Franchise (TAX) 10-Q 9 Sep 19 2020 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Sep. 03, 2019
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	Liberty Tax, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0001528930
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jul. 31, 2019
Amendment Flag	false
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--04-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Common Class A [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		16,211,564
Common Class B [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		0

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 90,570	$ 22,983	$ 6,186
Receivables:
Accounts receivable	47,355	47,011	41,224
Notes receivable - current	25,163	21,097	29,402
interest receivable, current, net	1,826	1,718	2,023
Allowance for doubtful accounts - current	(10,344)	(11,183)	(11,917)
Total current receivables, net	64,000	58,643	60,732
Loans Payable to Bank, Current	3,136	7,277	1,738
Assets Held for Sale	0	0	5,231
Income taxes receivable	6,917	1,784	4,989
Inventory, Net	9,586	0	0
Other current assets	3,160	2,405	1,463
Total current assets	177,369	93,092	80,339
Property, equipment, and software, net	31,336	32,676	37,091
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	6,887	7,445	9,882
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	(1,114)	(633)	(1,642)
Financing Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	5,773	6,812	8,240
Goodwill	94,553	6,566	7,997
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	20,588	0	0
Other intangible assets, net	49,086	19,161	22,765
Deferred Income Taxes and Other Assets, Noncurrent	323	315	1,272
Other assets	3,697	1,379	2,056
Total assets	382,725	160,001	159,760
Current liabilities:
Current installments of long-term obligations	4,450	13,108	16,923
Operating Lease, Liability, Current	6,373	0	0
Finance Lease, Liability, Current	408	0	0
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	20,025	13,672	21,213
Due to Area Developers (ADs)	5,830	17,282	7,186
Income taxes payable	361	447	0
Deferred revenue - current	4,204	3,679	4,018
Total current liabilities	61,651	48,188	61,930
Line of Credit, Current	20,000	0	12,590
Long-term obligations, excluding current installments, net	78,188	1,940	1,895
Deferred revenue and other - non-current	4,799	5,622	7,870
Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation	17,986	0	0
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent	627	0	0
Deferred income tax liability	11,247	537	919
Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent	0	0	1,070
Total liabilities	$ 174,498	$ 56,287	$ 73,684
Equity:
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	16,000	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	$ 66,264	$ 12,552	$ 11,769
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of taxes	(1,605)	(1,910)	(1,539)
Retained earnings	77,348	92,932	75,706
Total equity attributable to Liberty Tax, Inc.	142,185	103,714	86,076
Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity	66,042	0	0
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	208,227	103,714	86,076
Total liabilities and equity	$ 382,725	$ 160,001	$ 159,760
Special voting preferred stock
Equity:
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued	1,616,667	0	0
Total equity attributable to Liberty Tax, Inc.			$ 0
Class A common stock
Equity:
Common stock	$ 162	$ 140	140
Total equity attributable to Liberty Tax, Inc.	$ 162	$ 140	140
Class B common stock
Equity:
Total equity attributable to Liberty Tax, Inc.			$ 0

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	$ 17,976	$ 17,920
Preferred stock, shares authorized	20,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	16,000	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 12
Common stock, shares authorized	180,000,000
Special voting preferred stock
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	20,000,000	0	0
Preferred stock, shares issued	1,616,667	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	1,616,667	0	0
Class A common stock
Common Stock, Value, Issued	$ 162	$ 140	$ 140
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	180,000,000	22,000,000	21,200,000
Common stock, shares issued	16,211,564	14,048,528	14,024,111
Common stock, shares outstanding	16,211,564	14,048,528	14,024,111

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic	$ (3,235)	$ 0
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic	(15,903)	(19,371)
Revenues:
FranchiseFeeRevenue	332	557
Area Developer fees	1,110	1,028
Royalties and advertising fees	1,450	1,562
Financial products	740	579
Interest income	1,656	1,656
Assisted Tax Preparation Fees, Net of Discounts	597	1,518
Electronic Filing Fee Revenue	49	28
Agreement, Club and Damage Waiver Fees	282	0
Lease Income	1,334	0
Retail Sales, net	118	0
Gain on Sale of Intangible Other Assets and Other Revenue	527	235
Total revenues	8,195	7,163
Operating expenses:
Employee compensation and benefits	8,243	10,769
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	17,155	11,304
Area Developer expense	136	304
Advertising expense	1,349	1,685
Cost of Goods Sold, Sales-type Lease	540	0
Retail Land Sales, Installment Method, Cost of Sales	93	0
Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges	3,986	3,194
Restructuring Costs	0	8,266
Total operating expenses	31,502	35,522
Loss from operations	(23,307)	(28,359)
Other income (expense):
Foreign currency transaction gain	1	2
Interest expense	(964)	(530)
Loss before income taxes	(24,270)	(28,887)
Income tax benefit	(5,132)	(9,516)
Net loss	$ (19,138)	$ (19,371)
Net loss per share of common stock:
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (1.09)	$ (1.48)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted	14,555,330	13,078,091
Common Class B [Member]
Other income (expense):
Net loss		$ 0
Common Class A [Member]
Other income (expense):
Net loss	$ 0	$ 0
Net loss per share of common stock:
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (1.09)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted	14,555,330

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$ 305,000	$ (192,000)	$ (192,000)
Net loss	19,138,000	19,371,000	19,371,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent	(38,000)		10,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax	343,000		$ (202,000)
Other comprehensive gain (loss)	(18,833,000)	(19,563,000)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	3,160,000	0
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ (15,673,000)	$ (19,563,000)

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss parentheticals $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Securities, Available-for-Sale, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax	$ 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, before Reclassification Adjustments, Tax	$ 0

Condensed Consolidated Statem_4

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders Equity Statement - USD ($) shares in Thousands	Total	Common Class A [Member]	Preferred Stock [Member]	Common Class B [Member]	Special Voting, Preferred Stock [Member]	Exchangeable Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Total Equity [Member]	Noncontrolling Interest [Member]	Exchangeable Stock [Member]
Shares, Outstanding		12,823		200	0							1,000
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ 111,501,000
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent		$ 128,000		$ 2,000	$ 0		$ 11,570,000	$ (1,347,000)	$ 101,138,000			$ 10,000
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic	(19,371,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Other		0		0	0	0
Net Income (Loss) in shares		0		0	0	0
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	(19,371,000)	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	0	0	(19,371,000)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest	(19,371,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (in shares)		0		0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent		$ 0		$ 0	0	0			0
stock issued during period, shares, share based compensation , net of forfe		1		0
Adjustment to APIC, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition		$ 0		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Adjustment to APIC, Share based Compensation,Requisite Service Period Recognition, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest							199,000
Adjustment to APIC, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Reconition	199,000							0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities		1,200		(200)	0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities	10,000	$ 12,000		$ (2,000)	$ 0	$ 0	0	0	0
stock issued during period, shares, conversion of preferred stock to common stock		0		0	0	(1,000)
stock issued during period, value, conversion of preferred stock to common stock	(10,000)	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0	$ (10,000)	0	0	0
Stock Dividends, Shares		0		0	0	0
Dividends	(2,267,000)	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	0	0	(2,267,000)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest							0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	(192,000)							(192,000)
Shares, Outstanding		14,024		0	0
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	86,076,000
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	(3,794,000)	$ 0		$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	0	0	(3,794,000)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	86,076,000	$ 140,000		$ 0	$ 0		11,769,000	(1,539,000)	75,706,000			$ 0
Shares, Outstanding		14,049	0
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	103,714,000
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	103,714,000	$ 140,000	$ 0				12,552,000	(1,910,000)	92,932,000
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic	(15,903,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Other		0	0
Acquisition, Issuance of Stock, Shares		0	1,617
Stock Issued During Period, Common Stock, Acquisition, Value	97,000,000	$ 0	$ 16,000				96,984,000	0	0
Noncontrolling Interest in Period, shares		0	0
Noncontrolling Interest in Period, Value	0	$ 0	$ 0				(69,277,000)	0	0
Net Income (Loss) in shares		0	0
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	(19,138,000)	$ 0	$ 0				0	0	(15,903,000)
Acquisition, Stock Issued During the Period, Value, Attributable to Parent	97,000,000
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest	(19,138,000)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions		51	0
preferred stock, issued during period, shares			$ 0
preferred stock, issued during period, value	25,000,000		0				24,979,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions	721,000	$ 1,000	$ 0				720,000	0	0
Acquisition, Common stock, issued during period, shares		2,083,000
Acquisition, Common stock, issued during period, value		$ 21,000
Acquisition Costs, Period Cost, attributable to parent	(69,277,000)
Acquisition Costs, Period Cost, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	69,277,000
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(3,235,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period		0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised, attributable to parent	305,000	$ 0	$ 0				0	305,000	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised	305,000
stock issued during period, shares, share based compensation , net of forfe		29	0
Adjustment to APIC, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition	306,000	$ 0	$ 0				306,000	0	0
Adjustment to APIC, Share based Compensation,Requisite Service Period Recognition, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0
Adjustment to APIC, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Reconition	306,000
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$ 305,000
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	36.40%
Common Stock, Value, Subscriptions	$ 25,000,000
Shares, Outstanding		16,212	1,617
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	208,227,000
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	319,000	$ 0	$ 0				0	0	319,000	$ 319,000	$ 0
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	142,185,000	$ 162,000	$ 16,000				$ 66,264,000	$ (1,605,000)	$ 77,348,000
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	$ 66,042,000

Condensed Consolidated Statem_5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (19,138)	$ (19,371)	$ (19,371)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Provision for doubtful accounts	1,725	1,939
Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges	3,986	3,194
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs	676	102
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets	548	4,083
Stock-based compensation expense	741	205
Gain on sale of available-for-sale securities	(127)	0
Gain on bargain purchases and sales of Company-owned offices	0	(55)
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	74	(8)
Deferred tax expense	0	45
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable	(5,190)	(9,489)
Changes in other assets and liabilities	6,651	5,587
Net cash used in operating activities	(10,054)	(13,658)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Issuance of operating loans to franchisees and ADs	(7,247)	(8,850)
Payments received on operating loans to franchisees	749	1,390
Purchases of AD rights, Company-owned offices and acquired customer lists	(646)	(58)
Purchases of property, equipment and software	(337)	(769)
Net cash used in investing activities	(7,481)	(8,287)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	306	0
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock	(25,000)	0
Repayment of long-term obligations	(12,911)	(2,901)
Borrowings under revolving credit facility	20,000	12,717
Repayments under revolving credit facility	(24,971)	(127)
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt	82,000	0
Payments of Debt Issuance Costs	(4,423)	0
Payment, Tax Withholding, Share-based Payment Arrangement	21	6
Net cash provided by financing activities	84,980	9,683
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, net	142	(74)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	67,587	(12,336)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	22,983	18,522
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	90,570	$ 6,186
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest of $4 and $3, respectively	251		522
Cash paid for taxes, net of refunds	(72)		(16)
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid	36		117
During the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company acquired certain assets from ADs, franchisees, and third parties as follows:
Fair value of assets purchased	3,696		1,840
Receivables applied, net of amounts written off, due ADs and related deferred revenue	(2,132)		(289)
Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount	(124)		(191)
Long-term obligations and accounts payable issued to seller	(794)		(1,302)
Cash paid to ADs, franchisees and third parties	646		58
During the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018, the Company sold certain assets to ADs and franchisees as follows:
Book value of assets sold	0		1,163
Gain on sale - revenue deferred	0		(72)
Notes received	0		(312)
Notes and Accounts Payable Assumed	0		779
Cash received from ADs and franchisees	$ 0		$ 0

Organization and Significant Ac

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Organization and Significant Accounting Policies	Organization and Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business Liberty Tax, Inc. (the "Company"), a Delaware corporation, franchises and, to a lesser degree, operates a system of tax preparation and rent-to-own stores. On July 10, 2019, the Company formed Franchise Group New Holdco, LLC (“New Holdco”), which completed the acquisition of Buddy's Newco, LLC ("Buddy's") as described in "Note 2. Acquisition" in exchange for units of New Holdco ("New Holdco units") and voting non-economic preferred stock ("Preferred Stock") in the Company. New Holdco holds all of the Company’s operating subsidiaries. The Company currently operates in two reportable segments: Liberty Tax and Buddy’s. The Company provides income tax services in the United States of America (the "U.S.") and Canada through its Liberty Tax segment and its Buddy's segment leases and sells electronics, residential furniture, appliances and household accessories. The Company’s operating revenues are seasonal in nature, particularly as related to the Liberty Tax segment, which has peak revenues occurring in the months of January through April. Therefore, results for interim periods are not indicative of results to be expected for the full year. Basis of Presentation The Company consolidates any entities in which it has a controlling interest, the usual condition of which is ownership of a majority voting interest. The Company is the sole managing member of New Holdco and possesses ownership of more than 50 percent of the outstanding voting shares. As a result, the Company consolidates the financial results of New Holdco and reports a non-controlling interest that represents the economic interest held by the former equity holders of Buddy's (the "Buddy's Members"). The assets and liabilities of New Holdco reflect substantially all of the Company’s consolidated assets and liabilities with the exception of certain cash balances and deferred tax liabilities. As of July 31, 2019 , the Company had an ownership interest of 63.6% in New Holdco and reported a non-controlling interest equal to 36.4% . The Company does not possess any ownership interests in franchisee entities; however, the Company may provide financial support to franchisee entities. Because the Company's franchise arrangements provide franchisee entities the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact their economic performance, the Company does not consider itself the primary beneficiary of any such entity that might be a variable interest entity ("VIE"). Based on the results of management's analysis of potential VIEs, the Company has not consolidated any franchisee entities. The Company's maximum exposure to loss resulting from involvement with potential VIEs is attributable to accounts and notes receivables and future lease payments due from franchisees. When the Company does not have a controlling interest in an entity but has the ability to exert significant influence over the entity, the Company applies the equity method of accounting. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Inventory primarily consists of new, previously rented or currently rented consumer electronics and household goods and is recorded at cost, including shipping and handling fees. All lease merchandise is available for lease or sale. On a weekly basis, all damaged, lost, stolen, or unsalable merchandise identified is written off. Maintenance and repairs of lease merchandise are charged to operations as incurred. Assets and liabilities of the Company's Canadian operations have been translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the end of the period. Revenues and expenses have been translated using the average exchange rates in effect each month of the period. Foreign exchange transaction gains and losses are recognized when incurred. The Company reclassifies to accounts payable checks issued in excess of funds available and reports them as cash flow from operating activities. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") for interim financial information. The condensed consolidated financial statements, including these notes, are unaudited and exclude some of the disclosures required only in annual financial statements. The consolidated balance sheet data as of April 30, 2019 was derived from the Company’s April 30, 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 2019. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of such condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP have been recorded. These adjustments consisted only of normal recurring items. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in its April 30, 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 2019. Use of Estimates Management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period, to prepare these condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in conformity with GAAP. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Accounting Pronouncements In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2016-02, " Leases (Topic 842) " and subsequent amendments, which replaced previous lease accounting guidance in GAAP and require lessees to recognize right-of-use assets and corresponding lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets for all in-scope leases with a term of greater than 12 months and require disclosure of certain quantitative and qualitative information pertaining to an entity's leasing arrangements. The Company adopted the requirements of the standard in the first quarter of fiscal 2020, using the optional effective transition method provided by accounting pronouncement, ASU No. 2018-11, " Leases (Topic 842): Targeted Improvements. " ASU 2018-11 allows entities to initially apply ASU 2016-02 at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. Consequently, the Company's reporting for comparative periods presented in the year of adoption will continue to be in according with ASC 840, " Leases (Topic 840) " ("ASC 840"). The Company elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which among other things, permitted the Company to carry forward the historical lease classification for leases that commenced before the effective date of the new standard. The Company elected to not separate non-lease components from lease components for all classes of underlying assets, as a lessee and as a lessor. The Company did not elect the hindsight practical expedient, which permits the use of hindsight when determining lease term and impairment of right-of-use assets. Adoption of the standard resulted in the recognition of lease right-of use assets of $8.4 million , lease liabilities of $8.6 million and a reduction to retained earnings of $0.3 million , net of tax, as of April 30, 2019. The adoption of the standard did not have a material impact on the Company's condensed consolidated statements of operations or condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. Refer to "Note 8. Leases" for additional information related to the Company's accounting for leases. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, " Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ", which changes how companies will measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that aren't measured at fair value through net income. The standard replaces the "incurred loss" approach with an "expected loss" model for instruments measured at amortized cost (which generally will result in the earlier recognition of allowances for losses) and requires companies to record allowances for available-for-sale debt securities, rather than reduce the carrying amount. In addition, companies will have to disclose significantly more information, including information used to track credit quality by year of origination, for most financing receivables. The ASU should be applied as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the standard is effective. The ASU is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for all entities for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods therein. The ASU is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard to its consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “ Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. ” This standard eliminates Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Instead, an entity should compare the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognize an impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit's fair value, not to exceed the total amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. The standard will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this newly issued standard to its consolidated financial statements.

Acquisition (Notes)

Acquisition (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]	(2) Acquisition On July 10, 2019 (the "Buddy's Acquisition Date"), the Company entered into and completed certain transactions contemplated by an Agreement of Merger and Business Combination Agreement with Buddy's, New Holdco, a wholly-owned direct subsidiary of the Company, Franchise Group B Merger Sub, LLC, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of New Holdco and Vintage RTO, L.P., solely in its capacity as the representative of the Buddy's Members, to acquire Buddy's in a stock transaction (the "Buddy's Acquisition"). At the Buddy's Acquisition Date, each outstanding unit of Buddy's was converted into the right to receive 0.459315 New Holdco units and 0.091863 shares of Preferred Stock. The Buddy's Members may elect, following an initial six-month lockup period, to cause New Holdco and the Company to redeem one New Holdco Unit and one-fifth of a share of Preferred Stock in exchange for one share of common stock of the Company. As of the Buddy's Acquisition Date, on an as-converted basis, the Buddy's Members' aggregate ownership of New Holdco units and shares of Preferred Stock represent approximately 36.44% of the Company's outstanding common stock, which implies an enterprise value for Buddy's of approximately $122 million and an equity value of $12.00 per share of common stock. The Company is the sole managing member of New Holdco which will be consolidated for financial reporting purposes. New Holdco units held by Buddy's Members will be recorded as a non-controlling interest on the consolidated financial statements. Assets acquired and the liabilities assumed in the business combination are recorded at fair value in accordance with ASC 805, " Business Combinations ." The Company and the Buddy's Members also entered into an income tax receivable agreement (the "TRA") pursuant to which, subject to certain exceptions set forth in the TRA, the Company will pay the Buddy's Members 40% of the cash savings, if any, in federal, state and local taxes that the Company realizes or is deemed to realize as a result of any increases in tax basis of the assets of New Holdco resulting from future redemptions or exchanges of New Holdco units held by the Buddy's Members. In connection with the Buddy's Acquisition, none of the New Holdco units were to be purchased or exchanged by the Company and the Buddy's Members. Accordingly, the Company is not obligated to make any TRA payments to the Buddy's Members and therefore has not recorded an initial TRA or contingent consideration liability. In future periods, to the extent that Buddy’s Members exchange their New Holdco units that results in an increase in tax basis of the assets of New Holdco, the Company will initially record an estimated TRA liability equal to the portion of realizable tax benefits that are probable to the Buddy’s Members as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. The purchase price is calculated as follows: (In thousands except per share) Number of New Holdco units issued to Buddy’s Members that are exchanged into Company common stock 8,083 Estimated fair value per unit issued to Buddy’s (a) $ 12.00 Equity consideration $ 97,000 (a) The fair value per unit of $12.00 was determined based on the estimated enterprise value of Buddy’s negotiated and agreed in connection with the Buddy's Acquisition. This price also approximates the estimated fair value of the Company's common stock. The table below summarizes the preliminary estimates of the fair values of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Buddy's Acquisition as of the Buddy's Acquisition Date. The preliminary estimates of the fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are subject to revisions, which may result in adjustment to the preliminary values presented below, when management's appraisals and estimates are finalized. The Company is awaiting additional information to finalize the valuation of various balances, which include the acquired intangible assets, measurement of the lease right-of-use assets, and certain tax-related balances.
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	(In thousands) Cash and cash equivalents $ 181 Accounts receivable 13,658 Other current assets 10,911 Property, equipment, and software, net 1,613 Goodwill 86,147 Other intangible assets, net 28,900 Lease right-of-use assets 13,428 Other assets 857 Total Assets 155,695 Current portion of operating lease liabilities 1,939 Current portion of financing lease liabilities 442 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 5,354 Revolving credit facility 24,971 Deferred revenue - current and non-current 819 Operating lease liabilities - non-current 13,834 Financing lease liabilities - non-current 627 Deferred income tax liability 10,709 Total Liabilities 58,695 Consideration transferred $ 97,000 Goodwill is calculated as the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired. The goodwill recognized is attributable to operational synergies in the expected franchise models and growth opportunities. Intangible assets, net consist of two separately identified assets. The Company identified the Buddy's tradename as an indefinite-lived intangible asset with a fair value of $11.1 million. The tradename is not subject to amortization but will be evaluated annually for impairment. The Company also recognized an asset of $10.1 million for franchise agreements and $7.7 million for customer contracts. The allocation of the purchase price to intangible assets as well as their estimated useful lives is preliminary and may be adjusted. Lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities consists of leases for retail store locations and also leases for vehicles and office equipment. The lease right of use assets incorporate an adjustment of $2.3 million, net for favorable and unfavorable Buddy's leases (as compared to prevailing market rates) which will be amortized over the remaining lease terms. The results of operations of Buddy's are included in the Company's results of operations beginning July 11, 2019. From July 11, 2019 through July 31, 2019, Buddy's generated net revenues of $2.6 million and net income of less than $0.1 million. The following unaudited consolidated pro forma summary has been prepared by adjusting the Company's historical data to give effect to the Buddy's Acquisition as if it had occurred o n May 1, 2018: Pro Forma - Unaudited 3 Months Ended July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Revenues $ 18,626 $ 20,490 Net loss $ (13,340 ) $ (20,548 ) The unaudited consolidated pro forma financial information was prepared in accordance with existing standards and is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that would have occurred if the Buddy's Acquisition had been completed on the date indicated, nor is it indicative of the future operating results of the Company. The unaudited pro forma results do not reflect events that either have occurred or may occur after the Buddy's Acquisition, including, but not limited to, the anticipated realization of operating synergies in subsequent periods. They also do not give effect to certain charges that the Company expects to incur in connection with the Buddy's Acquisition, including, but not limited to, additional professional fees, employee integration, potential asset impairments and amortization charges.

Notes and Accounts Receivable

Notes and Accounts Receivable	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]	(3) Accounts and Notes Receivable The Company provides select financing to the Liberty Tax segment, area developers ("ADs") and franchisees for the purchase of franchises, areas, Company-owned offices, and operating loans for working capital and equipment needs. The franchise-related notes generally are payable over five years and the operating loans generally are due within one year. Most notes bear interest at an annual rate of 12% . Most of the notes receivable are due from the Company's ADs and franchisees and are collateralized by the underlying franchise and, when the AD or franchise is an entity, are guaranteed by the owners of the respective entity. The debtors' ability to repay the notes is dependent upon both the performance of the tax preparation industry as a whole and the individual franchise or AD areas. At July 31, 2019 , the Company had an unfunded lending commitment for working capital loans to franchisees and ADs of $15.4 million through the end of the current fiscal year. Analysis of Past Due Receivables The breakdown of accounts and notes receivable past due at July 31, 2019 was as follows: Past due Current Interest receivable, net Total receivables (In thousands) Accounts receivable $ 40,197 $ 7,158 $ — $ 47,355 Notes and interest receivable, net (1) 12,253 19,797 1,826 33,876 Total accounts, notes and interest receivable $ 52,450 $ 26,955 $ 1,826 $ 81,231 (1) Interest receivable is shown net of an allowance for uncollectible interest of $2.5 million . Accounts receivable are considered to be past due if unpaid 30 days after billing, and notes receivable are considered past due if unpaid 90 days after the due date. If it is determined the likelihood of collecting substantially all of the notes and accrued interest is not probable, the notes are put on non-accrual status. The Company’s investment in notes receivable on non-accrual status was $12.3 million , $15.6 million and $13.4 million at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 , and July 31, 2018 , respectively. Payments received on notes in non-accrual status are applied to the principal until the note is current and then to interest income. Non-accrual notes that are paid current and expected to remain current are moved back into accrual status during the next annual review. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The adequacy of the allowance for doubtful accounts is assessed on a quarterly basis and adjusted as deemed necessary. Management believes the recorded allowance is adequate based upon its consideration of the estimated fair value of the franchises and AD areas collateralizing the receivables. Any adverse change in the tax preparation industry or the individual franchise or AD areas could affect the Company's estimate of the allowance.
Notes and Accounts Receivable	Accounts and Notes Receivable The Company provides select financing to the Liberty Tax segment, area developers ("ADs") and franchisees for the purchase of franchises, areas, Company-owned offices, and operating loans for working capital and equipment needs. The franchise-related notes generally are payable over five years and the operating loans generally are due within one year. Most notes bear interest at an annual rate of 12% . Most of the notes receivable are due from the Company's ADs and franchisees and are collateralized by the underlying franchise and, when the AD or franchise is an entity, are guaranteed by the owners of the respective entity. The debtors' ability to repay the notes is dependent upon both the performance of the tax preparation industry as a whole and the individual franchise or AD areas. At July 31, 2019 , the Company had an unfunded lending commitment for working capital loans to franchisees and ADs of $15.4 million through the end of the current fiscal year. Analysis of Past Due Receivables The breakdown of accounts and notes receivable past due at July 31, 2019 was as follows: Past due Current Interest receivable, net Total receivables (In thousands) Accounts receivable $ 40,197 $ 7,158 $ — $ 47,355 Notes and interest receivable, net (1) 12,253 19,797 1,826 33,876 Total accounts, notes and interest receivable $ 52,450 $ 26,955 $ 1,826 $ 81,231 (1) Interest receivable is shown net of an allowance for uncollectible interest of $2.5 million . Accounts receivable are considered to be past due if unpaid 30 days after billing, and notes receivable are considered past due if unpaid 90 days after the due date. If it is determined the likelihood of collecting substantially all of the notes and accrued interest is not probable, the notes are put on non-accrual status. The Company’s investment in notes receivable on non-accrual status was $12.3 million , $15.6 million and $13.4 million at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 , and July 31, 2018 , respectively. Payments received on notes in non-accrual status are applied to the principal until the note is current and then to interest income. Non-accrual notes that are paid current and expected to remain current are moved back into accrual status during the next annual review. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The adequacy of the allowance for doubtful accounts is assessed on a quarterly basis and adjusted as deemed necessary. Management believes the recorded allowance is adequate based upon its consideration of the estimated fair value of the franchises and AD areas collateralizing the receivables. Any adverse change in the tax preparation industry or the individual franchise or AD areas could affect the Company's estimate of the allowance. Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 was as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 11,816 $ 12,487 Provision for doubtful accounts 1,725 1,939 Write-offs (2,121 ) (840 ) Foreign currency adjustment 38 (27 ) Balance at end of period $ 11,458 $ 13,559 Management considers specific accounts and notes receivable to be impaired if the net amounts due exceed the fair value of the underlying franchise at the time of the annual valuation performed as of April 30 of each year and estimates an allowance for doubtful accounts based on that excess. At the end of each fiscal quarter, the Company considers the activity during the period for accounts and notes receivable impaired at each prior fiscal year end and adjusts the allowance for doubtful accounts accordingly. While not specifically identifiable as of the balance sheet date, the Company's analysis of its experience also indicates that a portion of other accounts and notes receivable may not be collectible. Net amounts due include contractually obligated accounts and notes receivable plus accrued interest, reduced by unrecognized revenue, the allowance for uncollected interest, amounts due ADs, and amounts owed to the franchisee by the Company.

Restructuring Expense

Restructuring Expense	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring Expense	Restructuring Expense In fiscal 2018, the Company began restructuring initiatives involving a review of Liberty Tax-owned stores and service providers to improve the Company's overall long-term profitability. The Company incurred $8.3 million of expenses in the three months ended July 31, 2018 related to these initiatives. The expenses incurred are presented in the Restructuring expense line item in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The restructuring initiatives were completed in October 2018. The composition of the restructuring expenses incurred for the three months ended July 31, 2018 were as follows: Expense Cash Accrued Expenses Non-cash Total Expense (In thousands) Property and intangible impairments and exit costs 193 3,859 4,214 8,266 Total $ 193 $ 3,859 $ 4,214 $ 8,266 The property and intangible impairments and exit costs, which were primarily recorded in assets held for sale, were comprised of expenses related to lease obligations and non-cash charges associated with intangible write-downs. The accrued restructuring expenses of $3.9 million are included in "Accounts payable and accrued expenses" in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. A summary of the activity in accrued expenses related to restructuring initiatives for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 is as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 Contract termination costs Property and intangible impairments and exit costs Total accrued expenses (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 690 $ 1,467 $ 2,157 Cash payments — (190 ) (190 ) Balance at end of period $ 690 $ 1,277 $ 1,967 Three Months Ended July 31, 2018 Contract termination costs Property and intangible impairments and exit costs Total accrued expenses (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 1,359 $ — $ 1,359 Additions accrued against the liability — 3,859 3,859 Balance at end of period $ 1,359 3,859 $ 5,218

Revenue Revenue (Notes)

Revenue Revenue (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Revenue [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition, Deferred Revenue [Policy Text Block]	(7) Revenue For detail regarding the principal activities from which the Liberty Tax segment generates its revenue, see "Note 1. Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" in the Company’s April 30, 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 2019. The following is a description of the principal activities from which the Buddy's segment generates its revenues. For more detailed information regarding reportable segments, see "Note 16. Segments." • Rental-Purchase Agreements: The Company provides merchandise, consisting of consumer electronics, computers, residential furniture, appliances, and household accessories to its customers pursuant to rental purchase agreement which provide for weekly, semi-monthly or monthly rental terms with non-refundable rental payments. At the expiration of each rental term customers renew the rental agreement by pre-paying for the next rental term. Customers have the option to purchase the leased goods at any point in the lease term. Customers can terminate the agreement at the end of any rental term without penalty. Therefore, rental transactions are accounted for as operating leases and rental revenue is recognized over the rental term. Cash received prior to beginning of the lease term is recorded as deferred revenue. Revenue related to various payment, reinstatement or late fees are recognized when paid by the customer at the point service is provided. The Company offers additional product plans along with rental agreements which provide customers with liability protection against significant damage or loss of a product, and club membership benefits, including various discounts programs and product service and replacement benefits in the event merchandise is damaged or lost. Customers renew product plans in conjunction with their rental term renewals and can cancel the plans at any time. Revenue for product plans is recognized over the term of the plan. • Merchandise Sales: Merchandise sales include payments received for the exercise of the early purchase option offered through rental purchase agreements or merchandise sold through point of sale transactions. Revenue for merchandise sales is recognized when payment is received, and ownership of the merchandise passes to the customer. The remaining net value of merchandise sold is recorded to cost of sales at the time of the transaction. Contract Balances The following table provides information about receivables and contract liabilities (deferred revenue) from contracts with customers: July 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Notes receivable $ 32,050 $ 28,542 $ 39,284 Deferred revenue 8,553 8,654 10,938 Significant changes in deferred franchise and AD fees are as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 (In thousands) Deferred franchise and AD fees at beginning of period $ 8,654 Revenue recognized during the period (1,451 ) Deferred revenue assumed from Buddy's Acquisition 819 New deferrals (terminations) of franchise and AD fees 531 Deferred franchise and AD fees at end of period $ 8,553 Anticipated Future Recognition of Deferred Revenue The following table reflects the estimated deferred revenue expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied at the end of the period: Estimate for Fiscal Year (In thousands) 2020 (1) $ 1,781 2021 2,769 2022 1,743 2023 1,012 2024 358 Thereafter 890 Total $ 8,553 (1) Represents franchise and AD fees expected to be recognized for the remainder of fiscal 2020. The amount does not include $1.5 million of franchise and AD fee revenues recognized for the three months ended July 31, 2019 .

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 6,566 $ 8,640 Acquisitions of assets from franchisees and others 1,822 — Buddy's Acquisition 86,147 — Disposals and foreign currency changes, net 18 (643 ) Balance at end of period $ 94,553 $ 7,997 Components of intangible assets were as follows as of July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 : July 31, 2019 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Tradenames (1) 3 years 11,425 (55 ) 11,370 Franchise agreements acquired in Buddy's Acquisition 10 years 10,100 (71 ) 10,029 Customer contracts acquired in Buddy's Acquisition 6 years 7,700 (56 ) 7,644 Non-compete agreements 2 years 64 — 64 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 2,712 (1,361 ) 1,351 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,925 (1,462 ) 463 AD rights 9 years 33,136 (14,971 ) 18,165 Total intangible assets $ 67,062 $ (17,976 ) $ 49,086 (1) $11.1 million of tradenames was acquired in the Buddy's Acquisition which have an indefinite life. It is tested for impairment on an annual basis. April 30, 2019 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Customer lists acquired from unrelated third parties 5 years $ 1,027 $ (1,027 ) $ — Tradenames 3 years 108 (52 ) 56 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 2,015 (1,288 ) 727 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,660 (1,380 ) 280 AD rights 9 years 32,271 (14,173 ) 18,098 Total intangible assets $ 37,081 $ (17,920 ) $ 19,161 July 31, 2018 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Customer lists acquired from unrelated third parties 5 years $ 3,187 $ (1,700 ) $ 1,487 Tradenames 3 years 539 (252 ) 287 Non-compete agreements 2 years 241 (175 ) 66 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 1,459 (1,220 ) 239 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,157 (1,122 ) 35 AD rights 10 years 32,002 (11,351 ) 20,651 Total intangible assets $ 38,585 $ (15,820 ) $ 22,765 The Company acquired $0.9 million and $1.3 million of AD rights during the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 , respectively. During the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 , the Company recorded intangible assets of $32.9 million , and $1.9 million , respectively, from various acquisitions. During the three months ended July 31, 2019 , $28.9 million of the assets acquired pertained to the Buddy’s Acquisition and the remaining intangible assets were acquired from franchisees and other third parties. During the three months ended July 31, 2018, the majority of assets acquired from franchisees and third parties in the U.S. were recorded as assets held for sale, while assets acquired in Canada were recorded as intangible assets.

Assets Held For Sale (Notes)

Assets Held For Sale (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Assets Held For Sale Disclosure [Abstract]
Assets Held for Sale	Assets Held For Sale In the third quarter of fiscal 2019, the Company reclassified all assets associated with its U.S. Liberty Tax-owned offices from assets held for sale to reacquired rights, customer lists and goodwill. Prior to the third quarter of fiscal 2019, assets acquired from U.S. franchisees were classified as assets held for sale. During the three months ended July 31, 2018 , the Company acquired less than $0.1 million in assets from U.S. franchisees and third parties that were first accounted for as business combinations, with the value allocated to customer lists and reacquired rights of less than $0.1 million and goodwill of less than $0.1 million prior to being recorded as assets held for sale. The acquired businesses are operated as Company-owned offices until a buyer is located and a new franchise agreement is entered into. Changes in the carrying amount of assets held for sale for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ — $ 8,941 Reacquired and acquired from third parties — 37 Sold or terminated, impairments and other — (3,747 ) Balance at end of period $ — $ 5,231

Leases (Notes)

Leases (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block]	(8) Leases The Company's lease portfolio primarily consists of leases for its retail store locations and vehicles. The Company also leases certain office equipment under finance leases. The Company subleases some of its real estate and equipment leases. The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception by evaluating whether the arrangement conveys the right to use an identified asset and whether the Company obtains substantially all of the economic benefits from and has the ability to direct the use of the asset. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets; the Company recognizes expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For leases with an initial term in excess of 12 months, lease right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the committed lease term at the lease commencement date. As most of the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its incremental borrowing rate and the information available at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of future lease payments. Most leases include one or more options to renew and the exercise of renewal options is at the Company’s sole discretion. The Company does not include renewal options in its determination of the lease term unless the renewals are deemed to be reasonably assured at lease commencement. Operating lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Lease right-of-use assets are periodically reviewed for impairment losses. The Company uses the long-lived assets impairment guidance in ASC Subtopic 360-10, “Property, Plant, and Equipment - Overall,” to determine whether a right-of-use asset is impaired, and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize.
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]	The lease cost for leases that was recognized in the accompanying unaudited condensed statement of operations for the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: (In thousands) Operating lease costs $ 1,496 Short-term operating lease costs 4 Variable operating lease cost 19 Sublease income (645 ) Total operating lease cost $ 874 Finance lease cost Amortization of right-of-use assets $ 29 Interest on lease liabilities 3 Total finance lease cost $ 32 As of July 31, 2019 , maturities of lease liabilities were as follows: Operating leases Finance leases (In thousands) 2020 $ 5,977 $ 328 2021 5,563 437 2022 3,702 261 2023 2,382 56 2024 1,947 — Thereafter 8,741 — Total undiscounted lease payments 28,312 1,082 Less interest 3,953 47 Present value of lease liabilities $ 24,359 $ 1,035 Information regarding the weighted-average remaining lease term and the weighted-average discount rate for leases as of July 31, 2019 included a weighted-average remaining lease term of 6.2 years for operating leases and 2.6 years for finance leases and a weighted-average discount rate of 4.8% for operating leases and 3.7% for finance leases. The right-of-use asset for finance leases as of July 31, 2019 amounts to $1.0 million and is included in property, equipment, and software, net. The following represents other information pertaining to the Company's lease arrangements for the three months ended July 31, 2019 : (In thousands) Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Operating cash flows from operating leases $ 1,575 Operating cash flows from finance leases 3 Financing cash flows from finance leases 38 As previously disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2019 and in accordance with ASC 840, future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases with initial lease terms in excess of one year, together with amounts due from franchisees under subleases, were as follows as of April 30, 2019: Lease payments Sublease receipts (In thousands) Year ending April 30: 2020 $ 5,164 $ 1,593 2021 2,387 673 2022 1,166 320 2023 352 180 2024 32 24 Thereafter 51 77 Total minimum lease payments $ 9,152 $ 2,867

Debt

Debt	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Long-Term Obligations Buddy's Credit Agreement On July 10, 2019 as part of the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company, through a wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a Credit Agreement (the "Buddy's Credit Agreement") that provides for an $82.0 million first priority senior secured term loan which matures on July 10, 2024. The term loan will bear interest, at the option of the Company, at either (i) a rate per annum based on London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") for an interest period of one, two, three or six months (a "LIBOR Loan"), plus an interest rate margin of 8.0% with a 1.50% LIBOR floor, payable in arrears at the end of each applicable interest period or (ii) an alternate base rate determined as provided in the Buddy's Credit Agreement, plus an interest rate margin of 7.0% (an "ABR Loan") with a 2.50% alternate base rate floor, payable in arrears on the first day of each fiscal quarter. If the consolidated leverage ratio exceeds certain thresholds set forth in the Buddy's Credit Agreement, the Company will also be required to pay an additional 2.0% interest to be paid in-kind. The obligation under the Buddy's Credit Agreement are guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of the Company and secured on a first priority basis by the assets of Buddy's. A portion of the proceeds of the Buddy's Credit Agreement were used to terminate the outstanding revolving credit facility of Buddy's. The Company is required to repay the Buddy's Credit Agreement in equal quarterly installments of $ 1,025,000 on the first day of each calendar quarter, commencing on October 1, 2019. The Company is required to prepay the term loan with 75% of consolidated excess cash flow on an annual basis and with the net cash proceeds of certain other customary events. All voluntary and certain mandatory prepayments are subject to a prepayment penalty. The Buddy's Credit Agreement includes customary affirmative, negative and financial covenants binding on the Company. The negative financial covenants limit the ability of the Company to incur debt, incur liens, make investments, sell assets, pay dividends on its capital stock and enter into transactions with affiliates. The financial covenants include a maximum consolidated leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio to be tested at the end of each fiscal quarter and a requirement that the minimum consolidated liquidity of certain subsidiaries must not be less than $1.0 million at any time. In addition, the Buddy’s Credit Agreement includes customary events of default, the occurrence of certain of which may require that the Company to pay an additional 2.0% interest on the term loan to be paid in-kind. The Company was in compliance with all covenants of the Buddy’s Credit Agreement as of July 31, 2019. Liberty Tax Credit Agreement On May 16, 2019, the Company entered into a new Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") that provides for a $135.0 million senior revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility"), with a $10.0 million sub-facility for the issuance of letters of credit, and a $20.0 million swingline loan sub-facility. The Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by each of the Company’s direct and indirect domestic wholly-owned subsidiaries. None of the Company’s direct or indirect foreign subsidiaries has guaranteed the Revolving Credit Facility. The Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the assets (other than existing real property) of the Liberty Tax segment and each guarantor (including all or a portion of the equity interests in certain of the Company’s domestic and foreign subsidiaries). The Credit Agreement replaces the Company’s prior credit facility. The Revolving Credit Facility will mature on May 31, 2020. Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility will, at the option of the Company, bear interest at either (i) a LIBOR Loan, plus an applicable interest rate margin determined as provided in the Credit Agreement, or (ii) an ABR Loan, each as determined as provided in the Credit Agreement. The applicable interest rate margin varies from 3.0% per annum to 4.0% per annum for LIBOR Loans, and from 2.0% per annum to 3.0% per annum for ABR Loans, in each case depending on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio and is determined in accordance with a pricing grid set forth in the Credit Agreement (the “Pricing Grid”). Interest on LIBOR Loans is payable in arrears at the end of each applicable interest period, and interest on ABR Loans is payable in arrears at the end of each calendar quarter. There are no prepayment penalties in the event the Company elects to prepay and terminate the Revolving Credit Facility prior to its scheduled maturity date, subject to LIBOR breakage and redeployment costs in certain limited circumstances. The Company agrees in the Credit Agreement to pay a fee on the average daily unused amount of the Revolving Credit Facility during the term thereof. Such unused fee is payable in arrears at the end of each calendar quarter and accrues at a rate which varies from 0.25% to 0.5% depending on the Company’s consolidated leverage ratio, as determined in accordance with the Pricing Grid. The Company also agrees to pay (x) a fee for each outstanding letter of credit at a rate per annum equal to the applicable interest rate margin for LIBOR Loans, as determined in accordance with the Pricing Grid, multiplied by the average daily amount available to be drawn under such letter of credit, and (y) to the letter-of-credit issuer, a fronting fee which shall accrue at a rate of 0.125% per annum on the average daily amount of the outstanding aggregate letter-of-credit obligations under the Credit Agreement. The average interest rate paid during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was 8.00% . The Credit Agreement includes customary affirmative, negative, and financial covenants binding on the Company, including delivery of financial statements and other reports and maintenance of existence. The financial covenants set forth in the Credit Agreement include a maximum consolidated leverage ratio and a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio, each of which will be tested at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Company, and a minimum consolidated net worth ratio tested at the end of each fiscal year of the Company. The Credit Agreement provides that, for a period of 30 consecutive days after May 16, 2019, our outstanding obligations under the Credit Agreement will not exceed $12.5 million . Additionally, from April 30, 2020 until the maturity date, our outstanding obligations must be reduced to $0 . In addition, the Credit Agreement includes customary events of default. The Company was in compliance with all covenants of the Credit Agreement as of July 31, 2019. Vintage Subordinated Note On May 16, 2019, the Company also entered into a Subordinated Note (the “Subordinated Note”) payable to Vintage Capital Management LLC (“Vintage”). The aggregate principal amount of all loans to be made by Vintage under the Subordinated Note shall not exceed $10.0 million . Any indebtedness owed to Vintage under the Subordinated Note is subordinate to and subject in right and time of payment to the Revolving Credit Facility. The Company has not made any borrowings under the Subordinated Note at this time. The Subordinated Note will mature on August 31, 2020. Interest will accrue on the unpaid principal amount of the Subordinated Note outstanding from time to time at a rate per annum based on LIBOR for an interest period of one month, plus 4.0% . The Company also agrees in the Subordinated Note to pay Vintage a commitment fee, at a rate per annum equal to 0.50% , on the average daily amount in each month by which the stated amount of the Subordinated Note exceeds the aggregate amount of loans made thereunder and not repaid. Such accrued interest and commitment fee are payable in kind (rather than in cash or other consideration), quarterly in arrears, by being added to the outstanding principal balance of the Subordinated Note, with such amounts bearing interest thereafter in the same manner as the unpaid principal amount of the Subordinated Note. Other Indebtedness The Company previously had a credit facility that consisted of a term loan with an original principal amount of $21.2 million and a revolving credit facility that allowed borrowing of up to $ 170.0 million with an accordion feature that permitted the Company to request an increase in availability of up to an additional $50.0 million . Outstanding borrowings accrued interest, which was paid monthly at a rate of the one-month LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.25% depending on the Company’s leverage ratio. The average interest rate paid during the three months ended July 31, 2018 was 3.74% . The indebtedness was collateralized by substantially all the assets of the Company, and both loans matured on April 30, 2019 (except as to the commitments of one smaller lender which matured on September 30, 2017). The former credit facility contained certain financial covenants that the Company was required to meet, including leverage and fixed-charge coverage ratios as well as minimum net worth requirements. In addition, the Company was required to reduce the outstanding balance under its revolving credit facility to zero for a period of at least 45 consecutive days each fiscal year. In December 2016, the Company obtained a mortgage payable to a bank in monthly installments of principal payments plus interest at the one-month LIBOR plus 1.85% through December 2026 with a balloon payment of $ 0.8 million due at maturity. The mortgage is collateralized by land and buildings. In December 2016, in connection with obtaining a mortgage payable to a bank, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement that allows it to manage fluctuations in cash flow resulting from changes in the interest rate on the mortgage. This swap effectively changes the variable-rate of the Company's mortgage into a fixed rate of 4.12% . The Company has designated this swap agreement as a cash flow hedge. At July 31, 2019 , the fair value of the interest rate swap is less than $0.1 million and is included in accounts payable and accrued expenses. The interest rate swap expires in December 2026. Long-term obligations at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 , and July 31, 2018 consisted of the following: July 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Revolver $ 20,000 $ — $ 12,590 Term loan, net of debt issuance costs 79,837 11,958 14,334 Due former ADs, franchisees and third parties 921 1,178 2,477 Mortgages 1,880 1,912 2,007 102,638 15,048 31,408 Less: current installments (24,450 ) (13,108 ) (29,513 ) Long-term obligations, excluding current installments, net $ 78,188 $ 1,940 $ 1,895

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Similar to prior years, pre-tax book income estimated in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2020 is expected to offset pre-tax book loss for the three months ended July 31, 2019 , due to the established pattern of seasonality in our primary business operations. Management determined that it is at least more-likely-than-not that realization of tax benefits recorded in our financial statements will occur during fiscal 2020 . The amount of tax benefit recorded for the three months ended July 31, 2019 reflects the Company’s estimated annual effective tax rate applied to the year-to-date loss from continuing operations adjusted for the tax impact of discrete items. Our effective tax rate from continuing operations, including discrete income tax items, was 21.1% and 32.9% for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 , respectively. The reduced effective tax rate results primarily from adjustments to deferred taxes as a result of remeasurement of tax rates in the prior year that did not recur in fiscal 2020, the permanent tax effect related to non-deductible acquisition-related costs for the Buddy’s Acquisition, and the establishment of New Holdco and the related non-controlling interests. As New Holdco is treated as a partnership for tax purposes, any net income or loss is passed through on pro rata basis to its members. Therefore, the effective tax rate reflects only the allocable share of income or loss of New Holdco related to Liberty Tax. In addition, the impact of the Buddy’s Acquisition has been considered for the three months ended July 31, 2019 . The Buddy’s Acquisition had no material impact to income tax expense for the quarter, and Buddy’s post-acquisition operations have been included in the tax expense calculation for the period. The Company recorded an additional $10.7 million deferred tax liability to account for cumulative temporary differences resulting from the Buddy’s Acquisition. These initial amounts recorded in connection with purchase accounting will be adjusted during the measurement period as the Company gathers information regarding facts and circumstances that exist as of the Buddy's Acquisition Date.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity Activity Under the terms of the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company entered into a subscription agreement with Tributum (the “Closing Subscription Agreement”), pursuant to which Tributum purchased from the Company 2,083,333.33 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $12.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $25.0 million in cash. Also, under the terms of the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company entered into a second subscription agreement with Tributum (the “Post-Closing Subscription Agreement”), pursuant to which Tributum committed to purchase from the Company additional shares of common stock at a purchase price of $12.00 per share. The number of shares purchased pursuant to the Post-Closing Subscription Agreement will be determined based on the number of shares of common stock tendered in a tender offer, as described below, (among other factors), and such amount will be equal to the amount of shares of common stock necessary for the aggregate purchase price received by the Company to be sufficient to complete the tender offer after applying the proceeds from the Closing Subscription Agreement, the Revolving Credit Facility and the Buddy’s Credit Agreement. The purchase price under the Post Closing Subscription Agreement will not exceed $40 million in the aggregate. We relied on an exemption from registration for the issuances and sales described above pursuant to Section 4(a)(2) and/or Rule 506 of Regulation D of the Securities Act because the foregoing issuances and sales did not and will not involve a public offering, Tributum is an “accredited investor” and/or had access to similar documentation and information as would be required in a registration statement under the Securities Act and Tributum acquired or will acquire the common stock for investment only and not with a view towards, or for resale in connection with, the public sale or distribution thereof. The common stock was offered without any general solicitation by the Company or its representatives. No underwriters or agents were involved in the foregoing issuances and sales and we paid no underwriting discounts or commissions. The common stock issued and sold, or that will be issued and sold, is subject to transfer restrictions, and the certificates evidencing such common stock, if any, will contain an appropriate legend stating that such Common Stock has not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold absent registration or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. The common stock was not registered under the Securities Act and such Common Stock may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws. Under the terms of the Buddy's Acquisition, on August 1, 2019, the Company commenced a tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) to purchase any and all of the outstanding shares of the Company's common stock for cash at a price of $12.00 per share, without interest. The Tender Offer is not subject to a minimum tender requirement, and certain large stockholders of the Company have agreed not to tender their shares in the Tender Offer. The Tender Offer will be financed through cash on hand and (i) the $25.0 million Closing Subscription Agreement, (ii) the proceeds of the Buddy’s Credit Agreement and (iii) to the extent that total tender offer acceptances exceed the available proceeds from the term loan financing and the initial Tributum equity investment, Tributum has entered into a binding commitment to finance the remainder of the financing needs, if applicable, by entering into the Post-Closing Subscription Agreement with the Company to purchase a number of the Company's common stock at a purchase price of $12.00 per share to finance the Tender Offer. Under terms of the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company issued the Buddy's Members 1,616,667 shares of Preferred Stock. One-fifth of a share of Preferred Stock along with one New Holdco unit can be exchanged for one share of the Company's common stock. Under the terms of the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") an information statement regarding certain amendments to the Company's Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, including an amendment to increase the number of authorized shares of the Company to 200,000,000 , comprised of 180,000,000 shares of common stock and 20,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock. During the three months ended July 31, 2018 , the sole holder of the Company's Class B common stock entered into a stock purchase agreement to sell all of his outstanding shares of the Company's Class A common stock and Class B common stock owned directly and indirectly by him. In connection with the sale, the shares of the Company’s Class B common stock converted into shares of the Company’s Class A common stock on a one-for-one basis and for no additional consideration. As of July 31, 2019 , no shares of the Company’s Class B common stock remained outstanding. In addition, an agreement was reached which converted the 10 shares of special voting preferred stock to 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock. Pursuant to the Company’s Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as approved by stockholders on December 13, 2018, the Company currently has only one class of common stock. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 were as follows. July 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Foreign currency adjustment $ (1,565 ) $ (1,908 ) $ (1,583 ) Unrealized gain on interest rate swap agreement, net of taxes (40 ) (2 ) 44 Total accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,605 ) $ (1,910 ) $ (1,539 ) Non-controlling interest We are the sole managing member of New Holdco LLC and, as a result, consolidate the financial results of New Holdco. We report a non-controlling interest representing the economic interest in New Holdco held by the Buddy’s Members. The New Holdco LLC Agreement provides that the Buddy’s Members may, from time to time, require the Company to redeem all or a portion of their New Holdco units for newly-issued shares of common stock on a basis of one New Holdco Unit and one-fifth of a share of Preferred Stock of the Company for one share of common stock of the Company. In connection with any redemption or exchange, we will receive a corresponding number of New Holdco units, increasing our total ownership interest in New Holdco. Changes in our ownership interest in New Holdco while we retain our controlling interest in New Holdco will be accounted for as equity transactions. As such, future redemptions or direct exchanges of New Holdco units by the Buddy’s Members will result in a change in ownership and reduce the amount recorded as non-controlling interest and increase additional paid-in capital. As of July 31, 2019 , the Company had an ownership interest of 63.6% in New Holdco and reported a non-controlling interest equal to 36.4% and there were no exchanges of New Holdco units. Net Loss per Share Prior to 2019, due to the Company having Class A and Class B common stock, net income (loss) was computed using the two-class method. Basic net income (loss) per share was computed by allocating undistributed earnings to common stock and participating securities (exchangeable shares) and using the weighted-average number of common stock outstanding during the period. Undistributed losses were not allocated to participating securities because they do not meet the required criteria for such allocation. The rights, including liquidation and dividend rights, of the holders of Class A and Class B common stock were identical, with the exception of the election of directors. As a result, the undistributed earnings were allocated based on the contractual participation rights of the Class A and Class B common stock as if the earnings for the year had been distributed. Participating securities had dividend rights that were identical to Class A and Class B common stock. At July 31, 2019 , the Company no longer had any outstanding Class B common stock or exchangeable shares. In addition, the Preferred Stock of the Company does not share in any income or loss and therefore is not a participating security but is a potentially dilutive security upon exchange to common stock. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common stock and, if dilutive, the potential common stock outstanding during the period. Potential common stock consists of the incremental common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock units. The dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and restricted stock units is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method. Additionally, the computation of the diluted net income (loss) per share of Class A common stock assumed the conversion of Class B common stock, exchangeable shares, and Preferred Stock, if dilutive, while the diluted net loss per share of Class B common stock did not assume conversion of those shares. The computation of basic and diluted net loss per share for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 is as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Class A Class B Common Stock Common Stock Common Stock (In thousands, except for share and per Basic and diluted net loss per share: Numerator Allocation of undistributed losses attributable to Liberty Tax $ (15,903 ) $ (19,081 ) $ (290 ) Denominator Weighted-average common stock outstanding 14,555,330 12,882,439 195,652 Basic and diluted net loss per share $ (1.09 ) $ (1.48 ) $ (1.48 ) As a result of the net losses for the periods shown, diluted net loss per share excludes the impact of shares of potential common stock from the exercise of options to purchase 497,166 and 692,205 shares for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 , respectively, and the conversion or exchange of all Class B common stock, exchangeable shares and Preferred Stock because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Stock Compensation Plans

Stock Compensation Plans	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock Compensation Plans	Stock Compensation Plans Stock Options The Company has an equity and cash incentive plan, for the issuance of up to 2,500,000 shares of common stock in which employees and outside directors are eligible to receive awards. At July 31, 2019 , 1,557,254 shares of common stock remain available for grant. Stock option activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Number of options Weighted average exercise price Balance at beginning of period 796,244 $ 10.88 Exercised (28,138 ) 10.90 Expired or forfeited (91,743 ) 10.55 Balance at end of period 676,363 $ 10.93 Intrinsic value is defined as the fair value of the stock less the cost to exercise. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was less than $0.1 million . The total intrinsic value of stock options outstanding at July 31, 2019 was $1.1 million . Stock options vest from the date of grant to five years after the date of grant and expire from four to seven years after the vesting date. Nonvested stock options activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Nonvested options Weighted average exercise price Balance at beginning of period 654,514 $ 10.35 Vested (242,997 ) 10.10 Forfeited (91,743 ) 10.55 Balance at end of period 319,774 $ 10.47 At July 31, 2019 , unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested stock options were $0.5 million . These costs are expected to be recognized through fiscal 2022. The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at July 31, 2019 : Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of exercise prices Number of shares outstanding Weighted average exercise price Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years) Number of options exercisable Weighted average exercise price $0.00 - $10.89 480,826 $ 9.64 5.7 292,997 $ 9.80 $10.90 - $16.38 168,207 12.18 3.9 36,262 12.79 $16.39 - $26.17 18,858 22.57 1.0 18,858 22.57 $26.18 - $33.38 8,472 33.38 0.1 8,472 33.38 676,363 $ 10.93 356,589 $ 11.34 Restricted Stock Units Restricted stock activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Number of restricted stock units Weighted average fair value at grant date Balance at beginning of period 168,792 $ 10.56 Granted — — Vested (53,550 ) 10.19 Forfeited (22,870 ) 10.78 Balance at end of period 92,372 $ 10.72 At July 31, 2019 , unrecognized compensation costs related to restricted stock units were $0.7 million . These costs are expected to be recognized through fiscal 2022.

Fair Value of Financial Instrum

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Financial assets and liabilities subject to fair value measurements on a recurring basis are classified according to a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. Valuation methodologies for the fair value hierarchy are as follows: • Level 1 — Quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in active markets. • Level 2 — Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, and model-based valuations in which all significant inputs are observable in the market. • Level 3 — Unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore, requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions. The Company measures or monitors certain of its assets and liabilities on a fair value basis. Fair value is used on a recurring basis for those assets and liabilities for which fair value is the primary basis of accounting. Other assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis; that is, they are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of impairment. The following tables present, at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 , for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis (In thousands): July 31, 2019 Fair value measurements using Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Nonrecurring assets: Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue and allowance $ 9,550 $ — $ — 9,550 Total nonrecurring assets $ 9,550 $ — $ — $ 9,550 Liabilities: Recurring liabilities: Contingent consideration included in obligations due former ADs, franchisees and others $ 478 $ — $ — $ 478 Interest rate swap agreement 55 — 55 — Total recurring liabilities $ 533 $ — $ 55 $ 478 April 30, 2019 Fair value measurements using Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Recurring assets: Cash equivalents $ 15,772 $ 15,772 $ — $ — Total recurring assets 15,772 15,772 — — Nonrecurring assets: Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue 12,707 — — 12,707 Contingent consideration for sale of accounting offices 1,120 — — 1,120 Impaired goodwill 178 — — 178 Impaired fixed assets 39 — — 39 Total nonrecurring assets 14,044 — — 14,044 Total recurring and nonrecurring assets $ 29,816 $ 15,772 $ — $ 14,044 Liabilities: Recurring liabilities: Contingent consideration included in obligations due to former ADs, franchisees and others $ 816 $ — $ — $ 816 Interest rate swap agreement 3 — 3 — Total recurring liabilities $ 819 $ — $ 3 $ 816 July 31, 2018 Fair value measurements using Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Recurring assets: Interest rate swap agreement $ 61 $ — $ 61 $ — Total recurring assets 61 — 61 — Nonrecurring assets: Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue and allowance 15,199 — — 15,199 Total nonrecurring assets 15,199 — — 15,199 Total recurring and nonrecurring assets $ 15,260 $ — $ 61 $ 15,199 Liabilities: 9539 Recurring liabilities: Contingent consideration included in obligations due to former ADs, franchisees and others $ 1,432 — — $ 1,432 Total recurring liabilities $ 1,432 $ — $ — $ 1,432 The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy on the date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer. There were no transfers into or out of level 1 or 2 requiring fair value measurements for each of the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 . The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments. Cash equivalents: The carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. Cash equivalent financial instruments consist of money market accounts. Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue: Accounts and notes receivable are considered to be impaired if the net amounts due exceed the fair value of the underlying franchise or if management considers it probable that all principal and interest will not be collected when contractually due. In establishing the estimated fair value of the underlying franchise, consideration is given to recent sales between franchisees, sales of Company-owned stores, the net fees of open offices, and the number of unopened offices. Impaired goodwill, reacquired rights, and customer lists: Goodwill, reacquired rights and customer lists associated with a Company-owned office are considered to be impaired if the net carrying amount exceeds the fair value of the underlying office. In establishing the fair value of the underlying office, consideration is given to the related net fees and third-party transactions of franchises and when appropriate a discounted cash flow model. Contingent consideration included in obligations due to former ADs, franchisee and others: Obligations due to former ADs and franchisees related to estimated contingent consideration are carried at fair value. The fair value of these obligations was determined using a discounted cash flow model. Interest rate swap agreement: Value of interest rate swap on variable rate mortgage debt. The fair value of this instrument was determined based on third-party market research. Other Fair Value Measurements Additionally, accounting standards require the disclosure of the estimated fair value of financial instruments that are not recorded at fair value. For the financial instruments that the Company does not record at fair value, estimates of fair value are made at a point in time based on relevant market data and information about the financial instrument. No readily available market exists for a significant portion of the Company's financial instruments. Fair value estimates for these instruments are based on current economic conditions, interest rate risk characteristics, and other factors. Many of these estimates involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and cannot be determined with precision. Therefore, the calculated fair value estimates in many instances cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets and, in many cases, may not be realizable in a current sale of the instrument. In addition, changes in assumptions could significantly affect these fair value estimates. The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating fair value of these financial instruments. Notes receivable: The carrying amount approximates fair value because the interest rate charged by the Company on these notes approximates rates currently offered by local lending institutions for loans of similar terms to individuals/entities with comparable credit risk (Level 3). Long-term obligations: The carrying amount approximates fair value because the interest rate paid has a variable component (Level 2).

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions The Company considers directors and their affiliated companies, as well as named executive officers and members of their immediate families, to be related parties. M. Brent Turner's (Interim Chief Executive Officer as of June 9, 2019) Consulting and Services Agreements The Company is a participant in the following related party transactions with Mr. Turner since the beginning of fiscal 2020 : Turner Consulting Agreement. Mr. Turner entered into a Consulting Agreement on September 20, 2019 commencing on October 1, 2018 and in effect until September 30, 2019 (the "Consulting Agreement"). The Consulting Agreement paid a fee at a monthly rate of $65,000 with a total of $455,000 being paid in fiscal 2019. Mr. Turner entered into an Employment Agreement with the Company on June 9, 2019 upon his appointment as Interim Chief Executive Officer (the “Employment Agreement”). The Employment Agreement made the Consulting Agreement void and of no effect. Revolution Financial Services Agreement. The Company entered into a one-year Services Agreement (the “Revolution Agreement”) with Revolution Financial, Inc. effective as August 23, 2019. Mr. Turner serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Revolution Financial, Inc.. The Revolution Agreement provides for certain transition services, including leased office space and information technology personnel. The fees for each service as provided in the Revolution Agreement is calculated based on the actual costs for each applicable service to be paid by the Company. Vintage RTO, L.P. Vintage RTO, L.P. ("Vintage") and its affiliates held approximately 37% of the aggregate voting power of the Company through their ownership of Common and Preferred Stock as of July 31, 2019. Brian Kahn and Andrew Lawrence, principals of Vintage, are members of the Company's Board of Directors with Mr. Lawrence also serving as the Company's Chairman of the Board. Vintage and other entities controlled by Mr. Kahn owned approximately 59.7% of Buddy's, which was acquired by the Company as part of the Buddy's Acquisition. Tributum, an affiliate of Vintage, also entered into the Closing Subscription Agreement to purchase 2,083,333.33 shares of the Company's Common Stock for $25.0 million and also entered into the Post-Closing Subscription Agreement with the Company to purchase additional shares, if required, to allow the Company to complete the Tender Offer. Nicole Ossenfort’s (Former Chief Executive Officer) franchise agreement Ms. Ossenfort, together with her husband, Scott Ossenfort (together, with Ms. Ossenfort, the “Ossenforts”), jointly own a Company franchise through JL Enterprises. JL Enterprises borrows operating funds for working capital to operate the franchises each year. During the three months ended July 31, 2019 , JL Enterprises did not borrow operating funds for working capital to operate the franchise. During the three months ended July 31, 2019 , the Company has recorded $46,467 of accounts receivable from the Ossenforts for royalties, advertising and financial product charges, of which a balance of $0 remained outstanding and payable to the Company as of July 31, 2019 . Shaun York’s (Chief Operating Officer) franchises and AD agreements The Company is or was a participant in the following related party transactions with Mr. York since the beginning of fiscal 2020 : York Franchises . Mr. York operates ten Company franchises through S&P Holding Group LLC and My Business Group LLC (the “York Franchise Entities”). The York Franchise Entities borrow operating funds from the Company for working capital to operate the franchises each year. During the three months ended July 31, 2019 , the York Franchise Entities borrowed operating funds in the amount of $52,660 , of which $52,660 remained outstanding and payable to the Company as of July 31, 2019 . In addition, during the three months ended July 31, 2019 , the Company recorded $28,144 of accounts receivable from the York Franchise Entities for royalties, advertising and financial product charges, of which $42,440 remained outstanding and payable to the Company as of July 31, 2019 . In August 2019, Mr. York sold his ownership interest in My Business Group LLC, and as a result, was subsequently removed from the franchisee entity through an amendment of the franchise agreements. York AD . Mr. York has Area Development arrangements with the Company that are conducted through Yorkompany LLC and S&P Holding Group LLC (the “York AD Entities”). The York AD Entities were acquired by Mr. York through various transactions with the Company and through third party agreements with AD sellers. In connection with those transactions, the York AD Entities financed a total of $ 4,059,460 through the Company to acquire the Area Development territories and associated rights. The loans are payable by the York AD Entities in annual installments at 12 % interest. As of July 31, 2019 , the aggregate outstanding principal balance owed by the York AD Entities on the notes was $ 1,680,516 . As of July 31, 2019 , the Company had accounts receivable from the York AD Entities of $ 2,553 . The York AD Entities earned $ 87,920 for their portion of franchise fees, royalties and interest during the three months ended July 31, 2019 . York Debt Guarantees . Mr. York also has entered into multiple guarantee agreements with the Company whereby Mr. York has guaranteed all or a portion of the indebtedness owed by other franchisees and ADs to the Company as related to certain financial transactions for which Mr. York had an interest (the "York Debt Guarantees"). The indebtedness owed by these franchisees and ADs as of July 31, 2019 is approximately $ 2,577,156 . John Seal’s (former Director) AD agreement JMS Tax, an entity controlled by Mr. Seal, a former director of the Company, owned an AD territory in Texas which a portion of the purchase price was financed through a note issued by the Company. On June 21, 2019 the Company repurchased Mr. Seal's AD for $410,000 . Tax Receivable Agreement As discussed in "Note 2 Acquisition", in connection with the Buddy's Acquisition, the Company entered into a TRA with the Buddy's Members that provides for the payment to the Buddy's Members of 40% of the amount of any tax benefits that the Company actually realizes as a result of increases in the tax basis of the net assets of New Holdco resulting from any redemptions or exchanges of New Holdco units. There were no amounts paid or due under the TRA to the Buddy's Members as of and during the period ended July 31, 2019 .

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies In the ordinary course of operations, the Company may become a party to legal proceedings. Based upon information currently available, management believes that such legal proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition, cash flows, or results of operations except as provided below. Delaware and Virginia Derivative Litigation In Re: Liberty Tax, Inc. Stockholder Litigation, C.A. No. 2017-0883 (the "Delaware Action"). On December 27, 2017, this case consolidated two cases previously filed in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware. On April 17, 2018, the Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint (the "Amended Complaint"). The Amended Complaint added former directors Gordon D’Angelo, Ellen McDowell, Nicole Ossenfort, and John Seal, with Hewitt as individual defendants (collectively, the “Individual Defendants”) and asserted class action allegations. The Plaintiffs seek (i) a declaration that the Individual Defendants have breached the Company's Nominating Charter; (ii) a declaration that the Individual Defendants have breached their fiduciary duties; (iii) an award to the Plaintiffs and the Class in the amount of damages sustained as a result of the Individual Defendants' breaches; (iv) certification of the action as a class action; (v) an award to the Company in the amount of damages sustained as a result of the Individual Defendants’ breaches of their fiduciary duties; (vi) a grant of further appropriate equitable relief to remedy the Individual Defendants’ breaches, including injunctive relief; (vii) an award to the Plaintiffs of the costs and disbursements of this action, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, accountants’ and experts’ fees, costs and expenses; and (viii) such further relief as the Court deems just and proper. The Company has answered the Amended Complaint and discovery is underway. RSL Senior Partners LLC, derivatively and on behalf of Liberty Tax, Inc. v. Edward L. Brunot, John T. Hewitt, Kathleen E. Donovan, Gordon D’Angelo, John Garel, Thomas Herskovits, Robert M. Howard, Ross N. Longfield. Steven Ibbotson, Ellen M. McDowell, Nicole Ossenfort, George Robson and John Seal (Individual Defendants) and Liberty Tax. Inc. (Nominal Defendant) , Case No. 18 cv 127, This case was filed on March 7, 2018 in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (the “Virginia Action”). This purported stockholder derivative action was filed on behalf of the Company seeking to address the alleged wrongs of the Company’s directors and officers. The Complaint, which contains allegations that are substantially similar to the allegations in the Delaware Action, claims that certain conduct created an inappropriate tone at the top, resulting in the loss of key executives, employees, directors and otherwise harmed the Company. The Complaint asserts claims under Section 14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), Section 10(b) and Rule 10b-5 and Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act, breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, abuse of control, gross mismanagement, and waste of corporate assets. The Complaint seeks the following relief: (a) declaring that the Plaintiff may maintain this action on behalf of the Company, and that the Plaintiff is an adequate representative of the Company; (b) declaring that the Individual Defendants have breached and/or aided and abetted the breach of their fiduciary duties to the Company; (c) determining and awarding to the Company the damages sustained by it as a result of the violations set forth above from each of the Individual Defendants, jointly and severally, together with pre-judgment and post-judgment interest thereon; (d) directing the Company and the Individual Defendants to take all necessary actions to reform and improve its corporate governance and internal procedures to comply with applicable laws and to protect the Company and its stockholders from a repeat of the damaging events (e) awarding the Company restitution from Individual Defendants; and (f) awarding the Plaintiff the costs and disbursements of the action, including reasonable attorneys’ and experts’ fees, costs, and expenses. No claim or relief is asserted against the Company, which is named solely as a Nominal Defendant. The Delaware and Virginia Actions are in the process of being settled. On January 25, 2019, the Company along with the named Individual Defendants entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (the “MOU”) with the Plaintiffs, regarding settlement of the Delaware Action which will result in certain enhancements to the Company’s code of conduct and training of employees, and disclosure of The Nasdaq Global Select Market's ("Nasdaq") appeal ruling delisting the Company’s common stock from Nasdaq. The Plaintiffs have agreed that the settlement, which is subject to the execution of a definitive settlement agreement and court approval, will include a dismissal of the lawsuits with prejudice and a release of all claims against the Company and the Individual Defendants asserted in the Delaware Action and the Virginia Action. If the parties to the MOU execute a stipulation of settlement, a hearing will be held at which the Delaware Court of Chancery will consider the fairness, reasonableness and adequacy of the settlement. In connection with the settlement, the Company will negotiate in good faith the amount of reasonable legal fees and expenses of the Plaintiffs’ counsel which will ultimately be paid by the Company and/or its insurance carrier. No agreement has been reached on the amount of the fees and expenses, which is subject to court approval. On March 15, 2019, the parties entered into a stipulation of settlement. On March 26, 2019, the Delaware Court of Chancery entered a scheduling order. Under the Order the Company provided the required notice of the proposed settlement and provided the date and time of the hearing, which took place on June 28, 2019. On June 7, 2019, the Plaintiffs in the Delaware Action filed their opening brief in support of final approval of settlement and for award of attorney’s fees and expenses. On June 18, 2019, the Company filed a brief in support of the settlement and in opposition to the Plaintiffs’ application for award of attorneys’ fees and expenses. On June 7, 2019, the Plaintiffs in the Delaware Action filed their opening brief in support of final approval of settlement and for award of attorney’s fees and expenses. On June 18, 2019, the Company filed a brief in support of the settlement and in opposition to Plaintiffs’ application for award of attorneys’ fees and expenses. The Court held a hearing on June 26, 2018 and awarded the Plaintiffs $1.4 million in fees, $1.0 million less than their request. The parties to the Virginia Action have also agreed that all claims in the Virginia Action have been settled and that the parties will seek to stay the Virginia Action pending the settlement proceedings in Delaware. The parties to the Virginia Action have agreed to dismiss the Virginia Action with prejudice within five business days of the settlement of the Delaware Action becoming final. The Company has agreed that it (and/or its insurance carrier) will pay $295,000 in fees and expenses to the Plaintiffs' counsel in the Virginia Action in connection with settlement of the Virginia Action. On March 15, 2019, the Court granted a motion to stay the case for 90 days. On May 3, 2019, the Court entered an order setting schedule, including the date for the fee approval and approved notice to stockholders. A fairness hearing for the Virginia Action is scheduled for September 11, 2019. Settlement of the Virginia and Delaware Actions are expressly not to be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability by any defendant. The defendants have vigorously denied, and continue to vigorously deny, any wrongdoing or liability with respect to the facts and claims asserted, or which could have been asserted, in the Delaware and Virginia Actions, including that they have committed any violations of law or breach of fiduciary duty, aided and abetted any violations of law or breaches of fiduciary duty, acted improperly in any way or have any liability or owe any damages of any kind to the Plaintiffs or to the purported Class. Nothing in this report shall be deemed an admission of the legal necessity or materiality under the federal securities laws, state fiduciary law or any other law, statute, rule or regulation of any of the disclosures set forth herein. Eastern District of New York Securities Litigation In Re Liberty Tax, Inc. Securities Litigation , Case No. 27 CV 07327. This case consolidated two previously filed cases on July 12, 2018. The case, among other things, asserts that the Company’s SEC filings over a multi-year period failed to disclose the alleged misconduct of the individual defendants and that disclosure of the alleged misconduct caused the Company’s stock price to drop and, thereby harm the purported class of stockholders. The class period is alleged to be October 1, 2013 through February 23, 2018. The defendants filed a joint motion to dismiss the Consolidated Amended Class Action Complaint on September 17, 2018. The Lead Plaintiff served their opposition on November 1, 2018 and the defendants filed their reply brief on November 27, 2018. A mediation took place on November 12, 2018 but did not result in a resolution. The motion to dismiss is still pending before the Court. Stockholder Class Action and Derivative Complaint Case No. 2019-0633-AG. On August 12, 2019, Asbestos Workers’ Philadelphia Pension Fund, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated and derivatively on behalf of the Company filed a class action and derivative complaint (the “Derivative Complaint”) in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, against Matthew Avril, Patrick A. Cozza, Thomas Herskovits, Brian R. Kahn, Andrew M. Laurence, Lawrence Miller, G. William Minner Jr., Bryant R. Riley, Kenneth M. Young, (collectively the “Derivative Complaint Individual Defendants”), and against Vintage Capital Management, LLC ("Vintage"), B. Riley Financial, Inc. (B. Riley"), and the Company, as a Nominal Defendant. The Derivative Complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty against the Derivative Complaint Individual Defendants based on the following allegations: (a) causing the Company to completely transform its business model and to acquire Buddy’s at an inflated price, (b) transfer the control of the Company to Vintage and B. Riley for no premium and without a stockholder vote, (c) allowing Vintage and B. Riley’s other former stockholders to unfairly extract additional value from the Company by virtue of a TRA, (d) the offering to the Company's non-Vintage and non-B. Riley stockholders of an inadequate price for their shares of Company stock ($12.00 per share), (e) disseminating materially misleading and/or omissive Tender Offer documents, and (f) issuing additional Company shares to Vintage at less than fair value to fund the Tender Offer and Vitamin Shoppe Acquisition. The Derivative Complaint also includes a count of unjust enrichment against Vintage and B. Riley. The Derivative Complaint seeks: (a) declaration that the action is properly maintainable as a class action; (b) a finding the Individual Defendants are liable for breaching their fiduciary duties owed to the class and the Company; (c) a finding that demand on the Company's Board is excused as futile; (d) enjoining the consummation of the Tender Offer unless and until all material information necessary for the Company's stockholders to make a fully informed tender decision has been disclosed; (e) a finding Vintage and B. Riley are liable for unjust enrichment; (f) an award to Plaintiff and the other members of the class damages in an amount which may be proven at trial; (g) an award to Plaintiff and the other members of the class pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, as well as their reasonable attorneys’ and expert witness fees and other costs; (h) an award to the Company in the amount of damages it sustained as a result of Individual Defendants’ breaches of fiduciary duties to the Company; and (i) awarding such other and further relief as this Court may deem just and proper. Simultaneously with the filing of the Derivative Complaint, the Plaintiff filed a motion seeking expediate proceedings. The motion was withdrawn as the Derivative Complaint Individual Defendants agreed to produce certain documents. Franchise Litigation JTH Tax, Inc. and SiempreTax LLC v. Gregory Aime, Aime Consulting, LLC, Aime Consulting, Inc. and Wolf Ventures, Inc. The Company filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia against the defendants, former Company franchisees, on June 9, 2016, as amended on June 22, 2016, claiming the defendants breached the purchase and sale agreement (the “PSA”) entered between the parties on January 21, 2016 and that the defendants had failed to comply with the post termination obligations of the franchise agreements (together with the PSA, the “Aime Agreements”). The Company sought damages in an amount equal to three times the defendants’ earnings and profits, as well as injunctive relief to enforce the defendants to comply with the post termination obligations of the Aime Agreements, to be determined by the trier of fact. The Company specifically sought, in part, to enjoin the defendants from continued operation of a tax preparation business using the Company’s protected trademarks, enforcement of the non-compete provision of the Aime Agreements, and an order that the defendants assign all of the leases related to the franchised businesses to the Company. On September 9, 2016, the defendants filed an answer and counterclaim against the Company, alleging breach of the PSA, breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and fraud and seeking approximately $2.4 million in damages, plus future loss profits, punitive damages and other expenses. On February 15, 2017, the Court issued its written opinion and order granting the defendants’ breach of contract and breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing claims, denying the Company’s claims against the defendants and finding certain post termination obligations to be unenforceable. Judgment was entered in favor of the defendants for approximately $2.7 million . On August 8, 2018, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals issued an unpublished opinion affirming in part, vacating in part, and remanding to the District Court with instructions via the opinion. The Court of Appeals affirmed the District Courts finding that the Company breached the PSA first, however, the Court of Appeals concluded the District Court erred as a matter of law when it determined that the defendants were entitled to lost profits based on the purported extension of the PSA buyback deadline. The Court of Appeals held the alleged extension was not supported by independent consideration and thus not enforceable. It remanded the case for the District Court to recalculate damages consistent with said opinion. On September 13, 2018, the Fourth Circuit issued a mandate that the judgment of the Fourth Circuit entered August 8, 2018 takes effect as of the same date of said filing. The matter was sent back to the District Court to recalculate damages consistent with the Fourth Circuit’s decision. On November 29, 2018, the Court issued an order awarding Aime approximately $0.3 million in damages. Either party may potentially exercise a right to appeal the Court’s order, therefore the ultimate outcome of this action and the timing of such outcome is uncertain and there can be no assurance that the Company will benefit financially from such litigation. Before the District Court on remand, the parties briefed the question of what damages remained in place after the Court of Appeals’ ruling. On November 30, 2018, the District Court ruled that the Company remained liable to Aime for $0.3 million in damages. The Court also ordered return of the Company's appeal bond. As a result of this ruling, the Company reduced the liability from $2.7 million to $0.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2019. Aime filed a petition for certiorari in the United States Supreme Court on December 4, 2018. On January 7, 2019, the Supreme Court denied certiorari. On December 28, 2018, Aime filed a motion for reconsideration of the District Court’s November 30, 2018 Order. On April 9, 2019, the Court entered judgment for an amount of $0.3 million . On April 12, 2019, Aime filed a motion to amend the judgment, to increase it by $0.1 million . On June 13, 2019, the Court denied the motion for reconsideration, but granted the motion to amend and increased the amount of the judgment to include the $0.1 million . The Court issued its opinion on June 25, 2019. The Company filed a notice of appeal with the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals on July 19, 2019. Aime filed his notice of cross-appeal on July 25, 2019. No briefing schedule has been set for the appeal. The ultimate outcome of this action and the timing of such outcome is uncertain and there can be no assurance that the Company will benefit financially from such litigation. Class Action Litigation Rene Labrado v. JTH Tax, Inc. (Case BC 715076). On July 3, 2018, a class action complaint was filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles by a former employee for herself and on behalf of all other “similarly situated” persons. The Complaint alleges, among other things, that the Company allegedly violated various provisions of the California Labor Code, including: unpaid overtime, unpaid meal period premiums, unpaid rest premiums, unpaid minimum wages, final wages not timely paid, wages not timely paid, non-compliant wage statements, failure to keep pay records, unreimbursed business expenses and violation of California Business and Profession Code Section 17200. The Complaint seeks actual, consequential and incidental losses and damages, injunctive relief and other damages. The Company highly disputes the allegations set forth in the Complaint and filed a motion to dismiss. On May 29, 2019, the Court denied the Company’s motion to dismiss, but granted the Company leave to file a motion to strike. The Company filed a motion to strike and by Order dated August 20, 2019, the Court granted in part and denied in part the Company’s motion. The Court provided the Company with twenty days to file its answer to the Complaint. The Court also lifted the discovery stay and set a hearing date on the Plaintiff’s Class Certification Motion for March 3, 2020. The Court did not set any briefing schedule for the Motion but ordered the parties to stipulate to a briefing schedule. The Court also set a Further Status Conference for November 22, 2019. Department of Justice ("DOJ") and IRS Matters The DOJ has been conducting an investigation of the Company’s policies, practices and procedures in connection with its tax return preparation activities. The Company is in discussions with the DOJ to resolve that investigation. Based on such discussions, in April 2019, the Company accrued $2.5 million and in July 2019 accrued an additional $0.5 million in “Accounts payable and accrued expense” on its consolidated balance sheets and “Selling, general and administrative expense” in its consolidated statements of operations. However, such amount may increase materially based on the outcome of discussions with the DOJ, and there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to reach an agreement with the DOJ. In connection with a potential agreement with the DOJ, the Company expects that it will incur increased costs to enhance its compliance program that could exceed $1.0 million per year over several years, in addition to any costs necessary to settle the investigation. From time to time, certain of the Company's franchisees and Company-owned offices are the subject of IRS investigations to review their tax return preparation activities, and in certain cases the DOJ has sought injunctions and other remedies with respect to some of the Company's former franchisees or ADs. The Company is cooperating fully with the government in connection with these matters, including by providing documents and other information. The Company is unable to predict what action, if any, might be taken in the future as a result of these matters or the impact, if any, of the cost of responding to the government or any potential remedies as a result of these matters could have on the Company. It is possible, however, that any such remedies could have a material adverse impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows. The Company is also party to claims and lawsuits that are considered to be ordinary, routine litigation incidental to the business, including claims and lawsuits concerning the preparation of customers' income tax returns, the fees charged to customers for various products and services, relationships with franchisees, intellectual property disputes, employment matters, and contract disputes. Although the Company cannot provide assurance that it will ultimately prevail in each instance, it believes the amount, if any, it will be required to pay in the discharge of liabilities or settlements in these claims will not have a material adverse impact on its consolidated results of operations, financial position, or cash flows.

Segments (Notes)

Segments (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]	(16) Segments The Company's operations are conducted in two reporting business segments: Liberty Tax and Buddy's. The Company defines its segments as those operations who results its chief operating decision maker ("CODM") regularly reviews to analyze performance and allocate resources. The results of operations of Buddy's are included in the Company's results of operations beginning on July 11, 2019. Prior to July 11, 2019, the Company operated as a single reportable segment that was comprised of Liberty Tax. The Liberty Tax segment is one of the largest providers of tax preparation services in the U.S. and Canada. The Liberty Tax segment includes the Company's operations under the "Liberty Tax," "Liberty Tax Canada" and "Siempre" brands and our corporate headquarters in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The Buddy's segment leases and sells electronics, residential furniture, appliances and household accessories. The Buddy's segment consists of the Company's operations under the "Buddy's" brand and a segment headquarter in Orlando, Florida. The Company measures the results of its segments, using, among other measures, each segment's total consolidated revenue, consolidated depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges and consolidated income (loss) from operations. The Company may revise the measurement of each segment's income (loss) from operations as determined by the information regularly reviewed by the CODM. When the measurement of a segment changes, previous period amounts and balances are reclassified to be comparable to the current period's presentation. Total revenues by segment are as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Total revenue: Liberty Tax $ 5,553 $ 7,163 Buddy's 2,642 — Consolidated total revenue $ 8,195 $ 7,163 Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges by segment are as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges: Liberty Tax $ 3,761 $ 3,194 Buddy's 225 — Consolidated depreciation, amortization, and impairment charges $ 3,986 $ 3,194 Operating income (loss) by segment are as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Income (loss) from operations: Liberty Tax $ (23,836 ) $ (28,359 ) Buddy's 529 — Consolidated income (loss) from operations $ (23,307 ) $ (28,359 ) Total assets by segment are as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Total assets: Liberty Tax $ 184,081 $ 159,760 Buddy's 198,644 — Consolidated total assets $ 382,725 $ 159,760 Goodwill by segment is as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Goodwill: Liberty Tax $ 8,406 $ 7,997 Buddy's 86,147 — Consolidated goodwill $ 94,553 $ 7,997

Subsequent Event Subsequent Ev

Subsequent Event Subsequent Events (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	Subsequent Events Vitamin Shoppe Acquisition On August 7, 2019 , the Company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement”) with Vitamin Shoppe, Inc. (“Vitamin Shoppe”) pursuant to which, among other things, Vitamin Shoppe will become a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the "Vitamin Shoppe Acquisition"). At the effective time of the Merger (the “Effective Time”), each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Vitamin Shoppe issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares (i) owned by the Company and (ii) held by any holder who has not voted in favor of the Merger and who is entitled to demand, and properly exercises and perfects, appraisal rights under Delaware law) shall be converted into the right to receive $6.50 in cash, without interest (the “Merger Consideration”). At the Effective Time, (i) each Vitamin Shoppe restricted share unit (whether vested or unvested) will be automatically cancelled and converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration multiplied by the number of shares subject to such restricted share unit, (ii) each Vitamin Shoppe performance share unit (whether vested or unvested) will be automatically cancelled and converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration multiplied by the number of shares subject to such performance share unit, with vesting at target performance for any open performance period and vesting at actual performance for any closed period, (iii) each outstanding Vitamin Shoppe stock option (whether vested or unvested) will be automatically cancelled and, with respect to such options for which the exercise price per share is less than the Merger Consideration, converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration less the applicable exercise price per share with respect to such stock option multiplied by the number of shares covered by such stock option and (iv) each share of Vitamin Shoppe restricted stock (whether vested or unvested) will be automatically cancelled and converted into the right to receive the Merger Consideration. Consummation of the Merger is subject to certain customary conditions, including, without limitation: (i) the adoption of the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement and approval of the Merger by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of common stock of Vitamin Shoppe ; and (ii) the expiration or termination of the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended. The parties to the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement have each made customary representations and warranties in the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement. The Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement contains certain customary termination rights for the Company and Vitamin Shoppe, including a right by either party to terminate the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement if the Merger is not consummated by May 7, 2020. Upon termination of the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement, under specified circumstances Vitamin Shoppe will be required to pay the Company a termination fee of $5,670,000 and, under other specified circumstances a termination fee equal to the Company’s expenses incurred in connection with the Merger in an amount not to exceed $3,240,000 . Upon termination of the Vitamin Shoppe Merger Agreement under specified circumstances, the Company will be required to pay Vitamin Shoppe a termination fee of $11,340,000 . The Company has secured committed debt financing from two financial institutions and equity financing from Tributum, providing the Company with sufficient cash, together with cash on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, to consummate the Merger and pay all related fees and expenses with respect to the Merger. The Company has agreed to use reasonable best efforts to obtain the financing; however, consummation of the Merger is not conditioned on the availability of any financing. First Amendment to the Buddy’s Credit Agreement On August 23, 2019, our Buddy’s segment entered into Amendment Number One to the Credit Agreement and Consent (the “First Amendment”) with various lenders party thereto (the "Buddy’s Lenders") and Kayne Solutions Fund, L.P., as administrative agent and as collateral agent ("Buddy’s Agent"), which amends the Buddy’s Credit Agreement. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the First Amendment, the Buddy’s Agent and the required Buddy’s Lenders consented to the consummation of the A-Team Asset Acquisition (as defined below). The First Amendment also amended the Buddy’s Credit Agreement to, among other things, provide for a $23.0 million first priority senior secured term loan (the “Buddy’s Additional Term Loan”) to be made by certain of the Buddy’s Lenders to the Buddy’s Borrowers. The Buddy’s Additional Term Loan was used to consummate the A-Team Asset Acquisition, including to repay certain existing indebtedness of A-Team Leasing, LLC ("A-Team") and secure the release of liens on the assets acquired in connection with the A-Team Asset Acquisition and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the A-Team Asset Acquisition. The Buddy’s Additional Term Loan will also be used to pay fees and expenses in connection with the First Amendment and for general corporate purposes. The Buddy’s Additional Term Loan is subject to substantially the same terms as the existing term loan outstanding under the Buddy’s Credit Agreement. A-Team Asset Acquisition On August 23, 2019, Buddy’s entered into an asset purchase agreement pursuant to which Buddy’s acquired 41 Buddy’s Home Furnishings stores from A-Team, a franchisee of Buddy’s (the “A-Team Asset Acquisition”). In connection with the A-Team Asset Acquisition, Buddy’s repaid on behalf of A-Team approximately $18.6 million of the outstanding indebtedness of A-Team and the parties settled certain other existing payables that arose in the ordinary course of business. SHOS Acquisition On August 27, 2019, the Company entered into an Equity and Asset Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“SHOS”), and Franchise Group Newco S, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Newco S”), pursuant to which, among other things, Newco S will acquire from SHOS (the “Acquisition”) the businesses of SHOS’s Sears Outlet segment and Buddy’s Home Furnishing Stores, each as described in SHOS’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2019 (collectively, the “Business”), for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $121 million in cash (the “Purchase Price”), subject to a customary net working capital adjustment. In addition, Newco S has agreed to reimburse SHOS for up to $11.9 million in the aggregate for certain transaction expenses and employee payments and insurance costs incurred by SHOS in connection with the Acquisition and certain amounts payable by SHOS (the “SHOS Acquisition Payments”) in connection with the acquisition of SHOS by Transform Holdco LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Transform”), pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of June 1, 2019 (the “SHOS Merger Agreement”), by and among SHOS, Transform and Transform Merger Corporation, a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Transform. The Purchase Agreement provides that any SHOS Acquisition Payments (less certain amounts in respect of guaranteed minimum annual incentive plan bonuses) paid to SHOS by Newco S as part of the Purchase Price will be refunded to Newco S in the event that the SHOS Merger Agreement is validly terminated. Consummation of the SHOS Acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including, without limitation, (i) there not being in effect any governmental order prohibiting the consummation of the Acquisition, (ii) the execution and delivery of certain certificates, instruments, documents and other items by the parties to the Purchase Agreement, (iii) Newco S receiving customary lien release documentation in respect of the Business from SHOS’s existing lenders, and (iv) there being no material adverse effect (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) of the Business between the signing of the Purchase Agreement and closing of the SHOS Acquisition (the “Closing”). In addition, the consummation of the SHOS Acquisition is subject to the condition that at least twenty (20) days have elapsed since the mailing of the information statement of SHOS to the stockholders of SHOS relating to the acquisition of SHOS by Transform and the consummation of the SHOS Acquisition being permitted under Regulation 14C of the Exchange Act. The SHOS Acquisition is expected to close in October 2019. The Company has entered into a debt commitment letter with institutional lenders, providing the Company and Newco S with debt financing in an amount equal to $105,000,000, which, together with cash on the Company’s balance sheet and/or equity financing from the Vintage Commitment (as defined below), will be used to consummate the SHOS Acquisition and pay all related fees and expenses with respect to the SHOS Acquisition. The Company has agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts to obtain the financing; however, consummation of the SHOS Acquisition is not conditioned on the availability of any financing. In addition, the Company has received a commitment from Tributum, that either it, or an affiliate thereof, will provide the Company with up to $40 million of equity financing through the direct or indirect purchase of shares of common stock of the Company at $12 per share (the “Vintage Commitment”). On September 6, 2019, Shaun York resigned as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer effective immediately. In connection with his resignation, Mr. York entered into a release agreement with the Company on September [ ], 2019 (the "Release Agreement"), whereby Mr. York relinquished all rights to the Bonus (as defined in Section 3(c) of his initial employment agreement) and all rights to all unvested stock options and other equity awards. To facilitate a seamless operational transition, the Company entered into a consulting agreement with Mr. York, commencing on September [ ], 2019 (the "Consulting Agreement"). The Consulting Agreement is month-to-month and provides that Mr. York will serve as a consultant to the Company on operational matters. Under the terms of the Consulting Agreement, Mr. York will receive [$ ] per month. The Consulting Agreement also provides that Mr. York may not disclose or use any confidential information of the Company. The Company also repurchased Mr. York’s AD entity S&P Tampa Development LLC for $1,999,919 and his franchisee entity S&P Tampa Tax LLC for $112,978. In connection with these repurchases, the Company provided a general release of the York Debt Guarantees.

Organization and Significant _2

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business	(1) Organization and Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business Liberty Tax, Inc. (the "Company"), a Delaware corporation, franchises and, to a lesser degree, operates a system of tax preparation and rent-to-own stores. On July 10, 2019, the Company formed Franchise Group New Holdco, LLC (“New Holdco”), which completed the acquisition of Buddy's Newco, LLC ("Buddy's") as described in "Note 2. Acquisition" in exchange for units of New Holdco ("New Holdco units") and voting non-economic preferred stock ("Preferred Stock") in the Company. New Holdco holds all of the Company’s operating subsidiaries. The Company currently operates in two reportable segments: Liberty Tax and Buddy’s. The Company provides income tax services in the United States of America (the "U.S.") and Canada through its Liberty Tax segment and its Buddy's segment leases and sells electronics, residential furniture, appliances and household accessories. The Company’s operating revenues are seasonal in nature, particularly as related to the Liberty Tax segment, which has peak revenues occurring in the months of January through April. Therefore, results for interim periods are not indicative of results to be expected for the full year.
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The Company consolidates any entities in which it has a controlling interest, the usual condition of which is ownership of a majority voting interest. The Company is the sole managing member of New Holdco and possesses ownership of more than 50 percent of the outstanding voting shares. As a result, the Company consolidates the financial results of New Holdco and reports a non-controlling interest that represents the economic interest held by the former equity holders of Buddy's (the "Buddy's Members"). The assets and liabilities of New Holdco reflect substantially all of the Company’s consolidated assets and liabilities with the exception of certain cash balances and deferred tax liabilities. As of July 31, 2019 , the Company had an ownership interest of 63.6% in New Holdco and reported a non-controlling interest equal to 36.4% . The Company does not possess any ownership interests in franchisee entities; however, the Company may provide financial support to franchisee entities. Because the Company's franchise arrangements provide franchisee entities the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact their economic performance, the Company does not consider itself the primary beneficiary of any such entity that might be a variable interest entity ("VIE"). Based on the results of management's analysis of potential VIEs, the Company has not consolidated any franchisee entities. The Company's maximum exposure to loss resulting from involvement with potential VIEs is attributable to accounts and notes receivables and future lease payments due from franchisees. When the Company does not have a controlling interest in an entity but has the ability to exert significant influence over the entity, the Company applies the equity method of accounting. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Inventory primarily consists of new, previously rented or currently rented consumer electronics and household goods and is recorded at cost, including shipping and handling fees. All lease merchandise is available for lease or sale. On a weekly basis, all damaged, lost, stolen, or unsalable merchandise identified is written off. Maintenance and repairs of lease merchandise are charged to operations as incurred. Assets and liabilities of the Company's Canadian operations have been translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the end of the period. Revenues and expenses have been translated using the average exchange rates in effect each month of the period. Foreign exchange transaction gains and losses are recognized when incurred. The Company reclassifies to accounts payable checks issued in excess of funds available and reports them as cash flow from operating activities. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") for interim financial information. The condensed consolidated financial statements, including these notes, are unaudited and exclude some of the disclosures required only in annual financial statements. The consolidated balance sheet data as of April 30, 2019 was derived from the Company’s April 30, 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 2019. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of such condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP have been recorded. These adjustments consisted only of normal recurring items. The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in its April 30, 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on June 27, 201
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates Management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period, to prepare these condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes in conformity with GAAP. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy	Accounting Pronouncements

Notes and Accounts Receivable (

Notes and Accounts Receivable (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts	Activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 was as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 11,816 $ 12,487 Provision for doubtful accounts 1,725 1,939 Write-offs (2,121 ) (840 ) Foreign currency adjustment 38 (27 ) Balance at end of period $ 11,458 $ 13,559

Restructuring Expense (Tables)

Restructuring Expense (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of restructuring costs	The composition of the restructuring expenses incurred for the three months ended July 31, 2018 were as follows: Expense Cash Accrued Expenses Non-cash Total Expense (In thousands) Property and intangible impairments and exit costs 193 3,859 4,214 8,266 Total $ 193 $ 3,859 $ 4,214 $ 8,266

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: July 31, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ 6,566 $ 8,640 Acquisitions of assets from franchisees and others 1,822 — Buddy's Acquisition 86,147 — Disposals and foreign currency changes, net 18 (643 ) Balance at end of period $ 94,553 $ 7,997
Schedule of the amortizable other intangible assets	Components of intangible assets were as follows as of July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 : July 31, 2019 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Tradenames (1) 3 years 11,425 (55 ) 11,370 Franchise agreements acquired in Buddy's Acquisition 10 years 10,100 (71 ) 10,029 Customer contracts acquired in Buddy's Acquisition 6 years 7,700 (56 ) 7,644 Non-compete agreements 2 years 64 — 64 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 2,712 (1,361 ) 1,351 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,925 (1,462 ) 463 AD rights 9 years 33,136 (14,971 ) 18,165 Total intangible assets $ 67,062 $ (17,976 ) $ 49,086 (1) $11.1 million of tradenames was acquired in the Buddy's Acquisition which have an indefinite life. It is tested for impairment on an annual basis. April 30, 2019 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Customer lists acquired from unrelated third parties 5 years $ 1,027 $ (1,027 ) $ — Tradenames 3 years 108 (52 ) 56 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 2,015 (1,288 ) 727 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,660 (1,380 ) 280 AD rights 9 years 32,271 (14,173 ) 18,098 Total intangible assets $ 37,081 $ (17,920 ) $ 19,161 July 31, 2018 Weighted average amortization period Gross carrying amount Accumulated amortization Net carrying amount (In thousands) Customer lists acquired from unrelated third parties 5 years $ 3,187 $ (1,700 ) $ 1,487 Tradenames 3 years 539 (252 ) 287 Non-compete agreements 2 years 241 (175 ) 66 Assets acquired from franchisees: Customer lists 4 years 1,459 (1,220 ) 239 Reacquired rights 2 years 1,157 (1,122 ) 35 AD rights 10 years 32,002 (11,351 ) 20,651 Total intangible assets $ 38,585 $ (15,820 ) $ 22,765

Assets Held For Sale (Tables)

Assets Held For Sale (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Assets Held For Sale Disclosure [Abstract]
Rollforward of Assets Held for Sale	Changes in the carrying amount of assets held for sale for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 were as follows: Three Months Ended July 31, 2019 2018 (In thousands) Balance at beginning of period $ — $ 8,941 Reacquired and acquired from third parties — 37 Sold or terminated, impairments and other — (3,747 ) Balance at end of period $ — $ 5,231

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of debt	Long-term obligations at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 , and July 31, 2018 consisted of the following: July 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Revolver $ 20,000 $ — $ 12,590 Term loan, net of debt issuance costs 79,837 11,958 14,334 Due former ADs, franchisees and third parties 921 1,178 2,477 Mortgages 1,880 1,912 2,007 102,638 15,048 31,408 Less: current installments (24,450 ) (13,108 ) (29,513 ) Long-term obligations, excluding current installments, net $ 78,188 $ 1,940 $ 1,895

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 were as follows. July 31, 2019 April 30, 2019 July 31, 2018 (In thousands) Foreign currency adjustment $ (1,565 ) $ (1,908 ) $ (1,583 ) Unrealized gain on interest rate swap agreement, net of taxes (40 ) (2 ) 44 Total accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1,605 ) $ (1,910 ) $ (1,539 )
Schedule of computation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share	The computation of basic and diluted net loss per share for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 is as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended Class A Class B Common Stock Common Stock Common Stock (In thousands, except for share and per Basic and diluted net loss per share: Numerator Allocation of undistributed losses attributable to Liberty Tax $ (15,903 ) $ (19,081 ) $ (290 ) Denominator Weighted-average common stock outstanding 14,555,330 12,882,439 195,652 Basic and diluted net loss per share $ (1.09 ) $ (1.48 ) $ (1.48 ) As a result of the net losses for the periods shown, diluted net loss per share excludes the impact of shares of potential common stock from the exercise of options to purchase 497,166 and 692,205 shares for the three months ended July 31, 2019 and 2018 , respectively, and the conversion or exchange of all Class B common stock, exchangeable shares and Preferred Stock because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Stock Compensation Plans (Table

Stock Compensation Plans (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Summary of information about stock options outstanding and exercisable	The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at July 31, 2019 : Options Outstanding Options Exercisable Range of exercise prices Number of shares outstanding Weighted average exercise price Weighted average remaining contractual life (in years) Number of options exercisable Weighted average exercise price $0.00 - $10.89 480,826 $ 9.64 5.7 292,997 $ 9.80 $10.90 - $16.38 168,207 12.18 3.9 36,262 12.79 $16.39 - $26.17 18,858 22.57 1.0 18,858 22.57 $26.18 - $33.38 8,472 33.38 0.1 8,472 33.38 676,363 $ 10.93 356,589 $ 11.34
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity	Restricted stock activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Number of restricted stock units Weighted average fair value at grant date Balance at beginning of period 168,792 $ 10.56 Granted — — Vested (53,550 ) 10.19 Forfeited (22,870 ) 10.78 Balance at end of period 92,372 $ 10.72
Schedule of stock option activity	Stock option activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Number of options Weighted average exercise price Balance at beginning of period 796,244 $ 10.88 Exercised (28,138 ) 10.90 Expired or forfeited (91,743 ) 10.55 Balance at end of period 676,363 $ 10.93
Schedule of nonvested (options that did not vest in the period in which granted) stock option activity	Nonvested stock options activity during the three months ended July 31, 2019 was as follows: Nonvested options Weighted average exercise price Balance at beginning of period 654,514 $ 10.35 Vested (242,997 ) 10.10 Forfeited (91,743 ) 10.55 Balance at end of period 319,774 $ 10.47

Fair Value of Financial Instr_2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis, for each of the fair value hierarchy levels	The following tables present, at July 31, 2019 , April 30, 2019 and July 31, 2018 , for each of the fair value hierarchy levels, the assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and nonrecurring basis (In thousands): July 31, 2019 Fair value measurements using Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Nonrecurring assets: Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue and allowance $ 9,550 $ — $ — 9,550 Total nonrecurring assets $ 9,550 $ — $ — $ 9,550 Liabilities: Recurring liabilities: Contingent consideration included in obligations due former ADs, franchisees and others $ 478 $ — $ — $ 478 Interest rate swap agreement 55 — 55 — Total recurring liabilities $ 533 $ — $ 55 $ 478 April 30, 2019 Fair value measurements using Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Recurring assets: Cash equivalents $ 15,772 $ 15,772 $ — $ — Total recurring assets 15,772 15,772 — — Nonrecurring assets: Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue 12,707 — — 12,707 Contingent consideration for sale of accounting offices 1,120 — — 1,120 Impaired goodwill 178 — — 178 Impaired fixed assets 39 — — 39 Total nonrecurring assets 14,044 — — 14,044 Total recurring and nonrecurring assets $ 29,816 $ 15,772 $ — $ 14,044 Liabilities: Recurring liabilities: Contingent consideration included in obligations due to former ADs, franchisees and others $ 816 $ — $ — $ 816 Interest rate swap agreement 3 — 3 — Total recurring liabilities $ 819 $ — $ 3 $ 816

Organization and Significant _3

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2019
Geographical concentration
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	63.60%
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	36.40%
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]				$ 8,400
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	$ 25,163	$ 29,402		21,097
Deferred Revenue	8,553	10,938		8,654
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Notes and Interest Receivable Current	10,344	11,917		11,183
Income Taxes Receivable, Current	6,917	4,989		1,784
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	6,887	9,882		7,445
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	49,086	22,765		19,161
Deferred Income Taxes and Other Assets, Noncurrent	323	1,272		315
Assets	382,725	159,760		160,001
Deferred Revenue, Current	4,204	4,018		3,679
Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent	4,799	7,870		5,622
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent	11,247	919		537
Liabilities	174,498	73,684		56,287
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	77,348	75,706		92,932
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent	142,185	86,076		103,714
Liabilities and Equity	382,725	159,760		160,001
Area Developer Revenue	1,110	1,028
Electronic Filing Fee Revenue	49	28
General and Administrative Expense	17,155	11,304
Operating Expenses	31,502	35,522
Operating Income (Loss)	(23,307)	(28,359)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest	(24,270)	(28,887)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	(5,132)	(9,516)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	(19,138)	(19,371)	$ (19,371)
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	319	(3,794)
New Deferrals of Franchise and AD Fees	531
Revenues	8,195	$ 7,163
Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized	$ 1,500
Operating Lease, Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]				8,600
adoption of topic 842, reduction to retained earnings, net of taxes				$ 300

Acquisition (Details)

Acquisition (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017
Shares issued to be exchanged into Common Stock	8,083,000
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted	0.459315
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents	$ 181,000
Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion	0.091863
Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction	36.44%
Enterprise Value	$ 122,000,000
Share Price	$ 12
Percentage of Tax Savings Due	40.00%
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share	$ 12
Contingent Consideration Classified as Equity, Fair Value Disclosure	$ 97,000,000
Due from Customer Acceptances	7.7
Adjustment, Lease Right of Use	2.3
Revenues	8,195,000	$ 7,163,000
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	(19,138,000)	(19,371,000)	$ (19,371,000)
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Accounts Receivable Acquired	13,658,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Other Current Assets	10,911,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Other Assets Acquired	857,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Fixed Assets Acquired	1,613,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Goodwill Acquired	86,147,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Investments Acquired	28,900,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Lease Right-of Use Assets Acquired	13,428,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Net Nonmonetary Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed)	155,695,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Operating Lease Liability, Current Portion	1,939,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Finance Lease Liability, Current Portion	442,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Payables Assumed	5,354,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Credit Facility Assumed	24,971,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Deferred Revenue	819,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Operating Lease Liability, Non-Current Portion	13,834,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Finance Lease Liability, Non-Current Portion	627,000
Noncash or Part Cash Acquisition, Income Tax Liability	10,709,000
Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Value of Liabilities Assumed	58,695,000
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	97,000,000
Buddy's [Member]
Revenues	18,626,000	20,490,000
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	(13,340,000)	$ (20,548,000)
Tradename [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Fair Value Disclosure	0
Franchise Agreements [Member]
Indefinite-Lived Franchise Rights	10.1
Net Revenue in Period [Member]
Revenues	2.600
Buddy's [Member]
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$ 0.100

Accounts and Notes Receivables

Accounts and Notes Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Schedule of Activity Related to Notes Receivable
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Current	$ 25,163	$ 21,097	$ 29,402
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss, Noncurrent	6,887	7,445	9,882
Activity related to notes receivable
Amounts payable to area developers for their share of receivables	5,830	$ 17,282	$ 7,186
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Unfunded Lending Commitments for Working Capital Loans to Franchisees and Area Developers	$ 15,400
Franchise-related notes
Activity related to notes receivable
Notes Receivable	5 years
Interest rate (as a percent)	12.00%
Working capital and equipment notes
Activity related to notes receivable
Notes Receivable	1 year

Accounts and Notes Receivable A

Accounts and Notes Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2018	Apr. 30, 2017
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	$ 81,231
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Additions Charged to Expenses	1,725	$ 1,939
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Writeoff	(2,121)	(840)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Foreign Currency Adjustment	38	(27)
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss	11,458	$ 13,559	$ 11,816	$ 12,487
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Unfunded Lending Commitments for Working Capital Loans to Franchisees and Area Developers	15,400
Notes Receivable [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	33,876
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	$ 47,355

Analysis of Past Due Receivable

Analysis of Past Due Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2017
Aging of accounts and notes receivable
Past due	$ 52,450
Interest receivable, net	26,955
Financing Receivable Allowance for Uncollected Interest	1,826
Financing Receivable Allowance for Uncollected Interest	(2,500)
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	81,231
Accounts receivable
Aging of accounts and notes receivable
Past due	40,197
Interest receivable, net	7,158
Financing Receivable Allowance for Uncollected Interest	0
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	$ 47,355
Past due period	30 days
Notes receivable
Aging of accounts and notes receivable
Past due	$ 12,253
Interest receivable, net	19,797
Financing Receivable Allowance for Uncollected Interest	1,826
Accounts and Notes Receivable Gross	$ 33,876
Past due period	90 days
Financing Receivable, Nonaccrual	$ 12,300	$ 13,400	$ 15,600

Revenue Revenue (Details)

Revenue Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Revenue [Abstract]
Financing Receivable, before Allowance for Credit Loss	$ 32,050	$ 28,542	$ 39,284
Deferred Revenue	$ 8,553	$ 8,654	$ 10,938

Restructuring Expense (Details)

Restructuring Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cash		$ 193
Accrued Expenses		3,859
Non-cash		4,214
Total Expense	$ 0	8,266
Balance as Reported [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve, Period Increase (Decrease)	690	1,359
Restructuring,Property and Intangible Impairment and Exit Cost	1,467	0
Accrued Expenses, Restructuring Initiatives	2,157	1,359
Additions Accrued Against the Liability [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Accrued Expenses, Restructuring Initiatives		3,859
Loss on Contract Termination		0
Loss on Property and Intangible Impairments and Exit Costs		3,859
Property and Intangible Impairments and Exit Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cash		193
Restructuring Reserve, Accrued Expenses		3,859
Restructuring Reserve, Settled without Cash		4,214
Non-cash		8,266
Cash Payments [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Accrued Expenses, Restructuring Initiatives	(190)
Loss on Contract Termination	0
Loss on Property and Intangible Impairments and Exit Costs	(190)
Balance at the end of Period [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve, Period Increase (Decrease)	690	1,359
Restructuring,Property and Intangible Impairment and Exit Cost	1,277	3,859
Accrued Expenses, Restructuring Initiatives	$ 1,967	$ 5,218

Revenue Revenue (Details 1)

Revenue Revenue (Details 1) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue [Abstract]
Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized	$ 1,500
Deferred AD Fees and Franchise Fees at beginning of period	8,553	$ 8,654
Recognition of Deferred Revenue	(1,451)
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue	819
New Deferrals of Franchise and AD Fees	$ 531

Restructuring Expense - Additio

Restructuring Expense - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Payments for Restructuring		$ 193
Restructuring costs	$ 0	8,266
Property and Intangible Impairments and Exit Costs [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Payments for Restructuring		$ 193

Revenue Revenue (Details 2)

Revenue Revenue (Details 2) $ in Thousands	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	$ 1,781
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2021-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	2,769
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2022-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	1,743
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2023-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	1,012
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	358
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-04-30
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	890
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: (nil)
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	$ 8,553

Changes in the Carrying Amount

Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2019	Apr. 30, 2017	Jul. 31, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, Acquired in Acquisition	$ 86,147	$ 0
Goodwill Impairments, Gross	94,553	7,997
ERROR in label resolution.	67,062	38,585	$ 37,081
Goodwill, Balance at Beginning of Period		6,566		$ 8,640
Disposals and foreign currency changes, net	1,822	0
Goodwill, Disposals and foreign currency changes, net	18	(643)
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(17,976)	$ (15,820)	(17,920)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	$ 49,086		19,161		$ 22,765
Goodwill, Balance at End of Period				$ 6,566
Acquired Customer Lists [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life		5 years		5 years
ERROR in label resolution.		$ 3,187	1,027
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization		(1,700)	(1,027)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)		$ 1,487	$ 0
Trade Names [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	3 years	3 years	3 years
ERROR in label resolution.	$ 11,425	$ 539	$ 108
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	(55)	(252)	(52)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	$ 11,370	$ 287	$ 56
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	2 years	2 years
ERROR in label resolution.	$ 64	$ 241
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	0	(175)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	$ 64	$ 66

Components of Intangible Assets

Components of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2019	Apr. 30, 2017	Jul. 31, 2018
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired	$ 11,100
AD Repurchase Auction Program	900				$ 1,300
Gross carrying amount	67,062	$ 38,585	$ 37,081
Accumulated amortization	(17,976)	$ (15,820)	(17,920)
Net carrying amount	49,086		19,161		22,765
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 32,900				$ 1,900
Acquired customer lists
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life		5 years		5 years
Gross carrying amount		$ 3,187	1,027
Accumulated amortization		(1,700)	(1,027)
Net carrying amount		$ 1,487	$ 0
Trade Names [Member]
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	3 years	3 years	3 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 11,425	$ 539	$ 108
Accumulated amortization	(55)	(252)	(52)
Net carrying amount	$ 11,370	$ 287	56
Franchise Agreements [Member]
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	10 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 10,100
Accumulated amortization	(71)
Net carrying amount	$ 10,029
Noncompete Agreements [Member]
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	2 years	2 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 64	$ 241
Accumulated amortization	0	(175)
Net carrying amount	$ 64	$ 66
Customer lists
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	4 years	4 years		4 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 2,712	$ 1,459	2,015
Accumulated amortization	(1,361)	(1,220)	(1,288)
Net carrying amount	$ 1,351	$ 239	727
Reacquired rights
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	2 years	2 years		2 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 1,925	$ 1,157	1,660
Accumulated amortization	(1,462)	(1,122)	(1,380)
Net carrying amount	$ 463	$ 35	280
Area developer rights
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	9 years	10 years		9 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 33,136	$ 32,002	32,271
Accumulated amortization	(14,971)	(11,351)	(14,173)
Net carrying amount	$ 18,165	20,651	$ 18,098
Customer Contracts [Member]
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life	6 years
Gross carrying amount	$ 7,700
Accumulated amortization	(56)
Net carrying amount	$ 7,644
Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
Amortizable other intangible assets:
Net carrying amount		$ 22,765

Assets Held For Sale Narrative

Assets Held For Sale Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Reacquired and Acquired		$ 37
UNITED STATES
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Reacquired and Acquired	$ 0	100
Customer Lists and Reacquired Rights [Member] | UNITED STATES
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired		100
Goodwill [Member] | UNITED STATES
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired		$ 100

Assets Held For Sale Carrying A

Assets Held For Sale Carrying Amount of Assets HFS (table) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Apr. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Assets Held for Sale	$ 0	$ 5,231	$ 0	$ 5,231	$ 8,941
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Reacquired and Acquired		37
finite-lived intangible assets disposed	0	(3,747)
UNITED STATES
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Reacquired and Acquired	$ 0	$ 100

Leases (Details)

Leases (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)
Operating Lease, Expense	$ 1,496,000
Operating Lease, Payments	$ 1,575,000
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	6 years 2 months 12 days
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months	$ 5,977,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months	328,000
Short-term Lease, Cost	4,000
Variable Lease, Cost	19,000
Sublease Income	(645,000)
Operating Lease, Cost	874,000
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization	29,000
Finance Lease, Interest Expense	3,000
Lease, Cost	32,000
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two	5,563,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two	437,000
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three	3,702,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three	261,000
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four	2,382,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four	56,000
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five	1,947,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five	0
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Thereafter	8,741,000
Lessee, Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due Thereafter	0
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due	28,312,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due	1,082,000
Operating Lease Payments, less interest	3,953,000
Finance Lease Payments, Less Interest	47,000
Operating Lease, Liability	24,359,000
Finance Lease, Liability	$ 1,035,000
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term	2 years 7 months 6 days
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	4.80%
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent	3.70%
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions	$ 9,152,000
Operating Cash Flows from Operating Leases	3,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Next Twelve Months	5,164,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter	77,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years	24,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years	180,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years	320,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years	673,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Next Twelve Months	1,593,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter	51,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years	32,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years	352,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years	1,166,000
Minimum Lease Payments, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years	2,387,000
Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions	2,867,000
Financing Cash Flows from Finance Leases	38,000
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset	$ 1

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2019USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2017USD ($)
Credit facility
Deferred AD Fees and Franchise Fees at beginning of period	$ 8,553,000	$ 8,654,000
Credit Agreement, Wholly Owned Subsidiary	$ 82,000,000
Interest Rate Margin	0.00%
Credit Agreement, Installment Payments	$ 1,025,000
Consolidated Excess Cash Flow, Percentage	75.00%
Minimum Consolidated Liquidity	$ 1,000,000
Event of Default, Interest Penalty	2.00%
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity	$ 135,000,000
line of credit, sub-facility	10,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Swingline, Sub-Facility	$ 20,000,000
Fronting Fee, Rate	0.125%
Total debt	$ 102,638,000		$ 31,408,000	$ 15,048,000
Current Installments of Long-Term Obligation	24,450,000		29,513,000	13,108,000
Long-term obligations, excluding current installments, net	78,188,000		1,895,000	1,940,000
Outstanding Obligations, Maximum Capacity	12,500,000
Outstanding Obligations, Amount Due	0
Debt Instrument, Subordinated Note	$ 10,000,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.00%
Debt Instrument, Commitment Fee, Rate	0.50%
Days to Have Zero Debt	45
Interest, Mortgage Payable	0.00%
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Terms, Balloon Payment to be Paid	$ 800,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	4.12%
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 100,000
LIBOR Floor Rate [Member]
Credit facility
Interest Rate Margin	1.50%
ABR Loan Rate [Member]
Credit facility
Interest Rate Margin	7.00%
ABR Loan Base Rate Floor [Member]
Credit facility
Interest Rate Margin	2.50%
Interest Paid in Kind [Member]
Credit facility
Interest Rate Margin	2.00%
Credit Facility, Unused Fee Rate, low [Member]
Credit facility
Credit Facility, Unused Fee Rate	0.25%
Credit Facility, Unused Fee Rate, high [Member]
Credit facility
Credit Facility, Unused Fee Rate	0.50%
Revolver
Credit facility
Line of credit facility, increased availability	$ 50,000,000
Total debt	20,000,000		12,590,000	0
Term loan
Credit facility
Maximum borrowing capacity	170,000,000
Total debt	79,837,000		$ 14,334,000	11,958,000
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	$ 21,200,000
Credit facility
Credit facility
Line of Credit Facility, Average Interest Rate Paid	8.00%		3.74%
Credit facility | Minimum | one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
Credit facility
Interest rate margin (as a percent)	1.50%
Credit facility | Maximum | one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR)
Credit facility
Interest rate margin (as a percent)	2.25%
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Franchise Notes Receivable [Member]
Credit facility
Total debt	$ 921,000		$ 2,477,000	1,178,000
Other debt
Credit facility
Total debt	$ 1,880,000		$ 2,007,000	$ 1,912,000
Applicable Interest Rate, low [Member]
Credit facility
Applicable Interest Rate Margin	0.03
Applicable Interest Rate Margin, high [Member]
Credit facility
Applicable Interest Rate Margin	0.04
Applicable Interest Rate Margin, ABR Loans, low [Member]
Credit facility
Applicable Interest Rate Margin	0.02
Applicable Interest Rate Margin, ABR Loans, high [Member]
Credit facility
Applicable Interest Rate Margin	0.03

Forward Contracts (Details)

Forward Contracts (Details) $ in Millions	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)
Forward Contracts [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	4.12%
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 0.1

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Deta

Income Taxes Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent	21.10%	32.90%
Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Events that Would Cause Temporary Difference to be Taxable, Undistributed Earnings of Domestic Subsidiaries	10.7

Stockholders' Equity (Details)

Stockholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017	Apr. 30, 2017	Apr. 30, 2019
Stockholders' Equity
Ownership Interest	63.60%
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	36.40%
Common Stock, Shares Subscribed but Unissued	2,083,333.33
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	$ 306,000	$ 0
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives	$ (40,000)		$ 44,000	$ (2,000)
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (1.09)	$ (1.48)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	$ (1,565,000)		(1,583,000)	(1,908,000)
Stock-based compensation expense	741,000	$ 205,000
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock	(25,000,000)	0
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$ (1,605,000)	$ (1,539,000)	(1,539,000)	$ (1,910,000)	$ (1,910,000)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted	14,555,330	13,078,091
Antidilutive securities
Impact of shares of common stock from the exercise of options excluded from computation of diluted net income per share because the effect would be antidilutive	497,166	692,205
Share Price	$ 12
Common Stock, Value, Subscriptions	$ 25,000,000
Acquisition, Shares, Preferred Stock Issued	1,616,667
Authorized Shares, Total	200,000,000
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	180,000,000
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized	20,000,000
Special Voting Preferred	10
Class A Common stock	1,000,000
Class A common stock
Stockholders' Equity
net income (loss) available to common shareholders, basic and diluted	$ (15,903,000)		$ (19,081,000)
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	$ (1.09)		$ (1.48)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted	14,555,330		12,882,439
Antidilutive securities
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	180,000,000	21,200,000			22,000,000
Class B common stock
Stockholders' Equity
net income (loss) available to common shareholders, basic and diluted			$ (290,000)
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted			$ (1.48)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted			195,652
Purchase Price, Maximum [Member]
Antidilutive securities
Common Stock, Value, Subscriptions	$ 40,000,000

Stock Compensation Plans (Detai

Stock Compensation Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2017
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock compensation plan
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 11.34
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value		$ 1.1
Unrecognized compensation costs		$ 0.5
Stock option activity, Number of options
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	676,363	676,363	796,244
Exercised (in shares)	(28,138)
Canceled (in shares)	(91,743)
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	676,363
Stock option activity, Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 10.93	$ 10.93	$ 10.88
Exercised (in dollars per share)	10.90
Canceled (in dollars per share)	10.55
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 10.93
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Minimum
Stock compensation plan
Exercise period	4 years
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Maximum
Stock compensation plan
Vesting period	5 years
Exercise period	7 years
Nonvested Stock Option [Member]
Nonvested stock option activity, Nonvested options
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	319,774	319,774	654,514
Vested (in shares)	(242,997)
Canceled (in shares)	(91,743)
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	319,774
Nonvested stock option activity, Weighted average exercise price
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 10.47	$ 10.47	$ 10.35
Vested (in dollars per share)	10.10
Canceled (in dollars per share)	10.55
Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$ 10.47
Restricted Stock Units
Stock compensation plan
Unrecognized compensation costs		$ 0.7
Common Class A [Member]
Stock option activity, Number of options
Exercised (in shares)	0
Common Class A [Member] | 2011 Equity and Cash Incentive Plan
Stock compensation plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized		2,500,000
Class A common stock available for grant (in shares)		1,557,254
Exercise Price, Range Four [Member] | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock compensation plan
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	1 year 1 day
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 22.57
Stock option activity, Number of options
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	18,858	18,858
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	18,858
Exercise Price, Range Two [Member] | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock compensation plan
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	3 years 11 months 1 day
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 12.79
Stock option activity, Number of options
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	168,207	168,207
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	168,207
Exercise Price, Range Five [Member] | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock compensation plan
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	1 month 1 day
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price		$ 33.38
Stock option activity, Number of options
Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)	8,472	8,472
Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)	8,472

Stock Compensation Plans (Det_2

Stock Compensation Plans (Details 2) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2017
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount	$ 0.5
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	676,363	796,244
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 10.93
Number of shares exercisable at the end of the period	356,589
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 11.34
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range One [Member]
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	480,826
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 9.64
Weighted average remaining contractual life	5 years 8 months 1 day
Number of shares exercisable at the end of the period	292,997
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 9.80
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range two
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	168,207
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 12.18
Weighted average remaining contractual life	3 years 11 months 1 day
Number of shares exercisable at the end of the period	36,262
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 12.79
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Four
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	18,858
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 22.57
Weighted average remaining contractual life	1 year 1 day
Number of shares exercisable at the end of the period	18,858
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 22.57
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Five
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number	8,472
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 33.38
Weighted average remaining contractual life	1 month 1 day
Number of shares exercisable at the end of the period	8,472
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 33.38
Restricted Stock Units
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount	$ 0.7
Minimum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period	4 years
Minimum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range two
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, low end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 0
Minimum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range three
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, low end of range (in dollars per share)	10.90
Minimum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Four
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, low end of range (in dollars per share)	16.39
Minimum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Five
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, low end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 26.18
Maximum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period	7 years
Maximum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range two
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, high end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 10.89
Maximum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range three
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, high end of range (in dollars per share)	16.38
Maximum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Four
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, high end of range (in dollars per share)	26.17
Maximum | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] | Exercise Price, Range Five
Stock options outstanding and exercisable
Exercise price, high end of range (in dollars per share)	$ 33.38

Restricted Stock Units (Details

Restricted Stock Units (Details 3) - Restricted Stock Units - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2017
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted	0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number	92,372	168,792
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period	53,550
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 10.19
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Expirations	22,870
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Expirations, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 10.78
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$ 10.72	$ 10.56

Fair Value of Financial Instr_3

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 31, 2019	Apr. 30, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2017
Assets:
Assets Fair Value Disclosure Recurring and Nonrecurring		$ 29,816
Total recurring liabilities				$ 15,260
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability				1,432
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 100
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure		819
Level 1
Assets:
Assets Fair Value Disclosure Recurring and Nonrecurring		15,772
Total recurring liabilities				0
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability				0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0
Level 2
Assets:
Assets Fair Value Disclosure Recurring and Nonrecurring		0
Total recurring liabilities				61
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability				0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	55	3
Level 3
Assets:
Assets Fair Value Disclosure Recurring and Nonrecurring		14,044
Total recurring liabilities				15,199
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability				1,432
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	478	816
Nonrecurring
Assets:
Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue	9,550	12,707		15,199
Impaired Online Software, Fair Value Disclosure		1,120
Impaired goodwill		178
Impaired Reacquired Rights, Fair Value Disclosure		39
Total recurring liabilities		14,044		15,199
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure				1,432
Nonrecurring | Level 1
Assets:
Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue	0	0		0
Impaired Online Software, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Impaired goodwill		0
Impaired Reacquired Rights, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Total recurring liabilities		0		0
Nonrecurring | Level 2
Assets:
Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue	0	0		0
Impaired Online Software, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Impaired goodwill		0
Impaired Reacquired Rights, Fair Value Disclosure		0
Total recurring liabilities		0		0
Nonrecurring | Level 3
Assets:
Impaired accounts and notes receivable, net of unrecognized revenue	9,550	12,707		15,199
Impaired Online Software, Fair Value Disclosure		1,120
Impaired goodwill		178
Impaired Reacquired Rights, Fair Value Disclosure		39
Total recurring liabilities		14,044		15,199
Recurring
Fair value of financial instruments
Available for sale securities, fair value disclosure			$ 61
Assets:
Cash equivalents, money market account		15,772
Total recurring liabilities		15,772	61
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability		816
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Allowance for Uncollected Interest Amounts Due ADs Related Deferred Revenue and Amounts Due Franchisees	478
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	55	3
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure	533
Recurring | Level 1
Fair value of financial instruments
Available for sale securities, fair value disclosure			0
Assets:
Cash equivalents, money market account		15,772
Total recurring liabilities		15,772	0
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability		0
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Allowance for Uncollected Interest Amounts Due ADs Related Deferred Revenue and Amounts Due Franchisees	0
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	0	0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure				0
Recurring | Level 2
Fair value of financial instruments
Available for sale securities, fair value disclosure			61
Assets:
Cash equivalents, money market account		0
Total recurring liabilities		0	61
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability		0
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Allowance for Uncollected Interest Amounts Due ADs Related Deferred Revenue and Amounts Due Franchisees	0
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	55	3
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure				0
Recurring | Level 3
Fair value of financial instruments
Available for sale securities, fair value disclosure			0
Assets:
Cash equivalents, money market account		0
Total recurring liabilities		0	$ 0
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability		816
Accounts and Notes Receivable, Allowance for Uncollected Interest Amounts Due ADs Related Deferred Revenue and Amounts Due Franchisees	478
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	$ 0	$ 0
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure				$ 1,432

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019USD ($)shares
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	59.70%
Common Stock, Shares Subscribed but Unissued | shares	2,083,333.33
Common Stock, Value, Subscriptions	$ 25,000,000
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount	410,000
agreement, monthly payment [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Retainage Deposit	65,000
agreement, total payment [Member] [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Retainage Deposit	$ 455,000
Vintage RTO, L.P. ownership [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
aggregate voting power	37.00%
Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$ 46,467
Payment to Noncontrolling Holders [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Tax Receivable Agreement, Percentage of Tax Benefit	40.00%
Ossenfort Franchise, Accounts Receivable for Royalties, Advertising and Financial Product Charges [Member] | Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties	$ 0
York Franchise, Operating Funds Borrowed for Working Capital [Member] | Chief Operating Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Payments for Advance to Affiliate	52,660
Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties	52,660
York Franchise, Accounts Receivable for Royalties, Advertising and Financial Product Charges [Member] | Chief Operating Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	28,144
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties	42,440
York Area Development Arrangements, Notes Receivable [Member] | Chief Operating Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes Receivable, Related Parties	1,680,516
Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable	$ 4,059,460
Notes Receivable, Related Parties, Stated Interest Rate	1200.00%
York Area Development Arrangements, Accounts Receivable [Member] | Chief Operating Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	$ 2,553
Related Party Transaction, Revenue Earned by Related Party	87,920
York Debt Guarantees [Member] | Chief Operating Officer [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted	$ 2,577,156

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Nov. 29, 2018	Feb. 15, 2017	Sep. 09, 2016	Jun. 09, 2016	Jul. 31, 2019
Commitments and contingencies
Loss Contingency Accrual					$ 2,500
JTH Tax, Inc. and Siempre Tax LLC v. Gregory Aime, Aime Consulting, LLC, Aime Consulting, Inc. and Wolf Ventures, Inc. (Case No. 2:16-cv279) [Member]
Commitments and contingencies
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought				three
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value			$ 2,400		100
Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded to Other Party		$ 2,700
Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded from Other Party	$ 300
Additional Accrual for loss contingency [Member]
Commitments and contingencies
Loss Contingency Accrual					500
Compliance Program loss contingency [Member]
Commitments and contingencies
Loss Contingency Accrual					$ 1,000

Segments (Details)

Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2019	Jul. 31, 2018	Apr. 30, 2019
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 94,553	$ 7,997	$ 6,566
Assets	382,725	159,760	$ 160,001
Operating Income (Loss)	(23,307)	(28,359)
Depreciation Amortization and Impairment	3,986	3,194
Revenues	8,195	7,163
Liberty Tax [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill	8,406	7,997
Assets	184,081	159,760
Operating Income (Loss)	(23,836)	(28,359)
Depreciation Amortization and Impairment	3,761	3,194
Revenues	5,553	7,163
Buddy's [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Goodwill	86,147	0
Assets	198,644	0
Operating Income (Loss)	529	0
Depreciation Amortization and Impairment	225	0
Revenues	$ 2,642	$ 0

Subsequent Event Subsequent _2

Subsequent Event Subsequent Events (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 07, 2019	Jul. 31, 2019
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Merger Agreement	Aug. 7, 2019
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share		$ 12
Liabilities Subject to Compromise, Early Contract Termination Fees		$ 5,670,000
Termination Fee, Amount Owed		11,340,000
Secured Long-term Debt, Noncurrent		23,000,000
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross		121,000,000
Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs		$ 11,900,000
Vitamin Shoppe Stock [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share		$ 0
Cash Consideration, Merger		$ 0
Additional Termination Fees [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Liabilities Subject to Compromise, Early Contract Termination Fees		$ 3,200,000