Anyone completed the H&R Block tax course?

**Sugaree5335** · 07-17-2011, 12:59 PM

I took it my senior year of HS. My very first job was actually as their receptionist and then as a tax preparer once I turned 18. It may have changed since then, but it really wasn't too bad. At the time the course taught you the basics of tax returns using the paper forms. Basically they are trying to get as many people trained to do simple returns as possible so that when peak season rolls around they can push as many people through as possible. If you decide to work for them then they will train you on their software (which is pretty much like any other tax return software). If you decide to continue working for them in subsequent seasons then you were required to take continuing education classes in order to handle more complicated returns.

I will say that if you are interested primarily in doing your own returns and you have a situation that would make it complicated then you should try to talk to someone before signing up for the class to see if the relevant topics will be covered. This would usually be someone in the area's main office (the office that stays open year-round in your area). They can tell you what the course covers and then you can make a decision based on your situation. Also, find out whether or not you would be allowed to do someone else's return. When I worked there if you took the class, you were banned from working for any competitors or for yourself for 2-3 years.

Once again, I have not worked there in quite a while so a lot of this information may be out of date.

**DKAS** · 07-18-2011, 02:29 PM

I have a few years of experience working for Block. What the above user posted about the training experience is very much true today as well. Remember, the initial class touches briefly on basic topics so don't expect the trainers to discuss anything too complicated.
Far as working there, if you don't expect a huge paycheck and only want to expand your tax knowledge than it's not a bad place to work.
Let me know if you have any specific questions in regards to working there.

**KTP** · 07-18-2011, 02:43 PM

Well it was mostly because I have actually enjoyed doing our taxes and already have some experience doing taxes for a small business and for investments. I have encountered a fair amount of situations including roth conversions and recharacterizations, espp exercises, etc.

I would like to learn a bit more about reporting investment gains....especially about all of the complicated rules pertaining to straddles. This sounds like it would be in a more advanced course.

I am not doing much right now so it really couldn't hurt to try the basic course.

Do you happen to know if hired by H&R Block, do they have a 401K plan for employees (even seasonal)? If so, do you happen to know if they allow 100% of pay (after SS and medicare) to go into the plan? I don't care much about any match.

**DKAS** · 07-26-2011, 06:19 PM

Sorry for the delayed response. You're right, the advance stuff is not covered by their initial course (some instructors might briefly review certain advance subjects).

As far as 401K, you can't qualify for it if you work part-time. If I remember correctly, I believe you had to be full-time and actually work for them for a while (hours requirement) before you're even eligible.

I definitely recommend the course if you would like a review of individual income taxation. If your goal is learning, try attending with their best instructors you possibly can (probably through word of mouth). I was quite lucky in that regards and my instructor taught the class as any intermediate college course and it helped me get the basics of taxation down really well. However, there are instructors that may teach you more about what to expect on the job rather than taxation theory. That isn't necessarily bad, but I feel it takes away time from the subject.

**SnoopyCool** · 07-27-2011, 06:36 AM

I currently manage an H&R Block office. In the initial course, you learn the software and how basic taxes work, simultaneously. The course is designed to prepare you to work for H&R Block. You have to be an associate to take the higher-level courses. However, if you work for Block, you then pay $20 per year to access all of their higher courses online (or take them with an instructor, your choice). One of the many benefits of seasonal work here is that you can set your availability and only work when you have time.
Income Tax Course - Continuing Education for Tax Professionals - H&R Block

You can contribute to a 401k as a partimer, but I would call corporate to find out the specifics (1-800-HRBLOCK):
H&R Block Careers

HTH

**DKAS** · 07-27-2011, 10:09 AM

Okay I did some digging for you and this information is very current. This applies to Seasonal only.

You become elibily after the year in which you've done atleast 1000 hours. If you end up being eligible, you can contribute 75% of your income before taxes. They do a dollar to dollar match upto 5% of your contributions.

I've never done more than 500 hours a season so makes sense that I was never eligible. Hope this helps you in your decision. Good Luck

Anyone completed the H&R Block tax course?