Meanwhile, Block is going back to court in at least six states, defending itself against class-action lawsuits claiming it profiteered on very high-interest refund-anticipation loans to customers. Block thought it had settled those cases for $25 million, but a federal judge last month threw out that deal. H&R Block still offers both products and says they are worthwhile for consumers. “Like other corporations facing litigation, we sometimes choose to settle out of court… because it solves the dispute quickly and allows us to focus our full attention on running the business,” says Block’s general counsel. Still, the payouts give new meaning to the company’s “We’re still here to help” slogan.
