Getting Updates

Tax laws and forms can change throughout the tax season. They may even have changed since we released the H&R Block software! We recommend that you update the program frequently to make sure you have the latest forms and information. You must be connected to the internet in order to check for updates and update the program.

Note: If you are running Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating system, you will need administrator privileges to download and install updates.

Automatic Updates

The first time you opened the H&R Block tax software,  you were prompted to set up the program so that it automatically checks for updates and critical alerts every time you start it. If you did not choose the automatic updates and critical alerts option, you can always go back and reset it.

To set up automatic updates and alerts:

  1. Go to the Tools menu and select Auto Check Alerts and Updates.

  2. Click on the option labeled Automatically check for alerts and updates.

  3. Click OK.

Note: We recommend setting this option only if you are always connected to the internet.

Manual Updates

You always have the option of manually checking for an update by clicking on the Update button. The program displays this button on the My Taxes screen and periodically throughout the Interview. You can also check for an update by selecting Update The Program from the Tools menu.

To update from within the program:

  1. When you check for an update, the program displays the H&R Block Software Manager dialog box.

  2. Click Next.

  3. If the Software Manager dialog box shows that there is an update available, click the Update button.  

  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the update.

Note: If you are updating your state program, your federal program may be updated at the same time.

To update using the H&R Block Update Center:

Related Topics
Purchasing Previous Versions of the Program