TRACY, Calif.--(Business Wire)--April 13, 2005--With only two days to go before the tax filing deadline, an AP-Ipsos poll indicates that "most Americans think federal income taxes are too complicated, but they're not eager to simplify tax preparation by getting rid of some dedications and tax credits."

"This is contrary to the reality of online tax preparation and filing," claimed Leroy E. Petz, Sr., President of TaxBrain.com (www.taxbrain.com), third largest independent online tax service in the U.S. "More than 10 million people will prepare online this year, up at least 14% from last season. Millions of taxpayers are taking every deduction they feel entitled to – and get their returns in well before the deadline. Because interactive technology is so user friendly, the average online taxpayer feels right at home preparing the return and maximizing deductions."

"TaxBrain.com is not taking issue with the AP-Ipsos poll," Eric Hayes, TaxBrain.com Senior Tax Analyst said, "But we do disagree that 'most Americans' are not eager to simplify tax preparation in order to claim deductions. From anywhere, any time, the online taxpayer accesses www.taxbrain.com. The friendly, easy interface prompts the user through every step. If the return is a 1040EZ or straightforward 1040, then the process shouldn't take more than 40 minutes. If a question arises, the taxpayer simply pushes a button, and chats directly with a qualified tax professional. TaxBrain.com even features instant messaging, making the procedure faster.

"But what about taxpayers with more complicated returns, such as small business owners? Good news, here, too," continued Mr. Hayes. "First, TaxBrain.com creates a permanent account that the small business person can access all through year, so at tax time, the system is completely ready to go, and preparation is held to the minimum. Because the software development experts at Taxbrain.com have created the best professional-level software in the industry, in essence the business taxpayer gets the same – or better – level of expertise as a third-party preparer. Compared to the local walk-in tax office, the combination of sophistication and ease-of-use give online preparation a significant edge."

About TaxBrain® Online Tax Service

TaxBrain Online is the only web-based tax solution delivering online preparation, filing, professional assistance and representation in all 50 states. TaxBrain is a full-service online tax center providing tax advice, tools, and resources all year to help taxpayers manage their tax burden with greater confidence and ease. For more information visit www.taxbrain.com/press.

About Petz Enterprises, Inc.

Petz Enterprises, Inc. (a closely-held California corporation) is a software development company and a leading provider of tax preparation and filing solutions for the professional and consumer markets, helping to automate and simplify federal, state and local tax compliance. PEI's Crosslink® line of professional tax software products enable tax practitioners and service bureaus to accurately prepare and file large volumes of individual tax returns. Founded in 1974, Tracy, CA-based PEI is dedicated to serving the needs of the professional tax community and individual taxpayers worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.petzent.com.