Tracy, CA--(Business Wire)--December 15, 2005-- "Electronic tax filing, or e-filing as it's known in the online tax preparation industry, is now in its 6th year. eFile online continues to develop a loyal following among people who once did their taxes with PC software, or went to a local tax office. According to IRS data, efile is now the fastest growing favorite among America's 68 million taxpayers, an 11% increase over the previous year. The IRS goal is to have 80% of all taxpayers e-filing by 2007," said Eric Hayes, Senior Tax Analyst, Taxbrain.com (http://www.taxbrain.com/efile.asp) the consumer brand of Petz Enterprises, Inc.

"Hundreds of thousands of satisfied TaxBrain.com electronic filers point to cost, convenience and simplicity as the most important factors in their decision to switch - and their commitment to never go back," Mr. Hayes added.

PC software was once a good bet, but the purchase process can now induce its own tax-time trauma. The overwhelming variety of versions, complicated bundle and rebate options, and the uncertainties of installation and endless updates make buying tax software as daunting as any government form. eFile online for federal and state taxes are easy to shop, always up to date and accessible from home, work, or on the road.

The franchise tax office provided well-lit comfort for the timid taxpayer, but that comfort came at a pretty steep price. According to one national chain, the average client can expect to pay about $140 to have their taxes done. Ironically, the tax office staff will rely heavily on tax software that is generally equivalent to what is now available online. As for support, electronic file services provide live chat assistance while the tax return is prepared and offer similar accuracy guarantees - all for about one third the price.

"Consider this: an Internet tax filing service like TaxBrain.com will run anywhere from $20 to $90 and deliver a professional grade result. With a little online experience and a willingness to try something new, savvy taxpayers can save themselves significant time, hassle, eliminate risk of losing paperwork due to a catastrophe such as Hurricane Katrina or an earthquake, and get their refund just about the time that Christmas charges become due," Mr. Hayes concluded.

About TaxBrain.com® Online Tax & E-file Service

TaxBrain.com is the only web-based tax solution delivering online preparation, filing, professional assistance and representation in all 50 states. TaxBrain.com 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.