While the H&R Block tax classes cost varies by area, the benefits of the completing the curriculum are generally similar for the graduates. Basically, they will be able to prepare tax forms like the professionals. The cost, by the way, ranges from as low as $100 to as high as $300, even higher depending on the course and its curriculum and duration; the cost also includes the corresponding textbooks and workbooks so it’s a great deal.
What You Will Learn
Keep in mind that the theoretical knowledge and actual skills you will learn from an H&R Block tax class will depend on its curriculum. You must then determine whether your tax education needs match the contents of the curriculum before enrolling in it. You want to get the best value for your money, especially as it’s your education involved here.
In general, you should be able to learn the following things:
- Tax theory, the principles upon which the practices of taxes are based on
- Current tax rules and regulations including filing practices, an ever-changing landscape as any taxpayer should know
- Practical skills in the preparation of tax returns, a must considering that it’s an annual activity
- Communication skills useful in dealing with clients, if you’re a tax professional, and with IRS officials
Just imagine the things that can you can learn during the 60 hours of class time! The time, energy and money spent on your tax education will definitely be worth it.
Of course, the assumption here is that you actually put in the necessary amount of work involved in learning so that you can get your money’s worth. The H&R Block tax classes are designed for adults and, as such, an adult sense of responsibility is a must for success.
The classes can be intensive and intense, from the number of hours required for attending classes every week to the effort required in learning the concepts. Depending on the class, the schedule may involve two 3-hour periods every week, usually from August to November although there are areas where the classes run from September to November. There’s also the choice between day and evening classes, as well as all-day Saturday classes.
Don’t forget that you’re student so homework comes with the class package. You should consider effective time management in balancing your work and student responsibilities, as well as your personal life.
What You Will Get Out of Them
Aside from learning about income taxes, dependent exemptions, and interests and dividends, you will be learning them from instructors who have more than a decade experience in these matters. You will also avail of interactive discussions with your instructors and fellow students, one-on-one assistance from your instructors, and hands-on experience with the tax software. You will also learn skills via the real-world tax return preparation exercises.
Why is it so important for taxpayers to know these things anyway? You can, after all, just let your tax accountant do the heavy work in your behalf! But here’s the thing about letting other people do the work that will ultimately affect your life: You will pay them for the services, you will not know whether your tax return will satisfy the taxman, and you will likely be unable to protect your rights.
Your signature is on the dotted line. Whatever mistakes and their subsequent penalties discovered by the taxman on your tax return is your sole responsibility, so it pays to know what goes in it so that you can protect yourself. Knowledge, as cliché as it may sound, results in power and empowerment.
After graduation, you will not only learn more about taxes. You will also get concrete proof of your hard work, such as the H&R Block certificate of completion and qualifying education hours (i.e., 30.5 hours credit recognized by the University of Phoenix). You can use both for employment purpose.
The bottom line: Whatever H&R Block tax classes cost you pay for, you will get back every cent and more!
