5. INCOME TAXES

The Company’s income tax expense and related effective rate were as follows (in thousands, except percentage data):

	For the 13			For the 13			For the 26			For the 27
	Weeks Ended			Weeks Ended			Weeks Ended			Weeks Ended
	July 4, 2015			July 5, 2014			July 4, 2015			July 5, 2014
Income tax expense	$	22,894		$	24,875		$	41,417		$	56,355
Income tax rate	28.7		%	31.2		%	29.8		%	31.2		%

The lower effective tax rates in the Second Quarter and the Year to Date Period, as compared to the Prior Year Quarter and Prior Year YTD Period, respectively, was primarily attributable to the recognition of income tax benefits due to the settlement of audits.

As of July 4, 2015, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, was $13.1 million, of which $10.3 million would favorably impact the effective tax rate in future periods, if recognized. During the Second Quarter, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service closed its examination of the Company’s 2010-2012 federal income tax returns, and the Company expects a refund of $2.2 million, which is recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. The Company is subject to examinations in various state and foreign jurisdictions for its 2007-2013 tax years, none of which the Company believes are significant, individually or in the aggregate. Tax audit outcomes and timing of tax audit settlements are subject to significant uncertainty.

The Company has classified uncertain tax positions as long-term income taxes payable, unless such amounts are expected to be paid within twelve months of the condensed consolidated balance sheet date. As of July 4, 2015, the Company had recorded $1.7 million of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, for positions that are expected to be settled within the next twelve months. Consistent with its past practice, the Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to income tax overpayments and income tax underpayments in income tax expense and income taxes receivable/payable, respectively. The total amount of accrued income tax-related interest and penalties included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets at July 4, 2015 was $1.7 million and $0.4 million, respectively. For the Second Quarter and Year To Date Period, the Company accrued income tax-related interest expense of $0.2 million and $0.4 million, respectively.