Latest news with #H&RBlock
New York Post
a day ago
- Business
- New York Post
Haven't filed your taxes yet? You might be able to get an Amazon gift card
Discover startups, services, products and more from our partner StackCommerce. New York Post edits this content, and may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links. TL;DR: Simplify your state and federal taxes with H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe on sale for $39.99 with code FILEEASY. Tax season may feel far away, but that's not the case for everyone. If you took an extension or have just complicated taxes, it's worth it to get a little extra help on your taxes as soon as you can. If you don't want to get caught with last-minute fees, try H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe to file your state and federal taxes. It's only $39.99 (reg. $59.99). You even get the option to get a 2% bonus on your tax refund if you put it onto an Amazon gift card. Advertisement H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe makes filing easier by guiding you through your return with a simple question-and-answer format. Instead of worrying about complicated forms, the software helps you navigate over 350 credits and deductions, whether you are claiming mortgage interest, reporting investment income, or managing retirement accounts. It is designed to help you find every deduction you qualify for, so you can feel confident you are getting the largest refund possible. Importing your information is quick, too. You can easily bring in W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, and even your previous returns from TurboTax or Quicken. Once your information is loaded, you can see real-time updates on your refund amount as you work through your return. H&R Block also offers free in-person audit support, so if the IRS comes calling, you have access to expert help. Plus, you get access to more than 13,000 articles and FAQs to help answer any questions along the way. Your work is saved directly to your computer, allowing you to come back and finish when you are ready, without worrying about losing your progress. Use code FILEEASY to get H&R Block Tax Software Deluxe for $39.99. StackSocial prices subject to change.
Canberra Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Canberra Times
Things to do now to maximise your tax return
Things to do now to maximise your tax return Happiness is knowing you'll receive the best tax refund possible. Picture Shutterstock This is branded content for H&R Block. With just a few weeks to go until the end of the financial year, you might think it's too late to knock your taxes for the year into shape. However, even this close to EOFY, there are still some last-minute planning opportunities to maximise your refund for the year. So, what should you be doing as we head towards June 30? We spoke to tax expert, Mark Chapman, from H&R Block Tax Accountants, to get some tips. 1. Running your own business? If so, Mr Chapman suggests keeping in mind the "instant asset write-off" measure. This allows small businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million to claim an immediate tax deduction for all capital purchases costing less than $20,000, rather than depreciating the cost over several years. "This is great for tech items such as computers, tablets and phones, as well as tools and equipment for tradies, office furniture and even some motor vehicles," he said. "Remember, as well as making a purchase, the asset you acquire also must be used or available for use in your business, so make sure the item is delivered and installed by 11:59pm on June 30." 2. Seek expert help One sure way to ensure you get the best return possible is to seek the advice of experienced tax agents like H&R Block, rated Australia's number one tax agent by Canstar Blue. They can identify exactly what you need to do to get into shape for the 2024 tax season and maximise those deductions. H&R Block also offers useful online tools for managing your taxation record-keeping process, including its handy free ReceiptHub app that helps you store receipts, track your kilometres, and log your working-from-home hours. 3. Home office If you're employed but work from home, occasionally or all the time, you're entitled to deductions for costs arising from working at home. H&R Block's Mark Chapman. Picture supplied The expenses that you can claim include: Heating, cooling and lighting Cleaning costs Decline in value (depreciation) of home office furniture and fittings, office equipment and computers (for items over $300) Computer consumables, stationery, telephone and internet costs Items of capital equipment, such as furniture and computers, which cost less than $300, can be written off immediately "With many retailers running EOFY specials, any purchases you make now can be deducted in this year's tax return, so, from a cash flow point of view, you can minimise the time between purchase and tax deduction," said Mr Chapman. "If you're claiming the ATO's 70 cents per hour fixed rate deduction for working from home, you must have a complete record of all your hours worked from home from 1 July 2024, like a diary, timesheets or rosters." Remember, even if you plan to choose this easy option, it's best to ask your accountant to run the numbers in order to work out the best option for you. "You don't want to be leaving money on the table," said Mr Chapman. 4. Car expenses If you use the log-book method, now is the time to check it's current. "Make sure you also have all the receipts, invoices and records of journeys you'll need to calculate and substantiate your claim," said Mr Chapman. "If you use the cents per kilometre method, you'll still need a record of work-related journeys." 5 Mobile phone If you used your personal mobile phone for work, you can claim a deduction for the business-related use. "Make sure you have your phone bills collected and have kept a log of your business/personal use over a four-week period," said Mr Chapman. "That percentage can then be applied to the whole year. But remember, this deduction can't be claimed if you have used the 70 cents per hour method to claim working from home expenses. It already includes a component for mobile phone expenses." Getting organised now can reap some pleasant tax refund rewards sooner. Picture Shutterstock 6. Charitable donations Planning to make any charitable donations? "You can claim a deduction for donations of more than $2 to a registered charity," said Mr Chapman, "provided you have the receipt. 7. Prepay some expenses If you have spare cash, consider paying things like union fees, professional subscriptions and annual insurance premiums in advance to accelerate the deduction. "You can claim a tax deduction this year for expenses which wholly or partly relate to next year," said Mr Chapman. 8. Make a tax-deductible super contribution Any more of that spare cash? Look at making a personal contribution to your super fund. "Provided the total amount of contributions, including the contributions made on your behalf by your employer, does not exceed $30,000, this can be a great way to boost your retirement savings and claim a tax deduction for the personal contribution," said Mr Chapman. "The payment must be made by June 30, and you need to advise your super fund that you've made the payment by the time you lodge your tax return." Your super fund or accountant can guide you on completing the form. 9. Offset capital gains against capital losses If you've disposed of shares or any other form of investment and you've made a capital gain, take a look at your investment portfolio and consider disposing of any assets you own that might be sitting at a loss. The resulting capital losses can be offset against the capital gain. "But be careful about selling shares sitting at a loss and then buying them back in the new tax year," said Mr Chapman. "The ATO takes a hard line against so-called 'wash sales'." "This refers to the sale of an asset before the year end and the purchase of a substantially identical asset immediately after the year end. The ATO regards the purchase and the sale as effectively the same asset and has issued a tax ruling which states it can apply the anti-avoidance provisions to cancel any tax benefits and apply penalties." Established in 1971, H&R Block Australia is the leading tax preparation firm in Australia, handling more than 700,000 returns annually. Based in Sydney, the company serves the taxpaying public with more than 400 offices around the country, as well as offering online options and phone appointments. To find out more visit or call 13 23 25.
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
H&R Block Transforms Into Digital-First, AI-Powered Customer Care Organization with NiCE CXone Mpower
BUSINESS WIRE)-- NiCE (Nasdaq: NICE) today announced that H&R Block, the world leader in online and in-office tax preparation, is successfully transforming its customer service operations into a digital-first, AI-powered care organization with NiCE CXone Mpower. This transformation marks a strategic shift from a traditional brick-and-mortar retail servicing model to a digital-first scalable customer care ecosystem built on advanced AI and customer service automation. H&R Block's transformation began with an accelerated 60-day migration to NiCE in 2020, laying a powerful foundation for ongoing innovation, scalability and agility. Building on that momentum, H&R Block partnered with NiCE to rapidly build and deploy a new IVR system at the height of the pandemic – successfully managing over 5 million calls in just four months. This milestone demonstrated the power of taking a platform approach, delivering mission-critical performance at scale when it was needed most. Since then, H&R Block has adopted a strategy of continuous optimization, leveraging CXone Mpower's AI and self-service capabilities including Autopilot, AI-powered coaching, and automation to drive significant outcomes including seven-figure cost savings, enhanced agent performance and customer satisfaction. Each year, H&R Block must scale its support operations rapidly to handle the elevated demands of the U.S. tax season. Today, with CXone Mpower, the company is equipped to turn this annual challenge into a strategic advantage—empowering thousands of agents to provide fast, accurate, and personalized support across voice and digital channels. CXone Mpower also enables H&R Block to extend that same trusted, seamless and knowledgeable experience to self-service, automating everything from simple questions to more complex tax-related inquiries at scale. This shift from reactive support to proactive experience design, lays the foundation for long-term innovation and growth. As H&R Block accelerates its AI roadmap, it now aims to automate additional customer journeys to deliver a faster, smarter, and more connected client service. "Real transformation happens when we invest in our teams, evolve our technology, and rethink how we bring experiences to market, delivering the outcomes our customers demand,' said Brendan Mulryan, VP Customer Care at H&R Block. 'NiCE has helped us reimagine CX, meeting today's demand for digital self-service while advancing AI and automation. With CXone Mpower, we are focused on delivering a modern customer experience that blends self-serve ease with expert support when needed. Whether in-person or online, this transformation helps us meet customers where they are.' 'This transformation isn't just a technology story, it's the powerful example of business reinvention built around human experiences,' said Barry Cooper, President, CX Division, NiCE. 'Our goal is to make every customer interaction effortless, especially during high-stakes periods like tax season. With CXone Mpower, organizations like H&R Block can rapidly scale, empower their agents, and deliver fast, accurate, seamless, and personalized service – even at peak demand – to ensure stress-free, happier moments.' About NiCE NiCE (NASDAQ: NICE) is transforming the world with AI that puts people first. Our purpose-built AI-powered platforms automate engagements into proactive, safe, intelligent actions, empowering individuals and organizations to innovate and act, from interaction to resolution. Trusted by organizations throughout 150+ countries worldwide, NiCE's platforms are widely adopted across industries connecting people, systems, and workflows to work smarter at scale, elevating performance across the organization, delivering proven measurable outcomes. Trademark Note: NiCE and the NiCE logo are trademarks of NICE Ltd. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners. For a full list of NICE's marks, please see: Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements, including the statements by Mr. Cooper, are based on the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of NICE Ltd. (the 'Company'). In some cases, such forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as 'believe,' 'expect,' 'seek,' 'may,' 'will,' 'intend,' 'should,' 'project,' 'anticipate,' 'plan,' 'estimate,' or similar words. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to differ materially from those described herein, including but not limited to the impact of changes in general economic and business conditions; competition; successful execution of the Company's growth strategy; success and growth of the Company's cloud Software-as-a-Service business; rapid changes in technology and market requirements; the implementation of AI capabilities in certain products and services, decline in demand for the Company's products; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; difficulties in making additional acquisitions or difficulties or effectively integrating acquired operations; loss of market share; an inability to maintain certain marketing and distribution arrangements; the Company's dependency on third-party cloud computing platform providers, hosting facilities and service partners; cyber security attacks or other security incidents; privacy concerns; changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates, the effects of additional tax liabilities resulting from our global operations, the effect of unexpected events or geo-political conditions, including those arising from political instability or armed conflict that may disrupt our business and the global economy; our ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; the effect of newly enacted or modified laws, regulation or standards on the Company and our products and various other factors and uncertainties discussed in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC'). For a more detailed description of the risk factors and uncertainties affecting the company, refer to the Company's reports filed from time to time with the SEC, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise them, except as required by law.
Sky News AU
6 days ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
Expert reveals critical ways Aussies can boost their tax refund before EOFY
A leading tax expert has revealed critical ways everyday Aussies looking to beef up their bank balances during the cost of living crisis can maximise their tax refund before the end of the financial year. Millions of Aussies are eagerly awaiting their tax return in a much needed cash injection while price pressures continue to hurt household budgets. One in four respondents to a recent Finder survey said their refund was very important to their financial health and 41 per cent said the cash was somewhat important. Mark Chapman, the director of tax communications at H&R Block, said there were an array of methods for Aussies eager to boost their tax back could pocket some extra cash. Capital Gains Tax Bill A critical way Aussies facing a capital gains tax bill can lower this is by offsetting their losses against their wins, Mr Chapman said. 'If there are other assets in your portfolio which are potentially sitting at a loss, you can dispose of those at a loss and therefore, you'll be able to offset the capital losses against the capital gains and hopefully reduce your capital gains tax bill,' he said. He noted that Aussies will have to actually sell their assets if they wish to lower their capital gains tax. 'You can't then go back into the market in the new financial year and repurchase the assets that you've sold,' Mr Chapman said. Super Contributions Aussies with some spare cash who are looking to bolster their retirement savings can contribute upwards of $30,000 in a tax deductible payment. However, Mr Chapman noted, taxpayers should be mindful of how much their employer has contributed during the financial year. 'Even taking (your employers' contributions) into account, there should still be a bit of a difference between the amount which your employer has made and $30,000,' he said. Aussies need to make the payment by June 30 and will have to complete a form with the Australian Taxation Office before they lodge their tax returns. 'Provided you do that, obviously that can be a great way not only to claim a tax deduction, but also to boost your retirement savings,' Mr Chapman said. Charitable Donations and Missed Deductions Aussies can also lower their tax through charitable donations if they have the appropriate proof, Mr Chapman said. 'Any charitable donation, which is for more than $2, is potentially tax deductible, provided you have a receipt or proof that the payment has been made,' he said. He also noted many Aussies were missing out on major refunds by failing to prepare for essential claims on working from home and work travel. "The problem is that many people don't keep a record of their working-from-home hours and that therefore makes it very difficult for them to be able to claim," Mr Chapman said. "It is worthwhile claiming working from home expenses, but you do actually need to bear in mind that you do need a record of all of the hours that you worked from home from the 1st of July 2024. "You need to keep diaries, rosters... or time sheets, but provided you've got that substantiation you can claim the working from home fixed rate of 67 cents per hour." He also stressed many Australians were missing out on car travel deductions, but noted Aussies can not claim for their daily commute. "You can claim the cost of travelling between two separate offices during the course of the working day or going to visit a client or supplier," Mr Chapman said. "It is worthwhile making sure that you do keep a record of all of your business journeys during the course of the year." Instant Asset Write-Offs Mr Chapman said small businesses can use the government's instant asset write-off scheme to make purchases upwards of $20,000 and offset it against the company's profits. 'It is a very effective way of reducing your taxable profits in the current year,' he said. Businesses can purchase vital electronic goods, such as computers, tablets and phones, and offset this at the end of the year to get cheaper versions of new models. The scheme also allows small businesses to facilitate an office makeover, provided it comes under the $20,000 threshold. 'You can also use the instant asset write-off to acquire tools and equipment, office furniture, potentially even motor vehicles provided they cost less than $20,000, which will basically mean that they're second hand,' Mr Chapman said. More than 10 million Aussies are expecting a $1,519 cash injection after the end of this financial year, according to Finder.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
2 Safe-and-Steady Stocks to Research Further and 1 to Approach with Caution
A stock with low volatility can be reassuring, but it doesn't always mean strong long-term performance. Investors who prioritize stability may miss out on higher-reward opportunities elsewhere. Luckily for you, StockStory helps you navigate which companies are truly worth holding. Keeping that in mind, here are two low-volatility stocks that could succeed under all market conditions and one that may not keep up. Rolling One-Year Beta: -0.23 As a pioneer in 3D mammography technology that has revolutionized breast cancer detection, Hologic (NASDAQ:HOLX) develops and manufactures diagnostic products, medical imaging systems, and surgical devices focused primarily on women's health and wellness. Why Does HOLX Give Us Pause? Constant currency growth was below our standards over the past two years, suggesting it might need to invest in product improvements to get back on track Expenses have increased as a percentage of revenue over the last five years as its adjusted operating margin fell by 23.2 percentage points Waning returns on capital imply its previous profit engines are losing steam At $64.69 per share, Hologic trades at 14.7x forward P/E. If you're considering HOLX for your portfolio, see our FREE research report to learn more. Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.18 Founded in 1955 by brothers Henry W. Bloch and Richard A. Bloch, H&R Block (NYSE:HRB) is a tax preparation company offering professional tax assistance and financial solutions to individuals and small businesses. Why Are We Bullish on HRB? Remarkable 30.5% revenue growth over the last five years demonstrates its ability to capture significant market share Share repurchases have amplified shareholder returns as its annual earnings per share growth of 41.5% exceeded its revenue gains over the last five years Industry-leading 56.7% return on capital demonstrates management's skill in finding high-return investments, and its returns are growing as it capitalizes on even better market opportunities H&R Block is trading at $56.28 per share, or 16.4x forward EV-to-EBITDA. Is now a good time to buy? See for yourself in our full research report, it's free. Rolling One-Year Beta: 0.54 With over 150 million patients impacted annually through its innovative healthcare technologies, Stryker (NYSE:SYK) develops and manufactures advanced medical devices and equipment across orthopedics, surgical tools, neurotechnology, and patient care solutions. Why Does SYK Catch Our Eye? Core business is healthy and doesn't need acquisitions to boost sales as its organic revenue growth averaged 10.4% over the past two years $23.22 billion in revenue gives its scale, which leads to bargaining power with customers because there are few trusted alternatives Has the option to reinvest or return capital to investors as its 14.6% free cash flow margin is well above its peers Stryker's stock price of $379 implies a valuation ratio of 27.5x forward P/E. Is now the time to initiate a position? Find out in our full research report, it's free. Market indices reached historic highs following Donald Trump's presidential victory in November 2024, but the outlook for 2025 is clouded by new trade policies that could impact business confidence and growth. While this has caused many investors to adopt a "fearful" wait-and-see approach, we're leaning into our best ideas that can grow regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate. Take advantage of Mr. Market by checking out our Top 5 Growth Stocks for this month. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,754% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today for free. Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
