H&R Block stock tumbles on warning

H&R Block said it will cut about 350 full-time positions and close about 200 company-owned offices, which will result in a drop in seasonal temporary employment.

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Shares of H&R Block tumbled 16% in premarket trading Thursday after the tax prep company announced significant staff cuts and office closings, and projected weaker-than-expected earnings.

The company also announced a series of changes in its top executive ranks in its after-hours statement Wednesday, including that it is looking for a new chief financial officer, and that the president of its retail tax services is leaving the company effective April 30.

Shares tumbled $2.74 to $14 ahead of the market open.

The company said it will cut about 350 full-time positions throughout its Kansas City headquarters and nationwide field organization, and close about 200 company-owned offices, which will result in a drop in seasonal temporary employment.

The moves are expected to save the company of $85 million to $100 million a year. It will take a $30 million charge in the quarter associated with the staff reductions.

H&R Block (HRB) also expects full-year earnings of $1.09 to $1.15 a share, well below the forecasted earnings of $1.39 a share.