H&R Block Offers 25% Off Tax Prep for Presidents' Day as IRS Offices Remain Closed

H&R Block Offers 25% Off Tax Prep for Presidents' Day as IRS Offices Remain Closed

As Americans scramble to meet the April 15 tax deadline, H&R Block has launched a limited-time Presidents' Day promotion offering a 25% discount on its digital and in-person tax preparation services. The deal, announced on February 9, 2026, comes as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) operates on a reduced schedule, with most field offices closed and customer service lines experiencing significant delays.

According to FindArticles, H&R Block’s promotion applies to its TurboTax-style online software, as well as in-store consultations with certified tax professionals. The discount is available through February 17, 2026, and is being marketed as a way to help taxpayers avoid last-minute stress and costly errors. "This is not just a sale—it’s a lifeline for families trying to navigate a complex tax code," said a company spokesperson in a press release cited by FindArticles.

Meanwhile, the IRS remains largely inaccessible to the public on Presidents' Day. As reported by Yahoo News, the federal tax agency’s physical offices are closed, and its automated phone systems are experiencing longer-than-usual wait times. Live assistance via phone or chat is limited to essential functions, and taxpayers seeking help with audits, refunds, or complex filings are being directed to online resources or third-party providers like H&R Block.

While the IRS website offers a range of self-help tools—including free filing options for qualifying taxpayers—many users report confusion navigating the portal, especially those with side gigs, cryptocurrency transactions, or rental income. The lack of accessible human support has fueled demand for commercial tax prep services. Industry analysts note a 40% year-over-year increase in online tax software usage during federal holidays, according to internal data from tax technology firms.

Notably, the promotion from H&R Block coincides with broader concerns about tax filing equity. Advocacy groups warn that low- and middle-income households often lack the digital literacy or resources to use online tools effectively. "Discounts like this help, but they don’t solve systemic gaps," said Dr. Lena Torres, a tax policy researcher at the Urban Institute. "We still need more federally funded, free, and human-supported tax assistance programs."

Despite these concerns, H&R Block’s campaign appears to be resonating. The company reports a 65% surge in website traffic since the promotion’s launch, with mobile app downloads up 52%. The discount applies to all federal returns, including those with itemized deductions, small business income, and education credits. Customers who opt for the premium "Full Service" package also receive a free audit support guarantee.

Consumers are advised to verify the legitimacy of the promotion through H&R Block’s official website and avoid third-party sites that may mimic the offer. The IRS also cautions taxpayers to never share Social Security numbers or bank details with unverified platforms.

As the tax season intensifies, the contrast between public and private tax support systems has never been more apparent. While H&R Block’s discount offers immediate relief, experts urge policymakers to invest in sustainable, publicly accessible tax assistance infrastructure—especially during holidays when government services are scaled back.

For now, taxpayers seeking help are advised to act quickly: the 25% discount expires on February 17, and IRS assistance remains limited.