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July 16, 2008

H&R Block Apologizes for Civil Union Tax Filing Problems

Tax preparation company H&R Block has agreed to give $100 coupons or free TaxCut software to gay couples who paid additional costs because they were barred from using the company's online tax service, TaxCut Online. After urging from the American Civil Liberties Union, the company is also offering free online tax support for couples who joined in civil unions.

Connecticut couple Jason Smith and Settimio Pisu received a message that the company's online service didn't support tax returns for couples who'd had civil unions; those couples were directed to visit an H&R Block office to complete their returns. The ACLU sent a letter to H&R Block in March demanding that it stop penalizing such couples. Connecticut law bans discrimination based on civil union status.

ACLU staff attorney Rebecca Shore said in a statement, "Saying you've been civilly united will never be the same as saying you're married, but at least gay couples will no longer face the prospect of paying more to prepare their taxes."

Those interested can request a coupon at taxcut.com/tax_tips/aclu.html (The Advocate)

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