Audits Double This Decade

KANSAS CITY, MO, Jul 06 (MARKET WIRE) --
The number of audits is likely to continue rising as the IRS beefs up
enforcement, nearly doubling its tax law enforcement budget next year. In
addition, the IRS is stepping up efforts to close an estimated $345
billion tax gap. In fact, last year, 1 in 99 individual tax returns were
examined by the IRS, up from 1 in every 202 in 2000. More taxpayers also
could be expecting the new "soft notice" warning letters as well.

As the number of audits continues to grow, more taxpayers need guidance.
H&R Block's Tax Audit Support program helps taxpayers navigate an audit.
In fact, more than 3 out of 4 non-H&R Block clients who came to H&R Block
(NYSE: HRB) for audit services last year actually ended up owing less than
what the original audit notice indicated.

To further complicate matters, the IRS is now issuing "soft notices" -- or
warning letters -- to taxpayers seeking self-compliance. The soft notice
asks taxpayers to review their tax returns and file amended returns if
their original returns were in error. It also advises taxpayers that the
IRS will carefully review future returns. Soft notices are sent in
situations where the IRS received documentation showing income that
appears to be under reported on the tax return and an audit notice was
not sent.

"The audit experience is complex. IRS jargon and tax law interpretation
can be confusing and often frustrating for the typical taxpayer," said
Amy McAnarney, executive director of The Tax Institute at H&R Block.

Taxpayers should keep in mind six important tips if they receive one of
many different forms of audit correspondence:

1. Get professional help. Tell your tax professional right away that you
received a letter and meet to discuss your tax situation.

2. Research. Review relevant data for the audit. Locate receipts,
canceled checks and other pertinent records.

3. Organize. Only send or take copies of requested documents to the IRS,
along with copies of any necessary supporting materials.

4. Representation. Taxpayers may represent themselves or engage an
Enrolled Agent, a CPA or an attorney to act as their representative.

5. Be succinct. Stick to the facts when answering the auditor's
questions. Don't volunteer information that's not asked.

6. Appeal. If the taxpayer disagrees with the auditor's findings, the
results of the audit may be appealed.

Impacted taxpayers range from individuals to home-based business owners to
large businesses and everyone in between. No one is exempt.

McAnarney cautions taxpayers who want to "go it alone" in dealing with an
audit. Once someone receives a notice from the IRS, it's imperative to
contact their tax or financial professional as soon as possible. The
matter may be as simple as filing an amended return or sending supporting
documentation. But in most situations, time is of the essence. Any delays
could result in additional penalties and fees for the taxpayer.

H&R Block tax offices are open and can help individuals best prepare for
an audit. Tax tips and other important information about audits are also
available on www.hrblock.com.

The Tax Institute, a division of H&R Block, is a national leader in
providing unbiased research, analysis and interpretation of federal and
state tax laws. Staffed by enrolled agents, CPAs and attorneys, The Tax
Institute provides industry expertise for matters related to taxes and the
professional tax preparation industry.

About H&R Block

H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is the world's preeminent tax services
provider, having served more than 400 million clients since 1955 and
generating annual revenues of $4.1 billion in fiscal year 2008. H&R Block
provides income tax return preparation and related services and products
via a nationwide network of approximately 13,000 company-owned and
franchised offices and through TaxCut(R) online and software solutions.
The company also provides business services through RSM McGladrey. For
more information visit our Online Press Center at www.hrblock.com.

For Further Information:
Elizabeth McKinley
(816) 854-4287
Email Contact

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