Comment on "underpaid" reviews - Seasonal Tax Preparer H&R Block Employee Review

4.0
Apr 15, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Understand that you are not salaried employees. Your hourly rate is a draw against commission. You get paid based on what you earn for the Company. This means we have control over our compensation. I started four years ago, 2011 tax season for 2010 tax year returns. I received minimum wage the first year. Though I was entitled to commissions my second year, I did not produce sufficiently to earn them. The last two years, though, I "hustled" and last year I earned my Enrolled Agent designation. (The cost of which was reimbursed to me, by the way). This has made a great difference. I also divide my work between two company offices - the commute to my "day job" makes it difficult to get to my "home" office, but this two has worked in my favor. Last year I earned commission, based on which my draw increased to a little over $15. This year I produced significantly more and expect my draw to be over $20 per hour. I think that's fair. I know it's common in this industry...work for a CPA and they'll expect you to produce also. I would DEFINITELY recommend this place to a friend...if you want to work and "earn your keep" (and yes, that means going out to find your own clients...sales-though with all their advertising, this is NOT a burden here). If you want to sit around "collecting your paycheck", this is NOT the place for you.

Cons

I would like to see a higher commission rate. I'll be just over 23% this year and they "cap" at 27% for the largest returns (reduced from 30% in prior years). I've asked around to some CPA friends in my area, and they say 30-35% is more commom. But I must say (and I'm sure everyone reading this can attest) NO ONE advertises like HRB (think green bow tie!-) and that is EXTREMELY valuable.

Explore other reviews about H&R Block

5.0
Jul 15, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Loved the people I worked with and the environment.

Cons

Tax pros were overly stressed and it made my job more difficult.

4.0
Jul 6, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

H&R Block provides thorough training, and employees should expect to study continuously throughout the season. The training is valuable and helps build a strong understanding of tax preparation. There are opportunities to "level up," and advancing through the certification levels can lead to higher pay over time. Management is approachable and readily available when assistance is needed.

Cons

The position is seasonal, and the starting pay is $12 per hour. During peak tax season, employees may work very long hours—sometimes up to 10 hours a day, 6 to 7 days a week—which can be physically and mentally exhausting. In my first month, I also found that some of the staff were not especially welcoming, which made the initial adjustment more challenging.

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