QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended
September 30, 2023
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
44-0607856
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)
One H&R Block Way, Kansas City, Missouri64105
(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
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, without par value
HRB
New York Stock Exchange
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 every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files).
Yes☑ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one)
Large accelerated filer☑ Accelerated filer ☐ Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller reporting company ☐Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes ☐No ☑
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's Common Stock, without par value, at the close of business on October 31, 2023: 143,931,084 shares.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS(unaudited)
NOTE 1: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BASIS OF PRESENTATION – The consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023, the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, the consolidated statements of cash flows for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, and the consolidated statements of stockholders' equity for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 have been prepared by the Company, without audit. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows as of September 30, 2023 and 2022 and for all periods presented, have been made.
"H&R Block," "the Company," "we," "our," and "us" are used interchangeably to refer to H&R Block, Inc., to H&R Block, Inc. and its subsidiaries, or to H&R Block, Inc.'s operating subsidiaries, as appropriate to the context.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP) have been condensed or omitted. These consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our June 30, 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K. All amounts presented herein as of June 30, 2023 or for the year then ended are derived from our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
MANAGEMENT ESTIMATES – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with 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, reserves for uncertain tax positions, fair value of reporting units, 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.
SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS – Our operating revenues are seasonal in nature with peak revenues typically occurring in the months of February through April. Therefore, results for interim periods are not indicative of results to be expected for the full year.
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 note 9 for additional information on loss contingencies related to our discontinued operations.
The majority of our revenues are from our United States (U.S.) tax services business. The following table disaggregates our U.S. revenues by major service line, with revenues from our international tax services businesses and from Wave included as separate lines:
(in 000s)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
Revenues:
U.S. assisted tax preparation
$
39,263
$
36,312
U.S. royalties
5,701
6,228
U.S. DIY tax preparation
3,848
3,158
Refund Transfers
1,142
1,284
Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan
24,847
24,770
Tax Identity Shield®
4,580
5,167
Emerald Card® and SpruceSM
8,633
11,612
Interest and fee income on Emerald AdvanceSM
298
614
International
60,565
58,834
Wave
23,943
22,646
Other
10,980
9,360
Total revenues
$
183,800
$
179,985
Changes in the balances of deferred revenue and wages for our Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan (POM) are as follows:
(in 000s)
POM
Deferred Revenue
Deferred Wages
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
2023
2022
Balance, beginning of the period
$
167,257
$
173,486
$
21,828
$
19,495
Amounts deferred
1,450
1,360
6
5
Amounts recognized on previous deferrals
(28,772)
(28,703)
(3,323)
(2,988)
Balance, end of the period
$
139,935
$
146,143
$
18,511
$
16,512
As of September 30, 2023, deferred revenue related to POM was $139.9 million. We expect that $94.1 million will be recognized over the next twelve months, while the remaining balance will be recognized over the following five years.
As of September 30, 2023 and 2022, Tax Identity Shield® (TIS) deferred revenue was $20.8 million and $21.2 million, respectively. Deferred revenue related to TIS was $25.2 million and $25.8 million as of June 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. All deferred revenue related to TIS will be recognized by April 2024.
NOTE 3: EARNINGS PER SHARE AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
EARNINGS PER SHARE – Basic and diluted earnings (loss) 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 (loss) from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average shares outstanding during each period. 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 3.5 million and 4.4 million shares for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 respectively, as the effect would be antidilutive due to the net loss from continuing operations during the periods.
The computations of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations are as follows:
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to shareholders
$
(162,873)
$
(167,367)
Amounts allocated to participating securities
(177)
(179)
Net loss from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders
$
(163,050)
$
(167,546)
Basic weighted average common shares
146,273
159,284
Potential dilutive shares
—
—
Dilutive weighted average common shares
146,273
159,284
Loss per share from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders:
Basic
$
(1.11)
$
(1.05)
Diluted
(1.11)
(1.05)
The decrease in the weighted average shares outstanding is due to share repurchases completed in the current and prior fiscal years.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION – We granted 1.6 million and 0.9 million shares, including adjustments for performance achievement and dividend equivalents, under our stock-based compensation plans during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense of our continuing operations totaled $7.6 million and $7.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of September 30, 2023, unrecognized compensation cost for nonvested shares and units totaled $67.6 million.
NOTE 4: RECEIVABLES
Receivables, net of their related allowance, consist of the following:
(in 000s)
As of
September 30, 2023
June 30, 2023
Short-term
Long-term
Short-term
Long-term
Loans to franchisees
$
11,209
$
19,443
$
6,344
$
19,206
Receivables for U.S. assisted and DIY tax preparation and related fees
11,580
3,756
11,061
6,824
H&R Block's Instant RefundSM receivables
6,328
331
8,499
414
H&R Block Emerald Advance®
8,253
8,281
10,834
7,089
Software receivables from retailers
1,161
—
1,650
—
Royalties and other receivables from franchisees
5,026
—
3,416
—
Wave payment processing receivables
1,236
—
964
—
Other
15,537
967
17,219
1,108
Total
$
60,330
$
32,778
$
59,987
$
34,641
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 –Franchisee loan balances consist of term loans made primarily to finance the purchase of franchises and revolving lines of credit primarily for the purpose of funding working capital needs. As of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023, loans with a principal balance more than 90 days past due, or on non-accrual status, are not material.
H&R BLOCK'S INSTANT REFUNDSM–H&R Block's Instant RefundSM amounts are generally received from the Canada Revenue Agency within 60 days of filing the client's return, with the remaining balance collectible from the client.
We review the credit quality of our Instant Refund receivables based on pools, which are segregated by the tax return year of origination, with older years being deemed more unlikely to be repaid. We establish an allowance for credit losses at an amount that we believe reflects the receivable at net realizable value. In December of each year, we charge-off the receivables and the related allowance to an amount we believe represents the net realizable value.
Balances and amounts on non-accrual status and classified as impaired, or more than 60 days past due, by tax return year of origination, as of September 30, 2023 are as follows:
(in 000s)
Tax return year of origination
Balance
More Than 60 Days Past Due
2022
$
8,392
$
7,800
2021 and prior
232
232
8,624
$
8,032
Allowance
(1,965)
Net balance
$
6,659
H&R BLOCK EMERALD ADVANCE®–Historically, Emerald Advance® lines of credit (EA LOCs) have been offered to clients in our offices from mid-November through mid-January. If the borrower met certain criteria as agreed in the loan terms, the line of credit could be utilized year-round (Revolving Loan). In fiscal year 2024, EAs are being offered as term loans (EA TLs), and we are discontinuing the EA LOCs, including the Revolving Loans. See note 8 for discussion of the new EA TL.
We review the credit quality of our purchased participation interests in EA receivables based on pools, which are segregated by the fiscal year of origination, with older years being deemed more unlikely to be repaid. We establish an allowance for credit losses at an amount that we believe reflects the receivable at net realizable value. Typically, in December of each year, we charge-off the receivables and the related allowance for EA LOCs, excluding Revolving Loans, to an amount we believe represents the net realizable value. However, due to the discontinuation of EA LOCs, we have charged-off the receivables and the related allowance of EA LOCs and Revolving Loans to an amount that we believe represents net realizable value as of September 30, 2023.
Balances and amounts on non-accrual status and classified as impaired, or more than 60 days past due, by fiscal year of origination, as of September 30, 2023 are as follows:
ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES –Activity in the allowance for credit losses for our EA and all other short-term and long-term receivables for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
(in 000s)
EAs
All Other
Total
Balances as of July 1, 2023
$
27,386
$
35,108
$
62,494
Provision for credit losses
328
770
1,098
Charge-offs, recoveries and other
(27,714)
(409)
(28,123)
Balances as of September 30, 2023
$
—
$
35,469
$
35,469
Balances as of July 1, 2022
$
26,141
$
51,126
$
77,267
Provision for credit losses
—
1,077
1,077
Charge-offs, recoveries and other
—
(1,281)
(1,281)
Balances as of September 30, 2022
$
26,141
$
50,922
$
77,063
Gross charge-offs of EAs were $27.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023, of which $15.4 million related to EA LOCs originated in fiscal year 2023 and $12.3 million related to Revolving Loans.
NOTE 5: GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended September 30, 2023 are as follows:
(in 000s)
Goodwill
Accumulated Impairment Losses
Net
Balances as of July 1, 2023
$
913,750
$
(138,297)
$
775,453
Acquisitions(1)
3,081
—
3,081
Disposals and foreign currency changes, net
(7,714)
—
(7,714)
Impairments
—
—
—
Balances as of September 30, 2023
$
909,117
$
(138,297)
$
770,820
(1) All goodwill added during the period is expected to be tax-deductible for federal income tax reporting.
We test goodwill for impairment annually as of February 1, or more frequently if events occur or circumstances change which would, more likely than not, reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value.
We made payments to acquire businesses totaling $6.9 million and $16.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The amounts and weighted-average lives of intangible assets acquired during the three months ended September 30, 2023 are as follows:
(dollars in 000s)
Amount
Weighted-Average Life (in years)
Customer relationships
$
4,098
5
Reacquired franchise rights
2,159
5
Noncompete agreements
176
5
Total
$
6,433
5
Amortization of intangible assets for the three months ended September 30, 2023 was $15.8 million compared to $18.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2022. Estimated amortization of intangible assets for fiscal years ending June 30, 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028 is $56.9 million, $34.3 million, $25.0 million, $19.0 million and $11.7 million, respectively.
Our unsecured committed line of credit (CLOC) provides for an unsecured senior revolving credit facility in the aggregate principal amount of $1.5 billion, which includes a $175.0 million sublimit for swingline loans and a $50.0 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 and meeting certain other conditions. The CLOC will mature on June 11, 2026, unless extended pursuant to the terms of the CLOC, at which time all outstanding amounts thereunder will be due and payable. Our CLOC includes an annual facility fee, which will vary depending on our then current credit ratings.
The 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, as defined by the CLOC agreement, 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 March 31, June 30, and September 30 of each year and (b) 4.50 to 1.00 as of the last day of each fiscal quarter ending on December 31 of each year; (2) a covenant requiring us to maintain an interest coverage ratio (EBITDA-to-interest expense) 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 CLOC includes provisions for an equity cure which could potentially allow us to independently cure certain defaults. Proceeds under the CLOC may be used for working capital needs or for other general corporate purposes. We were in compliance with these requirements as of September 30, 2023.
We had no outstanding balance under our CLOC and amounts available to borrow were not limited by the debt-to-EBITDA covenant as of September 30, 2023.
NOTE 7: INCOME TAXES
We file a consolidated federal income tax return in the U.S. with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and file tax returns in various state, local, and foreign jurisdictions.
We had gross unrecognized tax benefits of $237.9 million and $240.1 million as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023, respectively. The gross unrecognized tax benefits decreased by $2.2 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023. We believe it is reasonably possible that the balance of unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by approximately $136.1 million within the next twelve months. The anticipated decrease is due to the expiration of statutes of limitations and anticipated closure of various matters currently under examination or in appeals. For such matters where a change in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits is not yet deemed reasonably possible, no estimate has been included.
Our effective tax rate for continuing operations, including the effects of discrete tax items, was 23.3% and 24.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Consistent with prior years, our pretax loss for the three months ended September 30, 2023 is expected to be offset by income in our third and fourth quarters due to the established pattern of seasonality in our primary business operations. As such, management has determined that it is more-likely-than-not that realization of tax benefits recorded in our financial statements will occur within our fiscal year. The amount of tax benefit recorded for the three months ended September 30, 2023 reflects management’s estimate of the annual effective tax rate applied to year-to-date loss from continuing operations adjusted for the tax impact of discrete items for the periods presented.
NOTE 8: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Our U.S. and Canadian businesses offer our 100% accuracy guarantee. Assisted tax returnsare covered by our 100% accuracy guarantee, whereby we will reimburse a client for penalties and interest attributable to an H&R Block error on a return. DIY tax returns are covered by our 100% accuracy guarantee, whereby we will reimburse a client up to a maximum of $10,000 if our software makes an arithmetic error that results in payment of penalties and/or interest to the respective taxing authority that a client would otherwise not have been required to pay. Our liability related to estimated losses under the 100% accuracy guarantee was $14.4 million and $15.8 million as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023, respectively. The short-term and long-term portions of this liability are included in deferred revenue and other liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets.
Liabilities related to acquisitions for (1) estimated contingent consideration based on expected financial performance of the acquired business and economic conditions at the time of acquisition and (2) estimated accrued compensation related to continued employment of key employees were $20.3 million and $18.3 million as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023 respectively, with amounts recorded in deferred revenue and other liabilities. Should actual results differ from our estimates, 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 short-term lines of credit for the purpose of meeting their seasonal working capital needs. Our total obligation under these lines of credit was $14.4 million at September 30, 2023, and net of amounts drawn and outstanding, our remaining commitment to fund totaled $8.4 million.
We purchase a 90% participation interest in each EA originated by Pathward®, N.A. (Pathward) in accordance with our agreement. Historically, EA LOCs have been offered to our clients in our offices. In fiscal year 2024, EAs are being offered as term loans and we are discontinuing EA LOCs. EA TLs are interest bearing with principal and interest due in full on March 31, and there are no annual fees or required monthly payments. EA TLs are offered to clients in our offices, in November and December, in amounts of $350 to $1,300. Effective October 20, 2023, we amended the Program Management Agreement and entered into a new participation agreement related to EA TLs originated by Pathward. We will continue to purchase a 90% participation interest in each loan made by Pathward in accordance with the participation agreement.
NOTE 9: LITIGATION AND OTHER RELATED CONTINGENCIES
We are a defendant in numerous litigation and arbitration 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 or arbitrations to which we are subject. In some of the matters, very large or indeterminate amounts, including punitive damages, may be 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. 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 claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value due to this variability in pleadings and our experience in handling and resolving numerous claims over an extended period of time.
The outcome of a 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 courts and arbitrators will apply the law.
Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will view the relevant evidence and applicable law.
In addition to litigation and arbitration matters, we are also subject to other loss contingencies arising out of our business activities, including as described below.
We accrue liabilities for litigation, arbitration and other related loss contingencies and any related settlements when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. 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 September 30, 2023. 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 business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. Our accrued liabilities were $0.2 million as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023.
Our estimate of the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses includes (1) matters where a liability has been accrued and there is a reasonably possible loss in excess of the amount accrued for that liability, and (2) matters where a liability has not been accrued but we believe a loss is reasonably possible. This aggregate range only represents those losses as to which we are currently able to estimate a reasonably possible loss or range of loss. It does not represent our maximum loss exposure.
Matters for which we are not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss are not included in this range. 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 precise information about the amount of damages or other remedies being asserted, the defenses to the claims being asserted, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by courts or arbitrators on motions or appeals, analyses by experts, or the status or terms of any settlement negotiations.
The 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. As of September 30, 2023, we believe the estimate of the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses in excess of amounts accrued, where the range of loss can be estimated, is not material.
At the end of each reporting period, we review relevant information with respect to litigation, arbitration and other related 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. 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 business and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
LITIGATION, CLAIMS OR OTHER LOSS CONTINGENCIES PERTAINING TO CONTINUING OPERATIONS –
On May 6, 2019, the Los Angeles City Attorney filed a lawsuit on behalf of the People of the State of California in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles (Case No. 19STCV15742). The case is styled The People of the State of California v. HRB Digital LLC, et al. The complaint alleges that H&R Block, Inc. and HRB Digital LLC engaged in unfair, fraudulent and deceptive business practices and acts in connection with the IRS Free File Program in violation of the California Unfair Competition Law, California Business and Professions Code §§17200 et seq. The complaint seeks injunctive relief, restitution of monies paid to H&R Block by persons in the State of California who were eligible to file under the IRS Free File Program for the time period starting 4 years prior to the date of the filing of the complaint, pre-judgment interest, civil penalties and costs. The City Attorney subsequently dismissed H&R Block, Inc. from the case and amended its complaint to add HRB Tax Group, Inc. We filed a motion for summary judgment, which was denied. A trial date is set for February 20, 2024. We have not concluded that a loss related to this matter is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to this matter.
We have received and are responding to certain governmental inquiries and other matters relating to the IRS Free File Program and to our DIY tax preparation services. We received a demand and draft complaint in February 2023 from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) relating to our DIY tax preparation services. If the parties are not able to reach amicable resolution, the FTC may seek resolution through litigation. We have not concluded that a loss related to these matters is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to these matters.
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 and may in the future be, subject to litigation and other loss contingencies, including indemnification and contribution claims, pertaining to SCC's mortgage business activities that occurred prior to such termination and sale.
Parties, including underwriters, depositors, and securitization trustees, have been, remain, or may in the future be, involved in lawsuits, threatened lawsuits, or settlements related to securitization transactions in which SCC participated. A variety of claims are alleged in these matters, including violations of federal and state securities laws and common law fraud, breaches of representations and warranties, or violations of statutory requirements. SCC has received notices of potential indemnification or contribution obligations relating to such matters. Additional lawsuits against the parties to the securitization transactions may be filed in the future, and SCC may receive additional notices of potential indemnification, contribution or similar obligations with respect to existing or new lawsuits or settlements of such lawsuits or other claims. We have not concluded that a loss related to any of these potential indemnification or contribution claims is probable, nor have we accrued a liability related to any of these claims.
It is difficult to predict either the likelihood of new matters being initiated or the outcome of existing matters. In many of these matters 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 and the indeterminate damages sought. If the amount that SCC is ultimately required to pay with respect to loss contingencies, together with payment of SCC's related administration and legal expense, exceeds SCC's net assets, the creditors of SCC, other potential claimants, 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 also may 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 September 30, 2023, total approximately $265 million and consist 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.
OTHER – We are from time to time a party to litigation, arbitration 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 others who may be 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 and our consolidated financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Our subsidiaries provide assisted and do-it-yourself (DIY) tax preparation solutions through multiple channels (including in-person, online and mobile applications, virtual, and desktop software) and distribute H&R Block-branded products and services, including those of our bank partners, to the general public primarily in the United States (U.S.), Canada and Australia. Tax returns are either prepared by H&R Block tax professionals (in company-owned or franchise offices, virtually or via an internet review) or prepared and filed by our clients through our DIY tax solutions. We also offer small business solutions through our company-owned and franchise offices and online through Wave. We report a single segment that includes all of our continuing operations.
(1) All non-GAAP measures are results from continuing operations. See "Non-GAAP Financial Information" at the end of this item for a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
Three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to September 30, 2022
Revenues increased $3.8 million, or 2.1%, from the prior year. U.S. assisted tax preparation revenues increased $3.0 million, or 8.1%, primarily due to a higher net average charge in the current year. Other revenues increased $1.6 million, or 17.3%, primarily due to higher extension filing fees and accounting and bookkeeping fees.
Emerald Card® and SpruceSM revenues decreased $3.0 million, or 25.7%, primarily due to lower Emerald Card® activity in the current year as a result of less funds being loaded in the current year.
International tax preparation revenues increased $1.7 million, or 2.9%, due to higher volumes in Australia, which was partially offset by the impacts of foreign currency exchange rates. Wave revenues increased $1.3 million, or 5.7%, due to higher small business payments processing volumes.
Total operating expenses increased $1.0 million, or 0.3%, from the prior year. Other wages increased $8.3 million, or 13.1%, primarily due to higher corporate wages and a bonus accrual adjustment in the prior year. Marketing and advertising expense decreased $5.2 million, or 48.5%, primarily due to a vendor refund for expired customer incentives and lower online advertising. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $3.4 million, or 10.1%, primarily due to lower amortization of acquired intangibles. Bad debt expense increased $4.5 million due to higher Emerald Card® losses in the current year.
Other operating expenses decreased $6.1 million, or 7.0%. The components of other expenses are as follows:
(in 000s)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
$ Change
% Change
Consulting and outsourced services
$
13,134
$
18,053
$
4,919
27.2
%
Bank partner fees
48
(19)
(67)
**
Client claims and refunds
6,239
6,770
531
7.8
%
Employee and travel expenses
5,686
6,068
382
6.3
%
Technology-related expenses
23,078
25,915
2,837
10.9
%
Credit card/bank charges
17,169
16,201
(968)
(6.0)
%
Insurance
3,350
3,718
368
9.9
%
Legal fees and settlements
3,008
2,286
(722)
(31.6)
%
Supplies
2,763
3,395
632
18.6
%
Other
6,081
4,259
(1,822)
(42.8)
%
$
80,556
$
86,646
$
6,090
7.0
%
Consulting and outsourced services expense decreased $4.9 million, or 27.2%, primarily due to lower contract labor in the current year. Technology-related expenses decreased $2.8 million, or 10.9%, due to lower costs of technology in the current year.
Other income (expense), net increased $6.2 million, or 172.4%, primarily due to higher interest income in the current year.
We recorded an income tax benefit of $49.5 million in the current year compared to $54.0 million in the prior year. The effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2023, and 2022 was 23.3% and 24.4%, respectively.
Diluted loss per share from continuing operations increased 5.7% from the prior year due to fewer shares outstanding from share repurchases, partially offset by a lower net loss compared to the prior year.
FINANCIAL CONDITION
These comments should be read in conjunction with the consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of cash flows included in Part 1, Item 1.
OVERVIEW – Our primary sources of capital and liquidity include cash from operations (including changes in working capital), draws on our unsecured committed line of credit (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 February through April in a typical year. Therefore, we normally require the use of cash to fund losses and working capital needs, periodically resulting in a working capital deficit, during the months of May through January. We typically have relied on available cash balances from the prior tax season and borrowings to meet liquidity needs.
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 September 30, 2023 are sufficient to meet our operating, investing and financing needs.
DISCUSSION OF CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS – The following table summarizes our statements of cash flows for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022. See Item 1 for the complete consolidated statements of cash flows for these periods.
(in 000s)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
Net cash used in:
Operating activities
$
(334,989)
$
(321,666)
Investing activities
(23,890)
(37,358)
Financing activities
(195,198)
(246,893)
Effects of exchange rates on cash
(3,679)
(13,422)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents, including restricted balances
$
(557,756)
$
(619,339)
Operating Activities. Cash used in operations totaled $335.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to $321.7 million in the prior year period. The change is primarily due to the receipt of income tax receivables in the prior year and changes in deferred tax assets in the current year, partially offset by lower bonus and payroll tax payments in the current year.
Investing Activities. Cash used in investing activities totaled $23.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to $37.4 million in the prior year period. The change is primarily due to lower payments to acquire businesses in the current year.
Financing Activities. Cash used in financing activities totaled $195.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to $246.9 million in the prior year period. The change is primarily due to lower repurchases of common stock in the current year.
CASH REQUIREMENTS –
Dividends and Share Repurchases. Returning capital to shareholders in the form of dividends and the repurchase of outstanding shares is, and has historically been, a significant component of our capital allocation plan.
We have consistently paid quarterly dividends. Dividends paid totaled $43.0 million and $43.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, 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.
During the three months ended September 30, 2023, we repurchased $132.0 million of our common stock at an average price of $40.43 per share, excluding excise taxes in connection with such repurchases. In the prior year period, we repurchased $219.8 million of our common stock at an average price of $44.60 per share. Our current share repurchase program has remaining authorization of $568.1 million, which is effective through June 2025.
Share repurchases may be effectuated through open market transactions, some of which may be effectuated under SEC Rule 10b5-1. The Company may cancel, suspend, or extend the period for the purchase of shares at any time. Any repurchases will be funded primarily through available cash and cash from operations. Although we may continue to repurchase shares, there is no assurance that we will purchase up to the full Board authorization.
Capital Investment. Capital expenditures totaled $12.9 million and $16.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Our capital expenditures relate primarily to recurring improvements to retail offices, as well as investments in computers, software and related assets. In addition to our capital expenditures, we also made payments to acquire businesses. We acquired franchisee and competitor businesses totaling $6.9 million and $16.5 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively. See Item 1, note 5 for additional information on our acquisitions.
FINANCING RESOURCES – The CLOC has capacity up to $1.5 billion and is scheduled to expire in June 2026. Proceeds under the CLOC may be used for working capital needs or for other general corporate purposes. We had no outstanding balance under our CLOC and amounts available to borrow were not limited by the debt-to-EBITDA covenant as of September 30, 2023.
The following table provides ratings for debt issued by Block Financial LLC (Block Financial) as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023:
As of
September 30, 2023
June 30, 2023
Short-term
Long-term
Outlook
Short-term
Long-term
Outlook
Moody's
P-3
Baa3
Stable
P-3
Baa3
Positive
S&P
A-2
BBB
Stable
A-2
BBB
Stable
Other than described above, there have been no material changes in our borrowings from those reported as of June 30, 2023 in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS – As of September 30, 2023, we held cash and cash equivalents, excluding restricted amounts, of $427.0 million, including $146.1 million held by our foreign subsidiaries.
Foreign Operations. Seasonal borrowing needs of our Canadian operations are typically funded by our U.S. operations. To mitigate foreign currency risk, we sometimes enter into foreign exchange forward contracts. There were no forward contracts outstanding as of September 30, 2023.
We do not currently intend to repatriate non-borrowed funds held by our foreign subsidiaries in a manner that would trigger a material tax liability.
The impact of changes in foreign exchange rates during the period on our international cash balances resulted in an decrease of $3.7 million and $13.4 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMERCIAL COMMITMENTS – EAs are originated by Pathward. We purchase a 90% participation interest, at par, in all EAs originated by Pathward in accordance with our participation agreement. Effective October 20, 2023, we amended the Program Management Agreement and entered into a new participation agreement related to EAs originated by Pathward.
There have been no other material changes in our contractual obligations and commercial commitments from those reported in our June 30, 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
SUMMARIZED GUARANTOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Block Financial is a 100% owned subsidiary of H&R Block, Inc. Block Financial is the Issuer and H&R Block, Inc. is the full and unconditional Guarantor of our Senior Notes, CLOC and other indebtedness issued from time to time.
The following table presents summarized financial information for H&R Block, Inc. (Guarantor) and Block Financial (Issuer) on a combined basis after intercompany eliminations and excludes investments in and equity earnings in non-guarantor subsidiaries.
SUMMARIZED BALANCE SHEET - GUARANTOR AND ISSUER
(in 000s)
As of
September 30, 2023
June 30, 2023
Current assets
$
40,277
$
37,407
Noncurrent assets
1,719,763
1,725,234
Current liabilities
85,643
78,259
Noncurrent liabilities
1,495,842
1,494,010
SUMMARIZED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - GUARANTOR AND ISSUER
(in 000s)
Three months ended September 30, 2023
Twelve months ended June 30, 2023
Total revenues
$
9,952
$
160,236
Income from continuing operations before income taxes
8,774
40,258
Net income from continuing operations
6,735
31,713
Net income
6,126
23,613
The table above reflects $1.7 billion of non-current intercompany receivables due to the Issuer from non-guarantor subsidiaries as of September 30, 2023 and June 30, 2023.
REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT
There have been no material changes in our regulatory environment from what was reported in our June 30, 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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 U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (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. We make adjustments for certain non-GAAP financial measures related to amortization of intangibles from acquisitions and goodwill impairments. We may consider whether other significant items that arise in the future should be excluded from our non-GAAP financial measures.
We measure the performance of our business using a variety of metrics, including earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) from continuing operations, adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations, adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations, free cash flow and free cash flow yield. 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 net loss to EBITDA from continuing operations, which is a non-GAAP financial measure:
(in 000s)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
Net loss - as reported
$
(163,482)
$
(168,421)
Discontinued operations, net
609
1,054
Net loss from continuing operations - as reported
(162,873)
(167,367)
Add back:
Income tax benefit
(49,487)
(53,957)
Interest expense
15,870
15,824
Depreciation and amortization
30,225
33,624
(3,392)
(4,509)
EBITDA from continuing operations
$
(166,265)
$
(171,876)
The following is a reconciliation of our results from continuing operations to our adjusted results from continuing operations, which is a non-GAAP financial measure:
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
Three months ended September 30,
2023
2022
Net loss from continuing operations - as reported
$
(162,873)
$
(167,367)
Adjustments:
Amortization of intangibles related to acquisitions (pretax)
12,555
12,696
Tax effect of adjustments (1)
(2,936)
(3,221)
Adjusted net loss from continuing operations
$
(153,254)
$
(157,892)
Diluted loss per share from continuing operations - as reported
$
(1.11)
$
(1.05)
Adjustments, net of tax
0.06
0.06
Adjusted diluted loss per share from continuing operations
$
(1.05)
$
(0.99)
(1)Tax effect of adjustments is the difference between the tax provision calculated on a GAAP basis and on an adjusted non-GAAP basis.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
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," "commits," "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, client trajectory, income, effective tax rate, earnings per share, cost savings, capital expenditures, dividends, share repurchases, liquidity, capital structure, market share, industry volumes 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. They may also include the expected impact of external events beyond the Company's control, such as outbreaks of infectious disease (including the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic), severe weather events, natural or manmade disasters, or changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate.
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. In addition, factors that may cause the Company’s actual effective tax rate to differ from estimates include the Company’s actual results from operations compared to current estimates, future discrete items, changes in interpretations and assumptions the Company has made, future actions of the Company, and increases in applicable tax rates in jurisdictions where the Company operates. 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 our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023 and are also described from time to time in other filings with the SEC. 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 our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
There have been no material changes in our market risks from those reported in our June 30, 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
EVALUATION OF DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES – As of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-Q, management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)). Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING – There were no changes during the three months ended September 30, 2023 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
For a description of our material pending legal proceedings, see discussion in Part I, Item 1, note 9 to the consolidated financial statements.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those reported in our June 30, 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
A summary of our purchases of H&R Block common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2023 is as follows:
(in 000s, except per share amounts)
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
Average Price Paid per Share
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (2)
Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (2)
July 1 - July 31
697
$
33.61
—
$
700,000
August 1 - August 31
499
$
40.00
375
$
685,000
September 1 - September 30
2,892
$
40.46
2,890
$
568,068
4,088
$
39.24
3,265
(1)We purchased approximately 823 thousand shares in connection with funding employee income tax withholding obligations arising upon the lapse of restrictions on restricted share units.
(2)In August 2022, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a $1.25 billion share repurchase program, effective through June 2025.
ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
During the three months ended September 30, 2023, no director or officer of the Company adopted or terminated a "Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement" or "non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement," as each term is defined in Item 408(a) of Regulation S-K.
Inline XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document
Pursuant to the requirements 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.
