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H&R Block (NYSE: HRB) will make available a Refund Advance of up to $1,250* from MetaBank® to current and new clients. The Refund Advance, a no-interest loan offered for a limited time at participating locations, is repaid with the client's federal or state income tax refunds. In most cases, clients will have access to money the same day they apply.

"We help Americans win every day when it comes to their income tax return," said Teri Furlong, Tax Specialist at H&R Block. "The no-interest Refund Advance and Free 1040EZ are just two examples of providing clients an exceptional value above and beyond tax preparation."

The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, which was passed to help combat tax refund fraud, requires the IRS to hold refunds of taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) who file early. While roughly 30 million taxpayers claim the EITC or ACTC, approximately half file early and could be waiting until the week of Feb. 27 to get their refund from the IRS.

"For these clients and millions of others who desire access to money faster than the IRS can provide tax refunds, this loan can provide a valuable life line to cover unforeseen expenses," Furlong said. "To be clear, this loan has no interest. There are no additional fees to apply. Current and new clients can visit an H&R Block location, let their tax professional know they are interested, and have their taxes e-filed. Those who apply will receive notification of approval or denial from the loan originator, and almost all who are approved will receive the loan proceeds the same day."

Millions can file for free at H&R Block offices

Another offer from H&R Block will allow approximately 23 million taxpayers to file a Federal 1040EZ for free through Feb. 28 at participating offices. This gives those taxpayers access to expert assistance in completing their returns, and guarantees they get their maximum refund.

"Filing a simple tax return may not be as easy as many taxpayers believe," Furlong said. "Having assistance from a qualified tax professional provides taxpayers confidence that they aren't leaving any money on the table."

Generally, a 1040EZ filer is a taxpayer who files single or married filing jointly who does not pay mortgage interest, has no dependents and earned less than $100,000 last year.

For more information on Refund Advance taxpayers can visit http://www.hrblock.com/refundadvance.

To learn more about filing a Free 1040EZ and all other offers, find a nearby location or make an appointment, visit the H&R Block website or call 1-800-HRBLOCK.

[Teri Furlong is a Tax Specialist for H&R Block, the world's largest tax services provider. Teri has been providing expert tax advice and preparation support for taxpayers in the Salt Lake City area since 2009. To reach Teri you can call 801-561-5153.]