H&R Block Sees 152% Surge in AI Tax Assist Usage and 2.48M Sidekick Queries
H&R Block was named Best Overall Tax Service and Best Use of AI for 2026 after AI Tax Assist adoption surged 152% since 2023, delivering 6.45 million messages with 2.2-second responses and 85% year-over-year growth this season. Its Sidekick assistant processed 2.48 million queries, reducing internal research needs by 28%.
1. Industry Recognition and Awards
H&R Block secured Best Overall Tax Service and Best Use of AI honors for 2026, reflecting its success in blending advanced AI with professional tax expertise. These awards underscore the company’s leadership in setting industry standards for digital tax preparation.
2. AI Tax Assist Adoption Metrics
Since its 2023 launch, AI Tax Assist usage climbed 152%, delivering 6.45 million client messages to date. This season alone it provided 1.91 million messages—an 85% year-over-year increase—with an average response time of 2.2 seconds and desktop software integration rolling out to more users.
3. Sidekick Assistant Performance
The new Sidekick tool supported tax professionals with 2.48 million research queries at 2–3 second response times, driving a 28% reduction in internal research requests. Early adoption data indicate strong demand for AI-embedded support during client appointments.
4. Operational Expansion and Impact
Last year H&R Block’s platform processed over 22 million returns globally, backed by 60,000 tax professionals. Expanding AI Tax Assist across desktop software enhances service reach, promising further efficiency gains, cost savings, and client retention in upcoming tax seasons.