H&R BLOCK
is the world’s largest consumer tax services provider, having
prepared more than 700 million tax returns since 1955. In fiscal
year 2016, H&R Block had revenues of $3.0 billion and prepared
23.2 million tax returns worldwide.
THIS YEAR, H&R BLOCK:
■ Helped prepare approximately 1 in every 7 U.S. tax returns
■ Operated a retail office within 5 miles of most Americans
■ Helped clients obtain more than $50 billion in tax refunds, credits
and other government benefits
■ Issued 1.8 million H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCards® with
$7.7 billion in total deposits
Tax return preparation services are provided in approximately 12,000
company-owned and franchise retail tax offices worldwide by professional
tax preparers, and through H&R Block digital do-it-yourself products.
H&R Block also offers affordable financial products and services to its clients.
William C. Cobb
President & CEO, H&R Block, Inc.
FELLOW
SHAREHOLDERS:
For over 62 years, H&R Block has been
a trusted advisor to millions of people
throughout the world. This year was no
exception, as we helped prepare over 23
million tax returns worldwide. We were
there to assist our clients with what, for
many, is their largest financial transaction
of the year. We helped them to under-
stand the complexities within the tax
system. In addition, for the more than
80% of our clients who receive a refund,
we helped them to obtain the maximum
refund to which they were entitled. And
through it all, we remained focused on
our Purpose: We look at your life through
tax…and find ways to help.
DIVESTITURE OF THE H&R
BLOCK BANK AND CREATION
OF NEW CAPITAL STRUCTURE
During fiscal year 2016, we completed the
final step in our multi-year effort to return
to our core business of providing the best
tax preparation and related services to
our clients. We successfully completed the
H&R Block Bank divestiture transaction,
allowing us to no longer be regulated as
a savings and loan holding company. This
represented the culmination of a lot of
hard work over the past several years and
once again gave us more control over our
capital structure.
Following the completion of our bank
divestiture, we were able to put into place
a capital structure that demonstrated a
strong commitment to and confidence in
H&R Block’s future. The three key elements
of the new structure include:
• The Board of Directors approved a new
$3.5 billion share repurchase program
that runs through June 2019. We subse-
quently repurchased 56.4 million shares
through the end of fiscal year 2016,
representing over 20% of our outstand-
ing shares from the beginning of the
fiscal year.
• We issued $1 billion of long-term debt
and increased borrowing capacity under
our line of credit.
• We increased the quarterly dividend
10%. This increase represented a bit of
a catch-up for the years during which
we were prohibited from increasing our
dividend while we were regulated as a
savings and loan holding company. In
July 2016, we paid our 215th consecu-
tive dividend.
H&R Block is an efficient user of capital,
and these changes facilitated our ability
to continue this practice while increasing
our ability to return capital to you, our
shareholders. I’m pleased to say that since
I became CEO in May 2011, we have
returned a total of $3.9 billion of capital
to shareholders.
In the short term, we will make signifi-
cant, aggressive changes aimed at driving
increased client volumes. Several of these
plans are under way, and I’m excited
about what we will bring to the market
next season.
In the long term, we must consider the
tax preparation needs of the market over-
all. We are the only company that can
serve clients however they want to be
served, and we have the opportunity to
expand our offerings to appeal to the
varying needs in the market today.
This is a great business with a solid
financial model that generates strong
free cash flow and provides an excellent
return on capital. I want to thank you for
your support and I look forward to sharing
our success with you going forward.
Sincerely yours,
William C. Cobb
President & CEO, H&R Block, Inc.
TAX SEASON 2016
Turning to the tax season’s results, clearly
this was a disappointing season. The sea-
son started slowly, and although we saw
some improvement in the second half,
it was not to the level we would have
liked. Our assisted tax preparation busi-
ness continued to lose returns and, for
the first time in several years, our digital
do-it-yourself business did as well.
In order to move forward, we need to
understand what didn’t work, but we also
need to capitalize on what was successful.
Although assisted volume was down, the
other components of revenue performed
well. We implemented planned price
increases, saw improvement in our form
mix and increased our overall product
attach rate. We also successfully launched
our new brand, Block Advisors, to serve
clients with more complex, year-round
tax needs.
By the numbers, in fiscal year 2016 we:
• Served 23.2 million clients worldwide,
• Generated over $3.0 billion in revenue,
• Delivered strong adjusted EBITDA
margins of approximately 28%, and
• Returned $2.2 billion of capital to
shareholders through dividends and
share repurchases.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
With fiscal year 2016 behind us, it’s now
time to look to the future. I’m excited
about our plans for fiscal year 2017 and
beyond, and am confident we will deliver
better results. Going forward, our number
one goal is to arrest the client decline,
and ultimately, achieve client growth. To
do this, we must improve the value we
provide to our clients and do a better job
of communicating this value…both in the
short term and the long term.
2016 FORM 10-K
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016
OR
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-06089
H&R Block, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
MISSOURI
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
44-0607856
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
One H&R Block Way, Kansas City, Missouri 64105
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)
(816) 854-3000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Common Stock, without par value
Name of each exchange on which registered
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, without par value
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to
such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File
required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for
such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes
No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained,
to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.
See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Smaller reporting company
Non-accelerated filer
Accelerated filer
Large accelerated filer
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes
No
The aggregate market value of the registrant's Common Stock (all voting stock) held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to
the price at which the stock was sold on October 31, 2015, was $8,763,578,047.
Number of shares of the registrant's Common Stock, without par value, outstanding on May 31, 2016: 220,517,257.
Documents incorporated by reference
The definitive proxy statement for the registrant's Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be held September 8, 2016, is incorporated by reference in
Part III to the extent described therein.
2016 FORM 10-K AND ANNUAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
BUSINESS
ITEM 1.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
ITEM 2.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
PROPERTIES
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
PART I
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
ITEM 6.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
ITEM 7.
OF OPERATIONS
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
PART IV
SIGNATURES
EXHIBIT INDEX
1
1
7
19
19
19
19
19
20
21
35
36
75
75
76
76
76
77
77
77
77
78
79
INTRODUCTION
"H&R Block," "the Company," "we," "our" and "us" are used interchangeably to refer to H&R Block, Inc. or to H&R
Block, Inc. and its subsidiaries, as appropriate to the context.
Specified portions of our proxy statement are "incorporated by reference" in response to certain items. Our proxy
statement will be made available to shareholders in July 2016, and will also be available on our website at
www.hrblock.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may contain forward-
looking statements. In addition, our senior management may make forward-looking statements orally to analysts,
investors, the media and others. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate
strictly to historical or current facts. They often include words or variation of words such as "expects," "anticipates,"
"intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "projects," "forecasts," "targets," "would," "will," "should,"
"could," "may" or other similar expressions. Forward-looking statements provide management's current expectations
or predictions of future conditions, events or results. All statements that address operating performance, events or
developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future are forward-looking statements. They may include
estimates of revenues, income, earnings per share, capital expenditures, dividends, stock repurchase, liquidity, capital
structure or other financial items, descriptions of management's plans or objectives for future operations, services
or products, or descriptions of assumptions underlying any of the above. All forward-looking statements speak only
as of the date they are made and reflect the Company's good faith beliefs, assumptions and expectations, but they
are not guarantees of future performance or events. Furthermore, the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly
update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions, factors, or expectations,
new information, data or methods, future events or other changes, except as required by law.
By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such differences
include, but are not limited to, a variety of economic, competitive, operational and regulatory factors, many of which
are beyond the Company's control. Investors should understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all such
factors and, consequently, should not consider any such list to be a complete set of all potential risks or uncertainties.
Details about risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could affect various aspects of our business are included
throughout this Form 10-K. Investors should carefully consider all of these risks, and should pay particular attention
to Item 1A, "Risk Factors," and Item 7 under "Critical Accounting Policies" of this Form 10-K.
PART I
ITEM 1. BUSINESS
GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF BUSINESS
H&R Block, Inc. was organized as a corporation in 1955 under the laws of the State of Missouri and has subsidiaries
that provide tax preparation and other services. A complete list of our subsidiaries as of April 30, 2016 can be found
in Exhibit 21.
We provide assisted income tax return preparation, digital do-it-yourself (DIY) tax solutions and other services and
products related to income tax return preparation to the general public primarily in the United States (U.S.), Canada,
Australia, and their respective territories.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS –
Divestiture of H&R Block Bank. In April 2014, our subsidiaries, H&R Block Bank (HRB Bank) and Block Financial
LLC (Block Financial), the sole shareholder of HRB Bank, entered into a definitive Purchase and Assumption Agreement
with BofI Federal Bank, a federal savings bank (BofI), pursuant to which we agreed to sell certain assets and liabilities,
including all of the deposit liabilities of HRB Bank, to BofI (referred to herein as the P&A Transaction). On August 4,
2015, HRB Bank, Block Financial and BofI received regulatory approvals for the P&A Transaction. On August 5, 2015,
HRB Bank, Block Financial and BofI entered into an Amended and Restated Purchase and Assumption Agreement. On
August 31, 2015, we completed the P&A Transaction and made a net cash payment to BofI of $419 million, which was
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
1
approximately equal to the carrying value of the liabilities (including all deposit liabilities) assumed by BofI. In
connection with the closing, we liquidated the available-for-sale (AFS) securities previously held by HRB Bank.
In connection with the closing of the P&A Transaction we and certain of our affiliated entities entered into the
Program Management Agreement, dated August 31, 2015 (PMA), the Emerald Advance Receivables Participation
Agreement (RPA), and the Guaranty Agreement, dated August 31, 2015 (Guaranty Agreement). The PMA, RPA and
Guaranty Agreement set forth the terms under which BofI offers H&R Block-branded financial products and services
that we distribute to our clients. Under these agreements, one of our affiliated entities also provides certain marketing,
servicing and operational support to BofI for such financial products and services, the performance of which is
guaranteed by the Company.
A more detailed description of the terms of the PMA, RPA and Guaranty Agreement is set forth under Item 1.01
of the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 10, 2014 (as supplemented by the description
of the revised terms of the PMA set forth under Item 1.01 of the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with
the SEC on August 5, 2015). The foregoing descriptions of the PMA, RPA and Guaranty Agreement (including the
description incorporated herein by reference) do not purport to be complete and are subject to, and qualified in their
entirety by, reference to the PMA, RPA and Guaranty Agreement, which were attached as Exhibits 10.1, 10.2 and 10.3,
respectively, to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on September 1, 2015, each of which
is incorporated herein by reference.
Upon closing of the P&A Transaction, HRB Bank merged with and into its parent company, Block Financial,
surrendered its bank charter and ceased to exist as a bank. As a result, as of August 31, 2015, neither we nor any of
our subsidiaries is subject to minimum regulatory capital requirements or to regulation as a bank by the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency (OCC).
In addition, H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Group, Inc. and Block Financial (collectively, our Holding Companies) were
savings and loan holding companies (SLHCs) because they controlled HRB Bank. As a result of the P&A Transaction
and related actions, our Holding Companies have ceased to be SLHCs and have deregistered as SLHCs under Section
10(b) of the Home Owner's Loan Act. As of August 31, 2015, our Holding Companies are no longer subject to regulatory
capital requirements applicable to SLHCs or to regulation by the Federal Reserve.
Capital Structure. On September 1, 2015, we announced our intent to establish a new capital structure, which
included a new $3.5 billion share repurchase program approved by our Board of Directors, a new committed line of
credit, and the issuance of incremental public debt. In September and October, 2015, we (i) as a part of the announced
share repurchase program, completed our “modified Dutch auction” tender offer and purchased $1.5 billion of our
common stock at a price of $37.00 per share; (ii) terminated our previous committed line of credit agreement and
entered into a new five-year, $2.0 billion Credit and Guarantee Agreement; and (iii) issued $650.0 million of 4.125%
Senior Notes due October 1, 2020, and $350.0 million of 5.250% Senior Notes due October 1, 2025. Proceeds of the
2020 Senior Notes and the 2025 Senior Notes and cash on hand were used to repurchase shares, all as discussed
below and in Item 8, note 8 and note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION ABOUT INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
We operate as a single segment that includes all of our continuing operations, which are designed to enable clients
to obtain tax preparation services seamlessly in our offices or through our DIY tax solutions. See discussion below and
in Item 8, note 17 to the consolidated financial statements.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
GENERAL – We provide assisted and DIY tax return preparation through multiple channels (including in-person, online
and mobile applications, and desktop software) and related services and products to the general public primarily in
the U.S., Canada, Australia, and their respective territories. Major revenue sources include fees earned for tax
preparation and related services performed at company-owned retail tax offices, royalties from franchisees, sales of
desktop tax preparation software, fees for online tax preparation services and fees from complementary services and
products. By offering professional assisted and DIY tax solutions through multiple channels, we seek to serve our
clients in the manner they choose to be served.
Tax Returns Prepared. During fiscal year 2016, 23.2 million tax returns were prepared by and through H&R Block
worldwide, a decline of 4.1% from 24.2 million tax returns in each of our fiscal years 2015 and 2014. In the U.S., 19.7
2
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
million tax returns were prepared by and through H&R Block during fiscal year 2016, compared to 20.6 million in 2015
and 20.8 million in 2014. Our U.S. tax returns prepared during the 2016 tax season, including those prepared by our
franchisees and through our DIY solutions, constituted approximately 14% of an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimate
of total individual income tax returns filed during the 2016 tax season, compared to approximately 15% in fiscal year
2015. See Item 7, under "Results of Operations," for further discussion of changes in the number of tax returns
prepared.
ASSISTED – Assisted income tax return preparation and related services are provided by tax professionals via a
system of retail offices operated directly by us or our franchisees.
Offices. During the 2016 tax season, we, together with our franchisees, operated in 10,213 offices across the U.S.
at the peak of the tax season, compared to 10,286 in the prior year. A summary of our company-owned and franchise
offices is included in Item 7, under "Operating Statistics." Additional year-round tax support, planning, and business
accounting and advisory services are offered to clients in Block Advisors offices beginning in fiscal year 2016.
Franchises. We offer franchises as a way to expand our presence in certain geographic areas. Our franchise
arrangements provide us with certain rights designed to protect our brand. Most of our franchisees receive, among
other things, the right to use our trademark and software, access to product offerings and expertise, signs, specialized
forms, advertising and initial and ongoing training and advisory services. Our franchisees pay us approximately 30%
of gross tax return preparation and related service revenues as a franchise royalty in the U.S. Our franchise
arrangements typically include a ten-year term and do not provide for automatic renewal.
From time to time, we have sold certain company-owned offices to existing franchisees or have acquired the assets
of existing franchisees and other tax return preparation businesses, and may continue to do so if future conditions
warrant and satisfactory terms can be negotiated.
DO-IT-YOURSELF – In addition to our retail offices, we offer a number of DIY tax solutions.
Online Tax Services. We develop and market DIY online income tax preparation software. We offer a comprehensive
range of online tax services, including preparation of federal and state income tax returns, review of tax returns by a
tax professional, access to tax tips, advice and tax-related news, use of calculators for tax planning, error checking and
electronic filing. Our online software may be accessed through our website at www.hrblock.com.
We are a member of Free File, Inc., also referred to as the Free File Alliance (FFA). This alliance was created by the
tax return preparation industry and the IRS, and allows qualified filers with an adjusted gross income of $62,000 or
less to prepare and file their federal return online at no charge. We believe this program provides a valuable public
service and increases our visibility with new clients.
We develop and offer applications for mobile devices which provide tax return preparation and related services
and products to clients, including online tax preparation and tools that complement our other tax preparation services
and products.
Desktop Software. We develop and market DIY desktop income tax preparation software. Our desktop software
offers a simple, step-by-step tax preparation interview, data imports from money management software, calculations,
completion of the appropriate tax forms, error checking and electronic filing. Our desktop software may be purchased
online, through third-party retail stores or via direct mail.
OTHER OFFERINGS – In addition to our tax services and products, we also offer clients a number of additional
services, including refund transfers that include a fee deduction feature (RTs), H&R Block Emerald Advance® lines of
credit (EAs), H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard®, our Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan (POM), Tax Identity
Shield® (TIS), and, for our Canadian clients, a refund discount (Cash Back®) program. RTs, EAs and the H&R Block
Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® are offered through our relationship with BofI.
Refund Transfers. RTs enable clients to receive their tax refunds by their chosen method of disbursement and
include a feature enabling clients to deduct tax preparation and service fees from their tax refunds. Clients may choose
to receive their RT proceeds by direct deposit to a deposit account, by a load to their H&R Block Emerald Prepaid
MasterCard® or by receiving a check. RTs are available to U.S. clients and are frequently obtained by those who (1)
do not have bank accounts into which the IRS can direct deposit their refunds; (2) like the convenience and benefits
of a temporary account for receipt of their refund; or (3) prefer to have their tax preparation fees paid directly out of
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
3
their refunds. Following the divestiture of HRB Bank, we facilitate RTs offered by BofI. We offer a similar program to
our Canadian clients, referred to as Pay With RefundTM.
H&R Block Emerald Advance® Lines of Credit. EAs are unsecured lines of credit offered to clients in our offices,
typically from late November through mid-January, currently in an amount not to exceed $1,000. If the borrower
meets certain criteria as agreed in the loan terms, the line of credit can be utilized year-round. Borrowers have the
option to pay down balances on EAs with their tax refunds. Following the divestiture of HRB Bank, these lines of credit
are now offered by BofI, and we subsequently purchase a participation interest in the outstanding balances.
H&R Block Emerald Prepaid Mastercard®. The H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® enables clients to receive
their tax refunds from the IRS directly on a prepaid debit card, or to direct RT proceeds to the card. The card can be
used for everyday purchases, bill payments and ATM withdrawals anywhere MasterCard® is accepted. Additional funds
can be added to the card year-round through direct deposit or at participating retail locations. Following the divestiture
of HRB Bank, we distribute the H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® offered by BofI.
Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan. In addition to our standard guarantee, we offer POM to U.S. clients, whereby
we (1) represent our clients if they are audited by the IRS, and (2) assume the cost, subject to certain limits, of additional
taxes owed by a client resulting from errors attributable to H&R Block. The additional taxes paid under POM have a
cumulative limit of $6,000 with respect to the federal, state and local tax returns we prepared for applicable clients
during the taxable year protected by POM.
Tax Identity Shield®. This service program offers clients assistance obtaining additional IRS identity protection,
when eligible, to better protect against unauthorized third parties filing a fraudulent tax return with their information.
TIS also includes a pre-tax season identity theft risk assessment, notification if their information is detected on a tax
return filed through H&R Block and access to services to help restore their tax identity if necessary.
Cash Back® Refund Discount Program. During the tax season, our Canadian operations advance refunds due to
certain clients from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), for a fee. The fee charged for this service is mandated by
federal legislation which is administered by the CRA. The client assigns to us the full amount of the tax refund to be
issued by the CRA and the refund amount is then sent by the CRA directly to us.
SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS – Because most of our clients file their tax returns during the period from January
through April of each year, a substantial majority of our revenues from income tax return preparation and related
services and products are earned during this period. As a result, we generally operate at a loss through a majority of
the fiscal year.
COMPETITIVE CONDITIONS – We provide both assisted and DIY tax preparation services and products and face
substantial competition in and across each category. There are a substantial number of tax return preparation firms
and accounting firms offering tax return preparation services, and we face significant competition from independent
tax preparers and certified public accountants. Many tax return preparation firms are involved in providing electronic
filing services and RTs or similar services to the public. Tax return preparation firms are highly competitive with regard
to price and service, and many firms offer services that may include preparation of tax returns at no charge. Our
assisted tax preparation business also faces competition from firms offering DIY tax preparation services and products.
Our DIY tax solutions include various forms of digital electronic assistance, including online and mobile applications
and desktop software. Many other companies offer digital and online tax preparation services, including Intuit, Inc.,
our largest competitor offering such services. Like all tax return preparation services and products, price and marketing
competition for digital tax preparation services is intense among value and premium product offerings and many firms
offer digital services and products at no charge. Our DIY tax solutions also compete with in-office tax preparation
services. U.S. federal and certain state and foreign taxing authorities also currently offer, or facilitate the offering of,
tax return preparation and filing options to taxpayers at no charge.
In terms of the number of offices and revenues, we believe we are the largest single provider of tax return
preparation solutions and electronic filing services in the U.S., while we believe we are the second largest provider
based on the number of tax returns prepared. We also believe we operate the largest tax return preparation businesses
in Canada and Australia.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION – TAX PREPARERS – Our tax preparation business is subject to various forms of
government regulation, including the following:
4
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
U.S. Federal Tax Preparer Regulations. U.S. federal legislation requires income tax return preparers to, among
other things, set forth their signatures and identification numbers, including their Preparer Tax Identification Number
(PTIN), on all tax returns prepared by them and retain all tax returns prepared by them for three years. U.S. federal
laws also subject income tax return preparers to accuracy-related penalties in connection with the preparation of
income tax returns. Preparers may be prohibited from continuing to act as income tax return preparers if they
repeatedly engage in specified misconduct.
The U.S. federal government regulates the electronic filing of income tax returns in part by requiring electronic
filers to comply with all publications and notices of the IRS applicable to electronic filing. We are required to provide
certain electronic filing information to taxpayers and comply with advertising standards for electronic filers. We are
also subject to possible monitoring by the IRS, and if deemed appropriate, the IRS could impose various penalties,
including penalties for improper disclosure or use of taxpayer information, other preparer penalties or suspension
from the IRS electronic filing program.
Financial Consumer Protection and Privacy Regulations. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and related Consumer
Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations require income tax preparers to
(1) adopt and disclose consumer privacy notices, (2) provide consumers a reasonable opportunity to control (via "opt-
out") whether their nonpublic personal information is disclosed to unaffiliated third-parties (subject to certain
exceptions), and (3) implement reasonable safeguards to protect the security and confidentiality of nonpublic personal
information. In addition, the IRS generally prohibits the use or disclosure of taxpayer information by tax return
preparers for purposes other than tax return preparation without the prior written consent of the taxpayer. The CFPB
may issue regulations that apply to our subsidiaries, or certain of our third party service providers that provide
consumer financial services and products. The CFPB may examine, and take enforcement actions against, our
subsidiaries or our third party service providers. See Item 1A, "Risk Factors," for further information on the CFPB and
its recent actions.
State Regulations. Certain states have privacy laws and regulations similar to the U.S. federal regulations described
above. Most states also have data security breach notice laws which may require notice to impacted individuals and
others if there is unauthorized access to certain nonpublic personal information. Several states require income tax
return preparers to, among other things, register as a return preparer and comply with certain registration
requirements such as testing and continuing education requirements. State regulations may also subject income tax
return preparers to accuracy-related penalties in connection with the preparation of income tax returns, and may
prohibit preparers from continuing to act as income tax return preparers if they engage in specified misconduct.
Certain states have regulations and requirements relating to offering income tax courses. These requirements may
include licensing, bonding and certain restrictions on advertising.
Franchise Regulations. Many of the income tax return preparation offices operating in the U.S. under the name
"H&R Block" are operated by franchisees. Our franchising activities are subject to the rules and regulations of the FTC,
potential enforcement by the CFPB, and various state laws regulating the offer and sale of franchises. The FTC and
various state laws require us to furnish to prospective franchisees a franchise disclosure document containing certain
prescribed information. A number of states in which we are currently franchising regulate the sale of franchises and
require registration of the franchise disclosure document with certain state authorities. We are currently operating
under exemptions from registration in several of these states based on our net worth and experience. Substantive
state laws regulating the franchisor/franchisee relationship presently exist in a large number of states, and bills have
been introduced in Congress from time to time that would provide for federal regulation of the franchisor/franchisee
relationship in certain respects. The state laws often limit, among other things, the duration and scope of non-
competition provisions, the ability of a franchisor to terminate or refuse to renew a franchise and the ability of a
franchisor to designate sources of supply. From time to time, we may make appropriate amendments to our franchise
disclosure document to comply with our disclosure obligations under U.S. federal and state laws.
FOREIGN REGULATIONS – We are also subject to a variety of other regulations in various foreign markets, including
anti-corruption laws, and regulations concerning privacy, data protection and data retention. Foreign regulations and
laws potentially affecting our business are evolving rapidly. We rely on external counsel in the countries in which we
do business to advise us regarding compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As our international operations
grow, we continue to develop and enhance our internal legal and operational compliance programs that guide our
businesses in complying with laws and regulations applicable in the countries in which we do business.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
5
SERVICE MARKS, TRADEMARKS AND PATENTS
We have made a practice of offering our services and products under service marks and trademarks and of securing
registration for many of these marks in the U.S. and other countries where our services and products are marketed.
We consider these service marks and trademarks, in the aggregate, to be of material importance to our business,
particularly our businesses providing services and products under the "H&R Block" brand. The initial duration of U.S.
federal trademark registrations is 10 years. Most U.S. federal registrations can be renewed perpetually at 10-year
intervals and remain enforceable so long as the marks continue to be used.
We hold a small but growing patent portfolio that we believe is important to our overall competitive position,
although we are not materially dependent on any one patent or particular group of patents in our portfolio at this
time. Our patents have remaining terms generally ranging from one to 20 years.
EMPLOYEES AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
We had approximately 2,400 regular full-time employees as of April 30, 2016. Our business is dependent on the
availability of a seasonal workforce, including tax professionals, and our ability to hire, train, and supervise these
employees. The highest number of persons we employed during the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016, including these
seasonal employees, was approximately 94,800.
Information about our executive officers is as follows:
Name, age
William C. Cobb,
age 59
Current position
President and Chief
Executive Officer
Tony G. Bowen,
age 41
Chief Financial Officer
Jeffrey T. Brown,
age 57
Chief Accounting and Risk
Officer
Kathryn M. Collins,
age 52
Senior Vice President and
Chief Marketing Officer
Thomas A. Gerke,
age 60
General Counsel and Chief
Administrative Officer
Jason L. Houseworth,
age 41
Chief Innovation Officer
Gregory J. Macfarlane,
age 46
Senior Vice President, U.S.
Retail Products and
Operations
Business experience since May 1, 2011
President and Chief Executive Officer since May 2011; retired from eBay, Inc.
in 2008, having worked there from November 2000 to March 2008, where he
most recently served as President of eBay Marketplaces North America for
four years; before that, he held several senior management positions, including
Senior Vice President and General Manager of eBay International and Senior
Vice President of Global Marketing.
Chief Financial Officer since May 2016; Vice President, U.S. Tax Services Finance
from May 2013 through April 2016; Vice President, Digital GM from May 2012
until May 2013; Vice President, Digital CFO from July 2011 until May 2012;
Assistant Vice President of Corporate Development from October 2009 until
July 2011.
Chief Accounting and Risk Officer since June 2012, retiring effective July 1,
2016; Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from September 2010
until June 2012; Interim Chief Financial Officer from May 2010 to September
2010; Vice President and Corporate Controller from March 2008 until
September 2010.
Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer since May 2016; Chief
Marketing Officer from October 2013 through April 2016; Vice President, Retail
Marketing from July 2012 until October 2013; Vice President, Marketing
Communications and Brand Management from January 2006 until July 2012.
Prior to 2006, Ms. Collins held various positions at Lee Jeans, a division of VF
Corporation.
General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer since May 2016; Chief Legal
Officer (formerly titled Senior Vice President and General Counsel) from
January 2012 through April 2016; Executive Vice President, General Counsel
and Secretary of YRC Worldwide from January 2011 until April 2011; Executive
Vice Chairman, Century Link, Inc. from July 2009 until December 2010.
Chief Innovation Officer (formerly titled Senior Vice President, Business
Innovations) since May 2016; President, U.S. Tax Product Strategy and
Development from April 2015 through May 2016; President, Global Digital and
Product Management from May 2013 until April 2015; President, U.S. Tax
Services from May 2012 until May 2013; Senior Vice President, Digital Tax
Solutions from February 2011 until May 2012; Vice President, Technology from
July 2008 until February 2011.
Senior Vice President, U.S. Retail Products and Operations since May 2016;
Chief Financial Officer from June 2012 through April 2016; Executive Vice
President and Chief Financial Officer of Ceridian Corporation from March 2007
until August 2011.
AVAILABILITY OF REPORTS AND OTHER INFORMATION
Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments
to those reports filed with or furnished to the SEC are available, free of charge, through our website at www.hrblock.com
as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC. The public
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
may read and copy any materials we file with the SEC at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE,
Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling
the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov containing reports, proxy and information
statements and other information regarding issuers who file electronically with the SEC.
The following corporate governance documents are posted on our website at www.hrblock.com:
The Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of H&R Block, Inc.;
The Amended and Restated Bylaws of H&R Block, Inc.;
The H&R Block, Inc. Corporate Governance Guidelines;
The H&R Block, Inc. Code of Business Ethics and Conduct;
The H&R Block, Inc. Board of Directors Independence Standards;
The H&R Block, Inc. Audit Committee Charter;
The H&R Block, Inc. Compensation Committee Charter;
The H&R Block, Inc. Finance Committee Charter; and
The H&R Block, Inc. Governance and Nominating Committee Charter.
If you would like a printed copy of any of these corporate governance documents, please send your request to H&R
Block, Inc., One H&R Block Way, Kansas City, Missouri 64105, Attention: Corporate Secretary.
Information contained on our website does not constitute any part of this report.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
Our business activities expose us to a variety of risks. Identification, monitoring and management of these risks are
essential to the success of our operations and the financial soundness of H&R Block. Senior management and the
Board of Directors, acting as a whole and through its committees, take an active role in our risk management process
and have delegated certain activities related to the oversight of risk management to the Company's Risk Committee,
which is comprised of senior managers of major businesses and control functions. The Risk Committee is responsible
for identifying and monitoring risk exposures and leading the continued development of our risk management policies
and practices.
An investment in our securities involves risk, including the risk that the value of that investment may decline or
that returns on that investment may fall below expectations. There are a number of significant factors that could cause
actual conditions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, many of
which are beyond management's control or its ability to accurately estimate or predict, or that could adversely affect
our financial position, results of operations, cash flows and the value of an investment in our securities.
RISKS RELATING TO CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Increased competition for tax preparation clients could adversely affect our current market share and profitability.
Offers of free tax preparation services could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.
We provide both assisted and DIY tax preparation services and products and face substantial competition throughout
our businesses. All categories in the tax return preparation industry are highly competitive. In the assisted tax services
category, there are a substantial number of tax return preparation firms and accounting firms offering tax return
preparation services. Commercial tax return preparers are highly competitive with regard to price and service. In the
DIY category, options include the use of traditional paper forms and various forms of digital electronic assistance,
including online and mobile applications, and desktop software, all of which we offer. Our DIY services and products
compete with a number of online and software companies, primarily on price and functionality. Individual tax filers
may elect to change their tax preparation method, choosing from among various assisted and DIY offerings. Technology
advances quickly and in new and unexpected ways, and it is difficult to predict the manner in which these changes
will impact the tax return preparation industry, the problems we may encounter in enhancing our products and services
or the time and resources we may need to devote to the creation, support, and maintenance of technological
enhancements. If we are slow to enhance our products, services, or technologies, or if our competitors are able to
achieve results more quickly than us, we may fail to capture, or lose, a significant share of the market, especially in
the DIY category. Additionally, we and many other tax return preparation firms are involved in providing one or more
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
7
of RTs, financial products and services, and other tax-related services and products, many of which are subject to
regulatory scrutiny, litigation, and other risks. We can make no assurances that we will be able to offer, or continue
to offer, all of these services and a failure to do so could negatively impact our financial results and ability to compete.
Intense competition could result in a reduction of our market share, lower revenues, lower margins and lower
profitability.
U.S. federal, state and foreign governmental authorities in certain jurisdictions in which we operate currently offer,
or facilitate the offering of, tax return preparation and electronic filing options to taxpayers at no charge, and certain
volunteer organizations also prepare tax returns at no charge for low-income taxpayers. In addition, many of our
competitors offer certain tax preparation services and products and electronic filing options at no charge. In order to
compete, we may offer certain free tax preparation services and products at no charge. We enabled the preparation
of 678 thousand, 676 thousand and 767 thousand U.S. federal income tax returns in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014,
respectively, at no charge through the FFA. There can be no assurance that we will be able to attract clients or effectively
ensure the migration of clients from our free tax service offerings to those for which we receive fees, and clients who
have formerly paid for our tax service offerings may elect to use free offerings instead. These competitive factors may
diminish our revenue and profitability, or harm our ability to acquire and retain clients.
Government tax authorities, volunteer organizations, and our direct competitors may also elect to expand free
offerings in the future. From time to time U.S. federal and state governments have considered various proposals (often
referred to as "Return-Free Filing" or "Pre-Populated Returns") through which the respective governmental taxing
authorities would use taxpayer information provided by employers, financial institutions, and other payers to "pre-
populate," prepare and calculate tax returns and distribute them to taxpayers. Under this approach, the taxpayer
could then review and contest the return or sign and return it. While the FFA and other free options that are currently
offered, or may be offered in the future, may reduce the perceived need for government tax service offerings, they
foster additional online competition and may cause us to lose significant revenue opportunities. We believe that
governmental encroachment at both the U.S. federal and state levels, as well as comparable government levels in
foreign jurisdictions in which we operate, could present a continued competitive threat to our business for the
foreseeable future.
During fiscal year 2016, 23.2 million tax returns were prepared by and through H&R Block worldwide, a decline of
4.1% from 24.2 million tax returns in each of our fiscal years 2015 and 2014. U.S. tax returns prepared by and through
H&R Block during the 2016 tax season, including those prepared by our franchisees and through our DIY solutions,
constituted approximately 14% of an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimate of total individual income tax returns
filed during the 2016 tax season, compared to approximately 15% in fiscal year 2015. See additional discussion in Item
7, under "Operating Statistics."
Failure to comply with laws and regulations that protect our clients' and employees' personal information could
harm our brand and reputation and could result in significant fines, penalties, and damages.
In the course of our business, we collect, use, and retain large amounts of personal client information and data,
including tax return information, financial account information, and social security numbers. In addition, we collect
and maintain personal information of our employees in the ordinary course of our business. The Company holds some
of this personal information and third parties execute some transactions utilizing this information. We use security
and business controls to limit access to and use of personal information, but unauthorized individuals or third parties
may be able to circumvent these security and business measures, which could require us to notify affected clients or
employees under applicable privacy laws and regulations. In the normal course of their duties, some employees,
contractors and temporary employees have access to the personal information of clients and employees or execute
transactions requiring sensitive information. While we conduct employee background checks, as allowed by law, and
limit access to systems and data, it is possible that one or more of these controls could be circumvented. Improper
disclosure or use of our clients' or employees' personal information could result in damage to our brand and reputation,
and actions required to remediate improper disclosures could be costly.
We are subject to laws, rules, and regulations relating to the collection, use, disclosure, and security of consumer
and employee personal information, which have drawn increased attention from U.S. federal, state, and foreign
governmental authorities in jurisdictions in which we operate. In the U.S., the IRS generally requires a tax return
preparer to obtain the prior written consent of the taxpayer to use or disclose the taxpayer's information for certain
purposes other than tax return preparation. In addition, other regulations require financial service providers to adopt
8
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
and disclose their consumer privacy notice and generally provide consumers with a reasonable opportunity to "opt-
out" of having nonpublic personal information disclosed to unaffiliated third parties. Numerous jurisdictions have
passed new laws related to the use and retention of consumer information and this area continues to be an area of
interest for U.S. federal, state, and foreign governmental authorities. All of these laws may be interpreted and applied
inconsistently from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and our current data protection policies and practices may not be
consistent with all of those interpretations and applications. In addition, changes in U.S. federal and state regulatory
requirements, as well as requirements imposed by governmental authorities in foreign jurisdictions in which we
operate, could result in more stringent requirements and in a need to change business practices, including the types
of information we can use and the manner in which we can use such information. Establishing systems and processes
to achieve compliance with these new requirements may increase our costs or limit our ability to pursue certain
business opportunities.
A security breach of our systems, or third party systems on which we rely, resulting in unauthorized access to
personal client information may adversely affect the demand for our services and products, our reputation, and
financial performance.
We offer a range of services and products to our clients, including assisted and DIY tax return preparation services
and products, and financial products and services. Due to the nature of these services and products, we use multiple
digital technologies to collect, transmit, and store high volumes of personal client information. Information security
risks to companies that use digital technologies continue to increase due in part to the increased adoption of and
reliance upon these technologies by companies and consumers. Our risk and exposure to these matters remain
heightened due to a variety of factors including, among other things, the evolving nature of these threats and related
regulation, the increased sophistication of organized crime, cyber criminals and hackers, the prominence of our brand,
our and our franchisees' extensive office footprint, our plans to continue to implement our DIY strategies for our
online and mobile applications and our desktop software, and our use of third party vendors.
Cybersecurity risks may result from fraud or malice (a cyber attack), human error, or accidental technological failure.
Cyber attacks are designed to electronically circumvent network security for malicious purposes such as unlawfully
obtaining personal client information, disrupting our ability to offer services, damaging our brand and reputation,
stealing our intellectual property, and advancing social or political agendas. We face a variety of cyber attack threats
including computer viruses, malicious codes, worms, phishing attacks, social engineering, denial of service attacks,
and other sophisticated attacks.
We maintain multiple levels of protection in order to address or otherwise mitigate the risk of a security breach.
We regularly test our systems to discover and address potential vulnerabilities. Due to the structure of our business
model, we also rely on our franchisees and other private and governmental third parties to maintain secure systems
and respond to cybersecurity risks. Cybersecurity and the continued development and enhancement of our controls,
processes, and practices designed to protect our systems, computers, software, data, and networks from attack,
damage, or unauthorized access remain a high priority for us. As risks and regulations continue to evolve, we may be
required to expend significant additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to
investigate and remediate any information security vulnerabilities. Notwithstanding these efforts, there can be no
assurance that a security breach, intrusion, or loss or theft of personal client information will not occur.
A breach of our security measures or those of our franchisees or third parties on whom we rely, or other fraudulent
activity, could result in unauthorized access to personal client information. If such an event were to occur, it could
have serious short and long term negative consequences. Security breach remediation could require us to expend
significant resources to notify or assist impacted clients, repair damaged systems, implement improved information
security measures, and maintain client and business relationships. Other consequences could include reduced client
demand for our services and products, loss of valuable intellectual property, reduced growth and profitability and
negative impacts to future financial results, loss of our ability to deliver one or more services or products (e.g., inability
to provide financial transaction services or to accept and process client credit card orders or tax returns), litigation,
harm to our reputation and brands, fines, penalties, and other damages, and further regulation and oversight by U.S.
federal, state, or foreign governmental authorities.
A security breach or other unauthorized access to our systems could have a material adverse effect on our business
and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
9
Stolen identity refund fraud could impede our clients' ability to timely and successfully file their tax returns and
receive their tax refunds, and could diminish consumers' perceptions of the security and reliability of our products
and services, resulting in negative publicity. Increased governmental regulation to attempt to combat that fraud
could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.
Companies offering DIY tax preparation services have seen a rise in instances of criminals utilizing stolen information
obtained through hacking, phishing, and other means of identity theft in order to electronically file fraudulent federal
and state tax returns. As a result, an increasing number of taxpayers must complete additional forms and go through
additional steps in order to report to appropriate authorities that their identities have been stolen and their tax returns
were filed fraudulently. Though we offer assistance in the refund recovery process and offer our Tax Identity Shield®
product to help protect clients, stolen identity refund fraud could impede our clients' ability to timely and successfully
file their returns and receive their tax refunds, and could diminish consumers' perceptions of the security and reliability
of our products and services, resulting in negative publicity, despite there having been no breach in the security of
our systems. In addition, if stolen identity refund fraud is perpetrated through our products or services, state, federal
or foreign tax authorities may refuse to allow us to continue to process our clients' tax returns electronically. As a
result, stolen identity refund fraud could harm our revenue, results of operations and reputation.
Federal, state, and foreign governmental authorities in jurisdictions in which we operate have taken action, and
may in the future take additional action, in an attempt to combat stolen identity refund fraud, which may require
changes to our systems and business practices, in ways that we cannot anticipate. These actions may have a material
adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
In addition, our clients may access our services and products from personal or public computers and mobile devices
and may install and use our H&R Block DIY desktop tax preparation software on their computers. As a result, a person
with malicious intent could obtain user account and password information from our clients through hacking, phishing,
or other means of cyber attack, in order to perpetrate stolen identity refund fraud and otherwise cause losses for our
clients. It has been reported that a number of companies, including some in the tax return preparation industry, have
experienced instances where criminals gained unauthorized and illegal access to their systems by using stolen identity
information obtained from sources other than those companies. The unauthorized and illegal access to those systems
was used by criminals to perpetrate a variety of crimes, including stolen identity refund fraud. We could experience
this form of unauthorized and illegal access to our systems, despite there having been no breach in the security of
our systems, which could negatively impact our clients and harm our revenue, results of operations and reputation.
Additionally, if such unauthorized or illegal access occurs, we may be subject to claims and litigation by clients, non-
clients, or governmental agencies.
An interruption in our information systems, or those of our franchisees or a third party on which we rely, or an
interruption in the internet, could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations, and cash flows.
We and our franchisees rely heavily upon communications, networks, and information systems and the internet to
conduct our business. These networks, systems, and operations are potentially vulnerable to damage or interruption
from upgrades and maintenance, network failure, hardware failure, software failure, power or telecommunications
failures, cyber attacks involving the penetration of our network by hackers or other unauthorized users through
computer viruses and worms, malicious code, phishing attacks, denial of service attacks, or information security
breaches, other negative disruptions to the operation of the internet, and natural disasters. As our businesses are
seasonal, our systems must be capable of processing high volumes during our peak periods. Therefore, any failure or
interruption in our information systems, or information systems of our franchisees or a private or government third
party on which we rely, or an interruption in the internet or other critical business capability, could negatively impact
our business operations and increase our risk of loss.
There can be no assurance that system or internet failures, or interruptions in critical business capabilities will not
occur, or, if they do occur, that we, our franchisees or the private or governmental third parties on whom we rely, will
adequately address them. The precautionary measures that we have implemented to avoid systems outages and to
minimize the effects of any data or communication systems interruptions or failures may not be adequate in all
circumstances, and we may not have anticipated or addressed all of the potential events that could threaten or
undermine our information systems or other critical business capabilities.
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
The occurrence of any systems or internet failure, or business interruption could negatively impact our ability to
serve our clients, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Government initiatives that modify tax return preparation requirements or expedite refunds could have an adverse
effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
From time to time, there are various initiatives seeking to modify the preparation and filing of federal tax returns,
including preparation of tax returns directly by the IRS, and to provide additional assistance with respect to preparing
and filing such tax returns or expediting refunds. H&R Block is a member of the FFA, which provides the ability for
low-income taxpayers to prepare and file their own federal tax returns online for free. The IRS has been exploring the
Real Time Tax System concept, which would require that documents (such as W-2s and 1099s) must be on file with
the IRS prior to taxpayers submitting their tax returns. The objective of this concept would be to facilitate document
matching such that it would reduce fraud and after-the-fact audits. The implementation of the Real Time Tax System
would provide a foundation for the IRS preparation of tax returns and make the pre-populated return a more tangible
possibility.
The IRS has in the past explored the possibility of allowing taxpayers to allocate a portion of their tax refunds to
pay tax preparation fees, which could reduce the demand for RTs, but the IRS has not advanced this initiative. Taxing
authorities in various state, local, and foreign jurisdictions in which we operate have also introduced measures seeking
to modify the preparation and filing of tax returns in their respective jurisdictions. The adoption or expansion of any
measures that significantly modify tax return preparation, expedite refunds, or otherwise reduce the need for a third-
party tax return preparer could reduce demand for our services and products and could have a material adverse effect
on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
The Dodd-Frank Act created the CFPB to administer and, in some cases, enforce U.S. federal financial consumer
protection laws and expanded the role of state regulators with respect to consumer protection laws. Regulations
promulgated by the CFPB or state regulators may affect our financial services businesses in ways we cannot predict,
which may require changes to our financial products, services, and contracts.
The Dodd-Frank Act created the CFPB and gave it broad powers to administer, investigate compliance with, and, in
some cases, enforce U.S. federal financial consumer protection laws. The CFPB has broad rule-making authority for a
wide range of financial consumer protection laws that apply to all banks, federal savings banks, and other financial
services companies, including the authority to prohibit "unfair, deceptive, or abusive" acts and practices.
The CFPB may examine, investigate, and take enforcement actions against our subsidiaries that provide consumer
financial services and products, as well as financial institutions and service providers upon which our subsidiaries rely
to provide consumer financial services and products. The Dodd-Frank Act also expanded the role of state regulators
in enforcing and promulgating financial consumer protection laws, the results of which could be states issuing new
and broader financial consumer protection laws, some of which could be more comprehensive than existing U.S.
federal regulations. New CFPB and state regulations may require changes to our financial products, services and
contracts, and this could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results
of operations, and cash flows. Examples of recent CFPB action include the following:
On November 13, 2014, the CFPB issued proposed rules that would change the regulation of prepaid products.
It is not clear when the CFPB will publish the final version of these rules, or what their content will be. If
enacted as proposed, the rules would make prepaid cards subject to Federal Reserve Regulations E and Z,
among other things, and would apply to the H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard®. It is possible that,
depending on the form of the final rules, changes would be necessary to the H&R Block Emerald Prepaid
MasterCard® to comply with the final rules, and that such changes could have a material adverse effect on
the revenue we derive from our H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® program.
On May 5, 2016, the CFPB issued a request for comments on its proposal to prohibit mandatory consumer
arbitration clauses in consumer financial product contracts. We, and certain of our third party service
providers, utilize consumer arbitration clauses in connection with all of our consumer financial services
products. It is not clear when the CFPB will publish the final version of these rules, or what their content will
be. It is possible that, if the CFPB issues final rules that prohibit our use of consumer arbitration clauses, the
risk of litigation involving our consumer financial products could increase, and the revenue that we derive
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
11
from our consumer financial products could decline, as the result of adverse outcomes of litigation, increased
volume of litigation, and the expense of defending such litigation.
On June 2, 2016, the CFPB issued proposed rules that would change the regulation of many forms of consumer
credit. It is not clear when the CFPB will publish the final version of these rules, or what their content will
be. It is possible that the final rules, when enacted, could impact EAs. It is also possible that, depending on
the form of the final rules, changes would be necessary to EAs to comply with the final rules, and that such
changes could have a material adverse effect on the revenue that we derive from EAs.
The nature of our tax service and product offerings requires timely product launches. Any significant delays in
launching our tax service and product offerings, changes in government regulations or processes that affect how
we provide such offerings to our clients, or significant problems with such offerings or the manner in which we
provide them to our clients may harm our revenue, results of operations, and reputation.
Tax laws and tax forms are subject to change each year, and the nature and timing of such changes are unpredictable.
As a part of our business, we must incorporate any changes to tax laws and tax forms into our tax service and product
offerings, including our online tax services and desktop tax preparation software. The unpredictable nature and timing
of changes to tax laws and tax forms can result in condensed development cycles for our tax service and product
offerings because our clients expect high levels of accuracy and a timely launch of such offerings to prepare and file
their taxes by the tax filing deadline and, in turn, receive any tax refund amounts on a timely basis. In addition,
governmental authorities regularly change their processes for accepting tax filings and related tax forms. Further,
changes in governmental administrations could result in a delay of the start of the tax season or in further and
unanticipated changes in regulations or processes. Changes in governmental regulations and processes that affect
how we provide services and products to our clients may require us to make corresponding changes to our client
service systems and procedures. Furthermore, unanticipated changes in governmental processes for accepting tax
filings and related forms, or the ability of taxing authorities to accept electronic tax return filings, may result in delays
in our processing of our clients' tax filings, or delays in tax authorities accepting electronic tax return filings, and, in
turn, delay any tax refund amounts to which such clients may be entitled. From time to time, we review and enhance
our quality controls for preparing accurate tax returns, but there can be no assurance that we will be able to prevent
all inaccuracies. Any significant delays in launching our tax service and product offerings, changes in government
regulations or processes that affect how we provide such offerings to our clients, or significant problems with such
offerings or the manner in which we provide them to our clients may harm our revenue, results of operations, and
reputation.
If we encounter development challenges or discover errors in our systems, services or products, we may elect to
delay or suspend our offerings. Any major defects or launch delays, or failure to anticipate changes in governmental
processes for accepting tax filings and related forms, may lead to loss of clients and revenue, negative publicity, client
and employee dissatisfaction, a deterioration in our business relationships with our franchisees, reduced retailer shelf
space and promotions, exposure to litigation, and increased operating expenses. Any of the risks described above
could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations,
and cash flows.
Regulatory actions could have an adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of
operations, and cash flows.
The Company is subject to additional federal, state, and foreign laws and regulations that affect the Company, including,
without limitation, in the areas of franchise, labor, advertising, consumer products, payment processing, anti-
competition, environmental, health and safety, insurance, and healthcare. There have been significant new regulations
and heightened focus by the government in some of these areas, including, for example, the Affordable Care Act and
the Department of Labor amendments to the overtime and exemption regulations of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
There may be additional regulatory actions or enforcement priorities, or new interpretations of existing requirements
that differ from ours. These developments could impose unanticipated limitations or require changes to our business,
which may make elements of our business more expensive, less efficient, or impossible to conduct, and may require
us to modify our current or future services or products, which effects may be heightened given the nature, broad
geographic scope, and seasonality of our business.
12
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
We rely on a single vendor or a limited number of vendors to provide certain key services or products, and the
inability of these key vendors to meet our needs could have a material adverse effect on our business and our
consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Historically, we have contracted, and in the future we will likely continue to contract, with a single vendor or a limited
number of vendors to provide certain key services or products for our tax, financial, and other services and products.
Two examples of this type of reliance are our relationships with FIS, for data processing and card production services,
and BofI, as discussed in Item 1. In certain instances, we are vulnerable to vendor error, service inefficiencies, service
interruptions, or service delays. Our sensitivity to any of these issues may be heightened (1) due to the seasonality
of our business, (2) with respect to any vendor that we utilize for the provision of any product or service that has
specialized expertise, (3) with respect to any vendor that is a sole or exclusive provider, or (4) with respect to any
vendor whose indemnification obligations are limited or that does not have the financial capacity to satisfy its
indemnification obligations. Some of our vendors are subject to the oversight of regulatory bodies and, as a result,
our product or service offerings may be affected by the actions or decisions of such regulatory bodies. Vendor failures
could occur in various ways including (1) vendor error, (2) inability to meet our needs in a timely manner, or (3)
termination or delay in the services or products provided by a vendor because the vendor fails to perform adequately,
is no longer in business, experiences shortages, or discontinues a certain product or service that we utilize. If our
vendors are unable to meet our needs and we are not able to develop alternative sources for these services and
products quickly and cost-effectively, it could result in a material and adverse impact on our business and our
consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
The specialized and highly seasonal nature of our business presents financial risks and operational challenges,
which, if not satisfactorily addressed, could materially affect our business and our consolidated financial position,
results of operations, and cash flows.
Success in our industry depends on our ability to attract, develop, and retain key personnel in a timely manner, including
members of our executive team, and those in seasonal tax preparation positions or with other required specialized
expertise, including technical positions. The market for such personnel is extremely competitive, and there can be no
assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to attract and retain the required personnel within necessary
timeframes. If we are unable to attract, develop, and retain key personnel, our business, operations and financial
results could be negatively impacted.
Our business is highly seasonal, with the substantial portion of our revenue earned in the fourth quarter of our
fiscal year. The concentration of our revenue-generating activity during this relatively short period presents a number
of challenges for us, including (1) cash and resource management during the first nine months of our fiscal year, when
we generally operate at a loss and incur fixed costs and costs of preparing for the upcoming tax season, (2) ensuring
compliance with financial covenants under our unsecured committed line of credit (2015 CLOC), particularly if the
timing of our revenue generation deviates from this seasonal period, (3) the availability of a seasonal workforce,
including tax professionals, and our ability to attract, hire, train, supervise, motivate, and retain these employees, (4)
responding to changes in competitive conditions, including marketing, pricing, and new product offerings, which could
affect our position during the tax season, (5) disruptions in a tax season, including any customer dissatisfaction issues,
which may not be timely discovered, and (6) ensuring optimal uninterrupted operations and service delivery during
peak season. If we experience significant business disruptions during the tax season or if we are unable to satisfactorily
address the challenges described above and related challenges associated with a seasonal business, we could
experience a loss of business, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations and cash flows.
We face litigation in connection with our various business activities, and current or future litigation may damage
our reputation, impair our product offerings, or result in material liabilities and losses.
We have been named, and from time to time will likely continue to be named, as a defendant in various legal actions,
including arbitrations, class actions, actions or inquiries by state attorneys general, and other litigation arising in
connection with our various business activities, including relating to our various service and product offerings. We
also grant our franchisees a limited license to use our registered trademarks and, accordingly, there is risk that one
or more of the franchisees may be identified as being controlled by us. Third parties, regulators or courts may seek
to hold us responsible for the actions or failures to act by our franchisees. Adverse outcomes related to litigation could
result in substantial damages and could cause our earnings to decline. Negative public opinion could also result from
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
13
our subsidiaries' or franchisees' actual or alleged conduct in such claims, possibly damaging our reputation, which, in
turn, could adversely affect our business prospects and cause the market price of our securities to decline.
In addition, we have been sued, and certain of our competitors have been sued, in connection with the offering
of different types of RT products. Further, we have received an inquiry from the California Attorney General requesting
information regarding our RT product. In a case involving one of our competitors, a California appellate court affirmed
a trial court's ruling that the competitor's specific version of a RT product was subject to truth-in-lending and other
related laws. Following the appellate court's ruling, the case was denied further appellate review. We believe there
are differences that distinguish our RT product from the product that was the subject of the competitor's case described
above. Revenues from our RT product totaled $165 million in fiscal year 2016; any requirement that materially alters
our offering of RTs, including limitations on the fees we charge or disclosure requirements that could reduce the
demand for these products, could have a material adverse impact on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Our access to liquidity may be negatively impacted as disruptions in credit markets occur, if credit rating downgrades
occur, or if we fail to meet certain covenants. Funding costs may increase, leading to reduced earnings.
We need liquidity to meet our off-season working capital requirements, to service debt obligations including
refinancing of maturing obligations, and for general corporate purposes. Our access to and the cost of liquidity could
be negatively impacted in the event of credit rating downgrades or if we fail to meet existing financial covenants. In
addition, events could occur which could increase our need for liquidity above current levels.
If rating agencies downgrade our credit rating, the cost of debt under our existing financing arrangements, as well
as future financing arrangements, could increase and capital market access could decrease or become unavailable.
Our 2015 CLOC is subject to various covenants, and a violation of a covenant could impair our access to liquidity
currently available through the 2015 CLOC. The 2015 CLOC includes provisions that allow for the issuance of equity
to comply with the financial covenant calculations as a means to avoid a shortfall. If current sources of liquidity were
to become unavailable, we would need to obtain additional sources of funding, which may not be available or may
only be available under less favorable terms. This could have a material adverse effect on our business and our
consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
The continued payment of dividends on our common stock and repurchases of our common stock are dependent
on a number of factors, and future payments and repurchases cannot be assured.
We need liquidity sufficient to fund payments of dividends on our common stock and repurchases of our common
stock. In addition, holders of our common stock are only entitled to receive such dividends as our Board of Directors
may declare out of funds legally available for such payments, and our Board of Directors may only authorize the
Company to repurchase shares of our common stock with funds legally available for such repurchases. The payment
of future dividends and future repurchases will depend upon our earnings, economic conditions, liquidity and capital
requirements, and other factors, including our debt leverage. Accordingly, we cannot make any assurance that future
dividends will be paid, or future repurchases will be made, at levels comparable to our historical practices, if at all.
Due to the seasonal nature of our business and the fact that our business is not asset-intensive, there may be periods
of time during our fiscal year in which the payment of dividends or stock repurchases may cause us to have a negative
net worth under accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP).
Our businesses may be adversely affected by difficult economic conditions, in particular, high unemployment levels.
Difficult economic conditions are frequently characterized by high unemployment levels and declining consumer and
business spending. These poor economic conditions may negatively affect demand and pricing for our services and
products. In the event of difficult economic conditions that include high unemployment levels, especially within client
segments we serve, clients may elect not to file tax returns or seek lower cost preparation and filing alternatives.
Sustained levels of high unemployment may negatively impact our ability to increase or retain tax preparation clients.
14
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Economic conditions that negatively affect housing prices and the job market may result in deterioration in credit
quality of mortgage loans held for investment and other loans, and such deterioration could have a negative impact
on our business and profitability. The fair value of these mortgage loans is less than their carrying value and a
decision by us to no longer hold these loans for investment would result in a significant impairment.
The overall credit quality of mortgage loans held for investment is impacted by the strength of the U.S. economy and
local economic conditions, including residential housing prices. Economic trends that negatively affect housing prices
and the job market could result in deterioration in credit quality of our mortgage loan portfolio and a decline in the
value of associated collateral. Future interest rate resets could also lead to increased delinquencies in our mortgage
loans held for investment.
Mortgage loans purchased from Sand Canyon Corporation, previously known as Option One Mortgage Corporation
(including its subsidiaries, collectively, SCC) represent 59% of total loans held for investment as of April 30, 2016.
Remaining loans held for investment were originated by a third-party bank and purchased by us. Loans we purchased
from SCC have experienced higher delinquency rates than other loans we purchased, and may expose us to greater
risk of credit loss.
Mortgage loans held for investment had a carrying value of $202 million and a fair value of $191 million as of April
30, 2016. If we decide to sell these mortgage loans we would incur an impairment loss for the difference between
carrying value and fair value.
In addition to mortgage loans held for investment, we also purchase a participation interest in EAs originated by
BofI. We may incur significant losses on those loans, which in turn could reduce our profitability.
Our business depends on our strong reputation and the value of our brands.
Developing and maintaining awareness of our brands is critical to achieving widespread acceptance of our existing
and future services and products and is an important element in attracting new clients. In addition, our franchisees
may operate their businesses under our brands. Adverse publicity (whether or not justified) relating to events or
activities involving or attributed to us, our franchisees, employees, or agents or our services or products, which may
be enhanced due to the nature of social media, may tarnish our reputation and reduce the value of our brands. Damage
to our reputation and loss of brand equity may reduce demand for our services and products and thus have an adverse
effect on our future financial results, as well as require additional resources to rebuild our reputation and restore the
value of our brands.
Failure to protect our intellectual property rights may harm our competitive position and litigation to protect our
intellectual property rights or defend against third party allegations of infringement may be costly.
Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual property and proprietary information, we may be unable to do so
effectively in all cases. Our intellectual properly could be wrongfully acquired as a result of a cyber attack or other
wrongful conduct by employees or third parties. To the extent that our intellectual property is not protected effectively
by trademarks, copyrights, patents, or other means, other parties with knowledge of our intellectual property, including
former employees, may seek to exploit our intellectual property for their own or others' advantage. Competitors may
also misappropriate our trademarks, copyrights or other intellectual property rights or duplicate our technology and
products. Any significant impairment or misappropriation of our intellectual property or proprietary information could
harm our business and our brand, and may adversely affect our ability to compete.
In addition, third-parties may allege we are infringing on their intellectual property rights, and we may face
intellectual property challenges from other parties. We may not be successful in defending against any such challenges
or in obtaining licenses to avoid or resolve any intellectual property disputes and, in that event, we could lose significant
revenues, incur significant license, royalty, or technology development expenses, suffer harm to our reputation, or
pay significant monetary damages.
Failure to maintain sound business relationships with our franchisees may have a material adverse effect on our
business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Our financial success depends in significant part on our ability to maintain sound business relationships with our
franchisees. The support of our franchisees is also critical for the success of our marketing programs and any new
strategic initiatives we seek to undertake. Deterioration in our relationships with our franchisees or the failure of our
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
15
franchisees to support our marketing programs and strategic initiatives could have a material adverse effect on our
business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
Our international operations are subject to risks which may harm our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations, and cash flows.
We have international operations, including in Canada, Australia, and India, and may consider expansion opportunities
in additional countries in the future. There is uncertainty about our ability to generate revenues from new or emerging
foreign operations and expand into other international markets. Additionally, there are risks inherent in doing business
internationally, including: (1) changes in trade regulations; (2) difficulties in managing foreign operations as a result
of distance, language, and cultural differences; (3) profit repatriation restrictions, and fluctuations in foreign currency
exchange rates; (4) geopolitical events, including acts of war and terrorism, and economic and political instability; (5)
compliance with U.S. laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other applicable foreign anti-corruption laws;
(6) compliance with U.S. and international laws and regulations, including those concerning privacy, and data
protection and retention; and (7) risks related to other government regulation or required compliance with local laws.
These risks inherent in our international operations and expansion could increase our costs of doing business
internationally and could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results
of operations, and cash flows.
We may be adversely impacted by changes in corporate tax rates, the adoption of new tax legislation in the
jurisdictions in which we operate, and exposure to additional tax liabilities.
As a multinational corporation, we are subject to taxes in the U.S. and numerous foreign jurisdictions where our
subsidiaries are organized and conduct their operations. Significant judgment is required in determining our worldwide
provision for income taxes and other tax liabilities. Tax rates in the various jurisdictions in which our subsidiaries are
organized and conduct their operations may change significantly as a result of political or economic factors beyond
our control. Additionally, our future effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in the valuation of
deferred tax assets and liabilities or changes in tax laws or their interpretation. Our tax returns and other tax matters
are periodically examined by tax authorities and governmental bodies, including the IRS, which may disagree with
positions taken by us in determining our tax liability. There can be no assurance as to the outcome of these
examinations. We regularly assess the likelihood of an adverse outcome resulting from these examinations to
determine the adequacy of our provision for taxes. If our effective tax rates were to increase, or if the ultimate
determination of our taxes owed is for an amount in excess of amounts previously accrued, our operating results,
cash flows, and financial condition could be adversely affected.
RISKS RELATING TO DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
SCC is subject to potential contingent losses related to representation and warranty claims, which may have an
adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows. SCC
has accrued an estimated liability related to these contingent losses that may not be adequate.
SCC remains exposed to losses relating to mortgage loans it previously originated. Mortgage loans originated by SCC
were sold either as whole loans to single third-party buyers or in the form of residential mortgage-backed securities
(RMBSs).
In connection with the sale of loans or RMBSs, SCC made certain representations and warranties. Claims under
these representations and warranties together with any settlement arrangements related to these losses are
collectively referred to as "representation and warranty claims." These representations and warranties varied based
on the nature of the transaction and the buyer's or insurer's requirements, but generally pertained to the ownership
of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, borrower fraud, the loan's compliance with the criteria for
inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with SCC's underwriting standards or loan criteria established by
the buyer, ability to deliver required documentation, and compliance with applicable laws. Representations and
warranties related to borrower fraud in whole loan sale transactions to institutional investors, which were generally
securitized by such investors and represented approximately 68% of the disposal of loans originated in calendar years
2005, 2006 and 2007, included a "knowledge qualifier" limiting SCC's liability to those instances where SCC had
knowledge of the fraud at the time the loans were sold. Representations and warranties made in other sale transactions
effectively did not include a knowledge qualifier as to borrower fraud. SCC believes it would have an obligation to
16
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
repurchase a loan only if it breached a representation and warranty and such breach materially and adversely affects
the value of the mortgage loan or certificate holder's interest in the mortgage loan.
The statute of limitations for a contractual claim to enforce a representation and warranty obligation is generally
six years or such shorter limitations period that may apply under the law of a state where the economic injury occurred.
On June 11, 2015, the New York Court of Appeals, New York's highest court, held in ACE Securities Corp. v. DB Structured
Products, Inc., that the six-year statute of limitations under New York law starts to run at the time the representations
and warranties are made, not the date when the repurchase demand was denied. This decision applies to claims and
lawsuits brought against SCC where New York law governs. New York law governs many, though not all, of the
transactions into which SCC entered. However this decision would not affect representation and warranty claims and
lawsuits SCC has received or may receive, for example, where the statute of limitations has been tolled by agreement
or a suit was timely filed.
It is possible that in response to the statute of limitations rulings in the ACE case and similar rulings in other state
and federal courts, parties seeking to pursue representation and warranty claims or lawsuits with respect to trusts
where the statute of limitations for representation and warranty claims against the originator has run, may seek to
distinguish certain aspects of the ACE decision, pursue alternate legal theories of recovery, or assert claims against
other contractual parties such as securitization trustees.
For example, a recent ruling by a New York intermediate appellate court allowed a counterparty to pursue litigation
on additional loans in the same trust even though only some of the loans complied with the condition precedent of
timely pre-suit notice and opportunity to cure or repurchase. The impact on SCC, if any, from alternative legal theories
seeking to avoid or distinguish the ACE decision, or judicial limitations on the ACE decision, is unclear.
SCC entered into tolling agreements with counterparties that made a significant portion of previously denied
representation and warranty claims. While these tolling agreements remain in effect, they toll the running of any
applicable statute of limitations related to potential lawsuits regarding representation and warranty claims and other
claims against SCC.
Development of loss estimates is subject to a high degree of management judgment and estimates may vary
significantly period to period. SCC accrues a liability for losses related to representation and warranty claims when
those losses are believed to be both probable and reasonably estimable. SCC has developed its estimate of losses
related to representation and warranty claims based on the best information currently available, significant
management judgment, and a number of factors that are subject to change, including developments in case law and
the factors mentioned in Item 7, "Critical Accounting Estimates." Changes in any one of these factors could significantly
impact the estimate.
SCC has accrued a liability as of April 30, 2016, for estimated contingent losses arising from representation and
warranty claims of $65.3 million. If future losses are in excess of SCC's accrued liability, those losses could have a
material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows,
as SCC's financial condition, results of operations and cash flows are included in our consolidated financial statements.
Except where specified, the accrued liability does not include potential losses related to litigation matters discussed
in the risk factor below and in Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated financial statements. Also see Item 8, note 16 to
the consolidated financial statements.
SCC is subject to potential contingent losses related to securitization transactions in which SCC participated as a
depositor or loan originator, which may result in significant financial losses.
Between January 2005 and November 2007, SCC originated mortgage loans totaling approximately $80 billion.
Mortgage loans originated by SCC were sold either as whole loans to single third-party buyers, who generally securitized
such loans, or in the form of RMBSs. SCC estimates approximately 90% of the loans it originated in 2005, 2006, and
2007 were securitized in approximately 110 securitization transactions. In most of these securitization transactions,
SCC agreed, subject to certain conditions and limitations, to indemnify the underwriters or depositors for certain
losses and expenses that the underwriters or depositors may incur as a result of certain claims made against them
relating to loans originated by SCC, including certain legal expenses the underwriters or depositors incur in their
defense of such claims. Some of those underwriters and depositors are defendants in lawsuits where various other
parties allege a variety of claims, including violations of U.S. federal and state securities law and common law fraud
based on alleged materially inaccurate or misleading disclosures, arising out of the activities of such underwriters or
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
17
depositors in their sale of RMBSs or mortgage loans. Based on information currently available to SCC, it believes that
the 22 lawsuits in which notice of a claim for indemnification has been made involve 39 securitization transactions
with original investments of approximately $14 billion (of which the outstanding principal amount is approximately
$4 billion). Certain of the notices received included, and future notices may include, a reservation of rights, which are
referred to as "reserved contribution rights," that encompasses a right of contribution which may become operative
if indemnification is unavailable or insufficient to cover all of the losses and expenses involved. Securitization trustees
also are, or have been, involved in lawsuits related to securitization transactions in which SCC participated. Plaintiffs
in these lawsuits allege, among other things, that originators, depositors, servicers or other parties breached their
representations and warranties or otherwise failed to fulfill their obligations, including that securitization trustees
breached their contractual obligations, breached their fiduciary duties, or violated statutory requirements by failing
to properly protect the certificate holders’ interests.
Because SCC has not been a party to these lawsuits (with the exception of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago
v. Bank of America Funding Corporation, et al., filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois (Case No. 10CH45033),
and settled as to SCC in August 2015, and has not had control of the litigation or settlements thereof, SCC does not
have precise information about the amount of damages or other remedies being asserted, the defenses to the claims
in such lawsuits, or the terms of any settlements of such lawsuits. SCC therefore cannot reasonably estimate the
amount of potential losses or associated fees and expenses that may be incurred in connection with such lawsuits,
which may be material. Additional lawsuits against the underwriters, depositors, or securitization trustees may be
filed in the future, and SCC may receive additional notices of claims for indemnification or contribution from
underwriters, depositors, or securitization trustees with respect to existing or new lawsuits or settlements of such
lawsuits.
In addition, other counterparties to the securitization transactions, including certificate holders and monoline
insurance companies, have filed or may file lawsuits, or may assert indemnification claims, directly against depositors
and loan originators in securitization transactions alleging a variety of claims, including U.S. federal and state securities
law violations, common law torts and fraud and breach of contract claims, among others. Additional or new lawsuits
or claims may be filed or asserted against SCC in the future.
We have not concluded that a loss related to any of these indemnification claims or reserved contribution rights
is probable, have not accrued a liability for these claims or rights, and are not able to estimate a reasonably estimable
possible loss or range of loss for these claims or rights. However, if SCC were required to pay material amounts with
respect to these matters, it could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial position,
results of operations and cash flows, as SCC's financial condition, operating results, and cash flows are included in our
consolidated financial statements. See Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for additional
information.
H&R Block has guaranteed the payment of certain limited claims against SCC.
SCC is subject to representation and warranty claims by counterparties to SCC whole loan sales and securitization
transactions, including certificate holders, securitization trustees, monoline insurance companies, and subsequent
purchasers of whole loans. In certain limited circumstances described below, H&R Block has outstanding guarantees
of payment if claims are successfully asserted by such counterparties.
These guarantees include representation and warranty claims with respect to a limited number of whole loan sales
by SCC with an aggregate outstanding principal and liquidated amount of approximately $1.0 billion as of April 30,
2016, based on the data available to SCC. There have been a total of approximately $41 million of representation and
warranty claims with respect to these whole loan sales.
These guarantees also cover limited representation and warranty claims on other outstanding securitization
transactions, with a potential claims exposure of less than $200 million. In addition, as is customary in divestiture
transactions, H&R Block guaranteed the payment of any indemnification claims from the purchaser of SCC's servicing
business, including claims relating to pre-closing services (closing occurred in 2008).
We could be subject to claims by the creditors of SCC.
As discussed above, SCC is subject to representation and warranty claims and other claims and litigation related to
its past sales and securitizations of mortgage loans. Additional claims and proceedings may be made in the future. If
18
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
the amount that SCC is ultimately required to pay with respect to these claims and litigation, together with related
administration and legal expense, exceeds its net assets, the creditors of SCC, or a bankruptcy trustee if SCC were to
file or be forced into bankruptcy, may attempt to assert claims against us for payment of SCC's obligations. Claimants
may also attempt to assert claims or seek payment directly from the Company even if SCC's assets exceed its liabilities.
SCC's principal assets, as of April 30, 2016, total approximately $386 million and consist primarily of an intercompany
note receivable. We believe our legal position is strong on any potential corporate veil-piercing arguments; however,
if this position is challenged and not upheld, it could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated
financial position, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, in certain limited instances, H&R Block guaranteed
amounts as outlined in the above risk factor.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
Most of our tax offices are operated under leases or similar agreements throughout the U.S., Canada and Australia.
We own our corporate headquarters, which is located in Kansas City, Missouri. Our Canadian executive offices are
located in a leased office in Calgary, Alberta. Our Australian executive offices are located in a leased office in Thornleigh,
New South Wales.
All current leased and owned facilities are in reasonably good repair and adequate to meet our needs.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
For a description of our material pending legal proceedings, see discussion in Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated
financial statements.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES
OF EQUITY SECURITIES
MARKET INFORMATION AND HOLDERS - H&R Block's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
under the symbol HRB. On May 31, 2016, there were 17,704 shareholders of record and the closing stock price on
the NYSE was $21.36 per share.
QUARTERLY STOCK PRICES AND DIVIDENDS - The quarterly information regarding H&R Block's common stock
prices and dividends appears in Item 8, note 18 to the consolidated financial statements. Although we have historically
paid dividends and plan to continue to do so, there can be no assurances that circumstances will not change in the
future that could affect our ability or decisions to pay dividends.
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER - A summary of our purchases of H&R Block common stock
during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 is as follows:
Total Number of
(1)
Shares Purchased
— $
3,901
5
3,906
$
$
$
Average
Price Paid
per Share
34.47
27.80
21.86
27.80
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
(2)
Plans or Programs
Maximum Dollar Value of
Shares that May be Purchased
(2)
Under the Plans or Programs
— $
3,899
$
— $
3,899
1,608,342
1,500,002
1,500,002
February 1 – February 29
March 1 – March 31
April 1 – April 30
(1) We purchased approximately 7 thousand shares in connection with funding employee income tax withholding obligations arising upon the lapse of restrictions on
(2)
restricted shares and restricted share units.
In September 2015, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a $3.5 billion share repurchase program, effective through June 2019.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
19
PERFORMANCE GRAPH – The following graph compares the cumulative five-year total return provided to
shareholders on H&R Block, Inc.'s common stock relative to the cumulative total returns of the S&P 500 index and a
selected peer group. The peer group used is based on companies with similar market capitalization or public companies
in the tax return preparation industry.
An investment of $100, with reinvestment of all dividends, is assumed to have been made in our common stock
and in each of the indexes on April 30, 2011, and its relative performance is tracked through April 30, 2016.
Note: The peer group includes the following companies: Intuit Inc., Blucora, Inc., Liberty Tax, Inc., CBIZ, Inc., Resources Connection, Inc., ICF International,
Inc., Towers Watson & Co., Navigant Consulting, Inc., and Huron Consulting Group Inc.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
We derived the selected consolidated financial data presented below from our audited consolidated financial
statements as of and for each of the five annual periods ending April 30, 2016. Results of operations of fiscal years
2016, 2015 and 2014 are discussed in Item 7. The data set forth below should be read in conjunction with Item 7 and
the consolidated financial statements in Item 8. During fiscal year 2012, we sold our previously reported Business
Services segment and recorded a loss on the sale.
20
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
April 30,
Revenues
Net income from continuing
operations
Net income
Basic earnings per share:
Net income from continuing
operations
Net income
Diluted earnings per share:
Net income from continuing
operations
Net income
Total assets
Long-term debt (1)
Stockholders’ equity
Shares outstanding
Dividends per share
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
$
3,038,153
$
3,078,658
$
3,024,295
$
2,905,943
$
2,893,771
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
383,553
374,267
486,744
473,663
500,097
475,157
465,158
433,948
345,968
265,932
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1.54
1.50
1.53
1.49
2,857,775
1,502,751
23,103
220,517
$
$
$
1.77
1.72
1.75
1.71
4,515,420
506,088
1,832,949
275,275
$
$
$
1.82
1.73
1.81
1.72
4,693,529
906,474
1,556,549
274,228
$
$
$
1.70
1.59
1.69
1.58
4,537,779
906,680
1,263,547
272,635
0.80
$
0.80
$
0.80
$
0.80
$
1.16
0.89
1.16
0.89
4,649,567
1,040,549
1,325,892
292,119
0.70
(1)
Includes current portion of long-term debt.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
DIVESTITURE OF H&R BLOCK BANK – On August 31, 2015 we completed the P&A Transaction. Subsequent to the
closing of the P&A Transaction, neither we nor any of our subsidiaries is subject to minimum regulatory capital
requirements or to regulation as a bank by the OCC, nor are our Holding Companies subject to regulatory capital
requirements applicable to SLHCs or to regulation by the Federal Reserve.
Subsequent to the closing of the P&A Transaction, BofI began to offer certain H&R Block-branded financial products
and services that we distribute to our clients. As a result of agreements we entered into with BofI for the offering of
such products and services, and our sale of AFS securities previously held by HRB Bank, our fiscal year 2016 revenues
declined approximately $20 million and pretax income from continuing operations declined approximately $35 million
compared with the prior year. In addition, as a result of the deregistration of our Holding Companies as SLHCs (see
Item 1, under "Recent Developments"), effective September 1, 2015 we began to report interest income on
investments as other income rather than revenue. This financial reporting change had no impact on earnings, but
reduced fiscal 2016 revenues by approximately $9 million when compared to fiscal 2015, resulting in a total revenue
decline of $29 million related to the divestiture of HRB Bank.
See additional discussion of the P&A Transaction in Item 1 under "Recent Developments" and in Item 8, note 2 to
the consolidated financial statements.
CAPITAL STRUCTURE – On September 1, 2015, we announced our intent to establish a new capital structure, including
the repurchase of shares, the issuance of debt and entering into a new CLOC. In connection with that plan, we issued
Senior Notes in the principal amount of $1.0 billion and repurchased 56.4 million shares of our common stock during
fiscal year 2016.
See additional discussion of our new capital structure in Item 1 under "Recent Developments," in Item 7 under
"Capital Resources and Liquidity" and in Item 8 note 8 and note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
A summary of our fiscal year 2016 results is as follows:
Revenues decreased $40.5 million, or 1.3%, compared to the prior year. Revenues were negatively impacted
by a 5.8% decline in assisted tax returns prepared (company-owned and franchise offices combined), changes
in foreign currency exchange rates, and the operational and financial reporting impacts of our divestiture of
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
21
HRB Bank, as described above. These negative impacts were partially offset by our acquisition of franchisee
businesses and favorable pricing and mix changes.
Pretax earnings fell $173.3 million, or 23.3%, due primarily to lower client volumes, operational impacts of BofI
offering certain financial products and services, incremental marketing spend, and costs associated with
changes to our capital structure including the divestiture of HRB Bank.
Net income from continuing operations declined $103.2 million or 21.2% compared with the prior year. Diluted
earnings per share from continuing operations decreased 12.6% from the prior year to $1.53 due to a 21.2%
decline in net income, partially offset by a 9.5% decline in weighted average shares outstanding.
Earnings from continuing operations before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) decreased
$136.3 million, or 14.4%, to $812.2 million. Adjusted EBITDA decreased $112.4 million, or 11.8%, to $838.7
million. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" at the end of this item for a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our subsidiaries provide assisted and DIY tax return preparation through multiple channels (including in-person, online
and mobile applications, and desktop software) and distribute the H&R Block-branded financial products and services
of BofI. Tax returns are either prepared by H&R Block tax professionals (in company-owned or franchise offices or
virtually via the internet) or prepared and filed by our clients through our DIY tax solutions. We operate as a single
segment that includes all of our continuing operations, which are designed to enable clients to obtain tax preparation
services seamlessly.
Operating Statistics
Year ended April 30,
TAX RETURNS PREPARED : (in 000s)
United States:
Company-owned operations
Franchise operations
Total assisted returns
Desktop
Online
Free File Alliance
Total tax software
Total U.S. returns
International operations:
Canada (1)
Australia
Other
Total international operations
Tax returns prepared worldwide
TAX OFFICES (at the peak of the tax season):
U.S. offices:
Total company-owned offices
Total franchise offices
Total U.S. offices
International offices:
Canada
Australia
Total international offices
Tax offices worldwide
2016
2015
2014
8,103
4,159
12,262
2,085
4,670
678
7,433
19,695
2,551
769
153
3,473
23,168
6,614
3,599
10,213
1,282
438
1,720
11,933
8,327
4,688
13,015
2,168
4,765
676
7,609
20,624
2,658
768
115
3,541
24,165
6,365
3,921
10,286
1,231
433
1,664
11,950
8,342
5,268
13,610
2,026
4,389
767
7,182
20,792
2,642
746
21
3,409
24,201
6,086
4,292
10,378
1,179
409
1,588
11,966
(1) In fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, the end of the Canadian tax season was extended from April 30 into May. Tax returns prepared in Canada in fiscal years 2016,
2015 and 2014 includes approximately 93 thousand, 131 thousand and 141 thousand returns, respectively, in both company-owned and franchise offices which
were accepted by the client after April 30. The revenues related to these returns were recognized in fiscal years 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
22
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Consolidated – Financial Results
Year ended April 30,
Tax preparation fees:
U.S. assisted
International
U.S. DIY
Royalties
Revenues from Refund Transfers
Revenues from Emerald Card®
Revenues from Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan
Interest and fee income on Emerald Advance
Other
Total revenues
Compensation and benefits:
Field wages
Other wages
Benefits and other compensation
Occupancy and equipment
Marketing and advertising
Depreciation and amortization
Bad debt
Supplies
Other
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on borrowings
Other expenses
Pretax income
Income taxes
Net income from continuing operations
Net loss from discontinued operations
Net income
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
EBITDA from continuing operations (1)
EBITDA from continuing operations - adjusted (1)
2016
2015
$ Change
% Change
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,890,175
190,527
234,341
2,315,043
266,418
165,152
92,608
86,830
57,268
54,834
3,038,153
724,019
166,445
183,512
1,073,976
405,493
297,762
173,598
75,395
36,340
342,397
2,404,961
17,701
(68,962)
(12,452)
569,479
185,926
383,553
(9,286)
374,267
1.54
(0.04)
1.50
1.53
(0.04)
1.49
812,218
838,654
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,865,438
207,772
231,854
2,305,064
292,743
171,094
103,300
81,551
57,202
67,704
3,078,658
731,309
176,697
183,001
1,091,007
375,743
273,682
159,804
74,993
42,872
265,891
2,283,992
1,314
(45,246)
(7,929)
742,805
256,061
486,744
(13,081)
473,663
1.77
(0.05)
1.72
1.75
(0.04)
1.71
948,537
951,006
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
24,737
(17,245)
2,487
9,979
(26,325)
(5,942)
(10,692)
5,279
66
(12,870)
(40,505)
(7,290)
(10,252)
511
(17,031)
29,750
24,080
13,794
402
(6,532)
76,506
120,969
16,387
(23,716)
(4,523)
(173,326)
(70,135)
(103,191)
3,795
(99,396)
(0.23)
0.01
(0.22)
(0.22)
—
(0.22)
(136,319)
(112,352)
1.3 %
(8.3)%
1.1 %
0.4 %
(9.0)%
(3.5)%
(10.4)%
6.5 %
0.1 %
(19.0)%
(1.3)%
(1.0)%
(5.8)%
0.3 %
(1.6)%
7.9 %
8.8 %
8.6 %
0.5 %
(15.2)%
28.8 %
5.3 %
**
(52.4)%
(57.0)%
(23.3)%
(27.4)%
(21.2)%
29.0 %
(21.0)%
(13.0)%
20.0 %
(12.8)%
(12.6)%
— %
(12.9)%
(14.4)%
(11.8)%
(1) See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" at the end of this item for a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
FISCAL 2016 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2015
Revenues decreased $40.5 million, or 1.3%, compared to the prior year.
U.S. assisted tax preparation fees increased $24.7 million, or 1.3%, while royalty revenues declined $26.3 million,
or 9.0%. We acquired a number of franchisee businesses during the year, and declines in royalty revenues are due
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
23
primarily to the associated loss of royalties when those businesses are acquired, and to a lesser extent a decline in
client volumes served by franchise offices. The increase in U.S. assisted tax preparation fees is primarily the result of
revenues from acquired franchise businesses and price increases, offset by a decline in tax returns prepared in
company-owned offices. Return counts in our company-owned offices, excluding the impact of returns prepared in
those offices resulting from acquired franchisee businesses, declined 6.2% from the prior year. We acquired 260
franchise offices in fiscal year 2016 and 350 franchise offices in fiscal year 2015. We expect to continue to acquire
franchisee businesses in the future, but at levels below fiscal years 2016 and 2015.
International tax preparation fees decreased $17.2 million, or 8.3%. The decrease was driven by a $23.0 million
decline resulting from unfavorable changes in foreign currency exchange rates, partially offset by favorable volume
and price changes.
Fees from our U.S. DIY business increased $2.5 million, or 1.1%, as improved monetization for new and existing
clients coupled with an increase in product attach rates were partially offset by a 2.6% decrease in paid returns.
Fees earned on RTs decreased $5.9 million, or 3.5%, primarily due to lower assisted return volumes.
Revenues from H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® transactions decreased $10.7 million, or 10.4%, primarily
due to our agreement with BofI and lower assisted return volumes.
Revenue from fees for our POM is initially deferred, and recognized over the term of the service plan based on
actual claims paid in relation to projected claims. Revenue increased $5.3 million, or 6.5%, primarily due to a change
in projected claims that resulted in an increase in revenue recognized last year.
Other revenues declined $12.9 million, or 19.0%, primarily due to the presentation of income from our mortgage
loan portfolio and investments in AFS securities as other income in the current year rather than as revenue in the
prior year. See Item 8, note 1 to the consolidated financial statements.
Total operating expenses increased $121.0 million, or 5.3%, from the prior year. Total compensation and benefits
decreased $17.0 million primarily due to a decline in short-term incentive compensation and the impact of changes
in foreign currency exchange rates. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased $29.8 million, or 7.9%, primarily
due to a 4.0% increase in company-owned offices resulting from acquisitions of franchisee and competitor businesses.
Marketing and advertising expenses increased $24.1 million due to planned increases in tax season spend, including
our sweepstakes campaign. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $13.8 million, or 8.6%, primarily due
to acquisitions of franchisee and competitor businesses. Other expenses increased $76.5 million, or 28.8%, primarily
due to costs totaling $20.7 million associated with capital transactions and the divestiture of HRB Bank, fees paid to
BofI for products and services they offer to our clients, and increased litigation and consulting expenses.
Other income increased $16.4 million primarily due to the inclusion of interest income on our mortgage loan
portfolio and AFS securities (reported as revenue in the prior period), as discussed above and in Item 8, note 1 to the
consolidated financial statements. Interest expense increased $23.7 million, or 52.4%, due primarily to issuance of
our Senior Notes in September 2015 in the aggregate principal amount of $1.0 billion.
Pretax income for fiscal year 2016 decreased $173.3 million, or 23.3%, over the prior year. The pretax margin
decreased to 18.7% in fiscal year 2016 from 24.1% in fiscal year 2015. Net income from continuing operations declined
$103.2 million or 21.2% compared with the prior year. Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations decreased
12.6% from the prior year to $1.53 due to a 21.2% decline in net income, partially offset by a 9.5% decline in weighted
average shares outstanding.
The net loss from our discontinued operations totaled $9.3 million for the current year, compared to a net loss of
$13.1 million in the prior year. Pretax losses of mortgage operations totaled $18.6 million, compared to $27.1 million
in the prior year, and resulted primarily from litigation expenses and provisions related to SCC's estimated contingent
losses for representation and warranty claims of $4.0 million and $16.0 million for fiscal years 2016 and 2015,
respectively.
24
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Consolidated – Financial Results
Year ended April 30,
Tax preparation fees:
U.S. assisted
International
U.S. DIY
Royalties
Revenues from Refund Transfers
Revenues from Emerald Card®
Revenues from Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan
Interest and fee income on Emerald Advance
Other
Total revenues
Compensation and benefits:
Field wages
Other wages
Benefits and other compensation
Occupancy and equipment
Marketing and advertising
Depreciation and amortization
Bad debt
Supplies
Other
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on borrowings
Other expenses
Pretax income
Income taxes
Net income from continuing operations
Net loss from discontinued operations
Net income
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
EBITDA from continuing operations (1)
EBITDA from continuing operations - adjusted (1)
2015
2014
$ Change
% Change
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,865,438
207,772
231,854
2,305,064
292,743
171,094
103,300
81,551
57,202
67,704
3,078,658
731,309
176,697
183,001
1,091,007
375,743
273,682
159,804
74,993
42,872
265,891
2,283,992
1,314
(45,246)
(7,929)
742,805
256,061
486,744
(13,081)
473,663
1.77
(0.05)
1.72
1.75
(0.04)
1.71
948,537
951,006
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,794,043
200,152
206,516
2,200,711
316,153
181,394
103,730
89,685
56,877
75,745
3,024,295
702,312
192,580
171,510
1,066,402
365,036
238,763
115,604
80,007
36,527
303,466
2,205,805
36,315
(55,279)
(32,410)
767,116
267,019
500,097
(24,940)
475,157
1.82
(0.09)
1.73
1.81
(0.09)
1.72
940,108
932,329
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
71,395
7,620
25,338
104,353
(23,410)
(10,300)
(430)
(8,134)
325
(8,041)
54,363
28,997
(15,883)
11,491
24,605
10,707
34,919
44,200
(5,014)
6,345
(37,575)
78,187
(35,001)
10,033
24,481
(24,311)
(10,958)
(13,353)
11,859
(1,494)
(0.05)
0.04
(0.01)
(0.06)
0.05
(0.01)
8,429
18,677
4.0 %
3.8 %
12.3 %
4.7 %
(7.4)%
(5.7)%
(0.4)%
(9.1)%
0.6 %
(10.6)%
1.8 %
4.1 %
(8.2)%
6.7 %
2.3 %
2.9 %
14.6 %
38.2 %
(6.3)%
17.4 %
(12.4)%
3.5 %
(96.4)%
18.1 %
75.5 %
(3.2)%
(4.1)%
(2.7)%
47.6 %
(0.3)%
(2.7)%
44.4 %
(0.6)%
(3.3)%
55.6 %
(0.6)%
0.9 %
2.0 %
(1) See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" at the end of this item for a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
FISCAL 2015 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2014
Revenues increased $54.4 million, or 1.8%, compared to fiscal year 2014. U.S. assisted tax preparation fees increased
$71.4 million, or 4.0%, while royalty revenues declined $23.4 million, or 7.4%, almost entirely due to acquisitions of
franchisee businesses. Return counts in our company-owned offices, excluding returns prepared in those offices
acquired during fiscal year 2015, declined 4.6% from fiscal year 2014.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
25
International tax preparation fees increased $7.6 million, or 3.8%, due primarily to pricing changes, partially offset
by unfavorable exchange rates.
Tax preparation fees from our U.S. DIY business increased $25.3 million, or 12.3%, primarily due to an 8.1% increase
in paid returns. The remaining increase was due to better monetization of new and existing clients and a higher number
of more complicated returns.
Fees earned on RTs decreased $10.3 million, or 5.7%, primarily due to lower assisted return volumes.
Revenue from fees for our POM is initially deferred, and recognized over the term of the service plan based on
actual claims paid in relation to projected claims. Revenue decreased $8.1 million, or 9.1%, in fiscal year 2015 primarily
due to a change in projected claims that resulted in an increase in revenue recognized in fiscal year 2014.
Total operating expenses increased $78.2 million, or 3.5%, from fiscal year 2014. Total compensation and benefits
increased $24.6 million primarily due to higher variable field wages resulting from increased revenues and increased
training costs. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased $10.7 million, or 2.9%, primarily due to a 4.6% increase
in company-owned offices resulting from franchise acquisitions. Marketing and advertising expenses increased $34.9
million due to a planned increase in national advertising. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $44.2
million, or 38.2%, primarily due to acquisitions of franchisee and competitor businesses and improvements to existing
offices. Other expenses decreased $37.6 million, or 12.4%, primarily due to lower litigation and consulting costs in
the current year.
Other income declined $35.0 million, primarily due to a gain of $18.3 million on the sale of residual interests in
mortgage securitizations and a $10.1 million gain on the sale of an intangible customer list, which were both recognized
in fiscal year 2014. Interest expense declined $10.0 million, or 18.1%, due to repayment of our Senior Notes that
matured in October 2014. Other expenses declined $24.5 million primarily due to an other-than-temporary
impairment on AFS securities of $12.4 million recorded in fiscal year 2014, coupled with a decline of $12.3 million in
foreign currency losses.
The net loss from our discontinued operations totaled $13.1 million for fiscal year 2015, compared to a net loss
of $24.9 million in fiscal year 2014. Pretax losses of mortgage operations totaled $27.1 million, compared to $38.5
million in fiscal year 2014, and resulted primarily from loss provisions related to SCC's estimated contingent losses for
representation and warranty claims of $16.0 million and $25.0 million for fiscal years 2015 and 2014, respectively.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Discontinued operations include our discontinued mortgage operations.
CONTINGENT LOSSES – SCC has accrued a liability as of April 30, 2016 for estimated contingent losses arising from
representation and warranty claims of $65.3 million. The estimate of accrued loss is based on the best information
currently available, significant management judgment, and a number of factors that are subject to change, including
developments in case law and other factors, including those mentioned in "Critical Accounting Estimates" below.
Changes in any one of these factors could significantly impact the estimate.
Losses may also be incurred with respect to various indemnification claims by underwriters, depositors, and
securitization trustees in securitization transactions in which SCC participated. SCC has not concluded that a loss is
probable or reasonably estimable related to these indemnification claims, therefore there is no accrued liability for
these contingent losses as of April 30, 2016.
See additional discussion in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," "Critical Accounting Estimates" below and in Item 8, note 16
to the consolidated financial statements.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
We consider the estimates discussed below to be critical to understanding our financial statements, as they require
the use of significant judgment and estimation in order to measure, at a specific point in time, matters that are
inherently uncertain. Specific methods and assumptions for these critical accounting estimates are described in the
following paragraphs. We have reviewed and discussed each of these estimates with the Audit Committee of our
Board of Directors. For all of these estimates, we caution that future events rarely develop precisely as forecasted and
estimates routinely require adjustment and may require material adjustment.
26
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
See Item 8, note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, which discusses accounting policies and new or
proposed accounting standards that may affect our financial reporting in the future.
LOSSES ARISING FROM REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES –
Nature of Estimates Required. SCC accrues a liability for losses related to representation and warranty claims when
those losses are believed to be both probable and reasonably estimable. Development of loss estimates is subject to
a high degree of management judgment, and estimates may vary significantly period to period.
Assumptions and Approach Used. SCC has entered into tolling agreements with counterparties that have made
a significant portion of previously denied representation and warranty claims. While these tolling agreements remain
in effect, they toll the running of any applicable statute of limitations related to potential lawsuits regarding
representation and warranty claims and other claims against SCC.
SCC has engaged in discussions with these counterparties since fiscal year 2013 regarding the bulk settlement of
previously denied and potential future representation and warranty and other claims against SCC. Based on settlement
discussions with these counterparties, SCC believes a bulk settlement approach, rather than the loan-by-loan
resolution process, will be needed to resolve all of the claims that are the subject of these discussions. On December
5, 2014, SCC entered into a settlement agreement to resolve certain of these claims. On December 18, 2015, SCC
entered into settlement agreements with two additional counterparties to resolve certain additional claims, subject
to the terms and conditions set forth in the settlement agreements. The amounts paid under the settlement
agreements were fully covered by prior accruals. In the event that the ongoing efforts to settle are not successful,
SCC believes claim volumes may increase or litigation may result.
SCC will continue to vigorously contest any request for repurchase when it has concluded that a valid basis for
repurchase does not exist. SCC's decision whether to engage in bulk settlement discussions is based on factors that
vary by counterparty or type of counterparty, and include the considerations (described below) used by SCC in
determining its loss estimate.
SCC's loss estimate for representation and warranty claims is based on the best information currently available,
significant management judgment, and a number of factors that are subject to change, including developments in
case law and the factors mentioned below. These factors include the terms of prior bulk settlements, the terms
expected to result from ongoing bulk settlement discussions, and an assessment of, among other things, historical
claim results, threatened claims, terms and provisions of related agreements, counterparty willingness to pursue a
settlement, legal standing of counterparties to provide a comprehensive settlement, bulk settlement methodologies
used and publicly disclosed by other market participants, the potential pro-rata realization of the claims as compared
to all claims, and other relevant facts and circumstances when developing its estimate of probable loss. SCC believes
that the most significant of these factors are the terms expected to result from ongoing bulk settlement discussions,
which have been primarily influenced by the bulk settlement methodologies used and publicly disclosed by other
market participants, and the anticipated pro-rata realization of the claims of particular counterparties as compared
to the anticipated realization if all claims and litigation were resolved together with payment of SCC's related
administration and legal expense. Changes in any one of the factors mentioned above could significantly impact the
estimate.
Sensitivity of Estimate to Change. It is reasonably possible that future losses related to representation and warranty
claims may vary from the amounts accrued for these exposures. SCC currently believes the aggregate range of
reasonably estimable possible losses in excess of amounts accrued is not material. This estimated range is based on
the best information currently available, significant management judgment and a number of factors that are subject
to change, including developments in case law and the factors mentioned above. The actual loss that may be incurred
could differ materially from our accrual or the estimate of reasonably possible losses.
SCC has accrued a liability as of April 30, 2016, for estimated contingent losses arising from representation and
warranty claims of $65.3 million. SCC accrued incremental loss provisions of $4 million in fiscal year 2016, $16 million
in fiscal year 2015, and $25 million in fiscal year 2014.
If the amount that SCC is ultimately required to pay with respect to claims and litigation related to its past sales
and securitizations of mortgage loans, together with payment of SCC's related administration and legal expense,
exceeds SCC's net assets, the creditors of SCC, or a bankruptcy trustee if SCC were to file or be forced into bankruptcy,
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
27
may attempt to assert claims against us for payment of SCC's obligations. Claimants may also attempt to assert claims
against or seek payment directly from the Company even if SCC's assets exceed its liabilities. SCC's principal assets,
as of April 30, 2016, total approximately $386 million and consist primarily of an intercompany note receivable. We
believe our legal position is strong on any potential corporate veil-piercing arguments; however, if this position is
challenged and not upheld, it could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations and cash flows.
The accrued liability does not include potential losses related to litigation and indemnification matters discussed
in Item 1A, "Risk Factors" and in Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated financial statements. Also see Item 8, note 16 to
the consolidated financial statements.
LITIGATION AND RELATED CONTINGENCIES –
Nature of Estimates Required. We accrue liabilities related to certain legal matters for which we believe it is probable
that a loss has been incurred and the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. Assessing the likely outcome
of pending or threatened litigation, including the amount of potential loss, if any, is highly subjective.
Assumptions and Approach Used. We are subject to pending or threatened litigation claims and indemnification
claims, which are described in Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated financial statements. It is our policy to routinely
assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes related to legal matters, as well as ranges of probable
losses. A determination of the amount of the liability required to be accrued, if any, for these contingencies is made
after analysis of each known issue and an analysis of historical experience. In cases where we have concluded that a
loss is only reasonably possible or remote, or is not reasonably estimable, no liability is accrued.
Sensitivity of Estimate to Change. It is reasonably possible that future litigation and related contingent losses may
vary from the amounts accrued. For some matters where a liability has not been accrued, we are able to estimate a
reasonably possible loss or range of loss. Those matters for which an estimate is not reasonably possible are not
included within this estimated range. Therefore, this estimated range of reasonably possible loss represents what we
believe to be an estimate of reasonably possible loss only for certain matters meeting these criteria. It does not
represent our maximum loss exposure. For those matters, and for matters where a liability has been accrued, as of
April 30, 2016, we believe the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued is not
material. However, our judgments on whether a loss is probable, reasonably possible or remote and our estimates of
probable loss amounts may differ from actual results due to difficulties in predicting the outcome of jury trials,
arbitration hearings, settlement discussions and related activity, predicting the outcome of class certification actions
and numerous other uncertainties. Due to the number of claims which are periodically asserted against us, and the
magnitude of damages sought in those claims, actual losses in the future may significantly differ from our current
estimates.
INCOME TAXES – UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS –
Nature of Estimates Required. The income tax laws of jurisdictions in which we operate are complex and subject to
different interpretations by the taxpayer and applicable government taxing authorities. Income tax returns filed by
us are based on our interpretation of these rules. The amount of income taxes we pay is subject to ongoing audits by
federal, state and foreign tax authorities, which may result in proposed assessments, including assessments of interest
or penalties. We have accrued a liability for uncertain tax positions that reflects our judgment as to the ultimate
resolution of the applicable issues if subject to judicial review or other settlement.
Assumptions and Approach Used. We evaluate each uncertain tax position based on its technical merits. If we
determine it is more likely than not a tax position will be sustained based on its technical merits, we record the impact
of the position in our consolidated financial statements at the largest amount that is greater than fifty percent likely
of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We do not record a tax benefit for tax positions where we have concluded
it is not more likely than not to be sustained. Differences between a tax position taken or expected to be taken in our
tax returns and the amount of benefit recognized and measured in the financial statements result in unrecognized
tax benefits, which are recorded in the balance sheet as either a liability for unrecognized tax benefits or reductions
to recorded tax assets, as applicable.
Sensitivity of Estimate to Change. Our assessment of the technical merits and measurement of tax benefits
associated with uncertain tax positions is subject to a high degree of judgment and estimation. Actual results may
28
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
differ from our current judgments due to a variety of factors, including changes in law, interpretations of law by taxing
authorities that differ from our assessments, changes in the jurisdictions in which we operate and results of routine
tax examinations. We believe we have adequately provided for any reasonably foreseeable outcome related to these
matters. However, our future results may include favorable or unfavorable adjustments to our estimated tax liabilities
in the period the assessments are made or resolved, or when statutes of limitation on potential assessments expire.
As a result, our effective tax rate may fluctuate on a quarterly basis.
As of April 30, 2016, we accrued liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits on uncertain tax positions of approximately
$112 million. Of the total gross unrecognized tax benefit as of April 30, 2016, approximately $82 million would impact
our effective tax rate if ultimately recognized.
INCOME TAXES – VALUATION OF DEFERRED TAX ASSETS –
Nature of Estimates Required. We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires us
to record deferred income tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences attributable to differences between
the financial statement carrying value of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred taxes
are determined separately for each tax-paying component within each tax jurisdiction based on provisions of enacted
tax law.
We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the estimated amount that we believe is
more likely than not to be realized. Determination of a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets requires that we
make judgments about future matters that are not certain, including projections of future taxable income and
evaluating potential tax-planning strategies.
Assumptions and Approach Used. Our deferred tax assets include state and foreign tax loss carry-forwards, which
in some cases have been reduced by a valuation allowance. We have considered taxable income in carry-back periods,
historical and forecasted earnings, future taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which we operate,
and tax planning strategies in determining the need for a valuation allowance and the estimated amount of these
deferred tax assets that will more likely than not be realized.
Sensitivity of Estimate to Change. To the extent that actual results differ from our current assumptions, valuation
allowances for deferred tax assets will increase or decrease. In the event we determine that we could not realize all
or part of our deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment would be charged to earnings in the period in which
we make such determination. Likewise, if we later determine it is more likely than not that we could realize the deferred
tax assets, we would reverse the applicable portion of the previously provided valuation allowance.
As of April 30, 2016, valuation allowances for our deferred tax assets totaled $22 million. As a result of changes in
deferred tax valuation allowances, our effective tax rate decreased 0.5% and increased 0.2% in fiscal years 2016 and
2015, respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
See Item 8, note 1 to the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of recently issued accounting
pronouncements.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
These comments should be read in conjunction with the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements
of cash flows included in Item 8.
CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY –
OVERVIEW – Our primary sources of capital and liquidity include cash from operations (including changes in working
capital), draws on our 2015 CLOC, and issuances of debt. We use our sources of liquidity primarily to fund working
capital, service and repay debt, pay dividends, repurchase shares of our common stock, and acquire businesses.
Our operations are highly seasonal and substantially all of our revenues and cash flow are generated during the
period from January through April. Therefore, we require the use of cash to fund losses from May through December,
and typically rely on available cash balances from the prior tax season and borrowings to meet our off-season liquidity
needs.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
29
Given the likely availability of a number of liquidity options discussed herein, we believe that, in the absence of
any unexpected developments, our existing sources of capital as of April 30, 2016 are sufficient to meet our future
operating and financing needs.
DISCUSSION OF CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS – The following table summarizes our statements
of cash flows for fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014. See Item 8 for the complete consolidated statements of cash flows
for these periods.
Year ended April 30,
Net cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
2016
2015
$
$
532,394
$
626,608
$
329,515
(1,961,729)
(10,569)
(148,932)
(645,807)
(9,986)
(1,110,389) $
(178,117) $
(in 000s)
2014
809,581
10,690
(364,930)
(17,618)
437,723
Operating Activities. Cash provided by operating activities decreased $94.2 million from fiscal year 2015. The
decrease from the prior year was primarily due to lower net income and $88.5 million in settlement payments related
to representations and warranties, partially offset by a decline in income taxes paid of $71.5 million.
Investing Activities. Cash provided by investing activities totaled $329.5 million compared to cash used of $148.9
million in the prior year. This change is principally due to sales of investment securities totaling $436.5 million resulting
primarily from our decision to sell substantially all AFS securities following the divestiture of HRB Bank. In addition,
there was a decrease of $24.5 million in payments for business acquisitions, and a decrease of $23.2 million in capital
expenditures.
Financing Activities. Cash used in financing activities increased $1.3 billion. As described more fully below, changes
in cash from financing activities resulted primarily from share repurchase activity and changes in customer deposit
balances including the sale of deposits to BofI, partially offset by the issuance of new debt.
CASH REQUIREMENTS –
Dividends and Share Repurchase. Returning capital to shareholders in the form of dividends and the repurchase
of outstanding shares has historically been a significant component of our capital allocation plan.
We have consistently paid quarterly dividends. Dividends paid totaled $201.7 million, $220.0 million and $219.0
million in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Although we have historically paid dividends and plan to
continue to do so, there can be no assurances that circumstances will not change in the future that could affect our
ability or decisions to pay dividends.
In September 2015, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a new $3.5 billion share repurchase
program, effective through June 2019. As a part of the repurchase program, in the current year, we purchased $2.0
billion of our common stock at an average price of $35.46 per share. See Item 8, note 10 to the consolidated financial
statements for additional information. Although we may continue to repurchase shares, there is no assurance that
we will purchase up to the full board authorization.
Divestiture of HRB Bank. At the time of the closing of the P&A Transaction, we made a one-time cash payment
to BofI of $419 million, which was approximately equal to the carrying value of the liabilities (including all deposit
liabilities) assumed by BofI. In connection with the closing, we liquidated the AFS securities previously held by HRB
Bank and received proceeds of $388 million on the sale.
In connection with the P&A Transaction we entered into the RPA dated August 31, 2015 with BofI. Pursuant to
the RPA, we are required to purchase a 90% participation interest, at par, in all EAs originated by BofI throughout the
term of the RPA. At April 30, 2016 the principal balance of purchased participation interests totaled $13.4 million.
See additional discussion in Item 1, under "Recent Developments," and in Item 8, note 2 to the consolidated
financial statements.
30
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Capital Investment. Our business is not capital intensive. Capital expenditures totaled $99.9 million and $123.2
million in fiscal years 2016 and 2015, respectively. Our capital expenditures relate primarily to recurring improvements
to retail offices, as well as investments in computers, software and related assets. We expended net cash totaling
$88.8 million and $113.3 million in fiscal years 2016 and 2015 in connection with acquired businesses. We routinely
acquire competitor tax businesses and franchisees, and recurring capital allocated to acquisitions consists primarily
of this activity. In fiscal year 2014, we also acquired the assets, primarily purchased technology, of a business for $30.3
million.
FINANCING RESOURCES – On September 25, 2015, we issued $650.0 million of 4.125% Senior Notes due October
1, 2020, and $350.0 million of 5.250% Senior Notes due October 1, 2025. Proceeds of these Senior Notes, and cash
on hand, were used to repurchase shares, as discussed in Item 8, note 10 to the consolidated financial statements.
Our new 2015 CLOC has capacity up to $2.0 billion, and is scheduled to expire in September 2020. We intend to
borrow amounts under the 2015 CLOC from time to time, rather than issuing commercial paper, to support our working
capital needs or for other general corporate purposes. As of April 30, 2016, amounts available to borrow under the
2015 CLOC were limited by the debt-to-EBITDA covenant in the 2015 CLOC Agreement to approximately $1.2 billion,
however, our cash needs at April 30 generally do not require us to borrow on our CLOC at that time. We had no
outstanding balance under the 2015 CLOC as of April 30, 2016. See Item 8, note 8 to the consolidated financial
statements for discussion of the Senior Notes and our 2015 CLOC.
Our 5.125% Senior Notes with a principal amount of $400 million matured in October 2014 and, utilizing available
cash on hand, we repaid them according to their terms.
The following table provides ratings for debt issued by Block Financial as of April 30, 2016 and 2015:
As of
April 30, 2016
April 30, 2015
Short-term
Long-term
Outlook
Short-term
Long-term
Outlook
Moody's
S&P (1)
(1) Outlook of Negative effective June 10, 2016.
P-3
A-2
Baa3
BBB
Stable
Stable
P-2
A-2
Baa2
BBB
Stable
Negative
CASH AND INVESTMENT SECURITIES – As of April 30, 2016, we held cash and cash equivalents of $896.8 million,
including $104.5 million held by our foreign subsidiaries.
As discussed above, we liquidated the AFS securities previously held by HRB Bank in connection with the closing
of the P&A Transaction on August 31, 2015.
Foreign Operations. Seasonal borrowing needs of our Canadian operations are typically funded by our U.S.
operations. To mitigate foreign currency exchange rate risk, we sometimes enter into foreign exchange forward
contracts. There were no forward contracts outstanding as of April 30, 2016.
As of April 30, 2016, our Canadian operations had repaid their U.S. dollar denominated borrowings owed to various
U.S. subsidiaries. Non-borrowed funds would have to be repatriated to be available to fund domestic operations, and
in certain circumstances this would trigger additional income taxes on those amounts. We do not currently intend to
repatriate any non-borrowed funds held by our foreign subsidiaries.
The impact of changes in foreign exchange rates during the period on our international cash balances resulted in
a decrease of $10.6 million during fiscal year 2016 compared to decreases of $10.0 million and $17.6 million in fiscal
years 2015 and 2014, respectively. This change resulted primarily from a decline in Canadian exchange rates.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
31
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS – A summary of our borrowings and known
contractual obligations as of April 30, 2016, and the timing and effect that such commitments are expected to have
on our liquidity and capital requirements in future periods is as follows:
Long-term debt (including interest)
Contingent acquisition payments
Capital lease obligations
Operating leases
(in 000s)
Total
Less Than
1 Year
1 - 3 Years
4 - 5 Years
After 5 Years
$ 1,982,578
$
72,688
$
145,375
$
780,098
$
984,417
8,657
7,435
7,881
826
776
2,007
—
2,197
680,816
213,523
290,031
113,381
—
2,405
63,881
Total contractual cash obligations
$ 2,679,486
$
294,918
$
438,189
$
895,676
$
1,050,703
The table above does not reflect unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $112 million due to the high degree
of uncertainty regarding the future cash flows associated with these amounts.
See discussion of contractual obligations and commitments in Item 8, within the notes to the consolidated financial
statements.
REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT – The federal government, various state, local, provincial and foreign governments,
and some self-regulatory organizations have enacted statutes and ordinances, or adopted rules and regulations,
regulating aspects of our business. These aspects include, but are not limited to, commercial income tax return
preparers, income tax courses, the electronic filing of income tax returns, the offering of RTs, privacy, consumer
protection, franchising, sales methods and banking. We determine the applicability of such statutes, ordinances, rules
and regulations (collectively, Laws) and work to comply with those Laws that are applicable to us or our services or
products.
From time to time in the ordinary course of business, we receive inquiries from governmental and self-regulatory
agencies regarding the applicability of Laws to our services and products. In response to past inquiries, we have
demonstrated that we comply with such Laws, convinced the authorities that such Laws were not applicable or that
compliance already exists, or modified our activities in the applicable jurisdiction to avoid the application of all or
certain parts of such Laws. We believe the past resolution of such inquiries and our ongoing compliance with Laws
has not had a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. We cannot predict what effect future Laws,
changes in interpretations of existing Laws or the results of future regulatory inquiries with respect to the applicability
of Laws may have on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. See additional discussion
of legal matters in Item 8, note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.
NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial
performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Because these measures are not measures of financial performance
under GAAP and are susceptible to varying calculations, they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures for
other companies.
We consider our non-GAAP financial measures to be performance measures and a useful metric for management
and investors to evaluate and compare the ongoing operating performance of our business on a consistent basis across
reporting periods, as it eliminates the effect of items that are not indicative of our core operating performance.
The following are descriptions of adjustments we make for our non-GAAP financial measures:
We exclude losses from settlements and estimated contingent losses from litigation and favorable reserve
adjustments. This does not include legal defense costs.
We exclude non-cash charges to adjust the carrying values of goodwill, intangible assets, other long-lived assets
and investments to their estimated fair values.
We exclude severance and other restructuring charges in connection with the termination of personnel, closure
of offices and related costs.
32
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
We exclude the gains and losses on business dispositions, including investment banking, legal and accounting
fees from both business dispositions and acquisitions.
We exclude the gains and losses on extinguishment of debt.
We may consider whether other significant items that arise in the future should also be excluded from our non-
GAAP financial measures.
We measure the performance of our business using a variety of metrics, including EBITDA from continuing
operations, adjusted EBITDA and EBITDA margin from continuing operations, adjusted pretax and net income of
continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations. Adjusted EBITDA from
continuing operations, adjusted pretax and net income from continuing operations, and adjusted diluted earnings per
share from continuing operations eliminate the impact of items that we do not consider indicative of our core operating
performance and, we believe, provide meaningful information to assist in understanding our financial results, analyzing
trends in our underlying business, and assessing our prospects for future performance. We also use EBITDA from
continuing operations and pretax income of continuing operations, each subject to permitted adjustments, as
performance metrics in incentive compensation calculations for our employees.
The following is a reconciliation of EBITDA from continuing operations to net income:
Year ended April 30,
Net income - as reported
Add back:
Discontinued operations, net
Income taxes of continuing operations
Interest expense of continuing operations
Depreciation and amortization of continuing operations
2016
2015
$
374,267
$
473,663
$
9,286
185,926
69,141
173,598
437,951
13,081
256,061
45,928
159,804
474,874
EBITDA from continuing operations
$
812,218
$
948,537
$
(in 000s)
2014
475,157
24,940
267,019
57,388
115,604
464,951
940,108
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
33
The following is a reconciliation of our results from continuing operations to our adjusted results from continuing
operations, which are non-GAAP financial measures:
Year ended April 30,
From continuing operations
Adjustments (pretax):
Loss contingencies - litigation
Severance
Costs related to HRB Bank and recapitalization transactions
Losses (gains) on AFS securities
Gain on sales of tax offices/businesses
Tax effect of adjustments (1)
As adjusted - from continuing operations
Adjusted EBITDA margin (2)
Adjusted EPS
Year ended April 30,
From continuing operations
Adjustments (pretax):
Loss contingencies - litigation
Severance
Costs related to HRB Bank transaction
Losses (gains) on AFS securities
Gain on sales of tax offices/businesses
Tax effect of adjustments (1)
As adjusted - from continuing operations
Adjusted EBITDA margin (2)
Adjusted EPS
Year ended April 30,
From continuing operations
Adjustments (pretax):
Loss contingencies - litigation
Severance
Costs related to HRB Bank transaction
Losses (gains) on AFS securities
Gain on sales of tax offices/businesses
Tax effect of adjustments (1)
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
2016
Pretax Income
Net Income
EBITDA
$
569,479
$
383,553
$
812,218
1,978
12,001
20,722
(8,138)
(127)
—
26,436
1,978
12,001
20,722
(8,138)
(127)
(10,176)
16,260
1,978
12,001
20,722
(8,138)
(127)
—
26,436
595,915
$
399,813
$
838,654
28%
$
1.59
2015
Pretax Income
Net Income
EBITDA
742,805
$
486,744
$
948,537
(3,936)
6,699
238
124
(656)
—
2,469
(3,936)
6,699
238
124
(656)
(963)
1,506
(3,936)
6,699
238
124
(656)
—
2,469
745,274
$
488,250
$
951,006
31%
$
1.75
2014
Pretax Income
Net Income
EBITDA
767,116
$
500,097
$
940,108
$
$
$
$
1,844
5,204
2,747
(5,836)
(11,738)
—
(7,779)
1,844
5,204
2,747
(5,836)
(11,738)
3,045
(4,734)
1,844
5,204
2,747
(5,836)
(11,738)
—
(7,779)
As adjusted - from continuing operations
$
759,337
$
495,363
$
932,329
Adjusted EBITDA margin (2)
Adjusted EPS
$
1.79
31%
1 Tax effect of adjustments is computed as the pretax effect of the adjustments multiplied by our effective tax rate before discrete items.
2 Adjusted EBITDA margin from continuing operations is computed as adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations divided by revenues from
continuing operations.
34
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
INTEREST RATE RISK
GENERAL – We have a formal investment policy that strives to minimize the market risk exposure of our cash
equivalents, which are primarily affected by credit quality and movements in interest rates. The guidelines in our
investment policy focus on managing liquidity and preserving principal and earnings.
Our cash equivalents are primarily held for liquidity purposes and are comprised of high quality, short-term
investments, including money market funds. Because our cash and cash equivalents have a short maturity, our
portfolio's market value is relatively insensitive to interest rate changes.
As our CLOC borrowings are generally seasonal, interest rate risk typically increases through our third fiscal quarter
and declines to zero by fiscal year-end. While the market value of our CLOC borrowings is relatively insensitive to
interest rate changes, interest expense on CLOC borrowings will increase and decrease with changes in the underlying
short-term interest rates. We had no balance outstanding under the 2015 CLOC as of April 30, 2016.
Our long-term debt as of April 30, 2016, consists primarily of fixed-rate Senior Notes; therefore, a change in interest
rates would have no impact on consolidated pretax earnings until these notes mature or are refinanced. The fixed-
rate interest payable on our Senior Notes is subject to adjustment based upon our credit ratings. See Item 8, note 8
to the consolidated financial statements.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE RISK
Our operations in international markets are exposed to movements in currency exchange rates. The currencies
primarily involved are the Canadian dollar and the Australian dollar. We translate revenues and expenses related to
these operations at the average of exchange rates in effect during the period. Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries
are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates prevailing at the end of the year. Translation adjustments are recorded
as a separate component of other comprehensive income in stockholders' equity. Translation of financial results into
U.S. dollars does not presently materially affect, and has not historically materially affected, our consolidated financial
results, although such changes do affect the year-to-year comparability of the operating results in U.S. dollars of our
international businesses. The impact of changes in foreign exchange rates during the period on our international cash
balances resulted in a decrease of $10.6 million during fiscal year 2016 compared to a decrease of $10.0 million and
$17.6 million in fiscal years 2015 and 2014, respectively. This change resulted primarily from a decline in Canadian
exchange rates. We estimate a 10% change in foreign exchange rates by itself would impact consolidated pretax income
in fiscal years 2016 and 2015 by $2.5 million and $2.9 million, respectively, and cash balances as of April 30, 2016 and
2015 by $8.9 million and $13.0 million, respectively.
We generally use foreign exchange forward contracts to mitigate foreign currency exchange rate risk for seasonal
loans we advance to our Canadian operations. As of April 30, 2016, our Canadian operations had repaid their U.S.
dollar denominated liabilities to various U.S. subsidiaries, which were exposed to exchange rate risk. Foreign currency
losses totaled $7.8 million for fiscal year 2016, and are included in other expenses on our consolidated statements of
income and comprehensive income.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
35
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
DISCUSSION OF FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
H&R Block's management is responsible for the integrity and objectivity of the information contained in this document.
Management is responsible for the consistency of reporting this information and for ensuring that accounting principles
generally accepted in the U.S. are properly applied. In discharging this responsibility, management maintains an
extensive program of internal audits and requires members of management to certify financial information within
their scope of management. Our system of internal control over financial reporting also includes formal policies and
procedures, including a Code of Business Ethics and Conduct that reinforces our commitment to ethical business
conduct and is designed to encourage our employees and directors to act with high standards of integrity in all that
they do.
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, composed solely of independent outside directors, meets
periodically with management, the independent auditor and the Vice President, Audit Services (our chief internal
auditor) to review matters relating to our financial statements, internal audit activities, internal accounting controls
and non-audit services provided by the independent auditors. The independent auditor and the Vice President, Audit
Services have full access to the Audit Committee and meet with the committee, both with and without management
present, to discuss the scope and results of their audits, including internal control, audit and financial matters.
Deloitte & Touche LLP audited our consolidated financial statements for fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014. The
audits were conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United
States).
MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as
such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 12a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of management,
including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of
our internal control over financial reporting based on the criteria established in "Internal Control - Integrated
Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), using the
2013 framework, as of April 30, 2016.
Based on our assessment, management concluded that as of April 30, 2016, the Company's internal control over
financial reporting was effective based on the criteria set forth by COSO, using the 2013 framework. The Company's
external auditor, Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, has issued an audit report
on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ William C. Cobb
William C. Cobb
President and Chief Executive Officer
/s/ Tony G. Bowen
Tony G. Bowen
Chief Financial Officer
36
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
H&R Block, Inc.
Kansas City, Missouri
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of H&R Block, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company")
as of April 30, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income,
stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended April 30, 2016. Our audits also
included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial
statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion
on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the
accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position
of H&R Block, Inc. and subsidiaries as of April 30, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended April 30, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered
in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the
information set forth therein.
As discussed in Notes 1 and 12 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method of
accounting for the classification of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of April 30, 2016 due to the adoption of
Accounting Standard Update (ASU) 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United
States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2016, based on the criteria established
in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission and our report dated June 17, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal
control over financial reporting.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
June 17, 2016
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
37
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
H&R Block, Inc.
Kansas City, Missouri
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of H&R Block, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as
of April 30, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal
control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial
Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based
on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
(United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included
obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness
exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk,
and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit
provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the
company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected
by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding
the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those
policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance
with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding
prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could
have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion
or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented
or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over
financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of
changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting
as of April 30, 2016, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United
States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended April 30,
2016 of the Company and our report dated June 17, 2016 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial
statements and financial statement schedule, and includes an explanatory paragraph relating to a change in the
method of accounting for classification of deferred tax assets and liabilities as of April 30, 2016 due to the adoption
of Accounting Standard Update (ASU) 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
June 17, 2016
38
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Year ended April 30,
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
2016
2015
2014
$
2,653,936
$
2,651,057
$
384,217
3,038,153
427,601
3,078,658
REVENUES:
Service revenues
Royalty, product and other revenues
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Cost of revenues:
Compensation and benefits
Occupancy and equipment
Provision for bad debt and loan losses
Depreciation and amortization
Other
Selling, general and administrative:
Marketing and advertising
Compensation and benefits
Depreciation and amortization
Other selling, general and administrative
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on borrowings
Other expenses
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income from continuing operations
Net loss from discontinued operations, net of tax benefits of
$5,414, $8,125 and $15,422
NET INCOME
BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME:
Net income
Unrealized gains on securities, net of taxes:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the year, net
Reclassification adjustment for losses (gains) included in
income
Change in foreign currency translation adjustments
Other comprehensive loss
Comprehensive income
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
2,570,273
454,022
3,024,295
816,623
362,782
80,007
93,259
219,706
1,572,377
238,763
249,779
22,345
122,541
633,428
2,205,805
36,315
(55,279)
(32,410)
767,116
267,019
500,097
(24,940)
475,157
1.82
(0.09)
1.73
1.81
(0.09)
1.72
845,197
405,123
75,395
115,907
243,930
852,480
378,624
74,993
111,861
212,532
1,685,552
1,630,490
297,762
228,778
57,691
135,178
719,409
2,404,961
17,701
(68,962)
(12,452)
569,479
185,926
383,553
273,682
238,527
47,943
93,350
653,502
2,283,992
1,314
(45,246)
(7,929)
742,805
256,061
486,744
(9,286)
374,267
$
(13,081)
473,663
$
1.54
(0.04)
1.50
1.53
(0.04)
1.49
$
$
$
$
1.77
(0.05)
1.72
1.75
(0.04)
1.71
$
$
$
$
374,267
$
473,663
$
475,157
(3,530)
(4,982)
(4,461)
(12,973)
6,645
41
(10,123)
(3,437)
1,807
(3,705)
(3,475)
(5,373)
361,294
$
470,226
$
469,784
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
39
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of April 30,
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents - restricted
Receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $57,011, and $54,527
Deferred tax assets and income taxes receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Investments in available-for-sale securities
Total current assets
Mortgage loans held for investment, less allowance for loan losses of $5,518 and $7,886
Property and equipment, at cost, less accumulated depreciation and
amortization of $601,120 and $518,797
Intangible assets, net
Goodwill
Deferred tax assets and income taxes receivable
Other noncurrent assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
LIABILITIES:
Customer banking deposits
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Accrued salaries, wages and payroll taxes
Accrued income taxes
Current portion of long-term debt
Deferred revenue and other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Long-term debt
Deferred tax liabilities and reserves for uncertain tax positions
Deferred revenue and other noncurrent liabilities
Total liabilities
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Common stock, no par, stated value $.01 per share, 800,000,000 shares
authorized, shares issued of 260,218,666 and 316,628,110
Additional paid-in capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Retained earnings
Less treasury shares, at cost, of 39,701,409 and 41,353,479
Total stockholders' equity
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
(in 000s, except share and
per share amounts)
2016
2015
$
896,801
$
2,007,190
104,110
153,116
—
67,138
1,133
1,222,298
202,385
293,565
433,885
470,757
120,123
114,762
91,972
167,964
174,267
70,283
439,625
2,951,301
239,338
311,387
432,142
441,831
13,461
125,960
2,857,775
$
4,515,420
$
$
— $
259,586
161,786
373,754
826
243,653
1,039,605
1,501,925
132,960
160,182
2,834,672
2,602
758,230
(11,233)
40,347
(766,843)
23,103
744,241
231,322
144,744
434,684
790
322,508
1,878,289
505,298
142,586
156,298
2,682,471
3,166
783,793
1,740
1,836,442
(792,192)
1,832,949
4,515,420
$
2,857,775
$
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
40
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year ended April 30,
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
2016
2015
(in 000s)
2014
$
374,267
$
473,663
$
475,157
Depreciation and amortization
Provision for bad debt and loan losses
Deferred taxes
Stock-based compensation
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:
Cash and cash equivalents - restricted
Receivables
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Other noncurrent assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Accrued salaries, wages and payroll taxes
Deferred revenue and other current liabilities
Deferred revenue and other noncurrent liabilities
Income tax receivables, accrued income taxes and income tax reserves
Other, net
Net cash provided by operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of available-for-sale securities
Sales, maturities and payments received on available-for-sale securities
Principal payments on mortgage loans held for investment, net
Capital expenditures
Payments made for business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Proceeds from notes receivable
Franchise loans funded
Payments received on franchise loans
Other, net
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Repayments of commercial paper and line of credit borrowings
Proceeds from issuance of commercial paper and line of credit borrowings
Repayments of long-term debt
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Transfer of HRB Bank deposits
Customer banking deposits, net
Dividends paid
Repurchase of common stock, including shares surrendered
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Other, net
Net cash used in financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year
SUPPLEMENTARY CASH FLOW DATA:
Income taxes paid, net of refunds received
Interest paid on borrowings
Transfers of foreclosed loans to other assets
Accrued additions to property and equipment
Conversion of investment in preferred stock to available-for-sale common stock
Transfer of mortgage loans held for investment to held for sale
173,598
75,395
36,276
23,540
(12,159)
(70,721)
4,321
4,197
16,723
17,388
(77,510)
3,055
(12,499)
(23,477)
532,394
—
436,471
33,721
(99,923)
(88,776)
—
(22,820)
55,007
15,835
329,515
(1,465,000)
1,465,000
—
996,831
(419,028)
(326,705)
(201,688)
(2,018,338)
25,775
(18,576)
(1,961,729)
159,804
74,993
(15,502)
26,068
23,252
(68,109)
(8,542)
2,260
681
(21,132)
(34,491)
3,289
33,410
(23,036)
626,608
(90,581)
91,878
23,886
(123,158)
(113,252)
—
(49,695)
90,636
21,354
(148,932)
(1,049,136)
1,049,136
(400,000)
—
—
(28,544)
(219,960)
(10,449)
16,522
(3,376)
(645,807)
(10,569)
(9,986)
115,604
80,007
20,958
20,058
2,522
(30,376)
2,293
(6,024)
8,430
33,362
26,080
(4,905)
83,328
(16,913)
809,581
(45,158)
107,101
46,664
(147,011)
(68,428)
64,865
(63,960)
87,220
29,397
10,690
(316,000)
316,000
—
—
—
(163,952)
(218,980)
(6,106)
28,246
(4,138)
(364,930)
(17,618)
$
$
$
$
(1,110,389)
2,007,190
896,801
165,154
59,058
3,863
2,822
—
—
$
$
(178,117)
2,185,307
2,007,190
236,624
44,847
4,805
14,282
5,000
—
437,723
1,747,584
2,185,307
155,735
55,221
7,644
5,257
—
7,608
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
41
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
NATURE OF OPERATIONS – Our operating subsidiaries provide assisted and do-it-yourself (DIY) tax return preparation
through multiple channels (including in-person, online and mobile applications, and desktop software) and related
services and products to the general public primarily in the United States, Canada, Australia, and their respective
territories.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION – The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and our 100% owned subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS – Our discontinued operations include the results of operations of Sand Canyon
Corporation, previously known as Option One Mortgage Corporation (including its subsidiaries, collectively, SCC),
which exited its mortgage business in fiscal year 2008. See notes 15 and 16 for additional information on litigation,
claims and other loss contingencies related to our discontinued operations.
MANAGEMENT ESTIMATES – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles
generally accepted in the U. S. (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant estimates,
assumptions and judgments are applied in the evaluation of contingent losses arising from our discontinued mortgage
business, contingent losses associated with pending claims and litigation, valuation allowances on deferred tax assets,
reserves for uncertain tax positions and related matters. Estimates have been prepared based on the best information
available as of each balance sheet date. As such, actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – All non-restricted highly liquid instruments purchased with an original maturity
of three months or less are considered to be cash equivalents.
Outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit (book overdrafts) included in accounts payable totaled $43.1
million and $34.0 million as of April 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – RESTRICTED – Cash and cash equivalents – restricted consists primarily of cash
held by our captive insurance subsidiary and for the benefit of our discontinued mortgage operations.
RECEIVABLES AND RELATED ALLOWANCES – Our trade receivables consist primarily of accounts receivable from
tax clients for tax return preparation. The allowance for doubtful accounts for these receivables requires management's
judgment regarding collectibility and current economic conditions to establish an amount considered by management
to be adequate to cover estimated losses as of the balance sheet date. Credit losses from tax clients for tax return
preparation are not specifically identified and charged off; instead they are evaluated on a pooled basis. At the end
of each tax season the outstanding balances on these receivables are evaluated based on collections received and
expected collections over subsequent tax seasons.
Our financing receivables consist primarily of mortgage loans held for investment, participations in H&R Block
Emerald Advance® lines of Credit (EAs), loans made to franchisees, and amounts due under our refund discount
program in Canada (Cash Back®).
H&R Block Emerald Advance® lines of credit. EAs are typically offered to clients in our offices from late November
through mid-January, currently in an amount not to exceed $1,000. If the borrower meets certain criteria as agreed
in the loan terms, the line of credit can be increased and utilized year-round. EA balances require an annual paydown
on February 15th, and any amounts unpaid are placed on non-accrual status as of March 1st. Payments on past due
amounts are applied to principal. Beginning in fiscal year 2016, we no longer originate EAs. These lines of credit are
offered by BofI Federal Bank, a federal savings bank (BofI). We purchase participation interests in their loans, as
discussed further in note 14.
Credit losses from EAs are not specifically identified; instead we review the credit quality of these receivables on
a pooled basis, segregated by the year of origination and whether the credit was extended to a new or returning tax
client. Credit losses are based on an analysis of collections received and expected collections over subsequent tax
seasons. We charge-off receivables to an amount we believe represents the net realizable value.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
43
Loans made to franchisees. The credit quality of these receivables is assessed at origination at an individual
franchisee level. Payment history is monitored on a regular basis. Based upon our internal analysis and underwriting
activities, we believe all loans to franchisees are of similar credit quality. Loans are evaluated for collectibility when
they become delinquent. Amounts deemed to be uncollectible are written off to bad debt expense and bad debt
related to these loans has typically been immaterial. Additionally, the franchise territory serves as additional security
in the event a franchisee defaults on the loan. In the event the franchisee is unable to repay the loan, we may revoke
franchise rights, write off the remaining balance of the loan and refranchise the territory or begin operating it as
company-owned.
Cash Back® receivables. During the tax season, our Canadian operations advance refunds due to certain clients
from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), in exchange for a fee. The total fee we charge for this service is mandated
by legislation which is administered by the CRA. Interest is not charged on these balances, in accordance with CRA
regulations. The client assigns to us the full amount of the tax refund to be issued by the CRA and the refund is then
sent by the CRA directly to us. The amount we advance to clients under this program is the amount of their estimated
refund, less our fees, any amounts expected to be withheld by the CRA for amounts the client may owe to government
authorities and any amounts owed to us from prior years. The CRA's system for tracking amounts due to various
government agencies also indicates if the client has already filed a return, does not exist in the CRA's records, or is
bankrupt. This serves to greatly reduce the amounts of uncollectible receivables and the risk of fraudulent returns.
We do not specifically identify credit losses for these receivables; instead we determine our allowance for these
receivables based on a review of receipts taking into consideration historical experience. In September of each fiscal
year, any balances remaining from the previous tax season are charged-off against the related allowance.
MORTGAGE LOANS HELD FOR INVESTMENT – Mortgage loans held for investment represent loans originated or
acquired with the ability and current intent to hold to maturity. Loans held for investment are carried at amortized
cost adjusted for charge-offs, net of allowance for loan losses, deferred fees or costs on originated loans and
unamortized premiums or discounts on purchased loans.
We record an allowance representing our estimate of credit losses inherent in the loan portfolio at the balance
sheet date. A current assessment of the value of the loan's underlying collateral is made when the loan is no later
than 60 days past due and any loan balance in excess of the collateral value less costs to sell the property, is included
in the provision for credit losses.
We evaluate mortgage loans less than 60 days past due on a pooled basis and record a loan loss allowance for
those loans in the aggregate.
Loans are considered impaired when we believe it is probable we will be unable to collect all principal and interest
due according to the contractual terms of the loan, or when the loan is 60 days past due. For loans over 60 days but
less than 180 days past due we record a loan loss allowance. For loans 180 days or more past due we charge-off the
loan to the value of the collateral less costs to sell.
We classify loans as non-accrual when full and timely collection of interest or principal becomes uncertain, or when
they are 90 days past due. Interest previously accrued, but not collected, is reversed against current interest income
when a loan is placed on non-accrual status. Loans are not placed back on accrual status until collection of principal
and interest is reasonably assured as a result of the borrower bringing the loan into compliance with the contractual
terms of the loan. Prior to restoring a loan to accrual status, management considers a borrower's prospects for
continuing future contractual payments.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT – Buildings and equipment are initially recorded at cost and are depreciated over the
estimated useful life of the assets using the straight-line method. Leasehold improvements are initially recorded at
cost and are amortized over the lesser of the remaining term of the respective lease or the estimated useful life, using
the straight-line method. Estimated useful lives are 15 to 40 years for buildings, three to five years for computers and
other equipment, three years for purchased software and up to eight years for leasehold improvements.
Substantially all of the operations of our subsidiaries are conducted in leased premises. For all lease agreements,
including those with escalating rent payments or rent holidays, we recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis.
44
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS – Goodwill represents costs in excess of fair values assigned to the underlying
net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not amortized, but rather is tested for impairment annually, or more
frequently if indications of potential impairment exist.
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and are reviewed for impairment
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. The
weighted-average life of intangible assets with finite lives is 19 years. Intangible assets, except customer relationships,
are typically amortized over the estimated useful life of the assets using the straight-line method. Customer
relationships are typically amortized over a five-year period using an accelerated method which takes into
consideration expected customer attrition rates.
We capitalize certain allowable costs associated with software developed for internal use. These costs are typically
amortized over three to five years using the straight-line method.
TREASURY SHARES – We record shares of common stock repurchased by us as treasury shares, at cost, resulting
in a reduction of stockholders' equity. Periodically, we may retire shares held in treasury as determined by our Board
of Directors. We typically reissue treasury shares as part of our stock-based compensation programs. When shares
are reissued, we determine the cost using the average cost method.
REVENUE RECOGNITION – We recognize revenue for our services when each of the following four criteria is met:
persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists; delivery has occurred or services have been rendered; the selling price
is fixed or determinable; and collectibility is reasonably assured.
Service revenues consist primarily of fees for preparation and filing of tax returns, both in offices and through our
online programs, fees earned on refund transfers (RTs), interchange income associated with our H&R Block Emerald
Prepaid MasterCard® program and fees associated with our Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan (POM). Service
revenues are recognized in the period in which the service is performed as follows:
Assisted and online tax preparation revenues are recorded when a completed return is electronically filed or
accepted by the customer.
Fees related to RTs are recognized when Internal Revenue Service (IRS) acknowledgment is received and the bank
account is established at BofI.
Revenues associated with our H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard® program consist of interchange income
from the use of debit cards and fees from the use of ATM networks, net of volume-based amounts retained by
BofI in connection with the PMA. Interchange income is a fee paid by a merchant bank to BofI through the
interchange network. Net revenue associated with our H&R Block Prepaid Mastercard® is recognized based on
cardholder transactions.
POM revenues are deferred and recognized over the term of the plan, based on actual claims paid in relation to
projected claims.
Royalty, product and other revenues include royalties from franchisees and sales of desktop software products,
and are recognized as follows:
Franchise royalties, which are based on contractual percentages of franchise revenues, are recorded in the period
in which the services are provided to the customer.
Revenue from the sale of desktop software is recognized when the product is sold to the end user. Rebates,
slotting fees and other incentives paid in connection with these sales are recorded as a reduction of revenue.
Participation revenue on EAs is recorded over the life of the underlying loan.
Interest on loans to franchisees is calculated using the average daily balance method and is recognized based on
the principal amount outstanding until the outstanding balance is paid or becomes delinquent.
Sales tax we collect and remit to taxing authorities is recorded net in the consolidated statements of income.
In connection with the deregistration of H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Group, Inc. and Block Financial, LLC as savings
and loan holding companies (SLHCs), as discussed further in note 2, we no longer present interest income on mortgage
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
45
loans held for investment and various other investments as revenues. Effective September 1, 2015, these amounts
are prospectively reported in other income on the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
ADVERTISING EXPENSE – Advertising costs for radio and television ads are expensed over the course of the tax
season, with print and mailing advertising expensed as incurred.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS – We have a 401(k) defined contribution plan covering eligible full-time and seasonal
employees following the completion of an eligibility period. Contributions to this plan are discretionary and totaled
$14.3 million, $14.8 million and $11.8 million for continuing operations in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
We have severance plans covering executives and eligible regular full-time or part-time active employees of a
participating employer who incur a qualifying termination. Expenses related to severance benefits of continuing
operations totaled $12.0 million, $6.7 million and $5.2 million in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION – Translation adjustments principally related to amounts outstanding under
intercompany borrowings, resulted in foreign currency losses of $7.8 million, $5.9 million and $18.2 million in fiscal
years 2016, 2015 and 2014 respectively.
NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS – In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-9, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to
Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting" (ASU 2016-9), to reduce complexity in accounting standards involving
several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the income tax
consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows.
This guidance will be effective for us on May 1, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the
impact of ASU No. 2016-9 on our consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-2, "Leases" (ASU 2016-2), which will
require the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for leases previously classified as operating leases.
ASU 2016-2 also requires additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures related to the nature, timing and
uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. This guidance will be effective for us on May 1, 2019, with early adoption
permitted, and requires the use of a modified retrospective approach for leases that exist or are entered into after
the beginning of the earliest comparative period in the financial statements. We are currently evaluating the impact
of ASU 2016-2 on our consolidated financial statements, although we expect the impact of this guidance on our
consolidated financial statements could be significant.
In November 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-17, "Balance Sheet Classification of
Deferred Taxes," (ASU 2015-17) which requires that deferred tax liabilities and assets be classified as noncurrent. We
elected to adopt this guidance as of November 1, 2015, and applied it prospectively. As such, prior periods have not
been adjusted.
In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with
Customers," (ASU 2014-09) which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be
entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. This guidance will replace most existing revenue
recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. The new standard is effective for us on May 1, 2018.
Early application is not permitted. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect
transition method. We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our consolidated financial statements
and related disclosures. We have not yet selected a transition method nor have we determined the effect of the
standard on our ongoing financial reporting.
NOTE 2: DIVESTITURE OF H&R BLOCK BANK
On August 4, 2015, H&R Block Bank (HRB Bank), Block Financial LLC, the sole shareholder of HRB Bank (Block Financial),
and BofI, received regulatory approvals for a definitive Amended and Restated Purchase and Assumption Agreement
pursuant to which we agreed to sell certain assets and liabilities, including all of the deposit liabilities of HRB Bank,
to BofI (P&A Transaction). On August 31, 2015, we completed the P&A Transaction and made a net cash payment to
BofI of $419 million, which was approximately equal to the carrying value of the liabilities (including all deposit
liabilities) assumed by BofI. In connection with the closing, we sold the available-for-sale (AFS) securities previously
held by HRB Bank.
46
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
On the closing date of the P&A Transaction, HRB Bank converted from a federal savings bank to a national banking
association, merged with and into its parent company, Block Financial, surrendered its bank charter and ceased to
exist as a bank. As a result, effective August 31, 2015, neither we nor any of our subsidiaries are subject to minimum
regulatory capital requirements or to regulation as a bank by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). In
addition, H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Group, Inc. and Block Financial (collectively, our Holding Companies) were SLHCs
because they controlled HRB Bank. As a result of the P&A Transaction and related actions, our Holding Companies
have ceased to be SLHCs and have deregistered as SLHCs under Section 10(b) of the Home Owner's Loan Act. Effective
August 31, 2015, our Holding Companies are no longer subject to regulatory capital requirements applicable to SLHCs
or regulation by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (Federal Reserve).
NOTE 3: EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic and diluted earnings per share is computed using the two-class method. The two-class method is an earnings
allocation formula that determines net income per share for each class of common stock and participating security
according to dividends declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Per share amounts are computed
by dividing net income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average
shares outstanding during each period.
The computations of basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations are as follows:
Year ended April 30,
Net income from continuing operations attributable to shareholders
Amounts allocated to participating securities
Net income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders
Basic weighted average common shares
Potential dilutive shares
Dilutive weighted average common shares
Earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to common
shareholders:
Basic
Diluted
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
2016
383,553
(718)
382,835
$
$
249,009
1,809
250,818
2015
486,744
(774)
485,970
$
$
275,033
2,103
277,136
2014
500,097
(692)
499,405
273,830
2,197
276,027
$
1.54
1.53
$
1.77
1.75
1.82
1.81
$
$
$
Diluted earnings per share excludes the impact of shares of common stock issuable upon the lapse of certain
restrictions or the exercise of options to purchase 0.1 million shares of stock for each of our fiscal years 2016, 2015
and 2014, as the effect would be antidilutive.
NOTE 4: RECEIVABLES
Receivables consist of the following:
As of April 30,
2016
2015
Short-term
Long-term
Short-term
Long-term
(in 000s)
Loans to franchisees
$
50,000
$
46,284
$
56,603
$
Receivables for tax preparation and related fees
Cash Back® receivables
Emerald Advance lines of credit
Royalties from franchisees
Other
Allowance for doubtful accounts
52,327
37,663
25,092
9,997
35,048
210,127
(57,011)
5,528
—
869
—
7,726
60,407
—
48,864
42,680
21,908
8,206
44,230
222,491
(54,527)
$
153,116
$
60,407
$
167,964
$
64,472
6,103
—
1,913
—
8,379
80,867
—
80,867
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
47
Balances presented above as short-term are included in receivables, while the long-term portions are included in
other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets.
Loans to Franchisees. Loans made to franchisees as of April 30, 2016 consisted of $61.2 million in term loans made
primarily to finance the purchase of franchises and $35.1 million in revolving lines of credit primarily for the purpose
of funding off-season working capital needs. Loans made to franchisees as of April 30, 2015 consisted of $80.8 million
in term loans and $40.3 million in revolving lines of credit.
As of April 30, 2016 and 2015, we had $0.3 million and $0.1 million of loans, respectively, more than 30 days past
due. We had no loans to franchisees on non-accrual status as of April 30, 2016 or 2015.
Canadian Cash Back® Program. Refunds advanced under the Cash Back program are not subject to credit approval,
therefore the primary indicator of credit quality is the age of the receivable amount. Cash Back amounts are generally
received within 60 days of filing the client's return. As of April 30, 2016 and 2015, $1.5 million and $1.3 million,
respectively, of Cash Back balances were more than 60 days old.
H&R Block Emerald Advance® lines of credit. Beginning in fiscal year 2016, we no longer originate EAs. These lines
of credit are originated by BofI, and we purchase a participation interest in them.
We review the credit quality of our EA receivables based on pools, which are segregated by the year of origination,
with older years being deemed more unlikely to be repaid. These amounts as of April 30, 2016, by year of origination,
are as follows:
Credit Quality Indicator – Year of origination:
2016
2015
2014 and prior
Revolving loans
$
$
(in 000s)
10,867
2,789
(2,127)
14,432
25,961
As of April 30, 2016 and 2015, $21.1 million and $18.7 million of EAs were on non-accrual status and classified as
impaired, or more than 60 days past due, respectively.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for our receivables is as follows:
Balances as of May 1, 2013
$
EAs
7,390
$
All Other
50,313
$
Provision
Charge-offs
Balances as of April 30, 2014
Provision
Charge-offs
Balances as of April 30, 2015
Provision
Charge-offs
24,619
(24,479)
7,530
27,065
(27,242)
7,353
24,939
(23,285)
46,439
(51,704)
45,048
44,002
(41,876)
47,174
48,743
(47,913)
Balances as of April 30, 2016
$
9,007
$
48,004
$
(in 000s)
Total
57,703
71,058
(76,183)
52,578
71,067
(69,118)
54,527
73,682
(71,198)
57,011
48
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
NOTE 5: MORTGAGE LOANS HELD FOR INVESTMENT
The composition of our mortgage loan portfolio is as follows:
As of April 30,
Adjustable-rate loans
Fixed-rate loans
Unamortized deferred fees and costs
Less: Allowance for loan losses
2016
Amount
108,251
97,957
206,208
1,695
(5,518)
202,385
$
$
(dollars in 000s)
2015
% of Total
52% $
48%
100%
Amount
130,182
115,034
245,216
2,008
(7,886)
$
239,338
% of Total
53%
47%
100%
Our loan loss allowance as a percent of mortgage loans was 2.7% and 3.2% as of April 30, 2016 and 2015,
respectively.
Activity in the allowance for loan losses for the years ended April 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
Year ended April 30,
Balance as of the beginning of the year
Provision
Recoveries
Charge-offs
Balance as of the end of the year
$
$
2016
7,886
$
(1,173)
1,797
(2,992)
5,518
$
2015
11,272
$
(10)
1,393
(4,769)
7,886
$
Detail of the aging of the mortgage loans in our portfolio as of April 30, 2016 is as follows:
Purchased from SCC
All other
Less than 60
Days Past Due
60 – 89 Days
Past Due
90+ Days
Past Due(1)
Total
Past Due
$
$
9,775
2,315
12,090
$
$
376
131
507
$
$
40,987
5,878
46,865
$
$
51,138
8,324
59,462
$
$
Current
70,906
75,840
146,746
$
$
(in 000s)
2014
14,314
8,271
4,040
(15,353)
11,272
(in 000s)
Total
122,044
84,164
206,208
(1) We do not accrue interest on loans past due 90 days or more.
NOTE 6: PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
The components of property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization, are as follows:
As of April 30,
Buildings
Computers and other equipment
Leasehold improvements
Purchased software
Land and other non-depreciable assets
2016
76,289
$
128,815
77,712
9,126
1,623
(in 000s)
2015
88,273
140,636
68,114
12,741
1,623
293,565
$
311,387
$
$
Depreciation and amortization expense of property and equipment for continuing operations for fiscal years 2016,
2015 and 2014 was $100.8 million, $101.3 million and $84.7 million, respectively.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
49
NOTE 7: GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended April 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:
Balances as of May 1, 2014
Acquisitions
Disposals and foreign currency changes, net
Impairments
Balances as of April 30, 2015
Acquisitions
Disposals and foreign currency changes, net
Impairments
Balances as of April 30, 2016
Goodwill
Accumulated
Impairment Losses
$
468,414
$
(32,297) $
7,628
(1,914)
—
474,128
27,765
1,161
—
—
—
—
(32,297)
—
—
—
$
503,054
$
(32,297) $
(in 000s)
Net
436,117
7,628
(1,914)
—
441,831
27,765
1,161
—
470,757
We tested goodwill for impairment in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016, and did not identify any impairment.
Components of intangible assets are as follows:
As of April 30,
2016
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
2015
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Net
(in 000s)
Net
Reacquired franchise rights
$
319,354
$
(68,284) $
251,070
$
294,647
$
(46,180) $
248,467
Customer relationships
Internally-developed software
Noncompete agreements
Franchise agreements
Purchased technology
Acquired assets pending final
allocation (1)
206,607
131,161
31,499
19,201
54,700
(104,072)
(95,768)
(25,572)
(9,494)
(25,909)
102,535
35,393
5,927
9,707
28,791
170,851
118,865
30,630
19,201
54,700
(78,157)
(80,689)
(23,666)
(8,214)
(19,846)
462
—
462
—
—
92,694
38,176
6,964
10,987
34,854
—
$
762,984
$
(329,099) $
433,885
$
688,894
$
(256,752) $
432,142
(1) Represents recent business acquisitions for which final purchase price allocations have not yet been determined.
The increase in intangible assets resulted primarily from acquired franchisee and competitor businesses during
fiscal year 2016, which added approximately 260 offices to our company-owned network. The amounts and weighted-
average lives of assets acquired or added during fiscal year 2016 are as follows:
Reacquired franchise rights
Customer relationships
Internally-developed software
Noncompete agreements
Total
$
$
Amount
Weighted-Average Life (in years)
(dollars in 000s)
23,412
36,162
14,469
812
74,855
6
6
3
5
5
Amortization of intangible assets of continuing operations for the years ended April 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was
$72.8 million, $58.5 million and $30.9 million, respectively. Estimated amortization of intangible assets for fiscal years
2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 is $75.6 million, $65.2 million, $50.8 million, $37.2 million and $26.1 million,
respectively.
50
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
NOTE 8: LONG-TERM DEBT
The components of long-term debt are as follows:
As of April 30,
Senior Notes, 4.125%, due October 2020
Senior Notes, 5.500%, due November 2022
Senior Notes, 5.250%, due October 2025
Capital lease obligation, due over the next 7 years
Less: Current portion
2016
$
648,129
$
498,175
349,012
7,435
1,502,751
(826)
(in 000s)
2015
—
497,894
—
8,194
506,088
(790)
$
1,501,925
$
505,298
UNSECURED COMMITTED LINE OF CREDIT – In September 2015, we terminated our previous committed line of
credit agreement and entered into a new Credit and Guarantee Agreement (2015 CLOC). The 2015 CLOC provides for
an unsecured senior revolving credit facility in the aggregate principal amount of $2.0 billion, which includes a $200.0
million sublimit for swingline loans and a $100.0 million sublimit for standby letters of credit. We may request increases
in the aggregate principal amount of the revolving credit facility of up to $500.0 million, subject to obtaining
commitments from lenders therefor and meeting certain other conditions. The 2015 CLOC will mature on September
21, 2020, unless extended pursuant to the terms of the 2015 CLOC, at which time all outstanding amounts thereunder
will be due and payable. The 2015 CLOC includes an annual facility fee, which will vary depending our then current
credit ratings.
The 2015 CLOC is subject to various conditions, triggers, events or occurrences that could result in earlier
termination and contains customary representations, warranties, covenants and events of default, including, without
limitation: (1) a covenant requiring the Company to maintain a debt-to-EBITDA ratio calculated on a consolidated basis
of no greater than (a) 3.50 to 1.00 as of the last day of each fiscal quarter ending on April 30, July 31, and October 31
of each year and (b) 4.50 to 1.00 as of the last day of each fiscal quarter ending on January 31 of each year; (2) a
covenant requiring us to maintain an interest coverage (EBITDA-to-interest expense) ratio calculated on a consolidated
basis of not less than 2.50 to 1.00 as of the last date of any fiscal quarter; and (3) covenants restricting our ability to
incur certain additional debt, incur liens, merge or consolidate with other companies, sell or dispose of assets (including
equity interests), liquidate or dissolve, engage in certain transactions with affiliates or enter into certain restrictive
agreements. The 2015 CLOC includes provisions for an equity cure which could potentially allow us to independently
cure certain defaults. Proceeds under the 2015 CLOC may be used for working capital needs or for other general
corporate purposes. We were in compliance with these requirements as of April 30, 2016. As of April 30, 2016, amounts
available to borrow under the 2015 CLOC were limited by the debt-to-EBITDA covenant in the 2015 CLOC Agreement
to approximately $1.2 billion, however, our cash needs at April 30 generally do not require us to borrow on our CLOC
at that time. We had no balance outstanding under the 2015 CLOC as of April 30, 2016.
SENIOR NOTES – On September 25, 2015, we issued $650.0 million of 4.125% Senior Notes due October 1, 2020
(2020 Senior Notes), and $350.0 million of 5.250% Senior Notes due October 1, 2025 (2025 Senior Notes). The Senior
Notes are not redeemable by the bondholders prior to maturity, although we have the right to redeem some or all of
these notes at any time, at specified redemption prices. Proceeds of the 2020 Senior Notes and 2025 Senior Notes,
along with cash on hand, were used to repurchase shares, as discussed in note 10.
On October 25, 2012, we issued $500.0 million of 5.50% Senior Notes due November 1, 2022. The Senior Notes
are not redeemable by the bondholders prior to maturity.
The interest rates on our Senior Notes are subject to adjustment based upon our credit ratings.
OTHER INFORMATION – The aggregate payments required to retire long-term debt are $0.8 million, $1.0 million,
$1.0 million, $1.1 million, $649.3 million and $849.6 million in fiscal years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and beyond,
respectively.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
51
NOTE 9: FAIR VALUE
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT – We use the following classification of financial instruments pursuant to the fair value
hierarchy methodologies for assets measured at fair value:
Level 1 – inputs to the valuation are quoted prices in an active market for identical assets.
Level 2 – inputs to the valuation include quoted prices for similar assets in active markets utilizing a third-party
pricing service to determine fair value.
Level 3 – valuation is based on significant inputs that are unobservable in the market and our own estimates
of assumptions that we believe market participants would use in pricing the asset.
Assets measured on a recurring basis are initially measured at fair value and are required to be remeasured at fair
value in the financial statements at each reporting date. There were no transfers between hierarchy levels during the
fiscal years ended April 30, 2016 and 2015.
ESTIMATED FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS – The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of our
financial instruments are as follows:
As of April 30,
Assets:
2016
2015
Carrying
Amount
Estimated
Fair Value
Carrying
Amount
Estimated
Fair Value
Cash and cash equivalents
$
896,801
$
896,801
$
2,007,190
$
2,007,190
Cash and cash equivalents - restricted
Receivables, net - short-term
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Investments in AFS securities
Receivables, net - long-term
Liabilities:
Customer banking deposits
Long-term debt
Contingent consideration
104,110
153,116
202,385
1,133
60,407
104,110
153,116
190,503
1,133
60,407
—
—
1,502,751
1,566,098
8,657
8,657
91,972
167,964
239,338
441,709
80,867
744,699
506,088
10,667
(in 000s)
Fair Value
Hierarchy
Level 1
Level 1
Level 1
Level 3
91,972
167,964
190,196
441,709
Level 1 and 2
80,867
Level 1 and 3
737,261
Level 1 and 3
556,769
10,667
Level 2
Level 3
Fair value estimates, methods and assumptions are set forth below. The fair value was not estimated for assets
and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments.
Cash and cash equivalents, including restricted - Fair value approximates the carrying amount.
Receivables, net - short-term - For short-term balances the carrying values reported in the balance sheet
approximate fair market value due to the relative short-term nature of the respective instruments.
Mortgage loans held for investment, net - The fair value of mortgage loans held for investment is estimated
using a third-party pricing service. The fair value is determined using the present value of expected future
cash flows at the asset level, assuming future prepayments and using discount factors determined by prices
obtained for residential loans with similar characteristics in the secondary market, as discounted for illiquid
assets. Quarterly, we perform analytics to assess the reasonableness of the fair value received from the third-
party pricing service based on changes in the portfolio and changes in market conditions. We evaluate whether
adjustments to third-party pricing is necessary and historically, we have not made adjustments to prices
obtained from our third-party pricing service.
Investments in AFS securities - For mortgage-backed securities, we historically used a third-party pricing
service to determine fair value. The service's pricing model is based on market data and utilizes available
trade, bid and other market information for similar securities (Level 2). The fair value of our investment in
common stock was determined based on quoted market prices (Level 1).
Receivables, net - long-term - The carrying values for the long-term portion of loans to franchisees
approximate fair market value due to variable interest rates, low historical delinquency rates and franchise
52
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
territories serving as collateral (Level 1). Long-term EA receivables are carried at net realizable value which
approximates fair value (Level 3). Net realizable value is determined based on historical collection rates.
Customer banking deposits - The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as non-interest-bearing
demand deposits, checking, money market and savings accounts, was equal to the amount payable on
demand (Level 1). The fair value of IRAs and other time deposits was estimated by discounting the future
cash flows using the rates offered by HRB Bank for products with similar remaining maturities (Level 3).
Long-term debt - The fair value of our Senior Notes is based on quotes from multiple banks.
Contingent consideration - Fair value approximates the carrying amount.
NOTE 10: STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
COMMON STOCK – During fiscal year 2016, we repurchased and immediately retired 56.4 million shares of stock at
an aggregate cost of $2.0 billion, or an average price of $35.46 per share. We had no similar repurchases or retirements
of common stock in fiscal years 2015 or 2014.
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME – Components of other comprehensive income include foreign currency
translation adjustments and the change in net unrealized gains or losses on AFS marketable securities, and are as
follows:
Foreign Currency
Translation Adjustments
Unrealized Gains (Losses)
on AFS Securities
Balances as of May 1, 2013
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
$
Gross gains (losses) arising during the year
Tax expense (benefit)
Amounts reclassified to net income:
Amount reclassified (1)
Tax expense (benefit)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)
Balances as of April 30, 2014
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
Gross gains (losses) arising during the year
Tax expense (benefit)
Amounts reclassified to net income:
Amount reclassified
Tax expense (benefit)
Net other comprehensive loss
Balances as of April 30, 2015
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications:
Gross gains (losses) arising during the year
Tax expense (benefit)
Amounts reclassified to net income:
Amount reclassified
Tax expense (benefit)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)
6,809
$
3,741
$
(3,416)
59
(3,475)
—
—
—
(3,475)
3,334
(9,004)
1,119
(10,123)
—
—
—
(10,123)
(6,789)
(4,398)
63
(4,461)
—
—
—
(4,461)
2,594
787
1,807
(5,835)
(2,130)
(3,705)
(1,898)
1,843
10,946
4,301
6,645
68
27
41
6,686
8,529
(5,800)
(2,270)
(3,530)
(8,196)
(3,214)
(4,982)
(8,512)
Balances as of April 30, 2016
$
(11,250) $
17
$
(in 000s)
Total
10,550
(822)
846
(1,668)
(5,835)
(2,130)
(3,705)
(5,373)
5,177
1,942
5,420
(3,478)
68
27
41
(3,437)
1,740
(10,198)
(2,207)
(7,991)
(8,196)
(3,214)
(4,982)
(12,973)
(11,233)
(1) Amount represents a gross realized gain of $18.3 million on the sale of residual interests in mortgage securitizations, net of other-than-temporary
impairments on AFS securities of $12.4 million.
Gross gains and losses reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income are included in other income
and other expense, respectively, in the consolidated statements of income and comprehensive income.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
53
NOTE 11: STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
We have a stock-based Long Term Incentive Plan (Plan), under which we can grant stock options, restricted shares,
performance-based share units, restricted share units, deferred stock units and other forms of equity to employees,
non-employee directors and consultants. Stock-based compensation expense of our continuing operations totaled
$23.5 million, $26.1 million and $20.1 million in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, net of related tax
benefits of $9.5 million, $9.9 million and $7.6 million, respectively. We realized tax benefits of $20.9 million, $12.5
million and $10.6 million in fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
As of April 30, 2016, we had 8.7 million shares reserved for future awards under our Plan. We issue shares from
our treasury stock to satisfy the exercise or vesting of stock-based awards and believe we have adequate treasury
stock balances available for future issuances.
We measure the fair value of options on the grant date or modification date using the Black-Scholes-Merton (Black-
Scholes) option valuation model based upon the expected term of the options. We measure the fair value of nonvested
shares and share units based on the closing price of our common stock on the grant date. We measure the fair value
of performance-based share units based on the Monte Carlo valuation model, taking into account as necessary those
provisions of the performance-based nonvested share units that are characterized as market conditions. We generally
expense the grant-date fair value, net of estimated forfeitures, over the vesting period on a straight-line basis.
Options, nonvested shares and nonvested share units (other than performance-based nonvested share units)
granted to employees typically vest pro-rata based upon service over a three-year period with a portion vesting each
year. Performance-based nonvested share units granted to employees typically cliff vest at the end of a three-year
period based upon satisfaction of both service-based and performance-based requirements. The number of
performance-based share units that ultimately vest ranges from zero to 250 percent of the number granted, based
on the form of award, performance metrics such as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization
(EBITDA), return on equity, return on invested capital, total shareholder return or our stock price. Deferred stock units
granted to non-employee directors vest when they are granted and are settled six months after the director separates
from service as a director of the Company, except in the case of death.
All share units granted after March 2013 to employees and non-employee directors receive cumulative dividend
equivalents at the time of distribution. Options granted under our Plan have a maximum contractual term of ten years.
STOCK OPTIONS – A summary of options for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016, is as follows:
Outstanding, beginning of the year
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited or expired
Outstanding, end of the year
Exercisable, end of the year
Exercisable and expected to vest
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
17.71
34.73
16.85
27.15
18.76
17.85
18.64
5 years
5 years
5 years
$
$
$
4,812
4,812
4,812
Shares
2,613
$
112
(707)
(42)
1,976
1,871
1,961
$
$
$
The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $11.7 million, $8.4 million
and $13.6 million, respectively. As of April 30, 2016, we had $0.4 million of total unrecognized compensation cost
related to outstanding options. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of two years.
When valuing our options on the grant date, we typically estimate the expected volatility using our historical stock
price data. We also use historical exercise and forfeiture behaviors to estimate the options expected term and our
forfeiture rate. The dividend yield is calculated based on the current dividend and the market price of our common
stock on the grant date. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury zero-coupon yield curve in effect on
54
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
the grant date. Both expected volatility and the risk-free interest rate are based on a period that approximates the
expected term.
The following assumptions were used to value options during the periods:
Year ended April 30,
Options - management and director:
Expected volatility
Expected term
Dividend yield
Risk-free interest rate
Weighted-average fair value
2016
22.95%-24.87%
4 years
2.26%-2.69%
1.29%-1.43%
2015
26.25%
4 years
2.62%
1.43%
2014
30.89% - 31.57%
4 years
2.77% - 2.87%
1.06% - 1.31%
$
5.28
$
5.18
$
5.57
OTHER AWARDS – A summary of nonvested shares, nonvested share units and deferred stock units, including those
that are performance-based, for the year ended April 30, 2016, is as follows:
Outstanding, beginning of the year
Granted
Released
Forfeited
Outstanding, end of the year
(shares in 000s)
Nonvested Shares and
Nonvested Share Units
Performance-Based
Nonvested Share Units
Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
24.05
30.58
24.26
30.11
26.21
Shares
1,487
$
593
(511)
(56)
1,513
$
Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
26.26
30.00
16.74
33.45
31.86
Shares
1,192
$
912
(980)
(25)
1,099
$
The total fair value of shares and units vesting during fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $28.8 million, $14.3
million and $8.6 million, respectively. As of April 30, 2016, we had $32.1 million of total unrecognized compensation
cost related to these shares. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of two years.
When valuing our performance-based nonvested share units on the grant date, we typically estimate the expected
volatility using historical volatility for H&R Block, Inc. and selected comparable companies. The dividend yield is
calculated based on the current dividend and the market price of our common stock on the grant date. The risk-free
interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury zero-coupon yield curve in effect on the grant date. Both expected volatility
and the risk-free interest rate are based on a period that approximates the expected term. The following assumptions
were used to value performance-based nonvested share units using the Monte Carlo valuation model during the
periods:
Year ended April 30,
Expected volatility
Expected term
Dividend yield (1)
Risk-free interest rate
Weighted-average fair value
2016
2015
2014
12.85% - 55.27%
12.28% - 78.42%
11.75% – 70.17%
3 years
0% - 2.70%
3 years
0% - 2.39%
$
0.95%
30.00
$
0.81%
37.17
$
3 years
0% – 2.88%
0.61%
28.59
(1)
The valuation model assumes that dividends are reinvested by the Company on a continuous basis.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
55
NOTE 12: INCOME TAXES
The components of income from continuing operations upon which domestic and foreign income taxes have been
provided are as follows:
Year ended April 30,
Domestic
Foreign
2016
513,746
55,733
569,479
$
$
2015
682,744
60,061
742,805
$
$
$
$
The components of income tax expense (benefit) for continuing operations are as follows:
Year ended April 30,
2016
2015
Current:
Federal
State
Foreign
Deferred:
Federal
State
Foreign
$
167,233
$
245,473
$
(26,980)
8,735
148,988
19,937
13,801
3,200
36,938
31,501
9,788
286,762
(30,181)
(4,040)
3,520
(30,701)
(in 000s)
2014
754,036
13,080
767,116
(in 000s)
2014
195,277
33,274
6,749
235,300
28,624
5,475
(2,380)
31,719
Total income taxes for continuing operations
$
185,926
$
256,061
$
267,019
The reconciliation between the income tax provision and the amount computed by applying the statutory federal
tax rate of 35% to income taxes of continuing operations is as follows:
Year ended April 30,
U.S. statutory tax rate
Change in tax rate resulting from:
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
Earnings taxed in foreign jurisdictions
Permanent differences
Uncertain tax positions
Change in valuation allowance
Significant state apportionment changes
Other
Effective tax rate
2016
35.0 %
2.2 %
(2.0)%
(0.2)%
2.8 %
(0.5)%
(4.3)%
(0.3)%
32.7 %
2015
35.0 %
3.5 %
(1.8)%
(0.3)%
(1.0)%
0.2 %
— %
(1.1)%
34.5 %
2014
35.0 %
3.8 %
(0.2)%
0.1 %
(5.6)%
1.5 %
— %
0.2 %
34.8 %
The effective tax rate for fiscal year 2016 decreased 1.8% compared to the prior year. This decrease was due largely
to the tax effects of changes in state apportionment. The 4.3% decrease related to the changes in state apportionment
were related to income from prior fiscal years for which tax returns were not yet filed when the apportionment change
was made. The favorable impact of the change in state apportionment was offset by an increase in uncertain tax
positions. The tax expense from uncertain tax positions resulted mainly from federal and state tax positions taken on
current year income tax returns.
The net loss from discontinued operations for fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 totaled $9.3 million, $13.1 million
and $24.9 million, respectively, and was net of tax benefits of $5.4 million, $8.1 million and $15.4 million, respectively.
56
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
The significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected in the following table:
As of April 30,
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued expenses
Deferred revenue
Allowance for credit losses and related reserves
Internally-developed software
Deferred and stock-based compensation
Net operating loss carry-forward
Federal tax benefits related to state unrecognized tax benefits
Other
Valuation allowance
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities:
Prepaid expenses and other
Property and equipment
Intangibles
Total deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax assets
2016
$
7,919
$
35,066
69,347
51,998
19,075
26,992
31,123
10,187
(21,515)
230,192
(3,225)
(19,913)
(93,406)
(116,544)
(in 000s)
2015
9,301
39,604
107,554
46,376
21,776
27,285
26,862
7,278
(24,937)
261,099
(7,295)
(25,589)
(93,700)
(126,584)
$
113,648
$
134,515
Effective November 1, 2015, we adopted the provisions of ASU 2015-17 on a prospective basis. Accordingly, all
net deferred tax assets and liabilities as of April 30, 2016 are classified as noncurrent in the consolidated balance
sheet. Amounts for prior periods have not been restated in the consolidated financial statements.
Our valuation allowance on deferred tax assets decreased $3.4 million during the current period. The decrease in
the valuation allowance related to management's assessment that it was now more likely than not that we could
utilize our deferred tax assets related to foreign tax credit carry-forwards, which were included in other deferred tax
assets as of April 30, 2015.
Certain of our subsidiaries file stand-alone returns in various states and foreign jurisdictions, and others join in
filing consolidated or combined returns in such jurisdictions. As of April 30, 2016, we had net operating losses (NOLs)
in various states and foreign jurisdictions. The amount of state NOLs vary by taxing jurisdiction. We maintain a valuation
allowance of $20.7 million for the portion of such losses that, more likely than not, will not be realized. If not used,
the NOLs will expire in varying amounts during fiscal years 2017 through 2034.
We intend to indefinitely reinvest the earnings of our foreign subsidiaries; therefore, no provision has been made
for income taxes that might be payable upon remittance of such earnings. The amount of unrecognized tax liability
on these foreign earnings, net of expected foreign tax credits, is not material as of April 30, 2016.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
57
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:
Year ended April 30,
Balance, beginning of the year
Additions based on tax positions related to prior years
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Reductions related to settlements with tax authorities
Expiration of statute of limitations
Other
Balance, end of the year
2016
2015
$
86,268
$
111,491
$
29,294
(25,413)
27,220
(450)
(8,922)
3,517
15,510
(38,783)
22,319
(10,450)
(11,423)
(2,396)
$
111,514
$
86,268
$
(in 000s)
2014
146,391
9,743
(25,403)
7,399
(23,993)
(11,853)
9,207
111,491
The total gross unrecognized tax benefit ending balance as of April 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014, includes $82.3 million,
$55.3 million and $73.7 million, respectively, which if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate. The difference
results from adjusting the gross balances for such items as federal, state and foreign deferred items, interest and
deductible taxes. We do not expect a significant change in the amount of unrecognized benefits as of the end of fiscal
2016 within the next twelve months.
Interest and penalties, if any, accrued on the unrecognized tax benefits are reflected in income tax expense. The
total gross interest and penalties accrued as of April 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014 totaled $22.3 million, $24.7 million and
$24.6 million, respectively.
We file a consolidated federal income tax return in the United States with the IRS and file tax returns in various
state and foreign jurisdictions. Tax returns are typically examined and settled upon completion of the examination,
with tax controversies settled either at the examination level or through the appeals process. The Company currently
does not have a U.S. federal income tax return under examination. Our U.S. federal returns for 2011 and all prior
periods have been audited by the IRS and are closed. Our return for 2012 has been audited by the IRS but remains
open until the three year statute runs in fall of 2016. Our U.S. federal returns for 2013 and after have not been audited
and remain open to examination. With respect to state and local jurisdictions and countries outside of the United
States, we and our subsidiaries are typically subject to examination for three to six years after the income tax returns
have been filed. Although the outcome of tax audits is always uncertain, we believe that adequate amounts of tax,
interest and penalties have been provided for in the consolidated financial statements for any adjustments that might
be incurred due to state, local or foreign audits.
NOTE 13: OTHER INCOME AND OTHER EXPENSES
The following table shows the components of other income and other expenses:
Year ended April 30,
Other income, net:
Mortgage loans and real estate owned, net
Interest and gains on available-for-sale securities
Other
Other expenses, net:
Foreign currency losses
Impairment of investments
Other
2016
2015
4,914
$
— $
8,548
4,239
—
1,314
17,701
$
1,314
$
(7,807) $
(5,878) $
(2,500)
(2,145)
(1,368)
(683)
(12,452) $
(7,929) $
$
$
$
$
(in 000s)
2014
—
19,918
16,397
36,315
(18,191)
(12,856)
(1,363)
(32,410)
In connection with our deregistration as an SLHC, as discussed further in note 1, we no longer present interest
income on mortgage loans held for investment and various other investments as revenues. Effective September 1,
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
2015, these amounts are prospectively reported in other income on the consolidated statements of income and
comprehensive income.
NOTE 14: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
We offer POM to tax clients whereby we (1) represent our clients if they are audited by the IRS, and (2) assume the
cost, up to a cumulative per client limit of $6,000, of additional taxes owed by a client resulting from errors attributable
to H&R Block. We defer all revenues and direct costs associated with these service plans, recognizing these amounts
over the term of the service plan based on actual claims paid in relation to projected claims. The related short-term
asset is included in prepaid expenses and other current assets. The related liability is included in deferred revenue
and other current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. The related long-term asset and liability are included
in other noncurrent assets and deferred revenue and other noncurrent liabilities, respectively, in the consolidated
balance sheets. A loss on POM would be recognized if the sum of expected costs for services exceeded unearned
revenue. Changes in the related balance of deferred revenue for both company-owned and franchise POM are as
follows:
Year ended April 30,
Balance, beginning of the year
Amounts deferred for new extended service plans issued
Revenue recognized on previous deferrals
Balance, end of the year
2016
189,779
$
119,915
(105,352)
204,342
$
$
$
(in 000s)
2015
166,259
113,849
(90,329)
189,779
We accrued $7.0 million and $8.4 million as of April 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, related to estimated losses
under our standard guarantee, which is included with our standard in-office tax preparation services. The short-term
and long-term portions of this liability are included in deferred revenue and other liabilities in the consolidated balance
sheets.
We have accrued estimated contingent consideration totaling $8.7 million and $10.7 million as of April 30, 2016
and 2015, respectively, related to acquisitions, with amounts recorded in deferred revenue and other liabilities.
Estimates of contingent payments are typically based on expected financial performance of the acquired business
and economic conditions at the time of acquisition. Should actual results differ from our assumptions, future payments
made will differ from the above estimate and any differences will be recorded in results from continuing operations.
We have contractual commitments to fund certain franchises with approved revolving lines of credit. Our total
obligation under these lines of credit was $69.4 million as of April 30, 2016, and net of amounts drawn and outstanding,
our remaining commitment to fund totaled $34.3 million.
We are self-insured for certain risks, including, employer provided medical benefits, workers' compensation,
property and casualty, professional liability and claims related to POM. These programs maintain various self-insured
retentions. In all but POM in company-owned offices, commercial insurance is purchased in excess of the self-insured
retentions. We accrue estimated losses for self-insured retentions using actuarial models and assumptions based on
historical loss experience.
We have a deferred compensation plan that permits certain employees to defer portions of their compensation
and accrue income on the deferred amounts. Included in deferred revenue and other liabilities is $29.0 million and
$33.8 million as of April 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, reflecting our obligation under these plans.
In connection with the P&A Transaction we entered into an Emerald Advance Receivables Participation Agreement
(RPA) dated August 31, 2015 with BofI. Pursuant to the RPA, we are required to purchase a 90% participation interest,
at par, in all EAs originated by BofI throughout the term of the RPA. At April 30, 2016 the principal balance of purchased
participation interests totaled $13.4 million.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
59
Substantially all of the operations of our subsidiaries are conducted in leased premises. Most of the operating
leases are for periods ranging from three years to five years, with renewal options, and provide for fixed monthly
rentals. Future minimum operating lease commitments as of April 30, 2016, are as follows:
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022 and beyond
$
(in 000s)
213,523
165,281
124,750
81,190
32,191
63,881
$
680,816
Rent expense of continuing operations for fiscal years 2016, 2015 and 2014 totaled $228.5 million, $213.1 million
and $203.3 million, respectively.
See notes 15 and 16 to the consolidated financial statements for additional discussion regarding guarantees and
indemnifications.
NOTE 15: LITIGATION AND RELATED CONTINGENCIES
We are a defendant in numerous litigation matters, arising both in the ordinary course of business and otherwise,
including as described below. The matters described below are not all of the lawsuits to which we are subject. In some
of the matters, very large or indeterminate amounts, including punitive damages, are sought. U.S. jurisdictions permit
considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not
to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient
to invoke the jurisdiction of the court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in
amounts well exceeding reasonably possible verdicts in the jurisdiction for similar matters. We believe that the
monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or a claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value
due to this variability in pleadings and our experience in litigating or resolving through settlement of numerous claims
over an extended period of time.
The outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time may be
difficult to ascertain. Among other things, uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary
evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the
law. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves
view the relevant evidence and applicable law.
In addition to litigation matters, we are also subject to claims and other loss contingencies arising out of our business
activities, including as described below.
We accrue liabilities for litigation, claims, and other loss contingencies and any related settlements (each referred
to, individually, as a "matter" and, collectively, as "matters") when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the
amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Liabilities have been accrued for a number of the matters noted
below. If a range of loss is estimated, and some amount within that range appears to be a better estimate than any
other amount within that range, then that amount is accrued. If no amount within the range can be identified as a
better estimate than any other amount, we accrue the minimum amount in the range.
For such matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, or the loss cannot be
reasonably estimated, no accrual has been made. It is possible that such matters could require us to pay damages or
make other expenditures or accrue liabilities in amounts that could not be reasonably estimated as of April 30, 2016.
While the potential future liabilities could be material in the particular quarterly or annual periods in which they are
recorded, based on information currently known, we do not believe any such liabilities are likely to have a material
adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows. As of April 30, 2016 and
2015, we accrued liabilities of $2.3 million and $8.9 million, respectively, for matters addressed in this note.
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
For some matters where a liability has not been accrued, we are able to estimate a reasonably possible loss or
range of loss. This estimated range of reasonably possible loss is based upon currently available information and is
subject to significant judgment and a variety of assumptions, as well as known and unknown uncertainties. The matters
underlying the estimated range will change from time to time, and actual results may vary significantly from the
current estimate. Those matters for which an estimate is not reasonably possible are not included within this estimated
range. Therefore, this estimated range of reasonably possible loss represents what we believe to be an estimate of
reasonably possible loss only for certain matters meeting these criteria. It does not represent our maximum loss
exposure. For those matters, and for matters where a liability has been accrued, as of April 30, 2016, we believe the
aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued is not material.
For other matters, we are not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. We are often
unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient
information to support an assessment of the reasonably possible loss or range of loss, such as quantification of a
damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by courts
on motions or appeals, analysis by experts, or the status of any settlement negotiations.
On a quarterly and annual basis, we review relevant information with respect to litigation and other loss
contingencies and update our accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible loss or range of loss based
on such reviews. Costs incurred with defending matters are expensed as incurred. Any receivable for insurance
recoveries is recorded separately from the corresponding liability, and only if recovery is determined to be probable
and reasonably estimable.
We believe we have meritorious defenses to the claims asserted in the various matters described in this note, and
we intend to defend them vigorously, but there can be no assurances as to their outcomes. In the event of unfavorable
outcomes, it could require modifications to our operations; in addition, the amounts that may be required to be paid
to discharge or settle the matters could be substantial and could have a material adverse impact on our business and
consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
LITIGATION, CLAIMS, INCLUDING INDEMNIFICATION CLAIMS, OR OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES PERTAINING TO
DISCONTINUED MORTGAGE OPERATIONS – Although SCC ceased its mortgage loan origination activities in December
2007 and sold its loan servicing business in April 2008, SCC or the Company has been, remains, and may in the future
be subject to litigation, claims, including indemnification and contribution claims, and other loss contingencies
pertaining to SCC's mortgage business activities that occurred prior to such termination and sale. These contingencies,
claims, and lawsuits include actions by regulators, third parties seeking indemnification, including depositors,
underwriters, and securitization trustees, individual plaintiffs, and cases in which plaintiffs seek to represent a class
of others alleged to be similarly situated. Among other things, these contingencies, claims, and lawsuits allege or may
allege discriminatory or unfair and deceptive loan origination and servicing (including debt collection, foreclosure,
and eviction) practices, other common law torts, rights to indemnification and contribution, breach of contract,
violations of securities laws, and a variety of federal statutes, including the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Equal Credit
Opportunity Act, Fair Housing Act, Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), Home Ownership & Equity
Protection Act (HOEPA), as well as similar state statutes. Given the impact of the financial crisis on the non-prime
mortgage environment, the aggregate volume of these matters is substantial although it is difficult to predict either
the likelihood of new matters being initiated or the outcome of existing matters. In many of these matters, including
certain of the lawsuits and claims described below, it is not possible to estimate a reasonably possible loss or range
of loss due to, among other things, the inherent uncertainties involved in these matters, some of which are beyond
the Company's control, and the indeterminate damages sought in some of these matters.
On May 31, 2012, a lawsuit was filed by Homeward Residential, Inc. (Homeward) in the Supreme Court of the State
of New York, County of New York, against SCC styled Homeward Residential, Inc. v. Sand Canyon Corporation (Index
No. 651885/2012). SCC removed the case to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York on
June 28, 2012 (Case No. 12-cv-5067). The plaintiff, in its capacity as the master servicer for Option One Mortgage Loan
Trust 2006-2 and for the benefit of the trustee and the certificate holders of such trust, asserts claims for breach of
contract, anticipatory breach, indemnity, and declaratory judgment in connection with alleged losses incurred as a
result of the breach of representations and warranties relating to SCC and to loans sold to the trust. The plaintiff seeks
specific performance of alleged repurchase obligations or damages to compensate the trust and its certificate holders
for alleged actual and anticipated losses, as well as a repurchase of all loans due to alleged misrepresentations by SCC
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
61
as to itself and as to the loans' compliance with its underwriting standards and the value of underlying real estate. In
response to a motion filed by SCC, the court dismissed the plaintiff's claims for breach of the duty to cure or repurchase,
anticipatory breach, indemnity, and declaratory judgment. The case is proceeding on the remaining claims. We have
not concluded that a loss related to this matter is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to this matter.
On September 28, 2012, a second lawsuit was filed by Homeward in the United States District Court for the Southern
District of New York against SCC styled Homeward Residential, Inc. v. Sand Canyon Corporation (Case No. 12-cv-7319).
The plaintiff, in its capacity as the master servicer for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-3 and for the benefit of
the trustee and the certificate holders of such trust, asserts claims for breach of contract and indemnity in connection
with losses allegedly incurred as a result of the breach of representations and warranties relating to 96 loans sold to
the trust. The plaintiff seeks specific performance of alleged repurchase obligations or damages to compensate the
trust and its certificate holders for alleged actual and anticipated losses. In response to a motion filed by SCC, the
court dismissed the plaintiff's claims for breach of the duty to cure or repurchase and for indemnification of its costs
associated with the litigation. The case is proceeding on the remaining claims. A portion of the accrual for
representation and warranty claims, as discussed in note 16, is related to loans in this case. We have not concluded
that a loss related to this lawsuit is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to this lawsuit.
On April 5, 2013, a third lawsuit was filed by Homeward in the United States District Court for the Southern District
of New York against SCC. The suit, styled Homeward Residential, Inc. v. Sand Canyon Corporation (Case No. 13-cv-2107),
was filed as a related matter to the September 2012 Homeward suit mentioned above. In this April 2013 lawsuit, the
plaintiff, in its capacity as the master servicer for Option One Mortgage Loan Trust 2007-4 and for the benefit of the
trustee and the certificate holders of such trust, asserts claims for breach of contract and indemnity in connection
with losses allegedly incurred as a result of the breach of representations and warranties relating to 159 loans sold
to the trust. The plaintiff seeks specific performance of alleged repurchase obligations or damages to compensate the
trust and its certificate holders for alleged actual and anticipated losses. In response to a motion filed by SCC, the
court dismissed the plaintiff's claims for breach of the duty to cure or repurchase and for indemnification of its costs
associated with the litigation. The case is proceeding on the remaining claims. A portion of the accrual for
representation and warranty claims, as discussed in note 16, is related to loans in this case. We have not concluded
that a loss related to this lawsuit is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to this lawsuit.
Underwriters and depositors are, or have been, involved in multiple lawsuits related to securitization transactions
in which SCC participated. These lawsuits allege or alleged a variety of claims, including violations of federal and state
securities laws and common law fraud, based on alleged materially inaccurate or misleading disclosures. SCC has
received notices of claims for indemnification relating to lawsuits to which underwriters or depositors are party. Based
on information currently available to SCC, it believes that the 22 lawsuits in which notice of a claim has been made
involve 39 securitization transactions with original investments of approximately $14 billion (of which the outstanding
principal amount is approximately $4 billion). Because SCC has not been a party to these lawsuits (with the exception
of Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago v. Bank of America Funding Corporation, et al., filed in the Circuit Court of Cook
County, Illinois (Case No. 10CH45033) and settled as to SCC in August 2015), and has not had control of this litigation
or any settlements thereof, SCC does not have precise information about the amount of damages or other remedies
being asserted, the defenses to the claims in such lawsuits or the terms of any settlements of such lawsuits. SCC
therefore cannot reasonably estimate the amount of potential losses or associated fees and expenses that may be
incurred in connection with such lawsuits, which may be material. Additional lawsuits against the underwriters or
depositors may be filed in the future, and SCC may receive additional notices of claims for indemnification from
underwriters or depositors with respect to existing or new lawsuits or settlements of such lawsuits. Certain of the
notices received included, and future notices may include, a reservation of rights, which are referred to as "reserved
contribution rights," that encompasses a right of contribution which may become operative if indemnification is
unavailable or insufficient to cover all of the losses and expenses involved. We have not concluded that a loss related
to any of these indemnification claims or reserved contribution rights is probable, nor have we accrued a liability
related to any of these claims or rights.
Securitization trustees also are, or have been, involved in lawsuits related to securitization transactions in which
SCC participated. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits allege, among other things, that originators, depositors, servicers or other
parties breached their representations and warranties or otherwise failed to fulfill their obligations, including that
securitization trustees breached their contractual obligations, breached their fiduciary duties, or violated statutory
requirements by failing to properly protect the certificate holders’ interests. SCC may receive notices for
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
indemnification with respect to existing or new lawsuits or settlements of such lawsuits in its capacity as originator,
depositor, or servicer. We have not concluded that a loss related to any indemnification claims by securitization trustees
is probable, nor have we accrued a liability for such claims.
LITIGATION, CLAIMS OR OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES PERTAINING TO CONTINUING OPERATIONS –
Compliance Fee Litigation. On April 16, 2012, a putative class action lawsuit was filed against us in the Circuit Court
of Jackson County, Missouri styled Manuel H. Lopez III v. H&R Block, Inc., et al. (Case # 1216CV12290) concerning a
compliance fee charged to retail tax clients in the 2011 and 2012 tax seasons. The plaintiff seeks to represent all
Missouri citizens who were charged the compliance fee, and asserts claims of violation of the Missouri Merchandising
Practices Act, money had and received, and unjust enrichment. We filed a motion to compel arbitration of the 2011
claims. The court denied the motion. We filed an appeal. On May 6, 2014, the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western
District, reversed the ruling of the trial court and remanded the case for further consideration of the motion. On March
12, 2015, the trial court denied the motion on remand. We filed an additional appeal. On March 8, 2016, the appellate
court affirmed the decision of the trial court. We filed an application for transfer of the appeal in the Supreme Court
of Missouri, which remains pending. We have not concluded that a loss related to this matter is probable, nor have
we accrued a loss contingency related to this matter.
On April 19, 2012, a putative class action lawsuit was filed against us in the United States District Court for the
Western District of Missouri styled Ronald Perras v. H&R Block, Inc., et al. (Case No. 4:12-cv-00450-DGK) concerning
a compliance fee charged to retail tax clients in the 2011 and 2012 tax seasons. The plaintiff originally sought to
represent all persons nationwide (excluding citizens of Missouri) who were charged the compliance fee, and asserted
claims of violation of various state consumer laws, money had and received, and unjust enrichment. In November
2013, the court compelled arbitration of the 2011 claims and stayed all proceedings with respect to those claims. In
June 2014, the court denied class certification of the remaining 2012 claims. The plaintiff filed an appeal with the
Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, which was denied on June 18, 2015. In January 2016, the plaintiff filed an amended
complaint asserting claims of violation of Missouri and California state consumer laws, money had and received, and
unjust enrichment, along with a motion to certify a class of all persons (excluding citizens of Missouri) who were
charged the compliance fee in the state of California. We subsequently filed a motion for summary judgment on all
claims. On April 29, 2016, the court granted our motion for summary judgment on all claims and denied the plaintiff's
motion for class certification as moot. The plaintiff filed an appeal with the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, which
remains pending. We have not concluded that a loss related to this matter is probable, nor have we accrued a loss
contingency related to this matter.
Form 8863 Litigation. A series of putative class action lawsuits were filed against us in various federal courts and
one state court beginning on March 13, 2013. Taken together, the plaintiffs in these lawsuits purport to represent
certain clients nationwide who filed Form 8863 during tax season 2013 through an H&R Block office or using H&R
Block At Home® online tax services or desktop tax preparation software, and allege breach of contract, negligence
and violation of state consumer laws in connection with transmission of the form. The plaintiffs seek damages, pre-
judgment interest, attorneys' fees and costs. In August 2013, the plaintiff in the state court action voluntarily dismissed
her case without prejudice. The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation subsequently granted our petition to
consolidate the remaining federal lawsuits for coordinated pretrial proceedings in the United States District Court for
the Western District of Missouri in a proceeding styled IN RE: H&R BLOCK IRS FORM 8863 LITIGATION (MDL No. 2474/
Case No. 4:13-MD-02474-FJG). On July 11, 2014, the MDL court granted our motion to compel arbitration for those
named plaintiffs who agreed to arbitrate their claims. Plaintiffs filed a consolidated class action complaint in October
2014. We filed a motion to strike the class allegations relating to those clients who agreed to arbitration, which the
court granted on January 7, 2015. The parties subsequently reached an agreement to settle the remaining claims,
subject to court approval. The court granted preliminary approval of the settlement on January 12, 2016 and final
approval on May 23, 2016. A portion of our loss contingency accrual is related to this matter for the amount of loss
that we consider probable and reasonably estimable.
LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES PERTAINING TO OTHER DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS –
Express IRA Litigation. On January 2, 2008, the Mississippi Attorney General in the Chancery Court of Hinds County,
Mississippi First Judicial District (Case No. G 2008 6 S 2) filed a lawsuit regarding our former Express IRA product that
is styled Jim Hood, Attorney for the State of Mississippi v. H&R Block, Inc., H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc., et al. The
complaint alleges fraudulent business practices, deceptive acts and practices, common law fraud and breach of
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
63
fiduciary duty with respect to the sale of the product in Mississippi and seeks equitable relief, disgorgement of profits,
damages and restitution, civil penalties and punitive damages. We have not concluded that a loss related to this matter
is probable, nor have we accrued a loss contingency related to this matter.
Although we sold H&R Block Financial Advisors, Inc. (HRBFA) effective November 1, 2008, we remain responsible
for any liabilities relating to the Express IRA litigation through an indemnification agreement.
OTHER – We are from time to time a party to litigation, claims and other loss contingencies not discussed herein
arising out of our business operations. These matters may include actions by state attorneys general, other state
regulators, federal regulators, individual plaintiffs, and cases in which plaintiffs seek to represent a class of others
similarly situated.
While we cannot provide assurance that we will ultimately prevail in each instance, we believe the amount, if any,
we are required to pay to discharge or settle these other matters will not have a material adverse impact on our
business or our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
We believe we have meritorious defenses to the claims asserted in the various matters described in this note, and
we intend to defend them vigorously. The amounts claimed in the matters are substantial, however, and there can be
no assurances as to their outcomes. In the event of unfavorable outcomes, it could require modifications to our
operations; in addition, the amounts that may be required to be paid to discharge or settle the matters could be
substantial and could have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and
cash flows.
NOTE 16: LOSS CONTINGENCIES ARISING FROM REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF OUR DISCONTINUED
MORTGAGE OPERATIONS
SCC ceased originating mortgage loans in December 2007 and, in April 2008, sold its servicing assets and discontinued
its remaining operations.
Mortgage loans originated by SCC were sold either as whole loans to single third-party buyers, who generally
securitized such loans, or in the form of RMBSs. In connection with the sale of loans and/or RMBSs, SCC made certain
representations and warranties. Claims under these representations and warranties together with any settlement
arrangements related to these losses are collectively referred to as "representation and warranty claims." These
representations and warranties varied based on the nature of the transaction and the buyer's or insurer's requirements,
but generally pertained to the ownership of the loan, the validity of the lien securing the loan, borrower fraud, the
loan's compliance with the criteria for inclusion in the transaction, including compliance with SCC's underwriting
standards or loan criteria established by the buyer, ability to deliver required documentation, and compliance with
applicable laws. Representations and warranties related to borrower fraud in whole loan sale transactions to
institutional investors, which were generally securitized by such investors and represented approximately 68% of the
disposal of loans originated in calendar years 2005, 2006 and 2007, included a "knowledge qualifier" limiting SCC's
liability to those instances where SCC had knowledge of the fraud at the time the loans were sold. Representations
and warranties made in other sale transactions effectively did not include a knowledge qualifier as to borrower fraud.
SCC believes it would have an obligation to repurchase a loan only if it breached a representation and warranty and
such breach materially and adversely affects the value of the mortgage loan or certificate holder's interest in the
mortgage loan.
Representation and warranty claims received by SCC have primarily related to alleged breaches of representations
and warranties related to a loan's compliance with the underwriting standards established by SCC at origination and
borrower fraud for loans originated in calendar years 2006 and 2007. SCC has received claims representing an original
principal amount of $2.6 billion since May 1, 2008, of which $1.9 billion were received prior to fiscal year 2013.
SETTLEMENT ACTIONS – SCC has entered into tolling agreements with counterparties that have made a significant
portion of previously denied representation and warranty claims. While these tolling agreements remain in effect,
they toll the running of any applicable statute of limitations related to potential lawsuits regarding representation and
warranty claims and other claims against SCC.
SCC has engaged in discussions with these counterparties since fiscal year 2013 regarding the bulk settlement of
previously denied and potential future representation and warranty and other claims against SCC. Based on settlement
discussions with these counterparties, SCC believes a bulk settlement approach, rather than the loan-by-loan
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2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
resolution process, will be needed to resolve all of the claims that are the subject of these discussions. On December
5, 2014, SCC entered into a settlement agreement to resolve certain of these claims. On December 18, 2015, SCC
entered into settlement agreements with two additional counterparties to resolve certain additional claims, subject
to the terms and conditions set forth in the settlement agreements. The amounts paid under the settlement
agreements were fully covered by prior accruals. In the event that the ongoing efforts to settle are not successful, SCC
believes claim volumes may increase or litigation may result.
SCC will continue to vigorously contest any request for repurchase when it has concluded that a valid basis for
repurchase does not exist. SCC's decision whether to engage in bulk settlement discussions is based on factors that
vary by counterparty or type of counterparty and include the considerations used by SCC in determining its loss
estimate, described below under "Liability for Estimated Contingent Losses."
LIABILITY FOR ESTIMATED CONTINGENT LOSSES – SCC accrues a liability for losses related to representation and
warranty claims when those losses are believed to be both probable and reasonably estimable. Development of loss
estimates is subject to a high degree of management judgment and estimates may vary significantly period to period.
SCC's loss estimate as of April 30, 2016 is based on the best information currently available, significant management
judgment, and a number of factors that are subject to change, including developments in case law and the factors
mentioned below. These factors include the terms of prior bulk settlements, the terms expected to result from ongoing
bulk settlement discussions, and an assessment of, among other things, historical claim results, threatened claims,
terms and provisions of related agreements, counterparty willingness to pursue a settlement, legal standing of
counterparties to provide a comprehensive settlement, bulk settlement methodologies used and publicly disclosed
by other market participants, the potential pro-rata realization of the claims as compared to all claims and other
relevant facts and circumstances when developing its estimate of probable loss. SCC believes that the most significant
of these factors are the terms expected to result from ongoing bulk settlement discussions, which have been primarily
influenced by the bulk settlement methodologies used and publicly disclosed by other market participants and the
anticipated pro-rata realization of the claims of particular counterparties as compared to the anticipated realization
if all claims and litigation were resolved together with payment of SCC's related administration and legal expense.
Changes in any one of the factors mentioned above could significantly impact the estimate.
The liability is included in deferred revenue and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. A
rollforward of SCC's accrued liability for these loss contingencies is as follows:
Year ended April 30,
Balance, beginning of the year
Loss provisions
Payments
Balance, end of the year
$
$
2016
2015
149,765
$
183,765
$
4,000
(88,500)
16,000
(50,000)
65,265
$
149,765
$
(in 000s)
2014
158,765
25,000
—
183,765
On June 11, 2015, the New York Court of Appeals, New York's highest court, held in ACE Securities Corp. v. DB
Structured Products, Inc., that the six-year statute of limitations under New York law starts to run at the time the
representations and warranties are made, not the date when the repurchase demand was denied. This decision applies
to claims and lawsuits brought against SCC where New York law governs. New York law governs many, though not all,
of the RMBS transactions into which SCC entered. However this decision would not affect representation and warranty
claims and lawsuits SCC has received or may receive, for example, where the statute of limitations has been tolled by
agreement or a suit was timely filed. It is possible that in response to the statute of limitations rulings in the ACE case
and similar rulings in other state and federal courts, parties seeking to pursue representation and warranty claims or
lawsuits with respect to trusts where the statute of limitations for representation and warranty claims against the
originator has run, may seek to distinguish certain aspects of the ACE decision, pursue alternate legal theories of
recovery, or assert claims against other contractual parties such as securitization trustees. For example, a recent ruling
by a New York intermediate appellate court allowed a counterparty to pursue litigation on additional loans in the
same trust even though only some of the loans complied with the condition precedent of timely pre-suit notice and
opportunity to cure or repurchase. The impact on SCC, if any, from alternative legal theories seeking to avoid or
distinguish the ACE decision, or judicial limitations on the ACE decision, is unclear. SCC has not accrued liabilities for
claims not subject to a tolling arrangement or not asserted prior to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
65
SCC believes it is reasonably possible that future losses related to representation and warranty claims may vary
from amounts accrued for these exposures. SCC currently believes the aggregate range of reasonably estimable
possible losses in excess of amounts accrued is not material. This estimated range is based on the best information
currently available, significant management judgment and a number of factors that are subject to change, including
developments in case law and the factors mentioned above. The actual loss that may be incurred could differ materially
from our accrual or the estimate of reasonably possible losses.
As described more fully in note 15, losses may also be incurred with respect to various indemnification claims or
reserved contribution rights by underwriters, depositors, and securitization trustees in securitization transactions in
which SCC participated. These indemnification claims or reserved contribution rights are frequently not subject to a
stated term or limit. We have not concluded that a loss related to any of these indemnification claims or reserved
contribution rights is probable, have not accrued a liability for these claims or rights and are not able to estimate a
reasonably possible loss or range of loss for these claims or rights. Accordingly, neither the accrued liability described
above totaling $65.3 million, nor the estimated range of reasonably possible losses in excess of the amount accrued
described above, includes any possible losses which may arise from these indemnification claims or reserved
contribution rights. There can be no assurances as to the outcome or impact of these indemnification claims or reserved
contribution rights. In the event of unfavorable outcomes on these claims or rights, the amount required to discharge
or settle them could be substantial and could have a material adverse impact on our business and our consolidated
financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
If the amount that SCC is ultimately required to pay with respect to claims and litigation related to its past sales
and securitizations of mortgage loans, together with payment of SCC's related administration and legal expense,
exceeds SCC's net assets, the creditors of SCC, or a bankruptcy trustee if SCC were to file or be forced into bankruptcy,
may attempt to assert claims against us for payment of SCC's obligations. Claimants may also attempt to assert claims
against or seek payment directly from the Company even if SCC's assets exceed its liabilities. SCC's principal assets,
as of April 30, 2016, total approximately $386 million and consist primarily of an intercompany note receivable. We
believe our legal position is strong on any potential corporate veil-piercing arguments; however, if this position is
challenged and not upheld, it could have a material adverse effect on our business and our consolidated financial
position, results of operations and cash flows.
NOTE 17: SEGMENT INFORMATION
Our subsidiaries provide assisted and DIY tax return preparation through multiple channels (including in-person, online
and mobile applications, and desktop software) and distribute the H&R Block-branded financial products and services
of BofI. Tax returns are either prepared by H&R Block tax professionals (in company-owned or franchise offices or
virtually via the internet) or prepared and filed by our clients through our DIY tax solutions.
We operate as a single segment that includes all of our continuing operations, which are designed to enable clients
to obtain tax preparation services seamlessly in our offices or through our tax software.
66
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Revenues of our continuing operations are as follows:
Year ended April 30,
REVENUES :
Tax preparation fees:
U.S. assisted
International
U.S. DIY
Royalties
Revenues from Refund Transfers
Revenues from Emerald Card®
Revenues from Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan
Interest and fee income on Emerald Advance
Other
2016
2015
(in 000s)
2014
$
1,890,175
$
1,865,438
$
1,794,043
190,527
234,341
2,315,043
266,418
165,152
92,608
86,830
57,268
54,834
207,772
231,854
2,305,064
292,743
171,094
103,300
81,551
57,202
67,704
200,152
206,516
2,200,711
316,153
181,394
103,730
89,685
56,877
75,745
$
3,038,153
$
3,078,658
$
3,024,295
Our international operations contributed $209.8 million, $231.7 million and $232.2 million in revenues for fiscal
years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The carrying value of assets held outside the U.S. totaled $527.1 million,
$284.5 million and $303.9 million as of April 30, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
NOTE 18: QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
Fiscal Year 2016
Apr 30, 2016
Jan 31, 2016
Oct 31, 2015
Jul 31, 2015
3,038,153
$
2,297,477
$
474,543
$
128,415
$
137,718
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
569,479
$
1,140,807
$
(146,500) $
(237,719) $
(67,851)
(95,201)
(187,109)
(90,604)
Revenues
Income (loss) from continuing
operations before taxes
(benefit)
Income taxes (benefit)
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations
Net loss from discontinued
operations
Net income (loss)
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
185,926
383,553
(9,286)
374,267
1.54
(0.04)
1.50
1.53
(0.04)
1.49
$
$
$
$
$
439,582
701,225
(563)
700,662
3.15
—
3.15
3.13
—
3.13
$
$
$
$
$
(78,649)
(142,518)
(96,505)
(3,080)
(2,489)
(81,729) $
(145,007) $
(3,154)
(99,659)
(0.34) $
(0.01)
(0.35) $
(0.34) $
(0.01)
(0.35) $
(0.54) $
(0.01)
(0.55) $
(0.54) $
(0.01)
(0.55) $
(0.35)
(0.01)
(0.36)
(0.35)
(0.01)
(0.36)
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
67
Revenues
Income (loss) from continuing
operations before taxes
(benefit)
Income taxes (benefit)
Net income (loss) from continuing
operations
Net income (loss) from
discontinued operations
Net income (loss)
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Consolidated
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Fiscal Year 2015
Apr 30, 2015
Jan 31, 2015
Oct 31, 2014
Jul 31, 2014
3,078,658
$
2,301,370
$
509,074
$
134,628
$
133,586
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
742,805
$
1,210,059
$
(90,865) $
(200,573) $
(55,554)
(87,346)
(175,816)
(66,965)
256,061
486,744
(13,081)
473,663
1.77
(0.05)
1.72
1.75
(0.04)
1.71
$
$
$
$
$
465,926
744,133
(5,292)
738,841
2.70
(0.02)
2.68
2.68
(0.02)
2.66
$
$
$
$
$
(35,311)
(113,227)
(108,851)
(1,637)
1,229
(7,381)
(36,948) $
(111,998) $
(116,232)
(0.13) $
(0.41) $
—
—
(0.13) $
(0.41) $
(0.13) $
(0.41) $
—
—
(0.13) $
(0.41) $
(0.40)
(0.02)
(0.42)
(0.40)
(0.02)
(0.42)
Because most of our clients file their tax returns during the period from January through April of each year,
substantially all of our revenues from income tax return preparation and related services and products are earned
during this period. As a result, we generally operate at a loss through a majority of the fiscal year.
The accumulation of four quarters in fiscal years 2016 and 2015 for earnings per share may not equal the related
per share amounts for the years ended April 30, 2016 and 2015 due to the timing of the exercise of stock options and
lapse of certain restrictions on nonvested shares and share units and deferred stock units and the antidilutive effect
of stock options and nonvested shares and share units in the first three quarters for those years.
Information regarding H&R Block's common stock prices and dividends for fiscal years 2016 and 2015 is as follows:
Fiscal Year 2016:
Dividends paid per share
Stock price range:
High
Low
Fiscal Year 2015:
Dividends paid per share
Stock price range:
High
Low
Fiscal Year
Fourth Quarter
Third Quarter
Second Quarter
First Quarter
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
0.80
37.53
19.75
0.80
35.80
27.23
$
$
$
$
0.20
35.14
19.75
0.20
35.80
30.10
$
$
$
$
0.20
37.53
31.00
0.20
35.09
31.41
$
$
$
$
0.20
37.50
31.03
0.20
33.92
27.42
0.20
34.62
29.15
0.20
33.65
27.23
NOTE 19: CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Block Financial is a 100% owned subsidiary of the Company. Block Financial is the Issuer and the Company is the full
and unconditional Guarantor of the Senior Notes, our 2015 CLOC and other indebtedness issued from time to time.
These condensed consolidating financial statements have been prepared using the equity method of accounting.
Earnings of subsidiaries are, therefore, reflected in the Company's investment in subsidiaries account. The elimination
entries eliminate investments in subsidiaries, related stockholders' equity and other intercompany balances and
transactions.
68
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING INCOME STATEMENTS
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
$
— $
192,698
$
2,868,343
$
(22,888) $
Year ended April 30, 2016
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on external
borrowings
Other expenses
Income from continuing operations
before taxes
Income taxes (benefit)
Net income from continuing
operations
Net loss from discontinued
operations
Net income
Other comprehensive loss
Comprehensive income (loss)
Year ended April 30, 2015
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on external
borrowings
Other expenses
Income from continuing operations
before taxes
Income taxes
Net income from continuing
operations
Net income (loss) from
discontinued operations
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss)
$
$
—
2,537
2,537
381,670
—
(6,534)
372,599
(1,668)
374,267
—
374,267
(12,973)
102,707
30,780
133,487
25,420
(68,531)
(3,947)
12,153
1,411
10,742
(9,286)
1,456
(8,444)
1,588,450
703,375
2,291,825
11,569
(431)
(21,534)
566,122
186,183
(5,605)
(17,283)
(22,888)
(400,958)
—
19,563
(381,395)
—
—
379,939
(12,973)
—
(381,395)
21,417
361,294
$
(6,988) $
366,966
$
(359,978) $
379,939
(381,395)
383,553
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
H&R Block
— $
226,285
$
2,858,474
$
(6,101) $
—
—
—
475,336
—
—
475,336
1,673
473,663
—
473,663
(3,437)
96,493
19,053
115,546
2,726
(44,884)
(953)
67,628
2,602
65,026
(16,725)
48,301
6,738
1,540,091
634,456
2,174,547
50,434
(362)
(14,976)
719,023
251,786
(6,094)
(7)
(6,101)
(527,182)
—
8,000
(519,182)
—
3,644
470,881
(3,437)
—
(519,182)
(3,301)
467,237
(519,182)
486,744
(in 000s)
Consolidated
H&R Block
3,038,153
1,685,552
719,409
2,404,961
17,701
(68,962)
(12,452)
569,479
185,926
(9,286)
374,267
(12,973)
361,294
3,078,658
1,630,490
653,502
2,283,992
1,314
(45,246)
(7,929)
742,805
256,061
(13,081)
473,663
(3,437)
470,226
Comprehensive income
$
470,226
$
55,039
$
467,444
$
(522,483) $
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
69
Year ended April 30, 2014
Total revenues
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Total operating expenses
Other income
Interest expense on external
borrowings
Other expenses
Income from continuing operations
before taxes
Income taxes
Net income from continuing
operations
Net loss from discontinued
operations
Net income
Other comprehensive loss
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
H&R Block
$
— $
235,075
$
2,795,562
$
(6,342) $
—
—
—
478,866
—
—
478,866
3,709
475,157
—
475,157
(5,373)
124,887
22,505
147,392
20,925
(54,892)
(12,888)
40,828
10,551
30,277
(23,771)
6,506
(2,012)
1,453,832
610,923
2,064,755
5,580
(387)
(19,522)
716,478
252,759
(6,342)
—
(6,342)
(469,056)
—
—
(469,056)
—
(1,169)
462,550
(5,373)
—
(469,056)
7,385
463,719
(469,056)
500,097
3,024,295
1,572,377
633,428
2,205,805
36,315
(55,279)
(32,410)
767,116
267,019
(24,940)
475,157
(5,373)
469,784
Comprehensive income
$
469,784
$
4,494
$
457,177
$
(461,671) $
70
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
$
— $
9,025
$
887,776
$
— $
As of April 30, 2016
Cash & cash equivalents
Cash & cash equivalents - restricted
Receivables, net
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Investments in available-for-sale securities
Total current assets
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Property and equipment, net
Intangible assets, net
Goodwill
Deferred tax assets and income taxes
receivable
Investments in subsidiaries
Amounts due from affiliates
Other noncurrent assets
Total assets
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
Accrued salaries, wages and payroll taxes
Accrued income taxes
Current portion of long-term debt
Deferred revenue and other current
liabilities
Total current liabilities
Long-term debt
Deferred tax liabilities and reserves for
uncertain tax positions
Deferred revenue and other noncurrent
liabilities
Amounts due to affiliates
Total liabilities
Stockholders' equity
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
5,917
1,738,643
—
—
$
$
1,744,560
1,531
$
$
—
—
—
—
1,531
—
5,917
—
1,714,009
1,721,457
23,103
29,004
71,882
8,622
—
118,533
202,385
136
—
—
77,270
—
1,307,612
71,659
1,777,595
18,596
1,766
52,976
—
87,982
161,320
1,495,316
$
$
1,178
—
1,668,600
108,995
75,106
81,234
58,516
1,133
1,103,765
—
293,429
433,885
470,757
36,936
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
108,995
(1,847,638)
1,714,009
(3,021,621)
160,020
320,778
826
155,671
876,754
6,609
159,004
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(in 000s)
Consolidated
H&R Block
896,801
104,110
153,116
67,138
1,133
1,222,298
202,385
293,565
433,885
470,757
120,123
—
—
259,586
161,786
373,754
826
243,653
1,039,605
1,501,925
132,960
160,182
—
43,103
—
114,762
4,204,879
$ (4,869,259) $
2,857,775
239,459
$
— $
10,786
116,257
1,307,612
(3,021,621)
2,466,236
(3,021,621)
2,834,672
1,738,643
(1,847,638)
23,103
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,744,560
$
1,777,595
$
4,204,879
$ (4,869,259) $
2,857,775
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
71
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
H&R Block
$
— $
478,077
$
1,529,553
$
(440) $
2,007,190
As of April 30, 2015
Cash & cash equivalents
Cash & cash equivalents - restricted
Receivables, net
Deferred tax assets and income taxes
receivable
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Investments in available-for-sale securities
Total current assets
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Property and equipment, net
Intangible assets, net
Goodwill
Deferred tax assets and income taxes
receivable
Investments in subsidiaries
Amounts due from affiliates
Other noncurrent assets
Total assets
Customer banking deposits
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1,371,677
463,434
—
45,098
80,332
77,418
7,771
434,924
1,123,620
239,338
218
—
—
44,788
—
134,094
81,075
$
$
1,835,111
$
1,623,133
— $
744,681
$
$
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
1,104
Accrued salaries, wages and payroll taxes
Accrued income taxes
Current portion of long-term debt
Deferred revenue and other current
liabilities
Total current liabilities
Long-term debt
Deferred tax liabilities and reserves for
uncertain tax positions
Deferred revenue and other noncurrent
liabilities
Amounts due to affiliates
Total liabilities
Stockholders' equity
—
—
—
—
1,104
—
—
—
1,058
2,162
1,832,949
7,672
1,946
49,529
—
177,063
980,891
497,893
46,874
87,632
96,849
62,512
4,701
—
—
—
—
—
91,972
167,964
174,267
70,283
439,625
1,828,121
(440)
2,951,301
—
311,169
432,142
441,831
—
—
—
—
239,338
311,387
432,142
441,831
—
(31,327)
13,461
—
—
116,870
(1,488,547)
(598,586)
1,058
44,885
—
125,960
3,176,076
$ (2,118,900) $
4,515,420
— $
(440) $
222,546
142,798
385,155
790
145,445
896,734
7,405
—
—
—
—
—
(440)
—
744,241
231,322
144,744
434,684
790
322,508
1,878,289
505,298
25,696
148,217
(31,327)
142,586
1,783
—
1,506,263
116,870
154,515
597,528
1,804,399
—
156,298
(598,586)
(630,353)
—
2,682,471
1,832,949
1,371,677
(1,488,547)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,835,111
$
1,623,133
$
3,176,076
$ (2,118,900) $
4,515,420
72
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
(in 000s)
Consolidated
H&R Block
$
— $
(55,689) $
588,083
$
— $
532,394
Year ended April 30, 2016
Net cash provided by (used in) operating
activities:
Cash flows from investing:
Sales, maturities and payments received on
AFS securities
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Capital expenditures
Payments for business acquisitions, net
Franchise loans funded
Payments received on franchise loans
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
Other, net
Net cash provided by (used in) investing
activities
Cash flows from financing:
Repayments of line of credit borrowings
Proceeds from line of credit borrowings
Proceeds from long-term debt
Customer banking deposits, net
Transfer of HRB Bank deposits
Dividends paid
Repurchase of common stock
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(201,688)
(2,018,338)
25,775
2,197,954
430,460
33,721
(21)
—
(22,479)
54,613
6,011
—
(99,902)
(88,776)
(341)
394
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1,147,985)
(2,197,954)
3,345,939
6,952
8,883
—
436,471
33,721
(99,923)
(88,776)
(22,820)
55,007
—
15,835
(644,739)
(2,371,685)
3,345,939
329,515
(1,465,000)
1,465,000
996,831
(327,145)
(419,028)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
440
—
—
—
—
1,147,985
(3,345,939)
(1,465,000)
1,465,000
996,831
(326,705)
(419,028)
(201,688)
(2,018,338)
25,775
—
(18,576)
Other, net
(3,703)
(19,282)
4,409
—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash
Net decrease in cash
Cash - beginning of the year
Cash - end of the year
—
—
—
—
231,376
1,152,394
(3,345,499)
(1,961,729)
—
(469,052)
478,077
(10,569)
(641,777)
1,529,553
—
440
(440)
(10,569)
(1,110,389)
2,007,190
$
— $
9,025
$
887,776
$
— $
896,801
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
73
Year ended April 30, 2015
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
H&R Block
Net cash provided by operating activities:
$
— $
15,456
$
611,152
$
— $
626,608
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(219,960)
(10,449)
16,522
213,887
—
—
—
—
—
208,287
(508,174)
150,955
(148,932)
(90,381)
(200)
3,956
—
(122,934)
(113,252)
(475)
437
87,922
23,886
(224)
—
(49,220)
90,199
134,094
12,011
(285,049)
150,955
9,343
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(1,049,136)
1,049,136
(400,000)
(29,204)
—
—
—
71,162
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
660
—
—
—
(134,094)
(150,955)
(3,376)
—
(358,042)
(137,470)
(150,295)
(90,581)
91,878
23,886
(123,158)
(113,252)
(49,695)
90,636
—
21,354
(1,049,136)
1,049,136
(400,000)
(28,544)
(219,960)
(10,449)
16,522
—
(3,376)
(645,807)
(9,986)
(178,117)
—
(134,299)
612,376
(9,986)
(44,478)
—
660
1,574,031
(1,100)
2,185,307
$
— $
478,077
$
1,529,553
$
(440) $
2,007,190
Cash flows from investing:
Purchases of AFS securities
Sales, maturities and payments received on
AFS securities
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Capital expenditures
Payments for business acquisitions, net
Franchise loans funded
Payments received on franchise loans
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
Other, net
Net cash provided by (used in) investing
activities
Cash flows from financing:
Repayments of short-term borrowings
Proceeds from short-term borrowings
Repayments of long-term debt
Customer banking deposits, net
Dividends paid
Repurchase of common stock
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
Other, net
Net cash used in financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash
Net decrease in cash
Cash - beginning of the year
Cash - end of the year
74
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
Year ended April 30, 2014
H&R Block, Inc.
(Guarantor)
Block Financial
(Issuer)
Other
Subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
H&R Block
Net cash provided by operating activities:
$
— $
35,034
$
774,547
$
— $
809,581
Cash flows from investing:
Purchases of AFS securities
Sales, maturities and payments received on
AFS securities
Mortgage loans held for investment, net
Capital expenditures
Payments for business acquisitions, net
Proceeds from notes receivable
Franchise loans funded
Payments received on franchise loans
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
Other, net
Net cash provided by (used in) investing
activities
Cash flows from financing:
Repayments of short-term borrowings
Proceeds from short-term borrowings
Customer banking deposits, net
Dividends paid
Repurchase of common stock
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
Intercompany borrowings (payments)
Other, net
Net cash used in financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash
Net increase in cash
Cash - beginning of the year
Cash - end of the year
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(218,980)
(6,106)
28,246
196,840
—
—
—
—
—
(45,158)
106,873
46,664
—
228
—
(75)
(146,936)
(68,428)
64,865
—
—
—
—
(63,960)
87,220
33,497
19,746
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(45,158)
107,101
46,664
(147,011)
(68,428)
64,865
(63,960)
87,220
—
29,397
(196,840)
163,343
9,651
—
184,807
(337,460)
163,343
10,690
(316,000)
316,000
(165,575)
—
—
—
—
—
(165,575)
—
54,266
558,110
—
—
—
—
—
—
(33,497)
(4,138)
(37,635)
(17,618)
381,834
1,192,197
—
—
1,623
—
—
—
(163,343)
—
(161,720)
—
1,623
(2,723)
(316,000)
316,000
(163,952)
(218,980)
(6,106)
28,246
—
(4,138)
(364,930)
(17,618)
437,723
1,747,584
$
— $
612,376
$ 1,574,031
$
(1,100) $
2,185,307
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
There were no disagreements or reportable events requiring disclosure pursuant to Item 304(b) of Regulation S-K.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES – We have established disclosure controls and
procedures (Disclosure Controls) to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company's reports filed
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the
time periods specified in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and forms. Disclosure Controls are also
designed to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Our Disclosure Controls were designed to provide reasonable assurance that the controls and procedures would meet
their objectives. Our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect
that our Disclosure Controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and
operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the designed control objectives and management is
required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Because
of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all
control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. These inherent limitations
include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple
error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusions of
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
75
two or more people or by management override of the control. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective,
maturing control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.
As of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-K, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operations
of our Disclosure Controls. The controls evaluation was done under the supervision and with the participation of
management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evaluation, our Chief
Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded our Disclosure Controls were effective as of the end of
the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(b) MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING – Management is responsible
for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company, as such term is
defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including
our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal
control over financial reporting as of April 30, 2016 based on the criteria established in "Internal Control – Integrated
Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), using the
2013 framework.
Based on our assessment, management concluded that, as of April 30, 2016, the Company's internal control over
financial reporting was effective based on the criteria set forth by COSO.
The Company's external auditors that audited the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8, Deloitte &
Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, have issued an audit report on the effectiveness of the
Company's internal control over financial reporting. This report appears near the beginning of Item 8.
(c) CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING – During the quarter ended April 30, 2016,
there were no changes that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over
financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information about our executive officers is included under the caption "Employees and Executive Officers" in Item 1
of this report on Form 10-K.
The following information appearing in our definitive proxy statement, to be filed no later than 120 days after
April 30, 2016, is incorporated herein by reference:
Information appearing under the heading "Proposal 1 – Election of Directors";
Information appearing under the heading "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance"; and
Information appearing under the heading "Board of Directors' Meetings and Committees" regarding
identification of the Audit Committee and Audit Committee financial experts.
We have adopted a Code of Business Ethics and Conduct that applies to our directors, officers and employees,
including our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, principal accounting officer and persons performing similar
functions. A copy of the Code of Business Ethics and Conduct is available on our website at www.hrblock.com. We
intend to provide information on our website regarding amendments to, or waivers under, the Code of Business Ethics
and Conduct.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information called for by this item is contained in our definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A
not later than 120 days after April 30, 2016, in the sections entitled "Director Compensation," "Director Compensation
Table," "Compensation Discussion and Analysis," "Compensation Committee Report," "Compensation Committee
Interlocks and Insider Participation," "Risk Assessment in Compensation Programs," and "Executive Compensation,"
and is incorporated herein by reference.
76
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information called for by this item is contained in our definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A
not later than 120 days after April 30, 2016, in the sections entitled "Equity Compensation Plans" and "Information
Regarding Security Holders," and is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information called for by this item is contained in our definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A
not later than 120 days after April 30, 2016, in the sections entitled "Employment Agreements, Change-in-Control
and Other Arrangements," "Review of Related Person Transactions," and "Corporate Governance," and is incorporated
herein by reference.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information called for by this item is contained in our definitive proxy statement filed pursuant to Regulation 14A
not later than 120 days after April 30, 2016, in the section entitled "Audit Fees," and is incorporated herein by reference.
PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a) Documents filed as part of this report:
1. The following financial statements appearing in Item 8: "Consolidated Statements of Income and
Comprehensive Income," "Consolidated Balance Sheets," "Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows" and
"Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity."
2. Financial Statement Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts. All other schedules have been omitted
because they were not applicable or because the required information has been included in the financial
statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits – The list of exhibits in the Exhibit Index to this report is incorporated herein by reference.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
77
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
SIGNATURES
H&R BLOCK, INC.
/s/ William C. Cobb
William C. Cobb
President and Chief Executive Officer
June 17, 2016
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the
following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the date indicated on June 17, 2016.
/s/ William C. Cobb
/s/ Tony G. Bowen
/s/ Jeffrey T. Brown
William C. Cobb
President, Chief Executive Officer
and Director
(principal executive officer)
Tony G. Bowen
Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
Jeffrey T. Brown
Chief Accounting and Risk Officer
(principal accounting officer)
/s/ Robert A. Gerard
Robert A. Gerard
/s/ Angela N. Archon
Angela N. Archon
Director, Chairman of the Board
Director
/s/ Paul J. Brown
Paul J. Brown
Director
/s/ Victoria J. Reich
Victoria J. Reich
Director
/s/ Christianna Wood
Christianna Wood
Director
/s/ Richard A. Johnson
Richard A. Johnson
Director
/s/ David B. Lewis
David B. Lewis
Director
/s/ Tom D. Seip
Tom D. Seip
Director
/s/ Bruce C. Rohde
Bruce C. Rohde
Director
/s/ James F. Wright
James F. Wright
Director
78
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
EXHIBIT INDEX
The following exhibits are numbered in accordance with the Exhibit Table of Item 601 of Regulation S-K:
3.1
3.2
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of H&R Block, Inc., as amended through September 12, 2013, filed
as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed September 16, 2013, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
Amended and Restated Bylaws of H&R Block, Inc., as amended through July 14, 2015, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the
Company's current report on Form 8-K filed July 16, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Indenture dated as of October 20, 1997, among H&R Block, Inc., Block Financial Corporation and Bankers Trust Company,
as Trustee, filed as Exhibit 4(a) to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31,
1997, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 18, 2000, among H&R Block, Inc., Block Financial Corporation, Bankers
Trust Company and the Bank of New York, filed as Exhibit 4(a) to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed April
17, 2000, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Second Supplemental Indenture, dated September 30, 2015, among H&R Block, Inc., Block Financial LLC (formerly
known as Block Financial Corporation), Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (formerly known as Bankers Trust
Company) and U.S. Bank National Association, as separate trustee, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's current report
on Form 8-K filed September 30, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Officer's Certificate, dated October 25, 2012, in respect of 5.50% Notes due 2022 of Block Financial LLC, filed as Exhibit
4.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed October 25, 2012, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein
by reference.
Officers’ Certificate, dated September 30, 2015, of Block Financial LLC (including the Form of the 4.125% Note due
2020 and the Form of the 5.250% Note due 2025), filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K
filed September 30, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Form of 5.50% Note due 2022 of Block Financial LLC, filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-
K filed October 25, 2012, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Form of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Participating Preferred Stock of H&R Block, Inc., filed as
Exhibit 4(e) to the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 1995, file number 1-06089,
is incorporated herein by reference.
Form of Certificate of Amendment of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Participating Preferred Stock
of H&R Block, Inc., filed as Exhibit 4(j) to the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30,
1998, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Form of Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Delayed Convertible Preferred Stock of H&R Block, Inc.,
filed as Exhibit 4(f) to the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 1995, file number
1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan, as amended and restated on March 6, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's
quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein
by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Restricted Share Units, as approved on March 6, 2013,
filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2013, file
number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Non-Qualified Stock Options, as approved on March
6, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2013,
file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Restricted Share Units, as approved on June 19, 2013,
filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 21, 2013, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Non-Qualified Stock Options, as approved on June 19,
2013, filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 21, 2013, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Performance Share Units, as approved on June 19,
2013, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 21, 2013, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Market Stock Units, as approved on June 19, 2013, filed
as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 21, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
79
10.8
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Deferred Stock Units, as approved on September 12,
2013, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2013,
file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.9
* Alternate Form of Market Stock Units Award Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on
Form 8-K filed July 1, 2014, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.10
* Alternate Form of Performance Share Units Award Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's current report
on Form 8-K filed July 1, 2014, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.11
* Alternate Form of Restricted Share Units Award Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's current report on
Form 8-K filed July 1, 2014, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.12
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Market Stock Units, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's
10.13
10.14
10.15
10.16
10.17
10.18
10.19
10.20
10.21
10.22
10.23
10.24
10.25
10.26
10.27
10.28
current report on Form 8-K filed June 19, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Performance Share Units, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the
Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 19, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Alternate Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Market Stock Units, filed as Exhibit 10.4 to
the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 19, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by
reference.
* Alternate Form of 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Award Agreement for Performance Share Units, filed as Exhibit 10.5
to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 19, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by
reference.
* The Company's 2003 Long-Term Executive Compensation Plan, as amended September 30, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.2
to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2010, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* First Amendment to the Company's 2003 Long-Term Executive Compensation Plan, effective May 10, 2012, filed as
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed May 11, 2012, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
* Form of 2003 Long-Term Executive Compensation Plan Grant Agreement for Stock Options, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to
the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31, 2011, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
* Form of 2003 Long-Term Executive Compensation Plan Grant Agreement for Stock Options as approved on June 20,
2012, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 26, 2012, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* Employment Agreement dated April 27, 2011, between H&R Block Management, LLC and William C. Cobb, filed as
Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed April 29, 2011, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
* Letter Agreement between the Company, H&R Block Management, LLC and William C. Cobb, effective January 3,
2013, filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2013,
file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Letter Agreement, dated as of July 15, 2014, by and among the Company, H&R Block Management, LLC, and William
C. Cobb, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed July 17, 2014, file number 1-06089,
is incorporated herein by reference.
* Letter Agreement, dated as of June 18, 2015, by and among the Company, H&R Block Management, LLC, and William
C. Cobb, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed June 19, 2015, file number 1-06089,
is incorporated herein by reference.
* Agreement between H&R Block Management, LLC, H&R Block, Inc. and William C. Cobb as of January 3, 2013 in
connection with certain corrective actions relating to the June 30, 2011 Option Award, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the
Company's current report on Form 8-K filed January 4, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* H&R Block, Inc. 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Non-Qualified Stock Option Award Agreement between H&R Block,
Inc. and William C. Cobb dated January 4, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K
filed January 4, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* H&R Block, Inc. 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Restricted Share Units Award Agreement between H&R Block, Inc.
and William C. Cobb dated January 4, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed
January 4, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Grant Agreement between H&R Block, Inc. and William C. Cobb in connection with award of Restricted Shares as of
May 2, 2011, filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31,
2011, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Grant Agreement between H&R Block, Inc. and William C. Cobb in connection with award of Stock Options as of May
2, 2011, filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31, 2011,
file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
80
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
10.29
* H&R Block Deferred Compensation Plan for Executives, as amended and restated on November 9, 2012, filed as
Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2012, file number
1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
10.30
* The Amended and Restated H&R Block Executive Performance Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current
10.31
10.32
10.33
10.34
10.35
10.36
10.37
10.38
10.39
10.40
10.41
10.42
10.43
12.1
12.2
21
23
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
report on Form 8-K, filed September 12, 2014, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* The H&R Block, Inc. 2000 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated effective November 7, 2013, filed
as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2013, file number
1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* The H&R Block, Inc. Executive Survivor Plan (as Amended and Restated January 1, 2001) filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the
Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 31, 2000, file number 1-06089, is
incorporated herein by reference.
* First Amendment to the H&R Block, Inc. Executive Survivor Plan (as Amended and Restated) effective as of July 1,
2002, filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2002, file
number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* Second Amendment to the H&R Block, Inc. Executive Survivor Plan (as Amended and Restated), effective as of March
12, 2003, filed as Exhibit 10.12 to the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2003,
file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* H&R Block Severance Plan, as amended and restated on March 29, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.29 to the Company's
annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by
reference.
* H&R Block Inc. Executive Severance Plan, as amended and restated effective November 8, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.1
to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed November 8, 2013, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein
by reference.
* Form of Indemnification Agreement with Directors and Officers, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's quarterly
report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended January 31, 2012, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
* 2008 Deferred Stock Unit Plan for Outside Directors, as amended on September 14, 2011, filed as Exhibit 10.27 to
the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2012, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
Credit and Guarantee Agreement dated September 21, 2015, by and among Block Financial LLC, H&R Block, Inc., the
lenders party thereto from time to time, and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, filed as Exhibit
10.1 to the Company’s current report on Form 8-K filed September 21, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
Amended and Restated Purchase and Assumption Agreement, dated August 5, 2015, by and among H&R Block Bank,
Block Financial LLC, and BofI Federal Bank, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed
August 5, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Program Management Agreement, dated August 31, 2015, by and between Emerald Financial Services, LLC and BofI
Federal Bank, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed September 1, 2015, file number
1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Emerald Advance Receivables Participation Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2015, by and among Emerald Financial
Services, LLC, BofI Federal Bank, HRB Participant I, LLC and H&R Block, Inc., filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's
current report on Form 8-K filed September 1, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated herein by reference.
Guaranty Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2015, by and between H&R Block, Inc. and BofI Federal Bank, filed as
Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's current report on Form 8-K filed September 1, 2015, file number 1-06089, is incorporated
herein by reference.
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges for H&R Block, Inc. for the five years ended April 30, 2016.
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges for Block Financial LLC for the five years ended April 30, 2016.
Subsidiaries of the Company.
Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002.
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002.
H&R Block, Inc. | 2016 Form 10-K
81
101.INS
101.SCH
101.CAL
101.LAB
101.PRE
101.DEF
XBRL Instance Document
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
XBRL Extension Calculation Linkbase
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
Indicates management contracts, compensatory plans or arrangements.
*
** Confidential Information has been omitted from this exhibit and filed separately with the Commission pursuant to a confidential treatment
request under Rule 24b-2.
82
2016 Form 10-K | H&R Block, Inc.
CORPORATE
INFORMATION
Headquarters
H&R Block Center
One H&R Block Way
Kansas City, Missouri 64105
816.854.3000
Transfer Agent & Registrar
Wells Fargo Shareowner Services
P.O. Box 64874
St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0874
or
1110 Centre Pointe Curve, Suite 101
Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55120-4100
1.888.213.0968
wellsfargo.com/shareownerservices
Wells Fargo Shareowner Services
maintains the records for registered
shareowners and provides a variety
of shareowner-related services at no
charge, including change of name or
address, consolidation of accounts,
duplicate mailings, dividend reinvestment
enrollment and transfer of stock to
another person.
Independent Auditors
Deloitte & Touche LLP
1100 Walnut Street, Suite 3300
Kansas City, Missouri 64106-2129
Common Stock
Traded on the New York Stock Exchange
Ticker symbol: HRB
Form 10-K Requests
Upon request, we will furnish, without
charge, to our shareowners a copy of our
2016 Form 10-K as filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission. Requests should
be directed by telephone to Investor Rela-
tions, 1.800.869.9220, option 6, or by
e-mail to investorrelations@hrblock.com.
For more information about H&R Block,
visit our website at www.hrblock.com.
Certifications Filed with
the Securities and Exchange
Commission Pursuant to the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
The certifications of the Chief Executive
Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the
company required by Section 302 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 have been
filed as exhibits 31.1 and 31.2, respec-
tively, in the company’s Form 10-K for
the fiscal year ended April 30, 2016.
Certification Submitted to the
New York Stock Exchange
The certification of the Chief Executive
Officer required by the New York Stock
Exchange Listing Standards, Section
303A.12(a), relating to the company’s
compliance with the New York Stock
Exchange Corporate Governance Listing
Standards, was submitted to the New
York Stock Exchange on October 6, 2015.
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H&R BLOCK, INC.
One H&R Block Way
Kansas City, MO 64105
816.854.3000
www.hrblock.com