. But my number one concern is my $400.00.

Thanks for your vote!

KimberlyTopeka, KS

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

I filed my taxes on theh 23rd of January, and opted to do the 8-15 days. The IRS reported that my taxes were deposited on February 6. However, my bank doesn't show it. I called HR Block, they gave me some excuse that they received an email stating they were not able to cut the checks because the IRS was overloaded with returns. She told me to check my bank account after 5. So I did and then called them back. I told her I paid to have the money there in 8-15 days and the 7th would be 15 days. She said that HR Block is not responsible for delays from the IRS. She told me to call back Monday, I might be able to get my fees reduced...

Thanks for your vote!

MonicaSaint Louis, MO

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

Well the more I sit here and read these testimonies, the angrier I am getting. I filed my taxes on 1/17/09. To date, 2/7/09, I still have not received a refund. I had never used H&R block, but because of an extremely dire situation I needed the money fast. I had never heard of any problem with H&R block outside of the exorbant fees, but I was willing to shell out the money for the SERVICE. I had no clue that I would be getting a credit check, and I ask them this several times before even sitting down and they told me NO. I asked them if I could find out the fees before hand so that I could make an informed decision they told me they could only give me a range which was fine at the time, if they had delivered the service promised. Needless to say, and to make a long story short, I have been told everything from the IRS is holding your money to your application was not approved because we could not authenticate the validity of your application. And of course these were thrown out from automated systems. it is saturday and I've tried to reach HSBC at 888-832-5625 to find out what they mean by this but surprise, surprise! they are experiencing a high volume of calls and hanging up on people....i wonder why?

Thanks for your vote!

HollyMiamisburg, OH

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

Just found out after foolishly applying for a RAL, that I was denied. Had I known about this scam beforehand, I would have saved myself a few hundred dollars and did my taxes free at home.

I'd like to talk to anyone who actually got the instant RAL. I was bumped to the classic after I was denied the instant (which was a shock). I just found out I was denied for that as well. So I go online to check my credit report- nothing is behind, I dont owe anyone anything other than $46 on my sears charge account. My credit score is 741 which makes me wanna slap myself in the forehead, because I could have just got a line of credit from the bank for a ton less. I had no idea the tax prep fees I was in for until after I got to the end and was in shock. I'd gone that far I figured, and I was 100% I'd get the loan and was denied. I have had my job for 5 1/2 years and lived in the same residence for longer than that. I have a car payment, up to date and credit cards that are completely paid off except my sears card. Oh! What a fool I feel like after reading all these reviews. I'd seriously like to meet the person who really got that loan(if you exist!) What a scam! Now I paid all that money for NOTHING.

Thanks for your vote!

MelanieFairport Harbor, OH

Reviewed Feb. 7, 2009

Jan 31, 2009 I went to H&R Block as I have on and off for over 10 years. I always apply and get accepted for the Rapid Anticipation Loan. Not this year. First off, she had my taxes done in 20 minutes. Second off, I was told that I was approved for the loan, then later at home I was told by the 1-800 number that I was denied by the bank. I called the office and was told that a paper check would be issued sometime this week. I went in on Thursday to see if my check was in. The girl said she had to ask the manager, who apparently was the one who did my taxes. She then claimed it would take 8-15 days! I could have filed online for free and gotten it faster. I paid $403 in fees for a rapid check, and I have nothing. I told her I was very unhappy, and she gave me the phone number of her district manager. However, when I called the number right in front of her, it was an invalid extension number. She tried to tell me that was the only number she had for him. Then I was told to come back on Friday, my check should be in. I went back today, and of course no check. I am trying to move out of my apartment since I haven't had cold water in over 3 weeks now. Looks like I will be waiting longer. I was told to try again tomorrow morning, as the checks for the RAL's are brought in then. Wish me luck! I will never use H&R Block again, and I tell everyone I know not to use them either. Good thing I have a loud voice, I know of at least ten customers I have cost them already.

Thanks for your vote!

DanaLagange, GA

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

After already filling out all tax documents on H&R Block online, I then decided to allow someone other than myself review my paperwork before submitting to the IRS. I made the first appointment and waited while I watched two other customers go before me( who had only been there for a few minutes), I had been waiting for almost an hour. The second appointment, The associate, had no idea about tax refunds available to me. Such as "First time home owner"- which gave me back 4200.00 in addition to all my other write off's. Not only did he lack the knowlegde for the position in which he held, he then charged me 268.00 for his services- although I had already filled everything out myself. The work was done. But because I could not waste any more timedealing with these ignorant associats, I had to file with H&R Block and deal with getting basically robbed.

Thanks for your vote!

NancyQueens, NY

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

I file my taxes efile on 1/23/2009. I was informed by IRS that refund will be deposited by 2/06/2009. I confirmed that it was sent to H and Rblock and called to reconfirmed. I was told about H and R block rep that refund was depited to my account. I called my bank and was told that it was not. I called the offie where I prepared my taxes and was asked to come in. Ms. Mejia that funds were not released by Irs and that in fact they were under audit and it will take three weeks. I informed Ms. Mejia that I spoke with Irs and H and Block rep. Ms. Mejia in a rude manner refused to contact H and R block or look at website to reconfirm. However continue to tell me it was being audited. She showed a paper that stated general information about direct deposit and having refund mailed to to you.

In addition in looking at H and R Block website it states that deposited my refund. However when I called they now state that my fund will not be released until 2/10/2009 which was the anticipated date of when the IRS was suppose to finish processing my taxes. So basically I was leid to all day, forked over four hundred dollars for lousy service and unfortunately because my refund was process early they feel they can hold the money. Not to mention that most of the day I was told that my bank had my money. Check the status of your return 24 hours a day 300 WYCKOFF AVE BROOKLYN, NY 11237 Phone: (718) 821-7737 Please see enclosed message on H and R block website. Your IRS refund amount has been released to be direct deposited into your bank account. Please confirm with your bank the exact amount deposited and availability of those funds as the funds may be delayed 1-2 business days or more due to your bank.

Thanks for your vote!

EdnaShelby, NC

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

The loan that the IRS issued was not sent to me and I was told it wouild be in by 7:00 pm and it was not. i need to find out what needs to be done to get my refund.

Thanks for your vote!

GeorgeJackson, MO

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

I went in to get my taxes done on 02/03/09. Was told was eligible for a RAL for 1 to 2 days. ON 02/05/09, I called to see about my check that is supposed to come from this office. Was told there wasn't any new news. I called again on 02/06/09, I was told I didn't qualify for the RAL. Instead, I was told they switched me to a RAC, and, it would take 8 to 16 days to get my refund. I was told their fees will be reduced. I think this is classic Bait and Switch. First, I was eligible for a 1 to 2 day Refund Anticipation Loan, Then, 3 days later, was told they switched me to a RAC. I could have mailed my return personally and got faster results. I had no say in them switching me to a RAC. No reason was given. Now, I'm paying them extra, in essence, for something I could have done myself, and, would have had control over! I wonder how many other people they do, or, have done this to.

Thanks for your vote!

MekaFort Worth, TX

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

After filing my taxes at a smaller tax office for years without any problems, regretably this year I opted to file with H& R Block. They advertise lower fees and "MONEY NOW" and I was drawn to trust them to complete my taxes. Like all the others I applied for the 1-2 day RAL (like I do EVERY YEAR) and was declined. SInce then I have received no answers, cannot speak with anyone and was immediately referred to the IRS. I am so upset that no one told me there was a credit check, or whatever they are doing this tax season. I like the others are waiting 8-14 days and have paid my $300 for nothing.

Thanks for your vote!

MichaelLockport, NY

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

I went there for the 2 day tax refund where i was told it was no problem,they stated the criteria for the loan was if you had past trouble with the irs or social services, the next day im told i was declined that i have to wait 15 days-ive spent countless hours on hold not to get any help-took me 6 calls to mary to get her to come to the phone and even tell me i was declined, thay charged me over 100 dollars for a simple efile

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferPrinceton, TX

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

On January 31, 2009 my husband and I went to H&R Block located in Garland, Texas (Shiloh Springs) to file our taxes as we do every year; just to recieve the instant refund that they offer. On February first I looked up our return and it stated that there was wrong information on our return. I called the office and they stated there was a wrong social security number or last name. I spent a couple hours looking at my return trying to figure out the mistake of our tax preparer. Finally, I found that he had inputed the last number of my daughters social security numbebr wrong. They said they would resubmit it to the IRS correctly (keep in my they already told us it would be 1-2 days bebfore we recieved our funds on the card). Two days went by and still no money. Come to find out the time line changed from 1-2 days to 8-15 days now. I paid over $300 dollars for a return that I could have done online and recieved quicker. I have had this company file m taxes for the last 4 years, but this will be the last time I am deceived by those scam artists.

Thanks for your vote!

ShelleyWarren, MI

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

Dianne Miller asked how would we like our ral. She offered a check, direct deposit or emerald card. My husband an I told her that we tried the card years ago and didn't like it. We told her that they had too many fees. She assured us that it wasn't like that anymore. She also said as long as we went to a comerica or chase bank they have no fees. So we went with the emerald card. The next day we went to the comerica bank and went inside to a teller and they told us it was $20 to have all the money off the card. So we said forget it and just went to the atm at their bank. We were charged $3 and then another $1.95 for just using the atm. When i called h & r block and told them what was happening all they said was sorry nothing we can do. If i would've known all these charges would accur i wouldn't have gone this route at all. I paid a lot of money to have my taxes done and then on top of that i get charged more money for using the card.

Thanks for your vote!

MellisaBethel Springs, TN

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

I went to H & R block were I have gone for the last 4 years. I was charged 208.00 for them to do my taxes. I had nothing special done. I was charged 130.00 extra because they filed my earned income credit for my children. this is normal paper work that is done at any other tax office. And were I should have been charged there start rate of 70.00 which is what every other tax office does for the eic form I was charged an extra 130.00. It will be the last time I use H & R block, And I have also informed all my friends and family so they are not overcharged too.

Thanks for your vote!

LanceThornville, OH

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

went to h&r block on 2-3-09 they said my return would be ready in 2-3 days i called to check on status they said hsbc denied my so called loan/return and i had to wait 8-15 days.what a rip off.do not use h&r block they will not warn you of this .

Thanks for your vote!

BrianMilwaukie, OR

Reviewed Feb. 6, 2009

UPDATE to RAL denial 2/5/09:

After numerous phone calls we FINALLY got some answers and a solution. HSBC was in fact not at fault in our situation. What happened was somehow when applying for the RAL our application to HSBC for the Instant and 1-2day RAL(not the IRS. IRS received it once) was sent 3 times in approx. 3mins (we want to believe this is a glitch in the software at H&R but we don't know). Because of that there had been a security freeze on our return at HSBC (not good):( . Because we called HSBC and went through a security evaluation, they were FINALLY convinced we were who we said we were and the freeze was lifted. But once a Instant or 1-2day ral isn't approved it stays that way or so we were told !!!! If it wasn't for us contacting the bank our refund was going back to the IRS (Nooooooo not good)We were told by the supervisor that we were not the only ones effected by this situation (WITH THAT BEING SAID, please call HSBC and verify why your ral was denied , I can't stress this enough). Now Back to H & R Block : Upon calling H & R we decided to bypass the office and go straight to the Ass. Area DM , He was very rude to us and basically told us that this just could not of happened PERIOD !!! Not willing to listen to the FULL scenario he just wouldn't allow us to explain so we asked for his bosses phone # . We called the Area DM (very nice man) and he listened to us very carefully to what happened . In all truth this was a very hard situation to deal with. Could this of been software glitch ?? Maybe , or could this of been a unforeseen issue(problem)the tax preparers weren't aware of ? most likely.

Thanks for your vote!

SabrinaRamona, CA

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

On 2/4/08 My husband and I went into the H & R block to file our taxes together for the first time. Both my husband and I had two set of W2's and one 1099. The lady that helped was nice but she couldnt help us get any deductions. We only end up getting back 293.00 from federal and 101.00 state. Then on top of that they charged us 278.00 for preparing our taxes. I nearly had a heart attack when i signed the check. I AM SO UPSET WITH H & R BLOCK. I WILL NEVER GO THERE EVER AGAIN. They just like to rip people off. I felt taken advantage of.

Thanks for your vote!

JohnMabscott, WV

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

i also did the ral it came up tp 399.96 and i was told i would get my ck in 1 to 2 days . so i called the 2nd day and i was told that i would have to wait 8 to 15 days for my ck now i paid that to get it back in 2 days and now there only going to refund me 29 dollars what a rip off i could have done them my self and saved 400 dollars i would not send anybody that i know to them , its no wonder that they was a law suit on them before and i think that they sould be another.

Thanks for your vote!

DeborahMiami, FL

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

As I entered to have my taxes filed Mr. Morales didn't even welcome me until I answered a series of questions. Did I own a home, was I in school, did I have children and about 10 more question that I don't remember off hand. He explained that he wanted to know what documentation I needed before I sat down. In order not to waste the preparer time. When he was satisfied he called a preparer to assist me. As I was being helped I tried to give the person deductions I thought might help in preparing my taxes. She said I couldn't claim things such as uniforms because I didn't own my own business. She proceeded to ask Mr Morales who said absolutely not etc. I then asked,"why couldn't I claim these deduction?". I asked for an explanation, this is when Mr. Morales became irate. I began yelling at me declaring that I couldn't. His explanation was in terms that were unfamiliar to me. Accounting Jargon is something I don't understand. For approximately 20 or more years I have been doing my taxes with H&R Block. I have been filing at this particular location for about 3 years no. I am very confident in saying I will give my business to someone else. I believe Mr. Morales is a person who is used to treating people or women as though they are not to question his knowledge or authority and if this is what H&R Block has working for them I rather take my chances with another company, rather than be embarrassed and humiliated as I was in that office. My simple question was why can't I claim the items I was questioning instead I received a tremendous scolding. I had never had problems in the past. H&R Block should scrutinize who they hire in managerial positions better. Knowledge of the business is not the only area of concern. I believe the ability to explain taxes in a language people can understand is essential. Also not forgetting that although we are not purchasing any goods we are paying for services and so customer service is of the utmost. Mr. Morales should no customer service skills what so ever. I am truly disappointed in the way I was treated and will surely let my experience be known to all who will listen. I have also been trying to get in touch with the District Manager of this area to no avail. The District Managers name I was told was Enid Chevarria. This is why I have taken this course of action. Thank you for your time.

Thanks for your vote!

DawnWaterboro, ME

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

Having filed for the RAl product for 17 years with no problem and having also receiving a pre approved mailing I am a little dismayed that my refund through HSBC was denied. There was no mention that the bank had different criterias or that many people regardless of how long they had been filing were being denied. Nothing on my return had changed and hasnt in the past 7 years ( and that was a change of address). I went in knowing exactly what I was getting back because I had done them myself at home, the only reason for using H R Block is for the the Ral.If I had been informed that there was a good chance that my Ral would not have been approved I would never have chosen to be charged $200 for something I could have done myself. Now I have to worry about whether or not I will actually receive my refund in the 8-15 days as stated in the notice from the 24 hr online status check from H R Block.

Thanks for your vote!

BrandonWaianae, HI

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

I have been using H&R block for the past few years and never had anything like this happend to me before. i went there on friday jan.30,2009 and did all my paper work i was told everything was a go and that i would be getting my refund deposited into my emerald card. 2 days later (monday) i called to see what was taking so long and they told me that something was wrong with my information. i went into the office again and found out that some of my information was invalid...we fixed that and the next day i got a call saying i would not be recieving my refund for another 8-15 days i did NOT give them any consent stating that i was okay with that process. i needed the money asap and was willing pay the fees but my worker insisted that i said it was okay. when i went back in on wednesday i was told that they tried to put my information in so much times and it got declined so much times that the irs had to get involved now who knows how longer my refund is gonna take or if im even gonna get any. i want to speak to a main person from H&R block but the numbers i call gives me the run arounds each time i call. who can i speak to? can this problem be resolved?

Thanks for your vote!

MichaelAliso Viejo, CA

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

For the past 6 years I have gone to H&R Block and received the 1-2 day rapid refund (now called RAL) loan. I have never had an issue with it.

On Tuesday the 27th of Jauary 2009, I went to H&R Block to file my taxes a little early due to a few pending items I needed done, such as making a decision on fixing my car and dental surgery. I actually pre-filed my taxes and knew exactly what refund amount I was due ($2119). The only reason I go to H&R Block and pay their ridiculous fees is to get my money in 1-2 days. I had a conversation about this with my tax preparer that night. After preparation, the federal refund amount matched what I expected. I was given the option of either the same day loan or the 1-2 day standard RAL, just as I always was. The tax preparer informed me that the same-day loan involved a credit check, and after I asked, she claimed the 1-2 day loan was not based on credit. I was aware of this from my previous experience at H&R Block, so I decided that although my credit is better than it has ever been, and I had a couple days before I needed the money, I would not run my credit for the same day loan and opt instead for the 1-2 day RAL. Like so many people I have read about, the very next day the H&R block branch calls me and states that my RAL had been denied. The person on the phone was quite pushy to get me off the phone, while I was trying to ask questions such as if it was a mistake or if the refund was not approved by the IRS. I had a similar situation a few years ago where the refund was not approved. Apparently, this is not the case. I am due the full amount from the IRS, yet the RAL was still not approved. Now I have to wait 10-16 days for my money to be direct deposited into these thieves' account and hope the money gets deposited onto my little green 'emerald card' a few days later. Oh yeah, minus the ridiculous fees these scam artists charge!

Thanks for your vote!

DavidNew York, NY

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

Today, February 4, I went in to get my taxes done and it was a bit different from past years as I've gone to the same place for the past 5 to 7 years.

I told the woman accountant that I was poor and that I thought I might do it myself for less on-line but she consulted with her associate and they assured me it wouldn't be more than $130- 140. More than I'd like but worth the hassle of not doing it myself. The end total was $248. Wow. I objected and the woman objected to my objections but I wouldn't be put off so she spoke to her manager, came back and said there's nothing we can do. That's a standard sales technique, go to your boss and pretend it's out of your hands. I asked to speak to the boss, got the reply, OK if she's not too busy and she came right out and gave me the same routine, It's not us, it's the company, etc I objected and told her no, I asked for an estimate and was told 130 -140. She said there's nothing she could do. I refused to pay and walked out. I told them I'd had sales training and a lot of the techniques they used on me were standard lousy-style techniques. Theses 3 women gave me a low-ball figure, they consulted with each other, they rapid-talked me, they went to the boss, they denied my version of events and confirmed their story with each other using leading questions. The accountant even told me I was getting a little more than last year which wasn't true. They pretend to be your friend, they get you nodding and saying yes, they push for extra services, they don't tell you about the hidden charges, they give you a lowball estimate as if it was brain-surgery instead of standard forms then hit you with the figure and hope you don't have the time or courage to say no.

Thanks for your vote!

MaryDallas, TX

Reviewed Feb. 5, 2009

I've been deceived by H&R Block's lack of training, believeing that they really know what their doing. On 2/2/09 I visited a location in Carrollton, TX to inquire about the fast refund which I was considering for the first time depending on the fees involved, but I was told that the paperwork had to be completed before I could be told what fees were associated with a quick refund and this would be at no charge. I walked in stating my position clearly and was not explained at all how the quick refund worked but was told that a quick refund is what they do. I found out one day later when I called their credit card that my funds would not be deposited until 8-15 days later? I called the location and was told by both the manager and leader that there is nothing they can do. That is nto acceptable. Apparently, it's a bank loan not an H&R Block loan that has to be approved and if not then H&R Block automatically does the return 8-15days refund without notifying the customer or explaining this. The prep guy electronically signed all the forms in front of me using a pin# that I provided as a setup but never printed the forms or allowed me to read them.Yes, I should have read them, but honestly that is why I went to such a place thinking they had integrity. I called to complain and both the leader and manager are telling me there is nothing they can do, which is not acceptable. They can refund my tax preparation fees to make amend as this is their lack of training and false advertisement on their part. I am being charged with over $250 in fees when I could have filed with Turbo Tax like I do everyear for FREE and have my return in the same amount of time directly to my bank account, not some credit card!!!

Thanks for your vote!

HeatherMyrtle Beach, SC

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

well i went to file my taxes this year at my usual place h&r block.i use them because well they are pretty fast, friendly and offer good products. i have been in fact a loyal customer for about 13 years now.I am one of the people who always do the rapid refund/ral loan it cost a bit more but i always walk outta of the office with a check in hand that day... well not this year? Im guesing with the bad economy the banks are just being a bit tighter or who knows im a bit upset. first of all this is not really a real loan in the fact that they get thier money straight from the irs not me once i get the check i have never gone back to do anything other then to file my next years return? so where is the gratatude for being loyal? i just dont understand whythey would refuse me this year when i have always been able to get one before. i usually pay about 300 to get my taxes done and the bank fees so they make money off me to put back into this bad economy? im really just perplexed. this will for sure be my last year with h&r block since it was useless for me to pay 200 to get my taxes done when i could of done them online for free and got my money in the same amount of time....

Thanks for your vote!

KatrinaHanover, PA

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

First of all, I wished that I had looked up the consumer complaints for H and R Block before going to them. I had used Turbo Tax for 7 years with no problems, usually my refund was done within 7-8 days, at a cost of $80-$100 for the efile and all my taxes. This year due to my losing my job I opted to go to the BLOCK to file my taxes and do the RAL (1-2 days), yes, I knew that there would be fees for this service, but that is a choice I made.

Fast Forward, it has been 10 days, no refund yet, denied a RAL...not sure why, the Block has no record of my efile return...recorded message said to try again later...IRS says both my state and federal have been processed, and even though I am going to be refunded the $87 fee for the RAL, it still is going to cost me $255.00 for them doing my taxes. By the way, it was a 1040 and a child tax credit. I was not made aware of the costs of them doing my taxes until after we went through my return, which by the way I had to assist the person doing it. Will I go back...NO WAY...Should I have stayed with TURBO TAX...OH YEA!!! What will I use next year... Turbo Tax all the way.

Thanks for your vote!

KellieWexford, PA

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I have used H&R Block for the past 3 years. I have always gotten a decent tax refund in a timely manner. Last year, we had 6 W-2s from 2 different states. This make for a fairly difficult return. We went to an H&R in the Pittsburgh area. It took this gentleman 6 hours to finish our return! We paid 130 dollars and decided that this year we would go to a different location. Well, we saw on television that you could now go to their website and chose your tax preparer based on their qualifications. And so, we did this and were sent to a different office than last year (right up the road). When we got there, he noticed that he had been to a different office last year and then we gave him our 4 simple W-2s ALL from PA! Not difficult!!! Not only did it take him FOREVER but when we were finished he told us that we owed $323!!! This was after our $38 in coupons had already been taken out! When we seemed shocked he explained to us that this was a specialty H&R Block location and that they are the most expensive in the city because they handle a lot of big business in the area. Now, shouldn't he have told us his BEFORE completing our return!! There are 5 H&R Blocks within 6 miles of my home! If the website had told me this office would be more expensive or if our tax preparer had told us this ahead of time... I would have gone somewhere else! We were completely taken advantage of and now had no choice but to pay, in order to have our return direct deposited into our account within the 6-18 days. We just had a baby and really needed this return. After having our check electronically take $323 out of checking account right then and there, we left the office very upset. I immediately called the 1-800 number listed in our paperwork. I waited on hold for over 40 minutes before speaking to a customer service rep. We were in the middle of filing my complaint and I was diconnected. I tried calling 5 more times over the next few days and each time I was diconnected each time I was placed on hold in order for them to check if my original complaint had been filed or deleted after I was disconnected. Each time I wondered, why don't they just call me back? I finally called the office we had our taxes prepared in. I was told that I would have to speak to the manager and she was not in. So I asked for the district office's phone number and was told that only the office manager could give that out. They next morning the same girl I had spoken to called me back and said that she needed to apologize for her office manager but she had an appointment first thing that morning and could not call herself. She wanted to pass along the message that I would have to call the 1-800 number. Well, that obviously does not work. When I complained and told this young woman of the many times my call was dropped she told me that she would have the office manager call me back after her 11:00 appointment. Five hours later, no phone call. I became frustrated because while in this attempt to get some of my money back, I was only running my cel phone bill up the wall being on hold constantly between this particular office and the 1-800 number that would take 30-40 min to speak to someone only to be disconnected! But, I decided to try one more time. I called the 1-800 number and AS SOON as a customer service rep came to the phone I told her that I keep getting disconnected. She said that they had been having problems with the system. I asked her if she could call me back if it happened again and I was told that their phones do not dial out. RIDICULOUS! Luckily, my call was not dropped this time. My complaint was filed and I was given a confirmation number. I was told someone would contact me in 6 days.

Thanks for your vote!

RhyneAustin, TX

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I went to do my taxes today (2-4-2009) and of course like everyone else who is in need of extra cash I chose to do the 1-2 day rapid refund. So I called a few hours just to check the status and to my surprise I was denied the rapid refund. In all i paid $300 for nothing!!! Not once did the man at H&R Block tell me that there was a possibility that I may not be approved.

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferLouisville, KY

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

We had read all the comments that were written on the complains page for hr block, so when I went in to do my taxes before we even started, we specifically asked the women if this could affect my getting my taxes... she rattled off that it was because of the stimulus from last year was the reason and that I should have no issues getting back my taxes in 1-2 days..... I told her that I could well do my taxes if there was going to be an issue and it was going to take longer.... no she reassured me, well here I sit denied and it is going to take 13-18 days..... They will tell you whatever they can to get you to let them do your taxes.... but if you can put the information on the form yourself go to the post office and mail it then do it, don't cost yourself the extra 300.00 for nothing....

Thanks for your vote!

LibertyBerryville, AR

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

We have always gotten a rapid refund. We paid to get a 2 day rapid refund and were denied with no explanation. From what ive seen and heard there are thousands of complaints just like ours where people are not getting theyre rapid refund but still being charged for it with no explanation.

Thanks for your vote!

LindseyNorcross, GA

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I filed my taxes of 07-08 at the same H&R Block. In 07, my refund was only $120, my H&R Block fee was $65 leaving me with $55. If that wasn't bad enough, they trick me into paying $60 for the Peace of Mind Plan(meaning if you owe any money they back you up with $5000 to take care of it). Okay, so once again I'm back for 08 and learn I owe money, therefore my stimulance check from 07 is on hold. No one could tell me why I owe money and the Peace of Mind plan expired in 2007, so what I owe must be taken from my refund. I asked her when did me owing money show up, and I was told sometime in 2007. Since I had to pay for that, I asked for my $60 refund back toward the POM plan. I can't get a refund b/c I should of asked for it within 7 days of purchase. Seven days is not enough time for me to see if I owe anything, so why would I ask for a refund that soon, what a GREAT scam! This year my refund is $553 minus my

H&R Block fee: $111.00 Bank fee: $30.00(Suntrust) I owe: $155.00

Thanks for your vote!

LindaWagoner, OK

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I went to H&R block for the christmas loan in November recieved 500.00 400 something after fees of course but apy to get sme money for my kids' presents.Well on the 30th of Jan. i return to pay back my loan which helps i think to get the RAL loan. NOT! go thru the tax prep realy fast and the lady chit chats alot while doing my taxes with a guy from high school blah blah blah I'm thinking man i hope my taxes are being done right. so she says oh you weren't approved for the instant loan but you wil get it on he 1-2 day. I'm like what? I've used them oe 20 years. never had a problem oh well it's all fine just check yor card so i leave with a emerald card next two day no money first like everyone it's the Irs then online i find you guys and find t it's REally the credit check. So if they tell the customer it's creditcheck they lose business and when call them to complain the oh we will only charge you 29 dolars big Deal the charged me 255.00 istheproblem t do something for me i could have done for free. the bank people are very uneducated you can tell by chit chating with them they are there to pacify you.i'm pissed and I called Jackson Hewitt they claim they haven't heard anything about hr blocks problems yeah right. My taxes are supposed to be here today. onlinethe irs says no info so has ANYone got their moey and if so when? thanks goodluck everyone Class ActionLawsuit Anyone?????

Thanks for your vote!

ChadIndianapolis, IN

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I have been with my employer for working on 11 years now.

H&R Block has been my Tax preparatory for almost all them years! I had found a very nice guy Names Mark H. But since he no longer can prepare my taxes, I painstakingly searched for another person! After the Greenwood Office personally explained to me that they are the Best Office in the Indianapolis area I felt comfortable in offering them my Simple Tax forms to them. The person I chose explained to me that he's been doing Taxes for 14 years now, So with that said, I felt comfortable, But had explained to him that I was not very intelligent in the tax field and would need him to be honest with me, When finding items that would be a deduction. He was utterly rude right from the get go, He was having computer issues, He kept rebooting his computer, There were forms he reprinted many times and he expected me to remember everything With no understanding I am a first home buyer, and talking with my realtor, I had learned about the tax breaks I was to get, But H&R Block did not complete my Taxes correctly, Prior to purchasing my new home, I was to complete a contract that I had signed with my previous landlord, So the rent that was paid was not accurate in the tax forms, H&R Block did not include my property taxes that I paid on my new house in 2008 neither! Furthermore, H&R Block did not include my HUD Paperwork for the 2008 year, There are many, many items they did not include that I could of had deductions on! I was charged $212.00 for their services and when I didn't understand their fees, He remained rude,mean and was very impatient with me. I only received a $760+ tax return this year, and that's embarrassing, and it's wrong! I will never for the rest of my life choose any H&R BLOCK branch to ever do my taxes again. I have been honest and truthful every year, But with how I was treated and how they shorted my return, There are bills now that I can't pay in my home during this of need!

Thanks for your vote!

NikkiLas Vegas, NV

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

My son and I are on the verge of being homeless!I was laid off and now a full time student. I needed this money to get is back on track!The rep told me she got the Emerald Card and she loved it. The fees are ridiculous but I need the money fast! I waited my 2 days (nothing)so I called to find I had been denied! The office couldn't offer any explanation why! I didn't know about any credit check and now I have to wait 8-15 days?!When I could have done that from the start. I WILL NEVER return to H&R Block, they are dishonest and they don't stand behind us! Now I am stuck hoping our landlord has a understanding heart or knows about H&R Block and feels sorry for my dumb a**!

Thanks for your vote!

JoelMount Holly, NJ

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

As with the other complaints, I went to HR block and filed my taxes as I did in the past to get my refund quicker with the RAL. The gentleman who did me and my wifes taxes said to choose between the emerald card and the paper check. We chose paper check and he said we would get it in 1-2 business days. He did not mention nothing about pending credit approval or that we may be denied. Next day I call the number for status and it was denied. I called the HR branch and they were pointing the finger at hsbc. I called hsbc and they had a recorder message and no direct line to a person. SCAM SCAM SCAM. If I wanted to wait 8-15 days I would have done it myself, not pay 377.00. I called there corporate and was suppose to get a response back 24-48 hours. Guess what its been over 48 hours, no response. Every one should file a complaint with their states attorney general so they can get enough complaints to investigate this. You can do it online. Im done with HR Block and their unethical misleading ways.

Thanks for your vote!

EugeneCanal Winchester, OH

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

On 01/14/2009 I went into HR Block to file my taxes and I had opted for the regular irs refund. I was not aware fo any loan that I was appling for because they told me it would be 8-15 days before I would get my refund directly deposited into my account. Soon after I checked the IRS and they said that my money was deposited into an account on the 30th of January. I called HR Block bank on 02/02/2009 and they said yes that they did receive my refund and that it would be deposited into my account on 02/03/2009. On that day I checked my bank account and nothing had been deposited. I then called the bank again and they told me that they did not have anything and that I needed to call the office where I filed. I then called them and they said that I was denied for a loan, that I was unaware I was applying for since I opted for the 8-15 day refund. Anyways I then was given a number to HSBC and I called and finally after hours of being on hold spoke to someone at 9pm. I gave the lady my social security number and name. She then told me that there was fraud on my social security number and I needed to take my complaint up with the fraud department. Bottom line is I am being told that I was denied for a loan that I never even applied for and they are holding my refund. No one is giving me any information and I am being charged HR Block fees of over $200.00 for money that I never did receive.

Thanks for your vote!

BrianMilwaukie, OR

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

What can I say ? Filed with H&R Block like we have for 12yrs ,went with the RAL . Got denied for one day return and opt for the 1-2 day (never been denied in the past) . Went to https://www.myreturnstatus.com/index.php and received this Unfortunately your Refund Anticipation Loan has not been approved. Upon receipt of proceeds from the IRS, your refund will be deposited onto your H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard. The IRS refund deposit typically occurs within 8 - 15 days from the date your return was accepted. Please call again at that time to see if your refund has been deposited. For more information regarding your Refund Anticipation Loan please call HSBC at 1-888-832-5625. Now I'm wondering what's going on. We have never been denied before so why now ? I called my tax preperator and he said he has never seen this code pop up code 09 RAL IRS Direct Deposit Then asked me if I owed money to the IRS. Well here's what I think it means. HSBC will deny me my ral (for some stupid reason) then receive my refund then transfer my refund to my emerald card 8-15 days not including weekends and holidays. HSBC operators are a joke, waited 30min the she introduced herself and ask how she could help . I told her what I saw on the website and she proceeded to to me the reason for denial. HOLD ON !!!! Have you caught this yet ? I DIDN'T EVEN GIVE HER MY NAME AND SS# !?!?!. She backed up and apologized 2-3 times and said she was on the wrong page (What the heck does that mean?). So I give her my name ss# then proceeds to ask me 4-5 questions pertaining to forgery with and without my SS card then says she needs to transfer me to security something and transfers me over to a dept. that closed 1hr prior to the call. I couldn't even leave a message. Urrrrggg now I'm getting hot. I'm feeling the runaround here. So I call back to H&R Block where a woman (forgot the name) was very kind with my attitude and explained to me that 9+% of all RALs are being denied due tightening credentials and that a large percentage of last yrs filing were rejected by the irs cause of fraud (red flagged)on the customers end (Bogus EIC filings being one example)and that the bank lost money trying to get filers to pay back there loans. NOW I'M REALLY LOST, What's that got to do with me ??? !!!! I GIVE UP. So I'll wait, as if I have a choice :( . I did tell her that if she knew this why wern't customers informed of this and why didn't our tax preparer tell us and that if 9+% of the people are being denied so we could opt out if we wanted to. Wait I know why , Duh then where would H&R Block be ? Closed.... I learned my lesson the hard way . It was convenient (RAL) while it lasted but due to the Economy and Statistics (CUT THROAT Businesses )I feel it's over and we all need to beware of it.

Thanks for your vote!

CarolGrants Pass, OR

Reviewed Feb. 4, 2009

I went to the IRS web site and filed my return which should have been free but in the end I was charged for the free filing of both the state and federal. The federal cost $14.95 and then the state was $29.95 since I did not realize I had to pay I let them take it out of my return which was then an extra $29.95. Our ajusted gross income was less than $44,000 so we were entitled to get the service free. Since the filing on 1/18/2009 I have been trying to get a refund of my fees but they keep giving me all kinds of reasons that I would not be entitled. They do not know how to read their charges they claim they gave me a refund on the date of filing but that was the fee they charged me and there was no refund for fees given they even accused me of overdrafting my account and using the credit without knowing it. Currently while filing this complaint I have been on the phone now for 28 minutes with no results. It appears I am not alone I think they are preying on those who really need their refund asap. Please help

Thanks for your vote!

KevinShannon, MS

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

My name is Kevin Wilson. My wife and I was part of the H & R Block RAL scam. Her and I went into the office on February 2, 2009 at 9:45 a.m. We walked into the H&R Block office thinking that today was going to be a great day. I had filed there every year for the past several years with no problems. We was great with kindness and respect. The lady told us that she had been doin taxes for 30 years and she knew what she was doing. We started the tax process and everything seemed to be okay. The lady said she found a problem with the system and that it came across that I owed something. I informed her that I owed for child support which has never been a problem with my taxes before. The lady then presented this siuation to her manager. The story then was told that we had to pay up front. The woman that was doing our taxes went ahead and proceed on knowing that their system had messed up already. She had me to call the IRS, which informed me that they had no hold on my account. Then I was given another number to call which backed up my story of the fact that I owed for child support. So, as the process went on, they asked us how we wanted our money and we told them the same day. The lady put in the information to get it back the same day. It was a RAL. So the lady told us that we were denied, but we should get it in 1-2 days for sure. They never told me or my wife that they was doing a credit check on us. The next day we called them and they told us that we was denied by the IRS. So I called the IRS and we was told that they had no record of our income taxes on file. We even went to the IRS website and nothing showed up. So we called H&R Block back and they gave us some bank phone number. The bank told me that I owed $404.70 from the previous year. I was never informed of a debt owed to me in regards to my income taxes. I was told then that it was denied on behalf of that balance and a credit check. I was also told if H&R Block resubmitted the income taxes that they would take the fees out. When I informed the office of the siuation they told me that the IRS had it and there was not anything that could be done even though the IRS HAD NOT RECEIVED IT. The lady at the IRS told us that it takes 48 hours for the information to appear in their system. I called another H&R Block, the lady there told me that it could be resubmitted if the IRS had not received it. My wife then called the place that I had called and they told her that they could not do anything and that they had not given us any information of that nature. They was very rude and impolite to her. The bank still is going to charge us for the fees just as if they was going to give us the loan. The H&R Block office told us that we wasnt going to be charged because the IRS was going to give us the refund and that meant that our refund would not go through any bank. We was lied to and given the run around about our taxes.

Thanks for your vote!

LeslieLouisa, KY

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

i have already submitted a complaint my res # is 4641167 and i have gotten no response back yet and am still waiting i would like a response asap it has been 1o days now and i am tired of waiting

Thanks for your vote!

CarolynLouisville, KY

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

I went to H&R Block like always. I have been going there for at least 17 years. I filed my taxes on Jan.18, 2008 and was told that I would receive my money in 1-2 (classic RAL) on the Emerald card. Still as of today, 02/03/08, I haven't received a dime of my money. They called me this past Saturday night to let me know that I would not be receiving my money for another 7-10 days. I'm a single mother of two children. I was depending on that money to catch me up on my bills and car payment. This has put me in a bind. I never thought the company that I have always trusted would have a scam like this going on.

Thanks for your vote!

CassandraGuyton, GA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

My husband in I went into H&R block to have our taxes prepared. As soon as we sat down with the representative we (I) informed her that the reason we were having our taxes done by them, was so that we could get our money back as soon as possible. The representative assured me that as long as I did'nt owe any back taxes, owed child support, or student loans we should be fine. I was told to call back in the morning to make sure that my check had been printed before I come into the office to pick it up. I called and was told by a recording that I was denied. No apparent reason. I called the 1-800 number that was given to me over the automated call and recieved another recording from HSBC bank saying that I didn't fit the credit criteria. No one informed me that a credit check would be taking place. It hadn't in the past. I feel like this is misleading and illegal.

Thanks for your vote!

BeckyBoston, MA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

I filed my taxes on January 24, 2009, paid for 1-2 RAL. Just on a whim I called the Emerald card to see if My funds were there, well sure enough it was. I Received my money after 5:00 pm on the very same day that I filed. I thought oh good, I only paid for the 2 day but received the funds in one day. Here's the clincher, I spent $1,000 of the money then went to spend the other $2000.00 and the card was declined. Called HR Block and they said that I never received a refund and that they don't know where my money is. Funny Ispent $1,000 of money that I did not receive. Called the IRS they informed me that my return was approved. So now $2000.00 of my money is gone without a trace. HSBC says that the money was deposited into another card? What!! Another card? That is a card I had 2 years ago and long since cancelled! HR Block says that it was never deposited into any other card and that they do not know what HSBC is talking about. My head is spinning!!!!!!!

Thanks for your vote!

BrentonBowie, Tx 76230, TX

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

We had H&R Block prepare our 2008 income tax on 01/31/09. We were due a $2024 refund. We opted to pay extra $ to receive the refund within 2-3 business days. Then we were informed that due to credit reasons, we were denied the acceleration loan from HSBC. We didn't know what they were even talking about since we were not informed about any loan or HSBC. Otherwise, we would've gone directly through either Turbo Tax or IRS. The biggest frustration was that we couldn't get any information from either H&R Block or HSBC as to why we were denied. We were given a phone # for HSBC (1-to contact but whenever we tried calling, would only get a recording. No matter what we tried, we couldn't get any information from anyone about why we were denied, etc. H&R Block was no help and stated that that was the only phone # for HSBC that they had and that they had not had any trouble talking to a live person. They couldn't help us any further. We called IRS, who told us that the refund had been approved and they showed that we did not owe any back taxes and that they did not know why we couldn't get our refund from HSBC within the time frame promised. We tried the HSBC phone # several times along with other phone #'s that we tried off the internet but no one at either HSBC or H&R could help us with any info.

There is no way we would've gone this route had we been informed that we were applying for a loan! We didn't even give our consent for a credit check!! How can they legally do this and continue to get by with this?? And why would IRS participate in this??

Thanks for your vote!

HeatherChambersburg, PA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

I went to H&R Block on January 24th, 2009 to have my taxes prepared. I am a single mother. My tax preparation was a fairly simple one in that it was only basic Head of Household, EIC, and credit for child care with (2) W-2s. I would have done the prep myself had I not anticipated the need for a faster return.

I was astounded to learn that H&R Blocks' fee for JUST the prep was $255. Although I was a bit discouraged with that amount it could not be refuted at that time because the return had already been prepared. What I was NOT ready for was the fee had I chosen to get my return in 1-3 days (which is what I had initially wanted .. hence the reason I went to H&R Block in the first place). Had I chosen that option my return would have been REDUCED by nearly $1300! Yes $1300!? $255 for H&R Block and $1045 to god only knows where else. I was floored to see that option on the screen.

Thanks for your vote!

RichardEverett, WA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

last year i filed taxes w/ h&R block ...

they said i would need to pay out 366$and some change ,now! before i could get my refund??hmmm,so i said i guess im backed into a corner on that .. so about a week later i decided to call h&r back and ask for a recipt on the 366 i paid out...they couldnt come up with one ,on accoount of they have not even the slightest idea as to who the money went to.....hmmm (little odd it was a huge deal to pay this unknown debt when it was about me...now not even getting the proper attention as a customer)so all in all,its been a year later still been calling maneger(s) one after another and come to find out,hsbc took my money and i have never even delt with them nor have an account..sooo how could i owe them and why do they get paid out of my taxes before i can even see the paper work??? never been paid from them..they gave me and still are,the run around and around! now im having another deal because i got an emerald card from h&R and used it to pay some bills ,and i accidently overpaid a bill..so i kindly asked them to put my money back on my card. now its been 3 weeks and nobody knows what the status on my returned money is ...most of them have no clue about it untill i explain all over again...and yes hsbc financial bank is the base of the problem again!!!!!!!!

Thanks for your vote!

JavierRiverside, CA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

I had my 2008 taxes done at H and R block as I did last year. I got the same Rapid Refund as I did last year. I was told that I would get my money in 1-2 days on an emerald card. The next day I was told that my rapid refund was denied with no explaination of why, Now, I am having to wait 2-3 weeks for my refund and I am having to pay the fees associated with that, thinking that I would get the rapid refund and then denied. I could have done my taxes on my own for free and had no fees to pay. They basically ripped me off and many others from what I have been reading on the internet. This injustice needs to stop, I will not be returning to H and R Block next year. I will just do my taxes myself and keep the $300 they are charged me for nothing.

Thanks for your vote!

KyleBeckley, WV

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

Last year I paid for same day Refund and got it half one day and half two days later with no less charge. This year I get my taxes prepared and after the whole process my wife and I choose the emerald card same day refund. The lady types it all in and says that the bank approved partial now and the large amount in 1-2 days. Other than wondering why 2 days would make a difference I consented and signed the loan agreements. One for the same day and another for the 1-2 day. It shows fees on both loan agreements. I spend part of the first amount and after 2 days notice the large amount isnt on the card. I call and find out that an offset from a state I havent lived in for 4 years has arisen and the bank denied my loan. I find out what that was about and resolve the issue accept for the h and r block part. I am now recieveing my return in 8 to 15 days but paying fees for 1-2. H and R says the bank owes the fees back and the bank says H and R owes me. Either way I paid for a service that was denied and someone should pay the money back. I understand the fees for the amount recieved on day one but the rest should be refunded. I told them I wouldve waited 8-15 and saved the money but I purchased the same day and 1-2 under the pretense that I was recieving the rest within 2 days. I spent some of the money so canceling isnt an option. Oh and I've read that they are checking credit before dispursing refunds which is fine for loan approval but I have talked with several who say they got a different amount because of credit debt they owed which that is not disclosed by H and R when applying for refund loans. Oh and finally the location manager would not tell me the corporation or supervisors number I had to call another branch and fake a scenario to get it.

Thanks for your vote!

KarenJanesville, WI

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

I purchased the H&R Block's TaxCut program for 2005, 2006 and 2007. Each year everything seemed fine. Then in late 2007, I was audited. As soon as I received the audit notice, I did what the box told me to do. I called the 1-800 number. Much to my surprise, and in complete contrast from what they claim, they offer NO AUDIT SUPPORT! Outraged, I called every H&R Block office in my area trying to find one that was open that time of year. I managed to find one and went into their office with all of my things and asked for help. The lady behind the counter literally asked me to see the box I purchased. I couldn't believe it. I didn't have it with me, but we pulled up an advertisement on her computer and I showed her the guarantee. Then she started to look at my paperwork and said Well, we can't help you with this, you are being audited. I asked about what happens if I receive fees and she wasn't sure. She had to look on the computer screen for the 1-800 number off the advertisement we pulled up. I told her my plight with the 1-800 number and that is when she told me they are not associated with TaxCut and are not responsible for what they offer or guarantee. I now have a bill for over $5000 from those three years that I can't even begin to explain, much less comprehend. I caution anyone out there thinking of saving a few dollars in getting your returns filed less expensively and by someone who doesn't see past the fee you are paying them. AVOID H&R BLOCK like the PLAGUE.....it's what they do to you when they screw up!

Thanks for your vote!

JeffColumbus, GA

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

My complaint is the same as most on this page. I'm waiting on my refund and they said I did not quailfy for the RAL. I did last year with no problem. I have had no other debt since last year, and I do not owe the IRS anything.I have always paid my taxes (when I owed). My rent is now past due and I don't know what I am going to do. Thanks H & R Block. Ya'll have put me in a major bind.

Thanks for your vote!

KristieKeizer, OR

Reviewed Feb. 3, 2009

i went in to h&r block to do my taxes. When i was doing my taxes i was told that i do not quailify for the same day , but i do quailify for the 1 to 2 day loan. I said okay. that find. Well todays went by and no money. So i called the h&r bank and they said i was denied for the 1 to 2 day loan. I do not recall signing anything to run my credit. I even reviewed my packet and it said nothing of the sort. I was definitly lied to and i feel hur cause i have used h&r block for years with no problem. Also there was a form for me to sign that says that i can cancel in 5 days so i signed that form and took (before the date dued) and they told me that i cant do that because it already has been filed. so i said that form means nothing and they said basically yes. And i pretty much have to deal with it. I wish tht there was a company that deals with dishonest companies like this one. But then i come to think about it. Maybe h&r block is broke cause they spent 3 million on a super bowl comercial. Also i check irs and they have not recieved the tax info

Thanks for your vote!

TCrest Hill, IL

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

I filed my income tax return on 1/26/09, opted for the 1-2 day loan done through their bank. I waited 5 days, and still no check. I went back personally and was told I had been denied for a RAL and to call the HSBC phone number on the back of my contract to get the status of my refund account. The recording promises a letter of explanation in 7-10 days. H & R Block had no other information regarding the status of my refund after charging me more than $300 in tax fees. I will never use H & R Block again!!!!

Thanks for your vote!

ConstanceAsheville, NC

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

I had my taxes done at H & R Block in hopes of receiving the 1-2 day RAL as I always have in previous years. I was denied, and now have to wait 8-15 days, and I have paid extra money for the loan which I am sure will not be refunded. I also paid extra for the Emerald Card because I thought I would get the money in 1-2 days, which I couldn't have done with my own checking account. Now I don't need the Emerald Card, but you can bet I paid for it anyway. I am not mad that the loan was denied. I am very mad that I was told you'll have your money by Monday. I was never told my credit was a factor, or that there was a possibility that the money would not be there. It is not their fault that my finances are in a shambles, but it would have been nice to have had some truthfulness in this transaction, so that I could have made an informed decision. I would not have paid for a card I didn't need, much less a loan I knew my credit would not support, if I had known that it was even a factor. I was mislead, and for no other reason than to get my money, which I cannot spare at this time. I thought there were truth in lending laws.

Thanks for your vote!

AaronFairfax, MO

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

My wife and I went to H and R block to get our taxes done the date was 1/20/09...after we were finished we paid the 237 dollar fee and a extra 30 dollars to get our taxes in a 8 to 15 day period...well 2 weeks later we are sitting here still waiting for our tax refund..My wife called the H and R block we dealt with and he neglected to tell us that he received a email about us on Friday 1/30/09 saying they just ran our paper work through, and we wont be receiving our taxes until the end of this week no earlier then Thursday, i want our 30 dollars back therefore we did not receive our taxes when promised, i feel like we are getting screwed out of 30 dollars and i would like it back. Thank you

Thanks for your vote!

TLakewood, NJ

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

Well looks like I am also the victim of H&R blocks Ral scam. It has been 4 days since I opted for the 1-2 day Ral. I just looked it up on HSBC site and I saw that I was denied. I do not owe out any money to anyone and have 700+ credit score. Not to mention that H&R block claims right on the advertisements in thier offices that there IS NO CREDIT CHECK. Why the hell would we pay the preperation fees if we could just file ourselves online and get it back in 9 days from rapidtax.com. I have used rapid tax for 3 years without a hitch. I decided to go with H&R block after a coworker got the emerald card suprisingly with no problems. I wished I had read up on the net about what we are all now going through before going there. I am beside myself as now I will have to pay the fees for the 1-2 ral and still get it in 8-15. This is a scam. I feel like going down to the office where I did my taxes and throwing the slap down on ppl there but that would not solve anything. I have not even made an official phone calls as I researched myself and saw why i was rejected. well not why. Just that I was. We need to start a website for a class action suit. Im not in thwe situation like some that i feel bad for that need it asap. But i was willing to pay to have it asap because its like found money in a way(my mentality) i am very dissapointed and I feel like i was taken for a ride.

Thanks for your vote!

JosephineSouth San Francisco, CA

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

For at least the last 10 years , I have gotten the Rapid Refund through H and R block, and I read where there is a class action suit going on with them. I was wondering if I had any recourse against them?

Thanks for your vote!

WilliamSelmer, TN

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

Feb 1, 2009

Thanks for your vote!

HeatherWest Terre Haute, IN

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

I too was duped by HSBC bank. I have went to H & R block for 2 years now. Last year I was granted a RAL the day after I filed my taxes, no problem and it was such an easy experience I returned there this year. This year I filed on Jan. 23rd. I was told I qualified and would have my Refund within 2 days applied to their Emerald Card. After two days I found out I was denied this loan... afte being approved on the 23rd. the explanation was that the bank muct have kicked it out. i have tried to contact HSBC but was told I'd receive and explanation in the mail but that has not arrived either. So I still have not received my money and its been 10 days. I am being told I will receive it after the IRS checks my return and it'll be 8-15 from filing date but the IRS says they will be done processing by Feb. 10th but nothing sooner. This is so frustrating. I will never go back to H & R Block because the tax preparer should not have assured me that my money would be available to me within 2 days. Then HSBC bank denies my RAL after they gave me an Emerald Advance card in November. My credit did not change in 2 months. What a joke!!!

Thanks for your vote!

ErikClarksville, TN

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

This complaint is pretty much a repeat of the others but it happen to me also. I went to the same H&R Block office I have been going to for the past 4 years to do my taxes. I went on January 30th. Just like everyone else I was in need of money as soon as possible. I almost didn't go because I needed all the money I could get and we all know H&R Block has very high filing fees but I needed my money now so I didn't do the efile at home. I tried to get the instant refund but was denied and then was told I was approved for the 1-2 day refund on the emerald card. After day two came around I called the HSBC number and was told I was not approved and I would have my money 8-15 days. I could have done the 8-15 day efile at home for nothing! That just beats the whole purpose of going to H&R Block if I can't get my money quick because that is the only reason I go there.

Thanks for your vote!

JoeAnywhereville, NY

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

Went to the Blockheads to do my taxes. Have 4 children, and always used H&R block in the past. Usually, the total bill comes to ~$120. Previous years info was not found. Spent over 1hr with the preparer. Bill this year came to over $400! There were some changes, bought a house, borrowed from 401k etc. When I looked at the fee breakdown, they charged a fee for every child, charged a $40 fee for a $30 credit and really nickle and dimed me. I did not want any type of loan or advance, this was strictly a preperation fee.

Thanks for your vote!

JoeAnywhereville, NY

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

Thanks for your vote!

JyllChesterfield, VA

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

Like many others on this site, I was lied to and misled by HR Block. Like everyone else, I was denied the instant RAL and told, word by word, you weren't approved for the instant refund but you were approved for the RAL and you will get your money in 1-2 days. I specifically asked if there was any way they would deny it, he said no, you are already approved. So imagine my surprise when the very next day I was told that I wasn't approved and I would get my money in 8-15 days. After paying over $500 in fees and agreeing to put $600 on a Roth IRA through the same bank. Now they tell me that I can't get the money back in the amount of time I was told and they are keeping $600 for an IRA that I didn't want in the first place. (My refund was over $10000 and I was not eliglible for RAL due to the amount, so the office manager tells me to put $600 into the Roth and then it will put my refund below the $10000 mark allowing me to get the RAL.) Like everyone else, I have dealt with HR Block for about 10 years with no problem. I will NEVER use them again. I will just file my taxes by myself. What a ripoff and a scam! I filed on Jan 28, 2009 and according to the HR BLock website, the IRS accepted my return on the 29th. But when I check the status of my refund through the IRS website, it says it doesn't have any information. I have read others complaints where at least the IRS was showing their refund being processed. How long should I wait for that? This situation has screwed us financially! We are on the verge of losing our home and desperately need our money before Feb 12. DON'T USE HR BLOCK! I read all of this and still went there thinking, maybe it is just something that happens to some people and it won't happen to me....WRONG! Now I am some people. I want to join in on any suit that we can do. Apparently, they are not new to the lawsuit idea and had one filed in California just a couple of years ago. We need to make them pay!

Thanks for your vote!

TanyaFairfield, IL

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

I too went to H&R Block for the RAL. I've had my taxes prepared there ever since I can remember. I opted for the 1-2 day loan choosing the emerald card for disbursement. I filed on 1/30/09 and was told my loan would be there on or about that Saturday or following Monday. After hearing several complaints I would think HR Block would notify people of the problems. I received a call from Pam on Saturday stating my taxes would not be refunded for 8-15 days. I was shocked as I have never had any problems in the past. I know the banks have had alot of problems over the last year and now realize this is part of the problem. But, like others I feel we should have had some warning. I can't see the problem since its backed by the government, right? I guess I'm not surprised as of the bad news about our economy. We got people! YEAH RIGHT!

Thanks for your vote!

MarkFlemingsburg, KY

Reviewed Feb. 2, 2009

We always use H&R Block. Went to make an appointment and was told they are only doing walk-ins. The Place was packed and had to stand. I noticed people was coming in and signing in and then leaving to return in a few hours. And just so everyone will know it took 4 hours of waiting and preparation to get done. I wasnt about to leave and come back because if you leave they was suppose to put you back in the back of the line. But they didnt. When we finally got to get the tax process started the lady was making mistakes, but she was fixing them. When we were done we didnt go rapid refund. We wanted to have our checks direct deposited like we do every year. But was told they arent doing that this year. Well she should know seeing she is a reprensenative of H&R block. she then told us she had been working since 8:00 a:m without a break. I looked at the time on my cell phone and it was 8:11 p:m. That would explain all the mistakes she was making. So paid the $330.00 And after 4 hours left. I called the district manager to complain and she told me 1.The people whom left was to be put back in the back of the line since there wasnt any appointments. 2.They do have direct deposit and she was wrong.And I couldnt have it corrected. Now will have to wait a month for my checks to be cut. Plus time allowed for mail. as you know could be up to 2 weeks. 3.With all the mistakes they lady was making due to no breaks which i told her i would call the Labor dept, if I was her. if any mistakes was made it would get kicked back. 4.$330.00 We paid for poor service and sloppy preparation. But they got their money so they dont care. but the district manager said she would call that office in Flemingsburg Ky and get things put right. And the owner would call me. But I'm not holding my breath. So to all beware if your going to spend $330.00 To H&R Block.

Thanks for your vote!

ChasityDenham Springs, LA

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2009

Lets see where should I begin? First off my husband and I went in for the anticipation loan about 4 weeks ago, we were then approved for the 900.00 because we were to be expecting 10,000 back. When my husband went in to do our taxes the amount was only 7427.00. Then we decided ok mistakes happen, so we decided to then do the 1 to 2 day ral, this was 1-28-09 when we filied and still no money. When I looked it up online for the status it said the IRS put a hold on it, when I called H&R Block the only thing they said was and I quote it could be that you owe for a previous year oryourtaxes were not filed properly. ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!!!! Not filed properly, ok well that says it all im still waiting for monday so I can call the IRS on the problem, I will not be returning to H&R Block again they did not even offer a refund for the ral which I did not get or at least a refund for everything of course if my taxes were not filed correctly( did I mention H&R Block filed my taxes)I hope all you out there take my word for it and that of all the others do your own taxes, really at least you wont be giving your money away .

Thanks for your vote!

BrentBrownstown, IN

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2009

On January 19th 2009 I filed my taxes with H&R Block. I applied for the same day refund and was denied. They told me it would automatically default to the 1 to 2 day loan and NEVER told me that could be denied as well. I was NEVER informed of any credit check they would be running.

The IRS has accepted my return and my refund was to be funded to my emerald card on JANUARY 30TH. I never received my refund. I called HSBC to find out where my money is. I was informed that the address I gave them was not the same one they had on file. Upon further investigation I found out the tax preparer put the wrong city state and zip code on my papers even though I told him, he never corrected that. HSBC made me answer questions over the phone to prove I am who I said. They asked many questions which I answered to the best of my ability and knowledge about prior addresses and people I was associated with. They then said I failed those tests and they would be sending my money back to the IRS and the IRS would have to issue a check to me directly.

Thanks for your vote!

TammieBrownstown, IN

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2009

On January 19th I filed my taxes with H&R Block because I desperately needed my money fast this year. I tried for the same day loan and was told that was denied, but the preparer told me that it would automatically default to the 1 to 2 days. She never once told me that could also be denied, and also NEVER told me that they would be running a credit check. She simply said that it would be credited 1 to 2 days after the IRS accepted the return. On Monday the 21st the IRS did accept the return. I never received my money. I called the 800 number on the card I was given and was told it should be deposited by that evening. It wasnt. I called the local office the next day and she informed me I had been denied the RAL and that it could take about 8- 10 days to receive my funds.

It is now February 1st and I still have no money. My state tax check...according to the Department of Revenue website was deposited on January 29th. HSBC said they never received any money. The state of Indiana tells me that it WAS deposited and I should check with the bank.

Thanks for your vote!

LmTupelo, MS

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2009

PAID FOR AN RAL AT H&R BLOCK

NEVER WAS TOLD HAD TO BE APPROVED JUST TOLD WOULD HAVE MY REFUND IN 1-2 DAYS. NOW TOLD MY IRS CHECK WILL GO TO THEM THEN THEY WILL DEPOSIT AND GIVE TO ME.

Thanks for your vote!

TriciaSauquoit, NY

Reviewed Feb. 1, 2009

i filed my taxes with H&R block for the first and last time. the lady was very nice that helped me with my taxes and when she got to the part about the RAL she told me that i would only be charged 3.21 for it. nothing more nothing less, and i thought wow,thats awesome,$3 and i get my taxes in 2 days? i know that i have to pay it back ,which is no problem, i am a single mom of a 2 yr old, the money sooner would help ALOT. so anyway, i sign all the forms that need to be signed and i leave. when i get home i look over everything an notice, it will cost me about $200 for the loan itself so i wont get everythiong back that the lady told me i would, she didnt explain EVERYTHING to me that had to do with the RAL. so i called her and she said that i have already signed the papers and there's nothing she can do about it now. had i known that it was going to cost so much and i would get so little, i would have NEVER even applied for it, i was under the assumption that it was just going to cost $3 extra. AND on top of that i had a coupon for $20 off my tax prep, gave her the coupon rminded her SEVERAL times to use it for me, finally she took it, i asked her before i left if i got the $20 off, and she said that she used it, again when i looked at my papers there was no discount on it so i mentioned that to her while i was on the phone and she said that she must have forgot and said she was sorry but again there was nothing to be done. i will NEVER go back to H&R block again.

Thanks for your vote!

MatthewWolverine, MI

Reviewed Jan. 31, 2009

I went to H&R Block for my taxes to get done on Jan. 15th, just like every other year. We went through all the hooplah and finally we were asked how we wanted to file. I have recieved a RAL in the past, our tax return was quite a bit and we opted to go with the RAL. We recieved about 15% of our refund and guaranteed our remaining refund in two business days.

I called two business days later to see if the check has printed and they said no. I called the next afternoon and they said it hasnt came again, I wanted to talk with my tax prepairer and she promised to call back. I went through this for a week with no call back. I finally found a number for the illusive HSBC Bank, called them and they said I didnt meet their criteria for the RAL. I asked if they are making the people that do the taxes aware of this criteria, they could not answer. I have left several complaints with both H&R, and HSBC both have caused stress and anger with their lies. It has been 15 days now and I could have saved over $200 just Efiling my tax return. Crooked tactics to suck hundreds of hard-earned dollars from Americans, is this what America has come too?

Thanks for your vote!

TarevaFayetteville, NC

Reviewed Jan. 31, 2009

I went into H&R Block on 1/26/09 to apply for a Refund Anticipation Loan as I have done for all the years I have been working. This is the first year I have been turned down for the (RAL).WHY? After not receiving my loan in 1-2 days as I was told, I went back into H&R BLOCK and spoke with the lady that had prepared my taxes. I had my paper work in hand and asked her was something wrong on my paper work because I had not received the money on my Emerald Card yet. She was quick to tell me I must owe I.R.S. some money. I told her I DON'T THINK SO. Then she said maybe your credit didn't go through. I responded, what does my credit have to do with my refund? She said this year H&R Block is different. I asked how so and if H&R Block is so different this year why you didnt tell me this before I filed for the Refund Anticipation Loan. She said they have no way of knowing if you are not going to be approved for the loan. I responded to her that if you knew yesterday that my credit might be an issue you could have said so and I could have saved $304.00 and filed my taxes online if I was going to have to wait 8-14 days to get my money anyway. I let her know I wouldn't have filed for the RAL if I knew beforehand that my credit might be an issue. Why would I just give H&R Block $304.00 just because? I think it's a scam when H&R Block don't let customers know that their credit might be an issue. Of course they are not going to let customers know because that would be less money for them. That's why the rich is getting richer and the poor is getting poorer.

Thanks for your vote!

TammyRichmond, IN

Reviewed Jan. 31, 2009

I went to file my taxes as I am a single mother/ grandmother and trying to make ends meet, this seems impossible. So today after filing on Thursday for my RAL loan I was told by a person at H&R that I have to wait til I am accepted and then my return will be on my card within two days. Hello this is not what the lady told me when I filed. She said it was a loan and that I would receive it within two days and that most of her people have received it over night. OK so I now have the word STUPID across my forhead. I believe that if I was able I would higher a lawyer and get the 390.00 that I had to pay back. Soon I will have no lights and it 16 degrees outside, that means no heat either. What has become of the goverment and of course the ones that have lied to use a H&R BLOCK.

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferWest Sacramento, CA

Reviewed Jan. 31, 2009

I went to H&R block for my first time on Friday Jan 23, the lady that helped me was Maria, when I arrived I was not told of any prices, thinking that I would pay a max of 150.00 to file because I have no assets i dont own anything all that I have is my job my 2 kids and Husband. When we were finnished the total was 266.00 which was alot to me but I had never been and said ok also i was informed that is i pad an add. 100.00 bringing my total to 341.00 I would get my cjeck in 1 or 2 days and i would get a call. When Tuesday Jan 27 came and I had not recieved my check I called and they said that it was there. Now that was days later not 1 or 2. my husband picked up the check and it was 800.00 short. I was very upset and called H&R block and talked with Larry Bear the manager and he told me very rudly that when the STIMULAS checks were handed out las year i didnt get all of mine and that it was added into my return. My total return before any fees was 3200.00 with there fees I was suposed to get back 2800.00 the check that i recieved was 2000.00 a whole 1200.00 short because of them. In telling Mr.bear that when i had went on Friday Maria had not told me anything about a stimulas added in. Larry began to get rude talling me that he would fire her right away and all his employees right away then he laughed at me. I told him that all i wanted Was my 341.00 bakc because i was miss informed about my whole refund and that he did not know when i would ever see that 800.00 and also for paying 100.00 to have my check in 1 or 2 days not 4 days later

Thanks for your vote!

KimberlyZeeland, MI

Reviewed Jan. 31, 2009

I went into H&R Bock to have my taxes done. HUGE mistake. $385 it cost me, s single mother of 2. Even my tax preparer was surprised at the amount it cost. I was frustrated watching her and had to fix her mistakes as we went along. I even joked I should get a discount for as many times as I had to help her out! When I was able to move after the shock of finding out how much I had to pay (convienent how they can't tell you how much it is until the end)I asked how I needed to pay - she informed me that they just take it out of the refund. I only found out that this cost me $29 extrawhen I spoke with the manager the next day. I had the money to pay with a check. Another girl that had worked the night before said well it was on the screen. I found it interesting that the manager grabbed her arm tightly to keep her quiet. I had gone in there that day to find out if my money had been deposited as I had called the number on the card all day and had been hung up on EVERY time. She gave me another number to call and that would tell me if things had been deposited. When I called it said that the money had been placed on my card and that it was ready to use. As a surprise I took my kids out to dinner, something that we had not been able to do for a long time. It turned out to be a humiliating night as they came back and told me my card had been denied. I was so embarassed. I can't go back there. It is a small place. I am a case manager and a couple of clients were sitting at the next table. Talk about a hit to my credability. Luckily I was able to scrape the cash together.

I had only gone in to H&R Block as I was really in need of the money as my W2 from a former employer came late in the month. My preparer even said thaqt it would have been cheaper and easier to take out a home equity loan given that I had to sign more things than I did when I bought my house.

Thanks for your vote!

SteveWestland, MI

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

went to H&R Block forked over a small fortune. was told i would receive my refund in 1 to 2 days still not there. Come to find out i was denied. HSBC approved me for their credit card but denied my refund loan something isnt rite......

Thanks for your vote!

KathleenSt.Petersburg, FL

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

I went to H&R Block to get my taxes done Jan 16,2009 Just like I do every year.For at least 8 years in a row I always recieved the same day loan. They ran it through and said I didnt qualify.But that I would qualify for the 1-2 loan,unless I owed the IRS money which I dont.I called the bank 2 days later they said I wasnt approved for the 1-2 day loan.They could not give me a reason.Nothing has changed with my credit.They even say it has nothing to do with credit its based on if you owe taxes.Today is the 30th of

Jan still no money.I could of filed my taxes online for free and had my money by now.I dont know if its H&R Block or HSBC that is ripping and misleading their customers but something must be done about this its not right!!!

Thanks for your vote!

TamiOrmond Beach, FL

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

I received my w2 forms on January 16th 2009 made an appointment with H & R Block ( which have done my returns for 7 yrs)for that day, op tied for the ral which I have gotten many times and this time was denied, Was told that I would recieve my check between the 23 and the 27 of this month, I called the 28th and was told that my check would be at the office on the 30th,,,It is now the 30th and once again called the office and once again no check,,,I then talked with a superviser and was told that they would look futher into this matter,,Got a call from Mr. Reed and which informed me that my check was not there and the the Government was holding my check and 50 other peoples monies due to a stimulas increase,,,this is a bunch of -----,the government has all year to use all of our money for what they need to,,,as many of you out there I am a single mother with limited income and as the country is in this state of recession all of us need our refunds NOW !!!!!!!! We all need a place to sleep,and if we dont have our money,,, WHERE are we to go???????????????????

Thanks for your vote!

TamiOrmond Beach, FL

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

I received my w2 forms on January 16th 2009 made an appointment with H & R Block ( which have done my returns for 7 yrs)for that day, op tied for which I have gotten many times and this time was denied, Was told that I would recieve my check between the 23 and the 27 of this month, I called the 28th and was told that my check would be at the office on the 30th,,,It is now the 30th and once again called the office and once again no check,,,I then talked with a superviser and was told that they would look futher into this matter,,Got a call from Mr. Reed and which informed me that my check was not there and the the Government was holding my check and 50 other peoples monies due to a stimulas increase,,,this is a bunch of -----,the government has all year to use all of our money for what they need to,,,as many of you out there I am a single mother with limited income and as the country is in this state of recession all of us need our refunds NOW !!!!!!!! We all need a place to sleep,and if we dont have our money,,, WHERE are we to go???????????????????

Thanks for your vote!

LouisRocklin, CA

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

My Husband and I went and filed our taxes Early so they would be electronicly filed right on the 16th and filed for the rapid refund, my Husband was laid off this winter and we are 2 months behind on our rent and needed that money Urgently! We didnt qualify for the rapid refund and were not told why but a week and a half later the IRS said they had already deposited our refund to H&R Block and H&R Block automated number said our card was ready to use but, when I went to use it there was NO BALANCE on our card!!!!!!!

Thanks for your vote!

MichelleApollo, PA

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

I filed with H and R Block Tax Cut and figured it was the safest way to go. I have never had a issue with this company in the past but this year it is a nightmare. My money was to be deposited into the bank on the 28th. That never happened. So on the 29th I called the Tax Cut line and they assured me that I would have it the next day the 30th. Well here I am on the 30th still nothing. I have talked to 10 different people who I swear have no idea what they are talking about. The last person I talked to told me that the IRS did some false info and they will not be depositing until today. Well being I used Simple Pay my money goes to H and R Block first so they can take out the fees. He also told me that I will have my money Thursday or Friday of next week. Ok so now we are at the 5th and 6th of Feb. I asked why it took so long..... his response was because of the processing time. WHAT!!!!! what happened to the 8-15 days that they promise. I filed on the 16th. That is like 20 -21 days later. I know I will not use them again next year. This is ridiculous I am a single mother of 2.

Thanks for your vote!

AnamariaBronx, NY

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

This is my letter to H&R BLock, still no response. I like others want to get together to file a class actiion law suit. This is misleading an they are being fraudulent having a satisfaction guarantee on their site with jus no response back.

Hi, I am a returning customer to H&R Block but I have issues with this years refund. 1st off I know you offer a satisfaction guarantee so it made me feel safe "Your Satisfaction is Guaranteed Satisfaction Guarantee: If you are not satisfied, you are not obligated to accept and pay for the preparation of your tax return." I was told that since I was a prior year particpant in RAL that I would be approved for it. Since you now offer to do taxes for free on tax cut online I made it very clear that I only wish to get them prepared and pay exra money if you are sure I am approved for RAL and I recently had an Emerald Advance that will be coming out of my refund as well. At any rate, not only was I not called but when I called to check on my refund since I got an email saying it was submitted but when I went online it said it was only federal and not State, then I got another email saying refund did not go through I was concerned. My tax preparer said that yes I was approved and submitted for both federal an state but now not for RAL??? I was in shock since what was the point in paying when 8 - 10 days is same time frame if I did it myself? I was told specifically since I was approved last year they will approve me, then she adds that "oh maybe because you got eic you weren't approved" well then I asked why did you not tell me I may not get approved with eic if you knew i qualifieda nd prepared my return with eic? she had no answer to why she lied to rip me off. furthermore, I am not satified with your service and I HAVE NO NEED TO GET MY REFUND ON THE EMERALD CARD WITHOUT RAL!! It costs me more to withdraw, etc and if it is 8 - 10 days which the same it would have been if I did it myself i want it in my account and not on your card that did not approve me and I was fooled into paying fees for knowing with eic you don't get approved!! I want to know who to go to for this and I wish to have it rectified immediately. I do not know how this office is in the business of lying to get people to pay for things they know they wont get approved for. She knew I had eic and she knew that you dont approve for that regardless if I was approved last year and that is misleading and illegal! What I signed was based on what I was told and since you do have a "SAISFACTION GUARANTEE" all over your website I am choosing to exercise that guarantee right now unless you mislead with that as well. It is pointless for me to waste money on services that did nothing for me and I chose since I was lied to in order to choose it. Please respond asap. Thank you in advance for your time.

Thanks for your vote!

RebeccaNewport, TN

Reviewed Jan. 30, 2009

My story is much the same as all the others I have read! My husband and I went to H&R Block on Jan. 16th and filed our taxes. We were denied for the same day money but were approved - that is exactly what the tax preparer said, for the 1-2 day. Along comes that day and no money on the Emerald card. After an hour and much rudeness on the part of H&R Block I was informed it would be 8-15 days. That brings us to today. Our money is supposed to be deposited onto the card today. The IRS has specifically said the money is being deposited to this hsbc bank today and a rep. from hsbc stated to me that the money would be on there today. Well see. I will never, and I mean NEVER, go back to H&R Block again. Ill be doing my own taxes from now on. I know I wont be taken advantage of with these fees they charge, and will get my money in the same ammount of time!

Thanks for your vote!

GailWater Valley, MS

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

On 1/28/09, I went to H&R Block in Oxford, MS to file my taxes as I do every year. I paid for the refund anticipation loan (RAL) as I do every year. I fully expected my money in 1-2 days. I, like everyone else apparently, was turned down for this loan. My problems with this are for one, I have never had a problem before, I paid a large sum of money (at least for me) over $200 for this convienience and none of that will be refunded to me, I'm sure. I haven't spoken to anyone, all I get is automated responses. The other thing is you can file for free online. I knew this. I went to H&R Block simply for the RAL and now I'm out over $200 and I still have to wait 8 to 10 days. I don't want to be angry with H&R Block, because the lady at the Kiosk was very sweet, but I was not told about credit or any problems that have been seen with this year's RALs. I will be complaining to H&R Block, Hsbc and anyone who will listen. I will not be back to H&R Block, I will do my own taxes, and file for free online. I hope everyone does, so they, like a lot of other companies, go out of business. You would think in this time of economic crisis, people would try to keep customers happy.

Thanks for your vote!

HeatherPearl, MS

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

This is in response to the H&R Block representatives that have come on this website to voice their defense of why so many people have been denied their Refund Anticipation Loan:

It is a known fact that the majority of people who come in and are willing to pay the ridiculous amount of money it costs to file a return with Block are people who struggle to make ends meet and because of that, their credit may be less than perfect. The RAL's are aimed at this group, so therefore, if a company is to offer this service, they need to make it MORE THAN OBVIOUS that there are STRICT credit criteria that must be met in order to qualify this year. True, in past years, it's not been that bad. But to ridicule the people who depend on getting their refund back in a timely manner for having bad credit, when your company made no OBVIOUS mention in the apparent change of policy this year is completely unacceptable.

Thanks for your vote!

VincentLakewood, CO

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

I have been doing my taxes at HR Block for a few years now and I have never had any problems until now. I applied for the RAL (1-2 day Refund Anticipation Loan) like I have every time and this year due to a simple address change they are not going to give me my money. Customer servic at HSBC (the HR Block bank) was extremely rude to me telling me that because I did not put my previous address down as a current address that my RAL had been denied thru screening process and I have to deal with it. Now they are going to stall before they give me the money that the IRS (the government) is refunding me in amounts more than $4,200.00. Now I have to wait 2 buisness weeks for the money that I am in dire need of that is owed to me. Several other people have experienced the same problem and there are numerous accounts of HSBC. Why do they even offer a 1-2 day RAL if they are going to deny every person, what can I do?

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferNorth Miami Beach, FL

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

Well i always do my taxes with h&r block but this year seemed way more complicated than last. I still till this day love h&r block and the way they deal with their customers. I told the man who attended me thaT I needed my taxes as soon as possible he told me that i can have it within 1-2 buisness days but there was going to be a credit check and a extra charge of i think $60 if approved i told him that was fine and if i wasnt approved it will automaticly transfer over to 8-15 days and it will not deduct any money he also asked me if i wanted it in my emerald card and i told him yes but to my old one.

Thanks for your vote!

MrsBrooklyn Park, MN

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

I filed my 08 taxes with them this year thinking that I'm going to get money within 1-2 days. I didn't. I understand it is due to my credit now but this should have been something that H&R block informs customers. I had a bad feeling when I walked in but figured I needed the money. Now I have to wait. I should have just did it myself. I new it. I feel that H&R block is not letting customers know the truth behind the bank. How can you advertise about filing our taxes correctly but yet lie to them in their faces and then not know what is going on but to hand out a 1800 number.

Thanks for your vote!

CaroleRoseboro, NC

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

After reading through all of the above complaints related to H & R Block's rapid return problems/mistakes, I can honestly say..I've been there, and been there again...only by my own fault this time. I should have had my taxes done elsewhere or via Turbo tax for much much less of a cost. I had already previously a few years back went through the costly 1-day return and had been denied after thinking I was getting my return that day. I was then told by H & R Block that if you do not qualify for the rapid (same day) return then they do not charge all of the fee's associated with this loan. I was very upset at the time, but glad I was refunded the money. This year, I filed 01/27/09 (yesterday) and after having recieved a 1-2 day advance on my previous years returns without any problems, I assumed I would just go ahead and file for that again (as I did qualify previously for the 1-2 day return, the same day loan was what I was denied for before). Anyhow, after all was done, the lady already had discussed with me which type of refund I would be getting and I explianed I wanted the same 1-2 day as the last 6 years. When she completed the forms, the computer wouldn't give her the option to click the 1-2 day return. So she called the manager over to take a look as to why this was happening, and I was explained that if your refund is over $10,000. you could NOT get any loans or rapid returns on money. This should be stated somewhere. They should explain to people that there ARE MANY things that could interfere with you getting your return back rapidly..credit, the amount, etc. I couldn't believe this!! My return was not much over this amount either. The OTHER thing was, I was told that I would be getting my refund in 8-15 days from this date. So, I inquired if my return/check would be mailed to me or what? and.. I was informed that No, your check will be printed right here at our office on Friday. As they stated that they recieve their checks from HSBC Bank every Friday and print them for pick-up. My question is... (and I asked them this as well) If HSBC is printing my check or sending my check to be printed by H & R Block....why are THEY giving me a check if it is not going to be rapid 8-15 days later on a Friday? Why wouldnt the IRS/Government be sending me the check directly if my amount exceeded therir terms/requirements?? I don't get it. So I asked how much is the charge and was informed it was only going to be $20.00... Why would my check come from HSBC if i'm not getting the loan??? H & R Block didnt give me a good reason..the woman never answered my question directly...I was just tired and left..I coulnt deal with it anymore.

Thanks for your vote!

SylviaBradenton, FL

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

I had my taxes perpared on 1/23/2009 at H&R Block after being declined the 24 hr RAL The preparer stated I would get the 1 -2 day refund. She even stated that she has hear that people have gotten that same night at about 9pm. So I checked my Emerald Card at 9:30pm and was given a operator to speak to who then gave me an 800# to call so I did and it stated I was declined for the 1 -2 day RAL. I was told I would receive a letter in 7 to 10 days explaining why. And I would get my refund in 8-15 days . I checked the IRS refund status website and they show I will have my refund in 8 -15 days. How did H&R Block get my refund any quicker. I then called the office where my taxes where perpared and no one could explain to me what was going on. The way it looks is I will have my money before the explaination. I feel I was mislead when I left the office I was assured I would have it in 1-2 days that is was already approved because there system denied me in the office for the 24 hr RAL. When you get your takes done they need to explain to you that you have to wait to see if you are approved in 1-2 days for the money not state that you will have it in 1 -2 days.

Thanks for your vote!

BobbieTexas City, TX

Reviewed Jan. 29, 2009

On 1-24-09 I walked into H&R Block as I have the past few years and sat down, got my taxes filed. I went for the RAL Loan as I always have. She told me that I would have my money on my emerald card in 2 days. 2 days later no money. I called them they gave mt the number to HSBC bank and I was told I was not approved!!! Not approved?? I was never told I was gonna have to be approved. I called H&R Block and they said they didn't know why I wouldn't be approved. I am so mad. I payed them money plus extra for the RAL and I don't get the money for 2 weeks they said. It still hasn't reached the two weeks yet, so I'm not even sure if it will be there then. This is so wrong. I want my money back.

Thanks for your vote!

PhillipCarrollton, GA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

My wife and i went to our local office about six weeks ago to get see if we were eligible for an Emerald advance line of credit. A small loan to get us by till we filed our taxes. With this loan if you are not getting back atleast $1000 you are not eligible. To our surprise the tax professional, and i use that term very loosely, told us we were getting back around 1400. An estimate. We went to file our taxes yesterday, january 27th, and were told to our surprise that we owed both state and federal. I proceeded to explain our previous return quote and after having the numbers checked and rechecked was told that we actually did owe. The first representative, who is no longer employed with h & r block did the return incorrectly. I have to go back to the office on friday to see what, if anything, can be done about this situation. In this hard economic time it is difficult to take this kind of a blow. To go from expecting a 1400 dollar return to oweing on both state and federal. My life has pretty much been flipped upside down due the ignorance of this professionally trained employee. In a meeting i had with management a few hours ago i was asked what i wanted out of this situation to make me happy. I was asked, what do you expect?. I expect this company who gives hundreds of hours of training to it's employees to stand behind that training and honor the return i was first told i was getting. Satifaction guaranteed.

Thanks for your vote!

ChrisSimpsonville, SC

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I went to file my taxes yesterday, avter filing with h&r block for 12 years and was expectong to get the same day loan i have been getting since ot started. I was denied and told we would try for the 2 day loan, well this morning o call and i will have to wait the 8-15 days. my credit is better this year than last and i am totally confused and am looking at numerous bills not getting paid because i don't meet the criteria? nothing has changed and my credit score is higher... what criteria am i not meeting. not only will i use jackson hewitt or a cpa from now on i am NOW tellong all my friends family and employees to do that this year!

Thanks for your vote!

MichelleSt. Joseph,, MO

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I WENT IN FOR THE ADVANCE BEFORE CHRISTMAS, AND WAS DENIED. SO AT THAT TIME THEY SET UP MY APPOINTMENT FOR ME TO GET MY TAXES DONE, ON JANUARY 16TH. I PAID FOR MY TAXES AND RAL. WELL FINALLY ON THE 20TH I CALLED THEM BECAUSE I HAD NOT GOTTEN MY MONEY YET. AND THEY SAID I HAD BEEN DENIED FOR RAL, BUT IT WOULD BE RAC INSTEAD AND THAT I SHULD HAVE MY MONEY WITH IN 8 TO 14 DAYS. ACCORDING TO THE IRS, MY MONEY WAS DIRECT DEPOSITED ON THE 23 AND HERE IT IS THE 28TH AND STILL NO MONEY, NOW H&R BLOCK SAYS THE IRS MADE A MISTAKE AND IT WONT BE TIL THE 30TH.. I WILL NEVER GO TO H&R BLOCK AGAIN. PLUS THE FACT ALL THE FEES AND BANK CHARGES I HAD TO PAY, AND FOR NOTHING

Thanks for your vote!

ChristyByron, GA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I files my taxes online with H&R block. I opted to use the simple pay where The IRS deposits your refund In H&R Block Bank, they pull thier fees and then deposit the money in your account. The agreement I signed said they will deposit your money 1-3 days after the IRS deposits it with them. The IRS deposited my refund on 01/23/09. It is 1/28 and I still have not recieved my refund. I called them and they kept giving me excuses and saying it would be 1-3 days..it has already been 1-3 days! I just wanted to know when it WOULD be deposited into my account and no one could tell me. After researching not-so-simple pay online I see dozens upon dozens of complaints everywhere about it. I will never use them again and it should be illegal for them to be doing this to everyone. You don't play with people's money!

Thanks for your vote!

DanielToccoa, GA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I have read several rants on this topic just from this month. And all of these accounts have remarkably similar details. The deception on H&R blocks part in getting you to pay their outrageous prices to file your taxes with the promise of a quick return. But after they e-file you and get your money their bank turns around and denies your loan with no explanation. This exact thing happened to me and i am absolutely furios. H&R block was told up front that if i could not get the RAL i did not want to file with them as i could go home and e-file for 20 dollars or so as opposed to their 400. the OFFICE MANAGER assured me that i had no reason to worry about getting the loan because it is not credit-based. They have your return as collateral. No risk... right? Now i am out their fee and i am still waiting 2 weeks on my return. i could have done that on my own. i think it is deplorable that a company can operate during these trying economic times, praying on the consumer. This in essence is robbery. if anyone has any advice on any recourse i could take please let me know. This should not go unnoticed or un punished. i have a family to feed.

Thanks for your vote!

JulieLansing, IL

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I filed my taxes on January 21st expecting to get the rapid refund. I was denied the instant and told it was just because I was a new customer but that I was approved for the 1-2 day refund on the emerald card. Find out friday that it was denied. and told to call HSBC was also told the same as many people that I did not meet the credit criteria? Whats this crap? The IRS money is goverment money and garenteed?!?!?! Well today is the 28th IRS said my money was deposited to my card on the 23rd. Call HSBC and they claim there is nothing there. and that the irs did not relese refunds. OK so where is my money. Talk to the irs they say it was deposited talk to the bank they tell me I'm full of it. This is the last time I ever deal with H&r Block and any banking with HSBC. They cannot tell me where my funds are? Do you Know?

Thanks for your vote!

WandaOrlando, FL

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

my name is wanda v caraballo 583-55-2593 i was in the offices doing my taxes and i asked the lady. if you have a child missing for 17 years why the irs don't ever gived me credit i also said to here the irs hold my taxes for 17 years with the excuses the it was for the student loan my student loan was 3,000.00 thousand dollard the irs got me with 20,000,00 dollars never gived me any credit for a child missing carlos atiles jr 072-70-6620. 08/08/85 how can i talk to some one? she said wellllll! i don't know? i let here do my taxes and it was on friday. on subday i call my taxes it wasen't in the offices, no one said anything, when i walk in. the front desk said. oh! the irs is holding you're check we don't have any idea. the irs didn't proved it. i arrived home in watauga wood and i talk to a friend the is working in 1 of you're offices inside the hsr block. my friend look in the computer and siad. this people inside hsr block lie to you. you was aproval. some one inside the offices send and e-mail to the irs with you're information and this is the id# and this is the copie also of the transation the irs proved the check to the hsr block. call a lawyer. so. i will do. none clerck or employee inside the hsr block can't break people confiality. bad moved.

Thanks for your vote!

MarissaBuena Vista, VA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I also went into h&r block for a holiday loan and was approved for the 900.00. When I went back in to file my taxes on 1/26/09 I applied for the instant loan and was denied. I was then rold I could apply for a classic RAL and I would recieve the money in 1-2 days on my emrald card. Well day 1 went by and there was no money. On day 2 I got a call from h&r block stating that I was denied the classic RAL and it was because I was getting an extra 300.00 stimulus payment. They said that h&r block bank will deny any applicant that is recieving this kind of credit. I was told to come into the office and resign the loan documents without this stimulus payment on there. Just wanted to post this because so many people were being denied and they should check to see if this is the reason. H&R Block does know why and if they are telling you they don't they are either lying or stupid. I will say that when I went back in I dealt with another woman who was very helful and knew what she was doing. She told me that the man that the man who did my return to begin with made the error and should have known this would cause an issue with the loan.

Thanks for your vote!

VickieIronton, MO

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

i went to hrblock on 1/16/2009 to file my taxes i have used this service for years and have never been denied a ral loan i was denied in the office i was told i would get in on my emerald card on the 1/19/2009 well i called it said i was denied it would be 8to15 days that i would be refuned the fiance fees i was also told that i would be getting a check instead of on my card so i threw the card away what would i need it for well i check the e-fine service through the irs 1/28/2009 and it stated that my refund was desposited on 1/23/2009 well where is it i call the hrblock office where i filed i they said it would be downloaded on th my emerald card remeber i threw the card away i was mis informed that i was to get a check now it was suppose to be on the card on 1/23/2009 and it is not no check either irs stated that it was desposited where is my money by the way i had to order a new card overnight express 35.00 off my refund and after i ordered it the rep told me i should receve my card monday what i just paid 35.00 for overnight express what is happening to hrblock i will never use them again also the same thing happened to a friend of mine anybody else

Thanks for your vote!

TantaniaNorfolk, VA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

Will i have been going to HR Block now for 3years. I have never had any problems till this year. I had filed for the RAL Loan 1-2 days. I recieved the loan in 1 day, as i was going over my taxes they had asked me did i want to put some money in my savings account. I was like yes i told them to put 1200.00 in savings and rest in the checkings and i left like that.

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferMacon, GA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

We took out a H&R Block loan in November, with Ms. Veda Pennymon, and she estimated that we would get back 8000.00 this year before the loan, and after the loan we would get back at least 6000.00. When we filed last night we were told we were only getting back 4050.00(somewhere around there) before the loan. After the loan we will receive 2700.00. How is that? I understand that it was just an estimation, but to be off 3000.00 is not an esimation it a mess up.

Thanks for your vote!

HelenSilver Creek, NY

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

me and my husband went in to h&r block on 1/22/09 to file are income taxes.we went with 1-2 day's the charge was around $355.00 and the following morning 1/23/09 @ around 0911 i received a phone call saying that we would not be receiving it today that we would have to wait 8-15 day's.i then proceeded to ask her why and she said that she was unsure.so on 1/27/09 i had asked my husband to go in to there office and try to find out what has been going on and are they going to write us up new paperwork and she had said not at this time.and that it was 100% h&r's fault.i just don't understand how they can get away with this? my husband asked them if they were still chargeing us the fee's and she told they will deduct around $61.99 so it is still costing us about almost $300.00.

Thanks for your vote!

DavidCaledonia, OH

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I have filed rapid refund in the past with no problems or hidden surprise. This year I left H & R block with a smile of relief on my face.I went home and planned my expenses for the anticipated tax return ( RAL) within 1-2 days. I called 1 day later and was given a 1-800 number to call and was informed I was declined the RAL loan. I my opinion H & R block companies are SCAM ARTISTS They do not inform you of the risks of approval or the qualifications. They just smile and send you on your way. We as tax payers have to pay this CRAPPY company to file our taxes...only to have them STEAL money from hard working americans. I will continue to investigate this in DETAIL! I cant imagine invading someones privacy without permission and providing mis-leading information to be legal.

H&R block should be responsible for all the hardship and humiliation they have caused everyone who was made to believe the RAL was successful. WHERE IS ALL THE FEES AND CHARGES GOING TOO?

Thanks for your vote!

BenjaminCastalian Springs, TN

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

On January 26, 2009 my wife and I went to the H&R Block on 1025 Nashville Pike Gallatin, TN. 37066 to file our income tax. Our tax specialist Mary Patterson prepared our taxes and notified us the fees and options on how we would collect our check. We showed Miss Patterson all of our documents including the 1040A which is a monthly statement from the IRS. Miss Patterson never mentioned to my wife and I that the IRS would withhold the amount of $1,805.60 and it would take eight to fifteen days to receive the remaining amount of our income tax. Miss Patterson proceeded to give us the options on the time length and the fees in which we opted for the one to two business day refund check. If it was explained to me that it might take longer because of the money owed to the IRS and the IRS would automatically take the $ 1,805.60 I would have considered other options.

Thanks for your vote!

DeborahMedia, PA

Reviewed Jan. 28, 2009

I filled out a class action law suit back around September for all the money back from H&R Block over the years and still haven't heard anything yet or gotten a check in the mail. Could you please advise me who to contact regarding the status of my refund. I always filed as head of household or single so it was just me who would receive money. Money is very important to me and I waited for it. I had just started Concord Law School when I filled out the form and sent it in. I'm 50 years old.

Thanks for your vote!

TravisNickelsville, VA

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

my wife and i are recently married, and we have 3 young sons. we recieved our tax papers on friday, january 24 of 2009. we went that night and filed our taxes. we were given options on what kind of refund we wanted and of course most people want their money the fastest way. My wife and i decided on the rapid refund 1-2 days and instead of check we chose the emerald card. we were told if we were approved that we would get a portion of it that night and the rest of our money would be deposited on the card in 1-2 days. the tax advisor ran our credit and we were approved we walked out with a small portion of what we were owed. in 2 days time we called the card to see if our other portion had been deposited, and it had not been. i then called the hsbc (h and r bank) and they told me i was not approved for the second part of my return. they told me it would be 8-15 days before we recieve the rest of our money. from there i called h and r block and talked to their manager who informed me that it was the government that was the cause for the delay. But my actually question doesnt lay with the government my question is with hsbc. since we were approved for the rapid refund that night and walked out with money why werent we approved for the second part? we were not told you had to be approved for both parts. and does it not look like we could have recieved the second part simply because our whole refund was going to them so that it could be deposited on the card and they had paper work showing what our refund really was. so it wasnt like they didnt know how much we were supposed to get back and that they would automatically get their money back. another question that enters my mind is, could they be using our return to give to someone who has less of a refund or better credit?

Thanks for your vote!

RikkiIlion, NY

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

On January 23rd, 2009, I decided to use H&R Block this year solely to receive my tax refund sooner. I generally prepare them on my own, but like everyone else suffering with the economy, I decided the sooner the better. Well, when the tax session was complete, I opted for the Instant Money RAL , which I was INSTANTLY denied. So, I then opted for the 1-2 day RAL and figured, well 2 days isn't terrible. I was given the same options, check or card and opted for the card, The HR Block Emerald Card. I was leery to begin with about having quite a sum of money placed onto plastic, but I knew that my own bank would hold it for a while and really couldn't wait. I asked the tax preparer specifically if the transaction could be processed on a weekend and he assured me yes (which later after my own research, I found this to be false). I received the card and all instructions and I went on my way, happy that money would be here by Sunday. The lender used for this card is HSBC, which is a whole seprate financial nightmare.

Ok, to the point, on Sunday, I checked the website for the Emerald card and it stated balance is $.0.00. I then called HR Block to ask what the problem was and she stated that the IRS HAD received/accepted my electronic return and that the HSBC bank said that the reason for my decline was an internal bank error. Being very unhappy with this as anyone would be, I went to internet and began looking for some answers on my own. Here is where I started: http://hrblock.com/bank/popups/emerald_prepaid_mastercard/prepaid_card_qa_2.html (found at the HR Block site in re: to the Emerald Card which states: There is no fee to set up the card and no credit check or bank history check required. Now, I knew that but its always nice to have it in writing. So with that I also used HR Blocks site to lead me to this: http://hrblock.com/bank/popups/emerald_prepaid_mastercard/prepaid_card_qa_2.html Once you enter your credentials, it will bring you to your specific account and here is what mine stated: Thank you for submitting an application for a Refund Anticipation Loan or Refund Anticipation Check. Unfortunately, we are unable to approve the application because it does not meet our credit criteria. We will distribute funds when the IRS deposits the refund. Normally, this occurs 8 to 14 days from the date the tax return was filed. A detailed letter will be sent directly to the applicant within 7 to 10 business days explaining why the loan request was not approved. So, what they are saying is my credit WAS ran, first of all without my approval, and it was then USED to determine my eligibility for a RAL. I called HR Block and they deducted $70.00 from my bank fee(s) which is really all that I wanted THEM to do, but I still have questions. Who do I blame here for not receiving my refund as promised in 1-2 days? Is this false advertising? Breech of contract? Misleading? What? Do I blame HR Block/HR Block Bank? Or is this the financial lender HSBC's fault?

Thanks for your vote!

WendyBaxter, TN

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

Ok LIke everyone else I went in to file my taxes 1/24/09. I was told I qualified for a RAL and there would be no problems. I have done rapid refund for 10 yrs with no problems. I wa then told it would be there within 2 days and paid the huge fee's. Like everyone has stated this has been a rough past year and this money was needed. SO I called and called but no money. I called H&R Block and they stated that I had been denied but din't know why gave me the bank number that I called and was on hold for 47 minutes. the got a stupid recording saying I didn't met critera... but nothing else.

Thanks for your vote!

VeronicaBuena Park, CA

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

Yesterday 1/27/09, I went to H&R Block and I advised them that I needed to the rapid refund since I am in urgent need of cash since due to an emergency. I made it clear that if I wasn't able to get it that I would do my own taxes as I normally to for free. They assured me that there would be no problems. They advised me that I qualify for the Classic refund anticipation which would be givin within 1-2 days. They never told me that a credit check done and it would be part of the process. They advised me that I would be given a call to advise the status.

Thanks for your vote!

LaurenPhiladelphia, PA

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

In 2007, I went to h&r block to have my taxes done. I took my last pay stub and did a rapid refund. I received my refund on the emerald card which is a rip off because it takes your money from you whenever you use it. Things were going okay until December 2007 when I received a letter from the IRS saying that I owed them $1600. I went back to H&R Block in January 2008 and apparently the person who did my taxes put the incorrect amount of earned income on the return. The tax preparer was no longer employed by H&R Block so someone else did an amended return that I had to submit to the IRS. This time they told me that I would get an additional refund in the amount of $118. A few months later, which was September 2008, I received another letter from the IRS saying that the amended tax return was incorrect and I owed $1600. I went back to H&R Block with the letter from the IRS and someone did another amended tax return and I had to send that to the IRS and pay the penalties that I owed the IRS which was $153. I received another letter from the IRS saying I now had to pay the balance of $1500. I went back to H&R Block with that letter and found out that H&R Block was saying that it was nothing that they could do because someone declined the peace of mind on my behalf. I never knew anything about the peace of mind! It was no way to dispute it because the original tax preparer did not work there anymore. H&R Block employs the most incompetent people and you will have to pay for their mistakes. I gave that guy my W-2s a few days after he did my taxes. Therefore, he could have easily done an amended tax return then. Instead, he didn't say anything about the mistake as if it would go away. I am unemployed and I have no way of paying this money to the IRS! I urge everyone not to deal with H&R Block because they are scam artists!

Thanks for your vote!

KatherineFayette, MO

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

I received the anticipation loan for the first time at the end of November. On January 5 I went into the same H&R Block office I have been using for 14 years and had my taxes done. I paid for their services and the 1-2 day rapid refund. I only received half of my refund. When I called the office I was told to take the first half off the card and the rest would be put on. I did that and was charged $20 by the card to remove the money. I called H&R Block and was told I would not receive the rest for 8-10 days. I asked for the 1-2 day fee returned since I did notreceive my refund in that time period. This H&R Block is independently owned. The owner refused to refund that fee. The tax preparer paid me out of her pocket because she knew what happened was unfair. 15 days later I still do not have the rest of my refund and am being charged fees by the bank (which is H&R Blocks bank). The lady that prepared my taxes said there is nothing else she can do. The refund will come when it comes. I could have filed on line direct with the IRS myself and not had all these fees and headaches. I have used H&R Block since 1980 when I got my first job and this is the last time. They are nothing but scam artists anymore. Watch out nothing protects you anymore. I am interested in filing a class action suit.

Thanks for your vote!

VictoriaFairview, OR

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

I have used H&R Block for 4+ years now in assisting me in filing my taxes. Every year I apply for the RAL as I use this to pay my daycare expenses for the year. I have never been declined this loan, until this year. I applied for the same loan and did not me the screening criteria. I was upset, I didn't understand why? I called H&R Block and they could not give me a awnser, they kept refering me to the 1-800#(which is an automated service and you can' speak to anyone. I became upset as I was getting the run around. I finally decided to go into H&R Block determined that they assist me. Afterall I was paying a pretty pennie in the first place, least they could do is give me the valid reason. I talked to the office manager, she said that I had been denied but didnt know why and that she would have to pull out her reason codes to determine. After 30 minutes of her searching she came back and said that it was a bank decision and to call them, she refered me to the automated phone number. I advised her of this matter and not able to speak to anyone. I then asked if they did a credit check, she was hesitant at replying but then in a soft voice said yes. I became very upset as when I filed my taxes the tax professional told me that the loan was simply based off of your refund not your credit???? They are mis-leading and by not disclosing that they do a credit check is against the law.

Thanks for your vote!

AudreyCorpus Christi, TX

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

H&R Block began taking care of me in 1969 when my husband was in Viet Nam. I had read articles about what records were necessary to file a complete tax return; I was self employed. I took all my paperwork into Block--on April 14th. They got me the best refund I had ever received. Eventually in 1984 I began to work for the company and with the exception of a few years when I worked for the Dept of Army, I returned to Block three years ago. The Refund Anticipation Loans were not originally initiated by HRB. However, the company began offering them due to public demand. Why are they so popular? Because so many clients are unable to pay for the tax preparation up front and apply for the loan where the fees will be withheld from their refunds. The RALs are bank loans with your anticipated refunds as your collateral. Tax professionals are well trained in appropriate presentation. I earned 75 continuing education credits this year. The average tax pro has over 1000 hrs of continuing education credits! I realize that many people who apply for these loans are low income families and they need their refunds. However, I suggest that they either have their refunds directly deposited to their checking/savings account AT NO ADDITIONAL FEE in 8-15 days or subscribe to HRBs Emerald Debit Card if they have no bank accounts, as is often the case. H&R Block is not responsible for tax payers poor financial management. As for the increased denials by HSBC Bank, I can respond only by saying that if you read the newspapers, watch TV, etc. one must realize that most of America's banks are in dire straits and are dramatically tightening up their lending practices. Your poor credit is YOUR problem, not HSBC Banks or H&R Blocks. Block is faraway the finest corporation in tax preparation in the country and they offer a much needed service and reasonably priced product to their clients.

Thanks for your vote!

MarcyBurleson, TX

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

I went in to H@R Block to file my taxes,and was told that I was approved for a classic ral loan.I signed all the paper work and left same as I have done for the last 15 years.The next day at work I get a call from H@R Block that my loan was denied,and I wouldn't be getting my taxes till Feb.6,7,or8th hopefully.I don't understand.I asked her why in the world I would be denied I have never had any problems with my taxes before and I have always gotten them with the ral loan.She said she does not know they don't send that information they just deny it.I needed this money as my bills are all due.I could have just filed them myself and saved myself a lot of money if I could wait that long for the money,or filed through someone else that may have been honest and told me I was waiting for the money.

Thanks for your vote!

WendyClarksville, TN

Reviewed Jan. 27, 2009

In 2006, I closed out my retirement. I wasn't sure how to file my income tax. H&R Block seemed like a reputable firm and they advertised they backed up their product. This year, in 2008, I received a notice from the IRS that I owed $5,000 in taxes. I called the IRS and found out, that due to a typo from the person who did my taxes, I owed $5000. When I contacted H&R Block they told me I didn't purchase the extended package that covered their making mistakes. I assumed if you hired someone to do a job, they are responsible for doing it correctly. I could understand if I held back information, but this was totally on them. Imagine having to pay a car dealer extra for a car that was put together correctly, or house that was built that wouldn't fall apart.

Thanks for your vote!

PatriciaCountry Club Hills, IL

Reviewed Jan. 26, 2009

I filed my 2006 taxes with H&R Block. The person working on my taxes had to keep asking questions from others in the office. Finally she told me that I would owe the IRS. Another agent came over to help her with my filing and after working on the return indicated that I did not owe afterall and would be getting a $488.00 refund. The H&R Block charge was $202.00 for tax preparation. This was a joint return, which I don't usually file. They suggested that it would be better if I filed joint. I had all of my husband's paperwork (tax statements, etc.). My husband lives in Michigan and I drove to Michigan to pick the papers up. Apparently the first person included my husband's information. The second person came along and decided that they could do a better job of filing my taxes and somehow removed my husband's information. Needless to say I received a letter from the IRS in July 2008 indicating that I understated my income. I immediately went to the year-round H&R Block office to complain, they reworked my taxes indicating that I under reported my income. The envelope that was given to me still contained all of my husband's information. I paid them for Peace of Mind in case of an error but they do not really honor that. My tax bill for 2006 was for $5,400 (including penalties and interest). I will not be going to H&R Block again. I paid them to do my taxes properly and assumed that they had included all income on my tax return. They do not own up to their mistakes.

Thanks for your vote!

DestinySouthfield, MI

Reviewed Jan. 26, 2009

I have never used hrblock, or any other fancy tax company, I have always went through a personal tax preparer who works from her home. I decided to use hrblock this year for their RAL...which I have been recieving without any problems for the past 4 years..now all of a sudden I was denied, even though I paid those crazy fees, and now I have to wait. I could have prepared my taxes myself, had more money in my pocket, and waited the 8-15 days with no issues...Im pissed, Im broke, Im never using them again....

Thanks for your vote!

JacquelineHeltonville, IN

Reviewed Jan. 26, 2009

Filed taxes with H&R Block on 1/24/09, was given their Emerald Card and told my funds would be on it in 2-3 days, maximum. I told them I needed those funds ASAP so I could fly to Houston for Cancer treatment. We applied for Classic RAL, which I easily received last year, and was denied this year. I was not told at the office that it was denied, I didn't learn that until today (1/26/09) when I was trying to be sure funds were on the card so I could book my plane tickets & hotel for Wednesday.

Thanks for your vote!

KeithColorado Springs, CO

Reviewed Jan. 26, 2009

I went to h and r block the smae day that I went last year to file my taxes. I needed money for bills and other things so I went with the intention of getting an ral. I got one last year the day after I filed with no problems. WHen i went in this time I asked for same day, she said it would take 30 seconds to get approved. She said it did not approve for the instant loan but I would get it in 1 to 2 days. She said to check my card the next morning and it should be there. I did that..no money Later that night I checked my status online and it said I had been denied. I thought how can i be denied when she said I was getting it. She led me to believe that it had already approved me for the 1 to 2 days. I called her to ask what was going on and she said that it was just a computer error and that it would be here the next day. Another lie!! The next day I went to talk to the office manager and she said oh it sounds like a lack of training. But said they would not give any of the fees back that i paid. The only reason I went there and paid $310 dollars was so I could get the money I needed quick. Had they informed that the 1 to 2 days was tentative upon approval I would have never paid that money for something I could have done for free. THe manager was no help..no one from the district office has returned my calls..I am outraged. Oh and my preparer also told me there were no fees with the emerald card so i chose that. WHen i went to complain about all this they showed me a paper with a whole list of fees for the card. I cant believe these people can sleep at night knowing they are scamming people that are spending a ton of money just to get money they need to survive.

Thanks for your vote!

ChristinePullman, WA

Reviewed Jan. 25, 2009

Ok so after reading everyone elses experience, mine is the EXACT same. We filed our taxes on friday and were denied for the instant loan, we were told that we would then get the 1-2day loan.I asked when we would know... she said that our money will be on the card. The only way we would be denied if we owe back taxes or owe child support,etc... She DID NOT say that its based on credit AT ALL. I think that we all need to come together and file a class action law suit. Please e mail me if you would like to join me. I am LIVID about this situation. My email is Madysmommy@hotmail.com.

Thanks for your vote!

WendyVancouver, WA

Reviewed Jan. 25, 2009

This is the first time i have used H&R Block. I was filing an EZ form. Single mom with one dependant. Daycare deduction only. The elderly man i delt with was well spoken but had no idea how to process taxes on a computer. The manager ended up over his shoulder for the last half of the ordeal. They argued politly thru the whole mess which lasted over 2 hrs.!!! I was at the point of tears. And the pressure to get the Emerald card was insane. They told me I would have my money in a few days. Then they called me on Sunday to return to their office to re-enter my secret code so they could try to re-send it because it didn't go through the first time. It would be another few days they said. I recieved a call on my cell during work saying i was denied due some kind of credit issues. They gave me a number to call which turned out to be a recording. Upon contacting H&R again they said there was no number to call to get a live person or additional assistance in this matter. And that they would be keeping my @$300 and I would have to wait for the IRS to send THEM a check for my refund to pickup. This is a Charade. It is a scam. It's robbery. Think of the billions of dollars they are making on NOT loneing money and charging an exorbedent fee for little to no service of value. Times are tough. It must be for H&R too. But they stooped so low as to pray on the people who need this money desperatly now more than ever to get though this troubled economic time. The shame is yours H&R. Good luck living with it.

Thanks for your vote!

AngelaBerthoud, CO

Reviewed Jan. 25, 2009

On 1/23/09 I went to have my taxes prepared by H & R Block because I needed my refund ASAP this year. I have always used H & R Block for my tax prep, but have a friend that could do them at no cost for me this year. As stated earlier, I needed my refund ASAP so decided to go ahead and pay the outragous fees to H & R Block. Assuming I would have MY money in a couple of days, or less.

The man who prepared my taxes was not very knowledgable, or confidant that he knew what he was doing...it took over 2 hours and I only had 1 set of W2s and 2 dependants. Ok, I dealt with that. We went over the UNGODLY fee of $212 for the preparation, and huge fees for the IRAL. Needing my money, I had him submit the form for IRAL.........guess what....I was denied. OK, I can deal with that...saved me a little money. After the deniel comment on the computer came another comment. That comment said I qualified for the RAL! Great!! So we got the Emerald Card all set up and I was told the money would be loaded in 1-2 days. I breathed a sigh of relief knowing I could get my bills paid, etc. The following day during my son's wrestling tournament, I got a call from the local H & R Block office to advise me I had been denied the RAL and that it would be 1-2 WEEKS before my money would be available to me. so I got screwed out of $242 by going to H & R Block for a service my friend could have provided at no cost.

Thanks for your vote!

ChristinaGlasgow, KY

Reviewed Jan. 25, 2009

If you look at the HSBC application for refund anticipation loan page 5 on how we handle information we obtain it clearly states that: It is important for you to know that in order to ensure that our customers get the very best service and the highest quality products, HSBC collects demographic information(like your name and address) and credit information (like information related to your accounts with us and others) This information comes ether directly from you, for instance from your application and transaction on your account; or, it may come from an outside source such as your credit bureau report. in addition if you visit our internet web site we may collect cretin information about your internet usage.

Thanks for your vote!

SabrinaAug, GA

Reviewed Jan. 25, 2009

Well i went to apply for the emerald advane loan for x-mas as I always do and was approved for the 700 line of credit. So when i go in with my w-2 forms being in the finacial state that im in plus needing to repay this emerald card advance go with 1-2 day return leaving not knowing that my refund could be denied. So when i didnt receive my refund at the accpected time I found out i was denied do to credit criteria that i did not meet not only did this further my debt but now i have to worry about the interest being applied to this loan that came from the same bank same credit from december-January nothing changed i have done the same thing for years i really wish i knew why from dec-jan i no longer meet the credit criteria ITS A SCAM AND A UNAUTHORIZED CREDIT CHECK AND A INFLATION TO AN ALREADY OVERDUE LOAN!!! I HOPE THAT NO ONE ELSE HAS TO BE DECEIVED BY THIS COMPANY I WILL NEVER COME BACK AND WILL SPREAD THE WORD TO FAMILY FRIENDS AND OTHER INDIVIUALS THAT WORK TO HARD TO FALL FOR ANY SCAMS OF H & R BLOCK...

Thanks for your vote!

WendyPhoenix, AZ

Reviewed Jan. 24, 2009

I have been an H&R block customer for years now and I went in on 1/24/09 to have my 2008 taxes done. I had 3 documents to include in my return: stock receipt, W2 and savings account statement. It took 4 hours to complete my return and then I was told my request for an IRAL was denied. I was fine with the denial although I have been approved for twice the amount over the last 3 years! My major complaint is that the person completing my return had no idea what she was doing. I have never been as unconfident in the information being sent to the IRS as I did this year.

At the end of the 4-hour "session", she asked if I was satisfied with the service and I answered no. She selected yes, stating my dissatisfaction came from things she could not control, and then charged me $125. After 4 hours and a huge headache later, I said fine, was advised my check would be there next week and left. I was not satisfied with my experience and it had nothing to do with things out of her control; it had to do with her lack of knowledge and obvious lack of training. I expect when I walk into a business that specializes in tax preparation, the tax expert handling my return will know more than I do. Several times I had to point out things I needed to sign or what she should enter on the form. I will not be returning to H&R Block and was unable to find a place to file a complaint on their website.

Thanks for your vote!

CarlaHickory, NC

Reviewed Jan. 24, 2009

My husband and I went to H&R Block on Friday, Jan. 24th, to file our taxes. We were told we qualified for the Rapid Refund and we chose instead of the card to get a check. We were then told by the tax preparer to call back Saturday morning to see if our check arrived. I called at 10 am and the check was not there. I called again at 11:30 and was then told that the refund was denied by HSBC. I was given an 800 number to call, but it was only an automatic answering deal that said we simply did not meet their criteria. I then called H&R Block to ask when we would receive a refund and they told us it would be 8-15 days and to call back on February 6th. We have always filed for a Rapid Return in doing our taxes and have never been denied. We were never told that our credit would be checked or that it was based on credit. Otherwise, we would have never gone.

Like many others, we have been hit hard by the economy and are struggling to stay afloat. Their lying to us has done more damage than they know, because like others, we promised money on bills that we simply do not have now. This was our first and last time we will ever go to H&R Block!

Thanks for your vote!

PeterCharlottesville, VA

Reviewed Jan. 23, 2009

My wife and I went into H&R Block on 1-22-09 and filed our returns jointly and chose 1-2 days e-file to the Emerald Card. They called us back on 1-23-09 and said that our son's last name was incorrect on his social that we took the day before to the filer who filed us. Not our fault no.1. We got suspicious and started to investigate on Yahoo answer and question site to see how everyone else who filed before us were getting loyal responses based on their refund return. We come to find out that the tax preparer did not tell my wife and I that the refund loan was based on credit and could be turned down. I mean if they had told us that then, knowing what we know about our credit, we would not have filed yet. They are robbing low income families by not informing them of the correct information, so when whoever gets turned down, they don't get the filing fees back. They are forced to wait weeks until they receive their return. Our home in Tampa that we supposedly had gone to see was now giving up due to their lack of information because of their lack of greed and selfishness. They got their fees and the taxpayers are once again suffering.

Thanks for your vote!

DeeEuless, TX

Reviewed Jan. 23, 2009

Like all of you, my daughter filed her taxes with H&R Block and agreed to pay the outrageous charges only because she was told she would get an RAL in 1-2 days. Like all of you, she was denied this year after qualifying last year. She had received the Emerald Card loan in December 2008 for $400, but was denied the RAL once she actually filed her taxes (I was told by HSBC they are not the bank that gives these loans). The bank also said they "change their criteria every year."

I was also informed that they have been getting so many calls "like this one" where people had been getting the RAL for 3-5 years and all of a sudden they were being denied. She filed a complaint by calling 800HRBLOCK and asking for client services. We did get a call back. The lady was very nice but not helpful. She started "complaining" herself about how hard it was for them trying to handle all of these complaints this year, and that this is the first year that the bank was running credit checks. We were informed that she will try to get some money returned on the cost to file the taxes. I suggest you all call 1800HRBLOCK and file a complaint!

When my daughter was told she did not qualify for the instant refund, but did qualify for the 1-2 day refund, why was no mention made of the possibility of an 8-14 day refund (she would have left and e-filed herself and saved the outrageous cost of filing with H&R Block)? Now that H&R Block knows that credit is a major issue this year with the bank, are they informing their customers beforehand of this? I think a class action lawsuit needs to be filed against H&R Block.

Thanks for your vote!

GeraldSpring, TX

Reviewed Jan. 22, 2009

I filed by 1040EZ form with H&R Block in an office on 1/21/2009 at around 7:30 PM. I applied for the RAL. At 9 AM today, 1/22/2009, my check was back and ready to be picked up. VERY FAST SERVICE. My experience was a very good one.

Thanks for your vote!

HollyClearfield, UT

Reviewed Jan. 22, 2009

I went to H&R Block to get my taxes done and get a refund anticipation loan. I was quoted a price over the phone of between $80 and $120 for their services (I have very simple taxes). I was charged $180. I was told I could get a refund anticipation loan and that I would have it in a few days. I did not get the loan. I have to wait for them to get the money from IRS and then process it through their bank and cut a check for me. It will now take me longer to get my money than if I had done the taxes myself. In addition, the person who did my taxes was very poorly trained. I spent half my time there telling him how to fill out the form. In addition to not getting what I went there for, I spend $180 for something I could have done myself better and in less time than they did. It would have cost me about $15 instead of $180. I feel cheated. I feel like I paid them for helping train their employee. The people in the office were very polite, but didn't really care about me as a customer. I think their services are horrible and that they misrepresent themselves to their customers. I'll never go there again.

Thanks for your vote!

DeannaCornelius, OR

Reviewed Jan. 22, 2009

I went to H&R Block on Saturday the 10th to see if I could get the Emerald Loan. It's been a tough year and I needed money quick! Well, of course since I have bad credit, I did not qualify. So I got my W2 and set up another appointment for the 17th. I saw the same lady and expressed to her several times I really needed the money fast! So we went through it and she came up with the same numbers I did on TurboTax; however, it was going to cost a small fortune to get my money in 1-2 days but I did not have a choice. So we filed and I am expecting the money to be put on a prepaid card by today actually. Well, the bank that does the Refund Anticipated Loan, HSBC, denied my loan! The bank can't tell me why, my tax preparer couldn't either, and I have no money.

The tax lady did not express to me that there would be any issues with getting the money since they charge extra for it and my refund goes straight to the bank to pay my loan. There were no indications whatsoever that there was a chance for a problem. But guess what, now I have to wait until anywhere between Jan. 30th and Feb. 2nd. I could have filed through TurboTax for about $50. I paid H&R Block a hell of a lot more than that! So beware! I had to borrow money to keep my water on. My electric and gas will be shut off this week and I lost out on a piece of jewelry I have been paying for over a year because I couldn't meet the date to pay! I am so angry at this company especially after reading more on the internet about them. I would have gone somewhere else to get my taxes or just continued with TurboTax if they had been upfront with me. All they wanted was my money I paid them to file. I am so angry and in so much trouble financially and I blame them!

Thanks for your vote!

GinaRock Island, TN

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I filed and asked for the Emerald Advance for the first time in '07 (like the end of November or in December). I was just doing it to make sure Christmas expenses weren't such a burden. I didn't know anything about it but received an invitation (since I had filed with them before for paper, RAL and e-file) to file which stated the simple requirements that I met. I was approved for only $500 since it was my first time. That was fine. I was allowed the option of never having to actually send in a payment myself but to have it done automatic. Great, right? No! First off, I was only to receive around $479 on the card. My first payment was to be held so that I wouldn't have to send a payment in before my return was settled (perfect). That went okay. Money was put on card and amount held for first payment. Good.

Well, I filed my taxes as agreed by the deadline (actually earlier) so that the remaining balance put on the card would be paid by due date and I wouldn't be responsible for mailing in a final payment for the remaining balance. I received my return amount by direct deposit. Everything was okay, so I thought. Wrong! Another option I got to pick was also supposed to be an automatic payment of that remaining balance due to H&R Block bank automatic (just like my deposit and at the same time) and H&R Block was supposed to hold out (get paid) their filing fees (they did). They held out their filing fees and the deposit did go into my checking account in January like it was supposed to. I thought this was a done deal. Nope! Remember, I received my return by direct deposit in January. I even had received a statement on the Emerald card showing a zero balance in February. The card account was supposed to have a stopping time before it could be used again and the balance would have to be paid by then (like an account closed then reopened).

I was told this when I accepted the card because I was worried about a hit on my credit since my score was finally good and hadn't always been. I was even told this was the only way the government allowed the cards to be issued in this way and that they were not going to affect my credit in any way. I had already checked on the balance in January and was told I would get a statement in Feb. I was glad because I wanted something for my record that the card had a zero balance and that everything was complete. I was also assured that everything was completed. No more worries because I do not do credit cards or even have a lot on credit. This is the start of the nightmare story I have to share. I received a call telling me that there was a mistake and payment was not made for the final balance that supposedly had been deposited into my account at the same time I received my direct deposit. Please note this call was received for the first notification in April. No prior letter, a $0 balance statement in February.

The young lady that called with H&R Bank said that I needed to pay the balance that I had agreed. Yeah, I've done everything I agreed. They made the mistake that months later I would need to track down before paying. I was asked if I wanted to pay by electronic check or debit/credit over the phone and I said, "You call months later after I've bought a house and demand your money that I'm not even sure I owe you or that you have a right to anymore. I don't have it and didn't make the mistake." I asked for paperwork and proof of what company she was. Now in January '09, I have seen a hit on my credit! Note, only one call since at my work and I told my story and was told to call back after they double checked their record since I would have to pay my bank to research. No further calls or anything in the mail until credit report issue!

Thanks for your vote!

QiannaIndianapolis, IN

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I have filed my taxes with H & R Block since I was 16 yrs. old, I am now 29 and am filing my 2008 tax return, it was the most two frustrating days I have ever had. First, I had to ask the tax specialist not to say my social security number aloud every time she went to type it in with all the customers in the store. Secondly, the professionalism was non-existent; she talked to other tax specialists in general conversation and had to go back several times because the red flags kept popping up from her inputting the wrong information in their system. Next, another tax specialist had to come and walk her through the majority of the preparation which had me in awe because their software is self-explanatory. So we got done with the preparation of my taxes and I left feeling very unsatisfied. The next day I received a call saying that the IRS had flagged my return due to my name not matching my social security number, keep in mind I filed rapid and was expecting my return on this day but that was delayed. So after receiving this phone call, I called the location where I got my taxes done and told them what was going on and I sware someone hated me because I had to deal with this same tax specialist, she yelled across the room to another worker my name and the situation and asked how to fix it, again I could not believe it now she was yelling out my business but thank God this time I was not in there so no one would know who I was hopefully, now here is the killer part , though I called to get this matter cleared up, this lady tells me that I needed to come back to the store because she gave me forms she should have kept. Ok, now I am heated, my blood is boiling and I am about to get out of my usual easy-going self. I drove all the way back over there to give her the forms and just dropped them off at the desk because I could not deal with her anymore. Now on H & R's website it states "At H&R Block your satisfaction is guaranteed", but check this out there is no place for comments or complaints on their website nor is there a number, imagine that. So instead I call customer support to find out where I would go or call to give feedback on their services, customer support answers and I ask for the website or number to give feedback about the services, after 15 minutes of searching and speaking with his supervisor come to find out there is no such thing but there is a satisfaction guaranteed statement, IMAGINE THAT! I then ask for the corporate office phone number and after 5 minutes he gave me a 1-866 number that did not exist, ok Iâ€™m ticked now, so I hang up and call back to speak with a different customer support agent and asked if I could speak with a supervisor, he tries to get me to explain my problem but I told him I already explained that for over 20 minutes with another customer support agent and now I would like to speak directly to a supervisor, again I was put on hold for 5-8 minutes just for him to come back and say there are no supervisors available, at that time I just hung up, AGAIN. Even though I have been going to this company for all these years, this experience was just enough to make me never use their services again and I took several friends with me.

Thanks for your vote!

JohnNaples, ME

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I went to file my taxes at H&R Block. The only reason I did was to get the RAL. They said I qualified for a Classic RAL but they said the money would be loaded on my Emerald Mastercard provided by them. The money should have been on there by Sunday, January 19, but it never made it. After calling around to a few different phone numbers, I found out I was denied the RAL. Shouldn't they have told me that at the office? Well now, I have to wait 8-15 days and don't know that 100 per cent. I was relying on that money. I have done it previous years and had no problem. Now my bills are piled up and don't know for sure what's going on with my return. I wouldn't have had H&R Block do my taxes and could have saved $300-$400. If I would have known, I would have e-filed myself and saved all that money.

Thanks for your vote!

AmandaIndianapolis, IN

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I filed my taxes like always on Jan. 16th. I did not qualify for the same day but was told I would get it in 1 to 2 days. Then Monday came around, the 19th, and I was told I was denied. What ** is that? I have never been denied. They said I would get it in 8-15 days. Something should be done about this. The HSBC Bank said something about I did not meet their criteria on the paper. What a joke.

Thanks for your vote!

SClarksville, TN

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I went on Sat., 1-17-09, to file taxes. I was told that I could get an RAL and then got denied for the rapid return but I could get the 1-2 days. They gave me the Emerald card. So far, I still haven't received a call from H and R Block. I got to looking on my paperwork and saw account number for HSBC. I checked on there and it said I was denied because of credit criteria with no explanation. They said I would receive it within 8-15 days. I don't have good credit but that never stopped me from getting my refund before the same day. I wonder if I still will get charged for those fees and will it still be loaded onto the card.

Thanks for your vote!

ChellyReeds Spring, MO

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I went to file taxes H&R Block and get my RAL in 1-2 days. I was denied because the bank, HSBC Bank, is doing credit checks. We were never told this. I do have the HSBC Bank complaint number because they are denying this is going. The number is 1-800-524-0628.

Thanks for your vote!

KeynonKansas City, MO

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I went to file my taxes with H&R Block on 01/13/09 using the Classic RAL and was told after my taxes were completed that the IRS will not begin accepting e-files until 01/16/09. At this point, I had no choice but to accept this and wait. I have always used the Classic RAL and would receive my funds within 24 hours of filing or even the same day for that matter. But this time, things were way different. Today is 01/21/09 and I have yet to receive my refund. Our tax preparer at the location in Kansas City, MO, Betty **, told me that the bank denied my Emerald Advance and the only reason they noted was denied due to internal bank issue(?).

I was given several different numbers to call but got automated messages. I did speak with a representative of HSBC and she told me that the IRS placed a hold on my return, but as I sat there with Betty **, I saw clear as day that the IRS accepted my return. I told the rep this and she stated she needed to transfer me to a higher level department. Needless to say, I was transferred and placed on hold for over 30 minutes all while still sitting at Betty **'s desk. Finally, I gave up and stormed out of the H&R Block office. I feel I have totally been ripped off and now I have no idea when or if my return will come at all!

Thanks for your vote!

TiffanyCorinth, MS

Reviewed Jan. 21, 2009

I have been a faithful customer of H&R Block for a couple of years. During Christmas I went to H&R Block and was approved for the $500 emerald credit line. I went back in January to have my taxes done which they charged me over $200. I paid to do the rapid refund where I would get my money back in 1 to 2 days. First I called up there to see if my check was in and the lady I spoke to told me yes. About 5 minutes later I received a phone call from them saying my check will not be here until 2 weeks later. I asked why and the lady could'nt give me a straight answer. First she told me that the bank denied my loan and I asked why because I have been using them for years. She couldn't tell me why. Then about an hour later I got another call from them saying the reason why my check didn't come in was because the irs was holding my refund, I don't know why they could by holding my refund I do not owe them any money. They seem very suspious at H&R Block. Three different times I spoke to someone at the office and they told me something different.

Thanks for your vote!

CarrieGrass Valley, CA

Reviewed Jan. 20, 2009

I got the Emerald Advance in December with no problems. Same as I have done for the past three years. On January 16, 2009, I took in my W-2 to file my return. My return is simple. I have a single dependent, I'm head of household and I don't itemize. I actually had my taxes figured out before I took them in, but I went to H&R Block because of the RAL they offer, and I needed money immediately instead of waiting 2 weeks. I was willing to pay the fees for this service. We got the taxes done and Carol pushed the button for the RAL. It came back denied, even though I've had one for the past three years with no problems at all. She told me the instant one was denied, but I could still get the traditional RAL.

I received a call on Monday the 19th saying that was denied and I needed to call a number. But not to worry, my tax refund would come by February 1 and be deposited onto my Emerald Card. I called the number and they told me it was based on my credit, though I never signed a document agreeing to have my credit checked. Quite frankly, if I had known that this year they were basing the RALs on credit, I would not have done it. It's bad enough to get charged $155 to do exactly what I can do, but to have to pay it when you were denied a RAL, which is the entire reason I went there, is heartbreaking.

I have been told by countless others that they were denied a RAL and the gentleman I spoke with at the number I was given by Carol said unless you had perfect credit, they weren't going to authorize RALs. When I pointed out that they weren't given authorization to run my credit, he replied it was too late and there was nothing I could do about it.

Thanks for your vote!

MonteTuscarawas, OH

Reviewed Jan. 20, 2009

I was laid off from my job on New Year's eve due to the economic crunch of 2008-2009. I received a letter in the mail for an advance line of credit through H&R Block for up to $2,800 because I'm a preferred customer. I went to my local office to apply and to my excitement, was approved for a desperately needed $700.

I was told my estimated refund for 2008 was $3,339, which I was also excited to hear. Well the time came to file my taxes, so I returned to the same H&R Block. After filling out the forms, I was told I owe the IRS $374 and would still have to repay the $700 advance. Bewildered and upset, I asked how could I have been approved for an advance if I wouldn't receive a return. I was told by the office manager that, "We're sorry for the mistake, but you're going to have to pay back the advance." I referred to their motto of customer satisfaction and we cover our mistakes up to $5,000. They told me that only applies to tax refunds, not the cash advance. I keep getting the same answer of we're sorry for our mistake, but you are liable. This is bold face robbery!

Thanks for your vote!

AdrienneBlackshear, GA

Reviewed Jan. 20, 2009

I went into my local office on January 15, 2009 to file my tax return. I was told that the IRS was not accepting any refunds until the next day (16th). I was told my refund was for $5,979 and I instantly applied for a RAL. I was then told it would be put onto my Emerald Card on Monday the 19th. When it did not show up by lunchtime, I immediately called HSBC (the bank that issues the money). I was told by automated system that I did not meet their credit criteria. I did RALs for the last three years and was never denied. Why this year, I don't know! I paid $302 just for the preparation and over $80 bucks for the loan. Now I have paid all of this money when I could have filed them myself for nothing. Mind you, this same bank, HSBC, approved me last year! I am no longer a client of H&R Block!

Thanks for your vote!

TishaArcata, CA

Reviewed Jan. 20, 2009

I went in to get my taxes done--it took over 1 hr-and right before Joe finished the computer crashed, so it never went through. i took off work early to get my taxes done that day. a huge inconvience.

Thanks for your vote!

JenniferMiddletown, IN

Reviewed Jan. 19, 2009

My husband and I applied for the anticipation loan and were approved. However, when we filed our taxes with them, we did not qualify for the same day refund or rapid refund. Hmm, this sounds like a ploy to stretch out the days between our loan acceptance and our payoff as to charge more interest! Someone really needs to look into these people. I have always qualified for rapid refund; however, this is the first year I applied for the anticipation loan. I would especially avoid the New Castle branch!

Thanks for your vote!

MelissaMinneapolis, MN

Reviewed Jan. 19, 2009

I decided to use H&R Block this year to prepare my taxes; I applied for the classic RAL and was approved. Today, I informed that I was denied by HSBC Bank. I had no idea that my credit was being checked, nor was I informed by the preparer. Thinking that I was going to be receiving my taxes today has put me in a serious financial bind. I think that it is very inconsiderate that my credit was run without my knowledge or my consent. I always thought that H&R Block had reputable circumstances; in this case, it's obvious that there is nothing reputable within their company. A few of my bills are behind; my rent is behind. My son has ADHD and he is off his meds; I buy his medication out of pocket. So now, I have to really make ends meet every which way.

Thanks for your vote!

CameronSuperior, WI

Reviewed Jan. 19, 2009

Let me first start out by saying I have been using H&R Block for the past 8 years with no problems. I would go in for their RAL's (Rapid Anticipation Loans). Well this year, I changed it up a bit because I was short on cash. So I went and did the Emerald line of credit. The first day, 11/22/08, was horrible they were having problems with the networks. So I went back the next day as they asked. Well same thing, they said there was nothing they could do so they turned us away and told us all, all 25 of us, to wait for a call from them.

So I waited for 6 days. They called me and told me I could come in the night of 11/29/08. By this time, I was about to just say screw it all. I just unfortunately could not afford not to go in. I was approved for $800 line of credit. That is not my issue with them. This year I did my usual, go in for the RAL on 1/16/09. Well everything pretty much the same way. I was told to expect my card to be loaded in 1 or 2 days. So 1 day goes by, well that was to be expected. I usually wait less than 24 hours most times.

Well then Sunday, the 18th, rolls around. I log on and check my card status. Still no new monies put on it. I wait a few more hours. By this time I am getting worried. I call the regional office and they tell me, “Well this happens sometimes. Be patient it should be on there by this afternoon.” Well I wait watch the Card's go to the Super Bowl. I watch the post-game. Go and check my e-file status and card status.

Unfortunately, your Refund Anticipation Loan has not been approved. Upon receipt of proceeds from the IRS, your refund will be deposited onto your H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard. The IRS refund deposit typically occurs within 8-15 days from the date your return was accepted. Please call again at that time to see if your refund has been deposited. For more information regarding your Refund Anticipation Loan, please call HSBC at 1-888-832-5625.

Now I know this is a loan and there is a slight chance it would be denied. The thing is every year I do the same thing. I was approved for the line of credit. That was the only thing different. I figure they are making out like a bandit here. They will charge me interest for not paying off that line of credit, which will equal $40 by the time my taxes are returned. Then I had to pay the loan application fee, $29.95, on 1/16, their fees which totaled $281 for the preparation. On top of that, a prepaid finance charge of $53.37, the $30 for the peace of mind. $434.32 in fees, now I agreed to this, but when I was expecting the RAL to come through like it had year after year... until this year that is.

I have heard stories about H&R Block over the years and have had friends tell me they were a joke. I did not listen to them and it has finally turned bad for me. This is my final year of using this company. They more than likely do not care being a multi-billion dollar company and all. I will go and pay my accountant friend $20 and be done with them. I just really wish they did not tell me to expect it in one or two days. It leaves me with a bitter taste in my mouth.

Thanks for your vote!

AmyGreenwood, MS

Reviewed Jan. 16, 2009

In the first place, I made an appointment in December '08 to apply for the Emerald Line of credit. I asked specifically if it was based on my credit because my credit was shot. I was told that that would not matter. I was denied and very sad. They encouraged me to come in on the 15th of Jan. as that was their first day to submit. I was assured that I would have my Mastercard loaded in the one-day method. Today is the 16th. I arrived at H&R Block today and was informed that they told me wrong and that it would be Monday, which is a holiday before any funds will be loaded onto my card.

Now, you understand that I have made my living arrangements by the assurance that I would have my money. Everyone was very nice but let me tell you, I have been an account executive for 20 years and have filed the fast way every year. I don't know if they just didn't know that I wouldn't get my money in one day or what. I would have filed my own taxes and let them deposit it in my bank in seven to ten days. I paid a lot of money for nothing. I'm broke.

Thanks for your vote!

VictoriaChesnee, SC

Reviewed Jan. 16, 2009

I found myself in a small economic crisis and decided to get the Emerald Advance from H&R Block. As so many others have stated in their complaints, there is absolutely nothing in H&R Block's advertising that indicates the Emerald Advance is a traditional loan. I asked the receptionist (the only employee whose name I neglected to get, as she went to lunch when I was denied) specifically what the criteria were for getting the Emerald Advance. She said it was based on the amount of my anticipated tax refund. I then asked Norma, the tax specialist, the same thing and she reiterated that it was based on the amount of my anticipated tax refund.

This has nothing to do with the Emerald Advance, but just to show you how poorly-trained the tax specialists are, please note that it took Norma a full forty five minutes to complete the Emerald Advance form online! Bless her heart; she pushed the wrong buttons repeatedly, refused to listen when I gently and respectfully pointed out that she kept closing the screen by mistake, and then told me that she had been having computer problems all day. Darlene ** finally came over and showed her what she was doing wrong.

I read each and every word of the six-page agreement for the Emerald Advance. There is not one sentence that states, nor even implies, that the Emerald Advance is a loan based on your credit score. Further, according to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (at least to my understanding), it is indeed illegal to pull a credit check on someone without their, his or her knowledge and consent. To top it off, none of the three employees at the H&R Block in Boiling Springs, South Carolina seemed to realize that what they were selling was a credit-based product.

Even after the Credit Denied statement was printed, Norma, Darlene and Butch each argued with me that they didn't use my credit score, the bank did. These people really were clueless, so I called the District Manager, Jeremy ** out of Greenville, South Carolina to complain. He told me that his people had been trained thoroughly and that they certainly were aware that they were offering a credit-based product. He then told me there was nothing he could do about the waste of my time or my disappointment, but that he would give his Boiling Springs staff a good talking to.

I think that others who have posted here are correct. H&R Block is taking advantage of people, knowing that the little people cannot afford to file a suit for fraud or false advertising. What does it take to start a class action lawsuit against a corporate giant?

Thanks for your vote!

AnetIowa City, IA

Reviewed Jan. 11, 2009

I file my taxes last year in 01-30-08. because I needed the money fast I filed them electronicly and they charged me over 400 dollars. I told them I wanted to claim for child care assistance and for some reason they said they had to mail them. so they file my normal taxes electronicly and they the other ones by mail. I got my money like they said in two days but they told me I was going to get 1320 dollars for the other one and I never did, I went back to their office a few months after they did my taxes to tell them I had no money yet and they checked in the computer and told me that the IRS had received my paper work and that I should call them. for one reason or another I wasent able to talk to the IRS till yesterday and what the lady told me was that yes they got the paper work except for one form and that they could not process my taxes with out it. I call H&R today and Susan Hamel was off but Elizabeth told me that she was going to give me that form so I can mail it tomorrow or to call the IRS and asked for a Fax # so she can Faxed it directly, I did not have to go thru all this just because that lady forgot to mail a form

Thanks for your vote!

Loading more reviews...

H&R Block Company Information

Company Name:: H&R Block
Website:: www.hrblock.com