TaxBrain.com Simplifies Online Tax Filing

TRACY, CA -- (INTERNET WIRE) -- 02/23/2001 -- Taxpayers have a new alternative for filing their state and federal tax returns online: TaxBrain.com (www.taxbrain.com). Using a current web browser and Adobe Acrobat Reader, users can securely prepare their returns online, print out the forms for their records, and file electronically for free.

"We made the process as simple as possible," explains Leroy Petz, Jr. of Petz Enterprises, Inc., the company that launched TaxBrain.com. "Instead of answering dozens of questions that don't apply to their particular tax return, our users fill out our simplified forms, which make electronic filing as easy as clicking a button."

The four-step process is simple. First, site visitors qualify themselves by ensuring the forms they need are listed. Then they create a private and secure account and enter the data for their return. Finally, users file and print their return. There are no lengthy questions on topics that do not apply to most people. Also, there is a help key where additional information for a particular area of a form can be found. Many tax tips are included, too.

But Taxbrain's best feature is its personalized support. "We are committed to providing the best support in the industry," says Leroy Petz. "Petz Enterprises has built its reputation in the professional tax software market by being responsive to its customers' needs, and we feel that the online user wants that same commitment from the web. We charge a little more than other sites, but we offer a lot more for the money."

The $24.95 flat fee for the service covers preparation of both federal and state returns as well as e-filing. There are no additional "per form" charges or hidden costs. Credit cards are accepted via the site's secure server. For an additional $15.00, TaxBrain.com clients can choose to have the fee deducted from their tax refund. Users can even receive their money in three to five days by applying for a loan from Santa Barbara Bank and Trust through the service.

About TaxBrain Online Tax CenterT

The TaxBrain Online Tax Center provides tax advice, tools, and resources all year to help taxpayers manage their tax burden with greater confidence and ease. TaxBrain is the only web-based tax solution that delivers online preparation, filing, professional assistance and representation for taxpayers in all 50 states. Launched in 2000, TaxBrain delivers the vision of a fully integrated tax center that accommodates the schedule and needs of the busy American lifestyle. In 2002, TaxBrain emerged as one of the most popular services for online tax preparation and filing available on the web. For more information, visit www.taxbrain.com.

About Petz Enterprises, Inc.

Petz Enterprises, Inc. (a closely-held California corporation) is 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. At the IRS Tax Forum, PEI announced the availability of V-TaxT, the world's first online software designed exclusively for professional tax preparers serving large numbers of individuals from multiple locations

Founded in 1974 and based in Tracy, California, PEI is dedicated to serving the needs of the professional tax community and individual taxpayers worldwide. For more information, visit www.petzent.com.