KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- H&R Block (NYSE:HRB) and OpenAI today announced a joint effort to develop a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) solution enabling H&R Block's vast network of more than 60,000 tax professionals to deliver tailored insights, faster, to the millions of clients served each year virtually or at one of its 9,000 locations nationwide. The collaboration will combine OpenAI's advanced models with the deep expertise of H&R Block's The Tax Institute (TTI). Co ...

Core Insights - H&R Block is providing last-minute tax filing advice as the April 15th deadline approaches, emphasizing the importance of maximizing refunds and ensuring taxpayers do not miss out on potential deductions and credits [1][2]. Group 1: Tax Filing Tips - Taxpayers are encouraged to file even if they cannot pay, as the penalty for failing to file is significantly higher than for failing to pay [3]. - It is crucial to double-check dependents claimed on tax returns, as many taxpayers may qualify for additional credits or deductions by including elderly parents or adult children [3]. - Commonly missed credits include the American Opportunity Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Earned Income Tax Credit, which can significantly impact refunds [3]. Group 2: H&R Block Services - H&R Block offers a free Second Look® tax review to identify missed credits or deductions from the past three years, a service not provided by other companies [4]. - The company provides various filing options, including in-person assistance from tax professionals and DIY online tools supported by AI [5][13]. - H&R Block's Tax Institute consists of tax experts who monitor changes in tax laws to assist clients effectively [2]. Group 3: Filing Extensions and Deadlines - Taxpayers unable to file by the April 15th deadline can request an extension until October 15, 2025, but must still estimate and pay any owed taxes by the original deadline to avoid penalties [7][8]. - The IRS may grant automatic extensions for those affected by natural disasters, and taxpayers are advised to check eligibility [8].

Core Insights - H&R Block is providing last-minute tax filing tips as the April 15th deadline approaches, with 2025 filings slightly lower than the previous year, indicating many taxpayers may be rushing to file [1][2] Tax Preparation Insights - Millions of taxpayers miss out on valuable deductions and credits each year, leading to billions of dollars left unclaimed [2] - H&R Block's Tax Institute, comprising tax attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents, monitors tax code changes to assist a network of 60,000 tax professionals [2] Recommendations for Maximizing Refunds - H&R Block offers strategies to reduce tax liability and maximize refunds, including a free Second Look® tax review for up to three years of tax returns [3][4] - Commonly missed credits include the American Opportunity Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit (up to $2,000 per child), and Earned Income Tax Credit [6] - Taxpayers are encouraged to file even if they cannot pay, as the penalty for failing to file is significantly higher than for failing to pay [6] Filing Options and Support - H&R Block provides various filing options, including in-person assistance, DIY online tools, and a Tax Pro Review service for added confidence [15] - The company emphasizes the importance of including all sources of income, especially with new 1099-K reporting rules affecting gig workers and online sellers [6] Extension and Payment Information - Taxpayers unable to file by the deadline can request an extension until October 15, 2025, but must estimate and pay any tax due by April 15 to avoid penalties [9][10]

Core Points - H&R Block has elected Richard A. Johnson as the new Chairman of the Board, effective April 1, 2025, succeeding Robert A. Gerard who held the position since 2011 [1][2] - Johnson has been a member of the H&R Block Board since 2015 and has served on the Audit and Compensation Committees [1][2] - The leadership transition aligns with the company's commitment to Board refreshment and succession planning as it prepares for a new 5-year growth strategy [2][3] Company Overview - H&R Block, Inc. provides global tax preparation services, financial products, and small-business solutions, blending digital innovation with human expertise [3] - The company aims to help clients achieve the best outcomes during tax season and improve their financial management through its mobile banking app, Spruce [3] - H&R Block also supports small-business owners with year-round bookkeeping, payroll, advisory, and payment processing solutions through Block Advisors and Wave [3]

Core Points - H&R Block has elected Richard A. Johnson as the new Chairman of the Board, effective April 1, 2025, succeeding Robert A. Gerard who held the position since 2011 [1][2] - Johnson has been a member of the H&R Block Board since 2015 and has served on the Audit and Compensation Committees [1][2] - The leadership transition aligns with the company's commitment to Board refreshment and succession planning as it prepares for a new 5-year growth strategy [2][3] Company Overview - H&R Block, Inc. provides global tax preparation services, financial products, and small-business solutions, blending digital innovation with human expertise [3] - The company aims to help clients achieve the best outcomes during tax season and improve their financial management through its mobile banking app, Spruce [3] - H&R Block also supports small-business owners with year-round bookkeeping, payroll, advisory, and payment processing solutions through Block Advisors and Wave [3]

Core Insights - The article discusses the growing gig economy and the launch of H&R Block's "Make It Legit" contest aimed at supporting gig workers in establishing themselves as legitimate small business owners [1][3][5] Group 1: Contest Overview - The "Make It Legit" contest will accept entries until May 4, providing three winners with professional business services and marketing support [2] - Winners will receive free business formation services, year-round tax expertise, and custom marketing materials, including a commercial [5] Group 2: Gig Economy Context - There are over 70 million individuals classified as gig workers in the U.S., many of whom do not view themselves as legitimate business owners despite being taxed as such [3][4] - A recent change in the 1099-K reporting threshold now requires independent workers to report earnings of $5,000 or more, significantly lowering the previous threshold of $20,000 [3] Group 3: Awareness and Education - A study by H&R Block found that nearly half of gig workers were unaware of the 1099-K change, and 50% remained unclear on the details as tax season began [4] - Many gig workers may be missing out on tax credits and deductions available to small businesses, potentially limiting their income [4] Group 4: Brand Promotion - H&R Block is promoting the contest through creative content creators who have successfully turned their passions into legitimate businesses, showcasing their stories through commercials [6]

Core Insights - The article discusses the impact of the new 1099-K earning threshold, which has lowered the reporting requirement for gig workers and side hustlers from $20,000 to $5,000, effectively classifying many as small business owners [3][4] - H&R Block has launched the "Make It Legit" contest to encourage gig workers to recognize their status as small business owners and to provide them with essential business services and marketing support [2][5] Group 1: Contest Details - The "Make It Legit" contest will accept entries until May 4, aiming to help three gig workers by providing professional business services and marketing support [2] - Winners will receive free business formation services, year-round tax expertise from H&R Block professionals, and custom marketing materials, including a commercial [5][6] Group 2: Gig Economy Insights - A study by H&R Block found that nearly 50% of gig workers were unaware of the 1099-K threshold change, and even after learning about it, 50% remained unclear on the details [4] - Many gig workers may be missing out on tax credits and deductions available to small businesses, potentially limiting their income [4] Group 3: H&R Block's Role - H&R Block has been providing tax assistance for 70 years and aims to inspire gig workers to operate confidently as small business owners [3][6] - The company blends digital innovation with human expertise to support clients in tax preparation and financial management [9]

Core Insights - A survey by Spruce reveals that 68% of Gen Z are influenced by financial trends on social media, highlighting a shift in financial education sources from traditional to digital platforms [1][3][7] - The findings emphasize the need for reliable financial education as younger generations increasingly rely on social media for financial tips, with only 13% of respondents learning about personal finance in school [6][4] Group 1: Generational Shift in Financial Education - Younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, are turning to social media for financial education, while older generations prefer traditional sources like family and banks [2][4] - 16% of all respondents look to social media for financial education, with Gen Z leading at 33% and Millennials at 23% [6][4] Group 2: Impact of Social Media on Financial Behavior - Viral financial trends significantly influence consumer choices, with 37% of respondents admitting to trying a finance trend they discovered online [5][6] - The most popular platforms for financial information among Gen Z are TikTok (39%) and Instagram (34%) [6][7] Group 3: Importance of Digital Tools - Online financial tools and apps are essential for money management, with 38% of respondents using them for credit score monitoring and 29% for budgeting [9][10] - 66% of Gen Z express low confidence in making major financial decisions without digital assistance, indicating a reliance on technology for financial management [10][11] Group 4: Financial Health and Resources - 70% of American households are working towards becoming "financially healthy," emphasizing the importance of selecting the right financial resources [11] - Spruce aims to provide accessible banking tools, such as customizable saving goals and high-yield interest options, to support financial wellness [12][19]

Core Insights - Block Advisors by H&R Block and The Home Depot have partnered for the 2025 tax season to assist Pro Xtra members with administrative business tasks, offering discounted tax preparation services to help them focus on business growth [1][2]. Collaboration Details - The initiative aims to help Pro Xtra members manage business complexities, including taxes and bookkeeping, leveraging H&R Block's 70 years of expertise to minimize tax liabilities [2]. - Pro Xtra members can access special offers on Block Advisors' tax preparation and year-round services through The Home Depot Pro Desks or online [3]. Tax Benefits and Discounts - The collaboration provides various tax deductions and credits, including: - 45L Tax Credit for energy-efficient home construction or renovation - Section 179 deduction for significant equipment and property expenses - Deductions for professional materials and supplies - Vehicle and mileage deductions for business use [6]. - Specific discounts include: - $50 off tax preparation with a Small Business Certified Tax Pro - $25 off DIY online tax preparation - $25 off business formation services - First month free, plus 10% off bookkeeping and payroll services [6]. Company Overview - H&R Block, Inc. provides global tax preparation services, financial products, and small-business solutions, combining digital innovation with human expertise to enhance client outcomes [5].

Core Insights - The collaboration between Block Advisors by H&R Block and The Home Depot aims to assist Pro Xtra members with tax preparation and business services, allowing them to focus on business growth [1][2] - Pro Xtra members can access discounted services, including tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and business formation, enhancing their operational efficiency [1][3] Group 1: Collaboration Details - The initiative helps Pro Xtra members manage business complexities such as taxes and bookkeeping, leveraging H&R Block's 70 years of expertise [2] - The service was launched ahead of the April 15 tax filing deadline, providing timely support for business owners [2] - Pro Xtra members can learn about the Block Advisors' offerings at The Home Depot Pro Desks or through their website [3] Group 2: Benefits and Offers - Special offers for Pro Xtra members include $50 off tax preparation with a Small Business Certified Tax Pro, $25 off DIY online tax preparation, and $25 off business formation services [6] - Additional benefits include the first month free and 10% off bookkeeping and payroll services, aimed at reducing operational costs for small businesses [6] - The collaboration emphasizes tax deductions and credits relevant to the industry, helping members maximize their tax savings [2][6]