Press Release Details

H&R Block's New Service Can Cut Wait Time for W-2 by Three WeeksKANSAS CITY, MO, Jan 04, 2010 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- An estimated 90 million taxpayers can access their W-2s up to three weeks early -- rather than waiting until the end of January -- enabling them to file their tax returns and potentially get their refunds more quickly, thanks to a new service from H&R Block (NYSE: HRB).

"Taxpayers want their refunds as soon as possible, especially in a tight economy. This service will help taxpayers get a head start on doing their taxes and being prepared to e-file on Jan. 15," said Mark Ciaramitaro, vice president of marketing at H&R Block. "Taxpayers can cut the wait for their W-2s by three weeks, which means if they're owed a refund, they'll get it sooner."

The W-2 Early Access online service enables many taxpayers to securely send electronic copies of their W-2s directly to H&R Block tax offices at no extra cost rather than waiting for the hard copy to be mailed to their home. Feb. 1, 2010, is the date employers must have mailed W-2s to employees.

Other benefits of H&R Block's W-2 Early Access service include:

--  Replacing lost W-2s that were mailed
--  Providing easy access to W-2s for taxpayers who no longer work for
    a specific employer.

In addition to making filing easier this year at participating offices, H&R Block is offering standard pricing for clients using Form 1040 EZ. For just $39, clients can file quickly and easily using 1040EZ. Each state return is just an additional $29.

"We know times are tough but people still want expertise when it comes to their taxes. So H&R Block is providing our industry-leading expertise at a special price," Ciaramitaro said.

Taxpayers can go online to www.hrblock.com/w2 to check whether their employer is participating in this service. Or, they can make an appointment online with an experienced tax professional at www.hrblock.com.

About H&R Block

H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is the world's preeminent tax services provider, having prepared more than 500 million tax returns since 1955. In fiscal 2009, H&R Block had annual revenues of $4.1 billion and prepared more than 24 million tax returns worldwide, utilizing more than 120,000 highly trained tax professionals. The Company provides tax return preparation services in person, through H&R Block At Home(TM) online and desktop software products, and through other channels. The Company is also one of the leading providers of business services through RSM McGladrey. For more information visit our Online Press Center at www.hrblock.com.

For Further Information:
Elizabeth McKinley
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SOURCE: H & R Block

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