Unrecognized Tax Benefits

6 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2019

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Unrecognized Tax Benefits

Unrecognized Tax Benefits

The total amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits was $7,287 at April 30, 2019. At October 31, 2019, gross unrecognized tax benefits were $9,355. If this unrecognized tax benefit were ultimately recognized, $7,412 is the amount that would impact our effective tax rate. The total amount of accrued interest and penalties for such unrecognized tax benefits was $361 at October 31, 2019, and $242 at April 30, 2019. Net interest and penalties included in income tax expense for the six months ended October 31, 2019 and 2018 , was a net expense of $119 and $77, respectively.

A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is audited and ultimately settled. It is difficult to predict the ultimate outcome or the timing of resolution for uncertain tax positions. It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. These changes could result from the expiration of the statute of limitations, examinations or other unforeseen circumstances. The IRS is currently examining tax years 2012, 2016, and 2017. The Company has no other ongoing federal or state income tax examinations. At this time, the Company's best estimate of the reasonably possible change in the amount of the gross unrecognized tax benefits is a decrease of $1,100 during the next twelve months mainly due to the expiration of certain statute of limitations.

The federal statute of limitations remains open for the tax years 2012 and forward. Tax years 2012 and forward are subject to audit by state tax authorities depending on open statute of limitations waivers and the tax code of each state.