Press Release Details

KANSAS CITY, Mo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 5, 2005-- The New TaxCut 2005 Streamlines Preparation Process, Addresses User's Specific Tax Situations, Delivers Unequaled Value & Provides Free Audit Support 365 Days A Year

TaxCut(R), H&R Block's (NYSE: HRB) industry-leading tax preparation software for the do-it-yourselfer, boasts major changes this year that make it easier for consumers to quickly and accurately prepare their returns with confidence. The software also includes an industry first for e-filed returns: Worry-Free Audit Support provided by an H&R Block tax professional in the event of an audit.

"Our customers spoke and we listened," said Derek Swords, product director for software at H&R Block. "Thanks to the extensive feedback expressed by users, we've made a wide range of improvements that enhance the client experience by focusing on meeting a user's individual needs, while delivering value far above the competition.''

Relevant Questions & Fewer Screens

TaxCut's interview, presentation and work-flow processes have been streamlined to deliver a relevant customized tax prep experience while reducing the number of screens required to prepare a return. TaxCut users can be confident that their returns will be accurately calculated and they'll receive all available deductions and credits applicable to their tax situations.

Federal & State Bundled Together

TaxCut 2005 is the first to include one federal and state program conveniently packaged on one CD with the purchase of TaxCut Deluxe + State, Premium + State and Business + Business State. No longer do users have to purchase two separate products or, more importantly, mail-in a state rebate offer. For one low price, the TaxCut user gets both. And, TaxCut is the only software that offers free e-filing (after mail-in rebate); the competition doesn't. TaxCut delivers the industry-leading value with a Federal + State offering and electronic filing for under $30 (TaxCut Deluxe + State) compared to $55 with the competition.

New! Worry-free Audit Support(TM)

"Historically the DIY tax software customer hasn't had any one to turn to in the event of an IRS audit," stated Swords. "H&R Block TaxCut solves this problem with Worry-free Audit Support, providing users with a full audit safety net."

TaxCut users can rest easy knowing one of H&R Block's more than 70,000 tax professionals is prepared to assist them in the event of an audit. It's an advantage that no other tax preparation firm or software developer can offer. From providing guidance on preparing for an audit to having an H&R Block enrolled agent(a) represent the TaxCut user before the IRS, H&R Block will help software users manage the audit process -- and it's all free when users e-file their returns.

"We're excited about bringing this unmatched level of service to TaxCut users," said Swords, "and it's available year-round, not just during the tax season."

New! Toll-Free Support Number

One number (888-4TaxCut), one call, quick answers and NO fees. Not even for the phone call. That's what TaxCut users can expect when they have an issue that requires assistance. It's simple, easy and one more reason why the TaxCut experience is hassle- and worry-free.

Value Plus Complete Customer Satisfaction and Accuracy Guarantees

All TaxCut products are backed by 100 percent customer satisfaction and accuracy guarantees. H&R Block will refund the purchase price, less shipping, handling and taxes, within 60 days of purchase if the user is not completely satisfied.

To learn more about the complete portfolio of TaxCut products and product features, please visit our TaxCut software press kit at www.hrblock.com/presscenter. To learn more about TaxCut Worry-free Audit Support, please visit www.taxcut.com/auditsupport.

(a) Enrolled agents do not provide legal representation. For complete details on Worry-free Audit Support go to www.hrblock.com

About H&R Block Digital Tax Solutions

H&R Block Digital Tax Solutions develops and publishes consumer financial and personal productivity software and online programs for the leader in tax preparation and services, H&R Block. Award-winning titles include the H&R Block TaxCut family of products -- TaxCut Standard, Deluxe and Premium, as well as the family of online tax preparation products found at hrblock.com and taxcut.com.

About H&R Block

H&R Block , Inc. is a diversified company with subsidiaries that deliver tax services and financial advice, investment and mortgage services, and business accounting and consulting services. The company's mission is to help clients achieve their tax and financial objectives by serving as their tax and financial partner. Additional information is available on the company's Web site at www.hrblock.com.

MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE:
http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=5033132

CONTACT: H&R Block
Denise Sposato, 816-932-4909
dsposato@hrblock.com
or
Boasberg Wheeler Communications
Sean Wheeler, 816-960-3116
swheeler@bwcom.com

SOURCE: H&R Block