Revenue Recognition (Disaggregation of Revenue) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2019	Apr. 30, 2018	Apr. 30, 2017
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 3,094,881	$ 3,159,931	$ 3,036,314
U.S. assisted tax preparation
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	1,858,998	1,947,160	1,902,212
U.S. DIY tax preparation
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	243,541	245,444	250,270
U.S. DIY tax preparation
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	260,082	243,159	219,123
International revenues
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	220,562	227,266	210,320
Revenues from Refund Transfers
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	169,985	171,959	148,212
Revenues from Emerald Card®
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	98,256	102,640	95,221
Revenues from Peace of Mind® Extended Service Plan
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	108,114	101,572	92,820
Revenues from Tax Identity Shield®
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	35,661	28,823	21,054
Interest and fee income on Emerald AdvanceTM
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	58,182	56,986	57,022
Other
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 41,500	$ 34,922	$ 40,060