INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-43804 and 333-83196 of New England Business Service, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated May 3, 2002, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 11-K of the 401(k) Plan for Employees of New England Business Service, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2001. /s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP Boston, Massachusetts June 26, 2002