Thomas M. Bloch - Many Happy Returns: The Story of Henry Bloch, Americas Tax Man

I never wanted a book written about me it seemed so vain. So, when authors and publishers approached me decades ago about writing an account of my life, I declined. But, a few years ago at age 87, I decided that if some of my hard-won lessons could possibly benefit others, then why not share them. I also decided that if I was ever going to sum up my life, I ought to get on with it. Certainly Ive had plenty of time to reach some conclusions on how it all turned out.

Further, I never expected that there would be a second edition of my biography. But here it is. Three years after the first book was published. A great deal has transpired since then, both in terms of my own life and at H&R Block. Ive thoroughly enjoyed helping to update the story.

As a youngster, I was an average student and believe me, I had to work hard to be average. Yet, my mother instilled in me the confidence that I could do anything I put my mind to. Ive not forgotten my parents. They helped shape my thinking about the future and what I could accomplish, as did my experiences in World War II.

Most peoples lives seem to turn out differently from the way they plan. Mine certainly has. When I started out, I never dreamed that H&R Block would become a household name, serving one out of seven U.S. taxpayers. When Dick and I hung our first sign outside the window of our walk-up, second-story office at Westport and Main in Kansas City, I never fathomed we would someday be responsible for thousands of tax offices in which over 600 million returns would be prepared. It almost seems as if it were yesterday that we painted the words INCOME TAX on two pieces of plywood on our parents driveway.

In the decades since, Ive often wondered why some people are lucky. Why, even when the odds are stacked against them, do some people refuse to quit? Is it possible to teach someone to think and act like an entrepreneur to create economic and social change, to shape their own destiny? This book explores these and other questions.

Many people played a critical role in H&R Blocks development. I want to mention three. First and foremost is my brother Dick, whose name will appear throughout this book; he was the quintessential entrepreneur. Without him, the company would never have flourished the way it did. Not long after the company developed a national presence, Jerry Grossman became my right-hand man; as chief operating officer, he served the company skillfully and faithfully. Ed Smith, our general counsel, was much more than a lawyer; there was no one whose opinion I valued more. I miss Dick, Jerry, and Ed and their tremendously valuable contributions and friendship.

I am grateful to my son Tom, who followed me as CEO of the company, for writing this book. During our sessions together, we reflected on the growth and development of H&R Block. I was constantly reminded that our associates and franchisees have always been at the core of the companys success. Our primary strength was rooted in their entrepreneurial spirit. They did what was required and then some. They knew the real boss wasnt Dick or me; it was the customer. I hope they will read this book as a tribute to their devotion and generous contributions.

Finally, I dont believe I would have been nearly as successful without Marion. Her love made me whole. She was a remarkable woman selfless and kind, beautiful and loving, gentle and strong. She passed away in September of 2013. I miss Marion more than I can say as she was the center of my life.

I make no pretense that this is a complete and definitive history of H&R Block. Tom and I have selected the highlights the urgent problems, significant goals, key accomplishments, and some unforgettable lessons. This book, which also reflects my own aspirations and philosophies, is as much a personal story as it is a business story.

When I retired from H&R Block 53 years after embarking on this journey with my brother, my good fortune allowed me to have something important to retire to paying off my debt to society. I have done this primarily through philanthropy and social entrepreneurship. That hasnt been a chore. It has been a pleasure.

It is said that the only constant is change. Since my retirement as chairman of the board in 2000, Ive observed the tax preparation industry evolve at an increasingly fast pace. Even in the face of accelerated change, great companies still manage to place at the center of attention understanding, anticipating, and meeting customer needs. I would like to think that this will always be H&R Blocks secret weapon.