It's been said the only certainties in life are death and taxes. And today, many Americans will likely tell you death is preferable to taxes. Like no other day, April 15 brings incomparable loads of headaches, hand wringing and teeth-grinding as the payment for living in a free country. (How's that for irony?)

Yet amid today's endless number crunching, file riffling and abundant swearing, restaurateurs are showing their smarts-and their sympathy in this economic downturn-to drive business with Tax Day bargains. A quick check of Google News this morning revealed numerous eateries giving customers 15 percent off meals and $5 freebies to help relieve some of today's pain.

Several creative pizzerias are planning slice giveaways on the sidewalks and driveways leading into many cities' main post offices. Their thinking is simple: We might not be able to make your tax woes disappear, but we can eliminate your hunger.

Time isn't on their side

Even if your customers don't owe Uncle Sam additional duties, they're still pressed for time if they've still not mailed that 1040-EZ or otherwise. That provides a great opportunity to use your online ordering system's electronic marketing capabilities to send them some April 15 offers.

In this day of Turbo Tax, they're certain to be at the computer anyway and likely will get your offer instantly. Making it easy for them to order without leaving their seats-and giving them a Tax Day discount-is the "no brainer" type of service they need today. It could give them a much-needed lift to finish the job.

What better way to do your patriotic duty than by helping your fellow countrymen pay their taxes on time?