[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/tax-relief\/optima-tax-relief-review\/#Article","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/tax-relief\/optima-tax-relief-review\/","headline":"Optima Tax Relief Review 2025: A Tax Attorney’s Honest Take","name":"Optima Tax Relief Review 2025: A Tax Attorney’s Honest Take","description":"Optima Tax Relief Basics: Founded in 2011, Optima Tax Relief helps you resolve your...","datePublished":"2022-02-18","dateModified":"2025-11-03","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/author\/steven-ching\/#Person","name":"Steven Ching, J.D.","url":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/author\/steven-ching\/","identifier":81,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/adb5856b134d7b3d3e978e0ee15ab95309edb48f088d4277990b98c3c5b142fb?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/adb5856b134d7b3d3e978e0ee15ab95309edb48f088d4277990b98c3c5b142fb?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Money Done Right","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Money-Done-Right-Personal-Finance-and-Investing-Blog.png","url":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Money-Done-Right-Personal-Finance-and-Investing-Blog.png","width":488,"height":60}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/optima-tax-review.jpg","url":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/optima-tax-review.jpg","height":460,"width":1900},"url":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/tax-relief\/optima-tax-relief-review\/","video":[{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk","name":"Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam? Optima Tax Relief Review by a CPA","description":"Visit https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/free-tax-relief-consultation\/ to book your FREE tax relief consultation!\n\nIs Optima Tax Relief a scam? As the owner of a tax relief company, I've been asked this question many times, and I want to publicly answer it today. Yes, Optima Tax Relief has many poor reviews as well as many complaints leveled against it online, but \u2014 even if these poor reviews and complaints are true (they could of course be completely made up) \u2014 would that still make Optima Tax Relief a scam? Hear my answer in today's video!\n\nTable of Contents:\n0:00 Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam?\n1:34 Poor Optima Tax Relief Reviews\n2:37 What Is a Scam?\n3:28 Optima Tax Relief Complaints (Sales)\n5:50 Optima Tax Relief Complaints (Service)\n7:31 Even If These Complaints Are True, Does That Make Optima Tax Relief a Scam?\n\n#taxrelief #taxdebt #taxresolution","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/xa-xDVKBZJk\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/xa-xDVKBZJk\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/xa-xDVKBZJk\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/xa-xDVKBZJk\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/xa-xDVKBZJk\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2023-08-09T20:10:43+00:00","duration":"PT11M36S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xa-xDVKBZJk","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA","name":"Logan Allec","description":"Logan Allec is a CPA and the founder of Choice Tax Relief, which specializes in helping people with their IRS and state tax debt.","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/43_VKqrbO06RGMcxfdQbDXosrkVRq1yf5QgSQEiR4ILUGWV9fJtTh0o2ftYMYqVo6PwnEOPRdg=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk#VideoObject_publisher_logo_ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk#VideoObject_potentialAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_WatchAction","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":16733}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xa-xDVKBZJk#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_LikeAction","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":202}]},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=0sgtiXjChyQ#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=0sgtiXjChyQ","name":"How to FIGHT THE IRS...And Win!  IRS Negotiation Process Explained.","description":"\u27a1\ufe0f Request your FREE tax relief consultation at https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/free-tax-relief-consultation\/\n\nIn this video I'm giving you a step-by-step process on how to fight the IRS...and win!  Fighting the IRS is unlike any other fight you've undertaken before; it's not a haphazard fistfight; there are processes and protocols you must follow, or you will certainly lose.  You also must know exactly what you stand to win and what kind of fight you're fighting.\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f Free E-Book:\n- 7 Secrets About Your Tax Debt the IRS Doesn't Want You to Know: https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.ac-page.com\/secrets-about-your-tax-debt-the-irs-doesnt-want-you-to-know\/\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f Other Videos Mentioned:\n-  How to File Back Taxes: https:\/\/youtu.be\/l4nj4ceBz_o\n- Installment Agreements Explained: https:\/\/youtu.be\/u64o8fZSPIA\n- CNC Status Explained: https:\/\/youtu.be\/yHpCiTLrlCs\n- Offer in Compromise Explained: https:\/\/youtu.be\/tR3uaqJE86o\n- Offer in Compromise Timeline: https:\/\/youtu.be\/wPwR8r9MazI\n- All My Tax Relief Videos: https:\/\/youtube.com\/playlist?list=PLHmwDU0qD1fj_JQAqO7aczwsrtLfWOSfQ\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f Table of Contents:\n0:00 How to Fight the IRS and Win\n1:52 Step #1\n3:21 Step #2\n4:29 Step #3\n7:30 Step #4\n9:03 Step #5\n10:03 Step #6\n11:15 Step #7\n13:19 Step #8\n17:17 Step #9\n18:21 Step #10","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0sgtiXjChyQ\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0sgtiXjChyQ\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0sgtiXjChyQ\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0sgtiXjChyQ\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/0sgtiXjChyQ\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2022-11-08T18:01:29+00:00","duration":"PT19M29S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0sgtiXjChyQ","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA","name":"Logan Allec","description":"Logan Allec is a CPA and the founder of Choice Tax Relief, which specializes in helping people with their IRS and state tax 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tax attorneys \u2014 utilize to minimize or even eliminate the taxes, penalties, and interest a taxpayer owes to the IRS and other tax agencies.\n\nThese tax relief programs range from a simple phone call to the government for first-time penalty abatement to a full-fledged offer in compromise.\n\nIn this video, Logan Allec CPA answers the question, \"What Is Tax Relief?\" and goes over the three major IRS tax relief programs we use everyday for our clients.\n\nVideos Mentioned In This Video:\n\u27a1\ufe0f Offer In Compromise Basics: https:\/\/youtu.be\/tR3uaqJE86o\n\u27a1\ufe0f Offer In Compromise Formula: https:\/\/youtu.be\/1jDj6yHnjMI\n\u27a1\ufe0f Filing Back Taxes: https:\/\/youtu.be\/l4nj4ceBz_o\n\nTable of Contents:\n0:00 What Is Tax Relief?\n2:12 Tax Relief Program Commonalities\n3:10 The Three Major Tax Relief Strategies\n7:03 An Offer in Compromise May Not Be the Best Option\n8:10 Shady Tax Relief Companies\n9:00 Tax Relief Program #1: Offer in Compromise (OIC)\n11:12 State 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I tell you how to file your back taxes step-by-step, how many years back you can (and possibly should) file your back taxes, and more!\n\nThere are many consequences to not filing your tax return, and it's generally in your best interest to file your back taxes as soon as possible.  You should also be aware of the interest and penalties that accrue on back taxes because they can be significant, especially the penalties.  Thankfully, in this video, I cover how the penalties are calculated and how you can possibly get rid of them.  And even if you don't owe taxes, you still want to file to secure your previous year's tax refund.  If you're wondering how many years back you can get a tax refund, I cover that too.\n\n\u27a1\ufe0f Email backtaxes@loganallec.com to get help with filing your back tax returns!\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f More Tax Relief Videos:\n- My Offer in Compromise Basics Video: https:\/\/youtu.be\/tR3uaqJE86o\n- My Offer in Compromise Formula Video: https:\/\/youtu.be\/1jDj6yHnjMI\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f Other Resources:\n- IRS Audit Technique Guides: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/audit-techniques-guides-atgs\n- IRS Failure-to-File Penalty: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/payments\/failure-to-file-penalty\n- IRS Policy Statement 5-133: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/irm\/part1\/irm_01-002-001#idm139624982687680\n- IRS Transcripts: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/individuals\/get-transcript\n- Bauer v. Commissioner: https:\/\/www.leagle.com\/decision\/intco20120604b95\n- Bizminer: https:\/\/www.bizminer.com\/\n- Bizstats: http:\/\/bizstats.com\/\n\nTable of Contents:\n0:00 How to File Your Back Taxes\n0:56 Why People Get Behind on Their Taxes\n2:08 The Snowball Effect on Back Taxes\n2:28 IRS Notices CP59, CP515, CP516, and CP518\n3:08 You Need to Deal With This\n4:10 Consequences of Not Filing Your Tax Returns\n4:29 IRS Failure-to-File Penalty\n5:13 IRS Failure-to-Pay Penalty\n6:10 Interest Accrual on Back Taxes\n6:49 Loss of Refund (How Many Years Back Can I Get a Tax Refund?)\n8:20 Inability to Get a Loan\n8:36 Inability to Get Student Aid\n8:43 Loss or Delay of Stimulus and Other Forms of Government Aid\n8:57 Loss of Immigration Status\n9:10 Loss of Future Social Security Benefits\n9:25 IRS Substitute for Return (BAD NEWS)\n12:04 Reasons Why You Don't Want the IRS to Prepare Your Return For You\n14:07 How Do You Actually File Back Taxes?\n14:29 How Many Years of Back Taxes Do You Have to File?\n15:13 Step 1: Figure Out What Returns You Need to File\n15:26 Step 2: Determine the Order in Which You Should Prepare Your Returns\n17:59 Step 3: Gather Tax Forms and IRS Transcripts\n19:25 Step 4: Reconstruct Your Information\n24:10 Step 5: Prepare and File Your Returns\n26:45 Penalty Abatement\n27:25 First-Time Penalty Relief\n28:02 Penalty Relief for Reasonable Cause\n\n#tax #taxes #backtaxes","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/l4nj4ceBz_o\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/l4nj4ceBz_o\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/l4nj4ceBz_o\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/l4nj4ceBz_o\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/l4nj4ceBz_o\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2021-08-11T20:30:02+00:00","duration":"PT29M49S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l4nj4ceBz_o","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA","name":"Logan Allec","description":"Logan Allec is a CPA and the founder of Choice Tax Relief, which specializes in helping people with their IRS and state tax debt.","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/43_VKqrbO06RGMcxfdQbDXosrkVRq1yf5QgSQEiR4ILUGWV9fJtTh0o2ftYMYqVo6PwnEOPRdg=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=l4nj4ceBz_o#VideoObject_publisher_logo_ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=l4nj4ceBz_o#VideoObject_potentialAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=l4nj4ceBz_o&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=l4nj4ceBz_o#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_WatchAction","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":92599}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=l4nj4ceBz_o#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_LikeAction","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":2584}]},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zLE3sEOUC_0#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zLE3sEOUC_0","name":"What Is the IRS FRESH START PROGRAM?  It's Not What You Think It Is!","description":"\u27a1\ufe0f Request your FREE tax relief consultation at https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/free-tax-relief-consultation\/\n\nToday I am talking about the IRS Fresh Start Program.  While yes, there is a legitimate Fresh Start Program by the IRS, it might not be what you think it is.  The IRS Fresh Start Initiative was actually just some changes the IRS made about 10 years ago to its policies and procedures regarding collections and tax resolution.  So while you might be wondering, \"Do I qualify for the IRS Fresh Start Program?\", that question actually doesn't make much sense, and I'll tell you why in this video.\n\n\u27a1\ufe0f IRS Tax Relief: Do you owe the IRS more than $10,000 in back taxes?  Call 866-8000-TAX (866-8000-829) or visit https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/\n\n\u27a1\ufe0f My Tax Relief Video Playlist: https:\/\/youtube.com\/playlist?list=PLHmwDU0qD1fj_JQAqO7aczwsrtLfWOSfQ\n\n\u27a1\ufe0f My Tax Relief Company: https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f Other Tax Relief Videos Mentioned in This Video:\n- Offer in Compromise Basics: https:\/\/youtu.be\/tR3uaqJE86o\n- Offer in Compromise Formula: https:\/\/youtu.be\/1jDj6yHnjMI\n- IRS Installment Agreements Basics: https:\/\/youtu.be\/u64o8fZSPIA\n\nTable of Contents:\n0:00 What Is the IRS Fresh Start Program?\n3:42 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #1\n5:30 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #2\n7:50 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #3\n8:33 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #4\n8:56 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #5 \n10:40 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #6\n13:47 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #7\n14:48 IRS Fresh Start Program Change #8\n16:52 Guaranteed Installment Agreements\n17:25 Using Form 9465 to Request an Installment Agreement\n18:07 Form 433-F \/ Collection Information Statements\n18:45 Partial-Payment Installment Agreements\n\n#taxrelief #freshstart #irs","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/zLE3sEOUC_0\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/zLE3sEOUC_0\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/zLE3sEOUC_0\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/zLE3sEOUC_0\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/zLE3sEOUC_0\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2022-06-09T16:05:49+00:00","duration":"PT17M26S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zLE3sEOUC_0","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA","name":"Logan Allec","description":"Logan Allec is a CPA and the founder of Choice Tax Relief, which specializes in helping people with their IRS and state tax debt.","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/MzD88e1TBVyUlcCXjw9RrUsbETd7rzrn-ywPhnx1qZmTu_zCPflJ57U-rnVwMBOCFZBE9mgL4g=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zLE3sEOUC_0&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":7292}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":196}]},{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI","name":"Offer in Compromise Guidelines + Formula: EXACTLY How Much to Offer to the IRS!","description":"\u27a1\ufe0f Request your FREE tax relief consultation at https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/free-tax-relief-consultation\/\n\nIn this video I'm giving you the exact offer in compromise formula you need to submit your doubt as to collectibility offer in compromise to the IRS.  I start with explaining what the IRS is looking for (i.e. your reasonable collection potential), then discuss how to value your assets for offer in compromise purposes, then discuss how to determine your monthly income and expenses for offer in compromise purposes per the IRS Collection Financial Standards, and finally put it all together to help you determine your offer in compromise amount.  This offer in compromise training is over an hour long, so be sure to take notes!\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f More Tax Relief Videos:\nMy Previous Offer in Compromise Video: https:\/\/youtu.be\/tR3uaqJE86o\nHow to File Back Taxes and Avoid Penalties: https:\/\/youtu.be\/l4nj4ceBz_o\n\n\u2b07\ufe0f IRS Resources:\n- IRS Form 656: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/f656.pdf\n- IRS Form 433-A (OIC): https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/f433aoi.pdf\n- Internal Revenue Manual 5.8.5 Financial Analysis: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/irm\/part5\/irm_05-008-005r\n- Collection Financial Standards: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/collection-financial-standards\n- National Standards for Food, Clothing, and Other Items: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/national-standards-food-clothing-and-other-items\n- Local Standards for Housing and Utilities: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-utl\/all_states_housing_standards.pdf\n- Local Standards for Transportation: https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-utl\/all_states_housing_standards.pdf\n\n\u27a1\ufe0f My M1 Finance Review: https:\/\/youtu.be\/XNMhp9xeNq8\n\nTable of Contents:\n0:00 How Much to Offer in Compromise to the IRS\n1:26 Reasonable Collection Potential\n4:08 Equity Component and Income Component\n6:05 Calculating Cash Value\n7:30 Calculating Investments at 80% Quick-Sale Value\n8:40 IRA Example (After Taxes and Penalties)\n12:45 A Note About Quick-Sale Value\n13:58 Valuing Life Insurance Policies\n15:22 Valuing Real Estate\n20:05 Doubt As to Liability With Special Circumstances\n21:26 Effective Tax Administration\n22:15 Calculating Vehicle Value\n23:40 Calculating Miscellaneous Valuable Items Value\n24:33 Calculating Furniture and Other Personal Items Value\n25:43 Adding Your Assets Up\n25:58 Hiding Assets From the IRS (Don't Do It)\n28:34 Self-Employed and Business Information\n29:28 Calculating the Income Component\n31:35 Calculating Gross Monthly Income\n33:05 Calculating Monthly Household Expenses\n33:14 National Standard Expenses\n35:11 National Out-of-Pocket Health Care Expenses\n37:05 Local Expenses\n37:43 Local Standard Expenses for Housing and Utilities\n40:08 Local Standard Expenses for Transportation\n48:03 Health Insurance Premiums\n48:21 Putting Zero vs. Leaving Blank\n48:48 Court-Ordered Payments (Alimony, Child Support, etc.)\n49:52 Term Life Insurance Premiums\n50:10 Current Monthly Taxes\n50:44 Secured Debts\n53:07 401(k) Loans\n53:39 Other Expenses (Student Loans, Mandatory Retirement, Tuition, etc.)\n56:24 Delinquent State and\/or Local Tax Payments\n57:50 Final Reasonable Excess Monthly Income Calculation\n58:18 Determining Your Future Income Multiplier (12 or 24)\n1:00:01 Calculating Your Final Offer in Compromise Amount\n\n#offerincompromise #taxrelief #taxhelp","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1jDj6yHnjMI\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1jDj6yHnjMI\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1jDj6yHnjMI\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1jDj6yHnjMI\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/1jDj6yHnjMI\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2021-06-24T18:23:11+00:00","duration":"PT1H2M35S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1jDj6yHnjMI","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCQ9WUXlSuLlbi5BLkgtEUEA","name":"Logan Allec","description":"Logan Allec is a CPA and the founder of Choice Tax Relief, which specializes in helping people with their IRS and state tax debt.","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/43_VKqrbO06RGMcxfdQbDXosrkVRq1yf5QgSQEiR4ILUGWV9fJtTh0o2ftYMYqVo6PwnEOPRdg=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI#VideoObject_publisher_logo_ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI#VideoObject_potentialAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_WatchAction","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":23849}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=1jDj6yHnjMI#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_LikeAction","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":811}]}],"commentCount":"1","comment":[{"@type":"Comment","@id":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/tax-relief\/optima-tax-relief-review\/#Comment1","dateCreated":"2022-03-23 00:00:59","description":"Awesome article Thanks for Sharing. EZTaX solver is the first and only diyTax Repayment Software specifically designed to provide the best possible outcomes the IRS will accept.","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"eztax","url":"https:\/\/eztx.com\/home\/"}}],"about":["Tax Relief"],"wordCount":3984,"keywords":["schema"],"articleBody":"\t    \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOptima Tax Relief\t\t\t\tBasics: Founded in 2011, Optima Tax Relief helps you resolve your tax debts with the IRS and\/or state tax agency.Pros: The company appears to have qualified tax professionals on staff and has some good reviews on legitimate websites such as the Better Business Bureau.Cons: Many client reviews claim there is a lack of communication after the company receives the fee.  Also, the minimum required debt for Optima to work with you is $10,000, which is high compared to other tax relief providers.  Additionally, Optima's pricing structure isn't transparently stated on its website.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHonesty\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t5\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tResponsiveness\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPrice\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t5\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAccessibility\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t10\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGuarantee\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t6\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTransparency\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t5\/10\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMINIMUM DEBT:$10,000LOCATION AVAILABILITY: All 50 U.S. StatesINITIAL FEE:$495+YEAR FOUNDED:2011\t\t\t\tOur Review MethodologyTax relief companies claim to help distressed Americans minimize or eliminate their tax debts.The industry, however, is rife with controversy due to overpromises to clients on tax settlements with the IRS, opaque pricing, and poor client service.Against this backdrop, Optima Tax Relief, which was founded in 2011 by two Wharton Business School grads, boasts of having resolved more than $1 billion of tax debts for its clients.As a tax attorney who has helped clients settle tax debts, I know how messy the process can be and how vulnerable individuals in this situation are to scamsOur Pick For Best Tax Relief Company\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t.st5-50967.btn.btn-default:hover{border-color: #4db848;color: #4db848;background: #fff !important;}\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBBB Accredited: A+ Rating With 5\/5 RatingGuarantee: 30-Day Moneyback GuaranteeReasonable Fees: Lower than Industry AveragesTax Attorneys and CPAs: Decades of Combined Experience\tTable of ContentsToggleOptima Tax Relief At a GlanceHow Does Optima Tax Relief Work?Optima Tax Relief Client Bill of RightsHow to Qualify for Optima Tax ReliefOptima Tax Relief CostOptima Tax Relief Pros and ConsIs Optima Tax Relief Legit?Alternatives to Optima Tax ReliefIs Optima Tax Relief Worth It?Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam?Final ThoughtsFrequently Asked QuestionsOptima Tax Relief At a Glance.simple_table-49081 table tr th{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}.simple_table-49081 table tr td{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}Free ConsultationYesServicesTax ResolutionTax ReturnsInvestigation Fee$495+Resolution Fee$1,200 - $7,000Minimum Debt Required$10,000Refund Policy15-Day Money-Back GuaranteeDedicated Case ManagerYesSpeed of Service2-6 MonthsLocation AvailabilityAll 50 StatesOptima Tax Relief Phone Number(800) 536-0734Services OfferedGenerally, Optima specializes in tax resolution services, which include the following:Installment AgreementsOffer in CompromisePenalty AbatementWage GarnishmentsAudit RepresentationState Tax DebtsIRS Tax LiensThe company also helps clients with filing their delinquent and current-year returns.The Best Tax Relief CompaniesWant to see our list of the best tax relief companies for various situations?  Click the button below!.st1-51546.btn.btn-default:hover{border-color: #4db848;color: #4db848;background: #fff !important;}See the List\tHow Does Optima Tax Relief Work?On its website, Optima advertises a four-step process for resolving your tax debts.Well, it’s really three steps \u2014 the final step being “freedom,” presumably from tax debt.ConsultationTo sign up for Optima, you must first request a free tax consultation through its website.Although the company claims that a \u201csenior tax associate\u201d will reach out to review your tax situation, a number of client reviews suggest that a non-credentialed salesperson will be your first contact with the company.I understand that Optima needs to make money through selling its services, but the company\u2019s description of the initial consultation makes it seem like a credentialed tax expert will actually be reviewing your case during this phase.If that is the case, Optima should be upfront that the initial consultation is an opportunity to gather preliminary information and lay out Optima\u2019s service offerings.If you do decide to move forward with Optima, you will proceed to the investigation phase.Related: How to File Your Back Taxes, Avoid Penalties, and Get Your Life Back on TrackInvestigationMy research indicated that you will be required to pay a $495 fee during this phase, which will last up to 30 days.During this stage, Optima claims it will contact the IRS (and\/or state tax agency), address any urgent collection efforts, and gather the required information to build a case.But many reviews claim that once Optima collects its fee, the company becomes noncommunicative. In some cases, reviewers claimed that Optima provided inaccurate information upon completing the investigation.For example, in one review, a former client claimed that during the investigatory phase, \u201c[Optima] called me and told me I owe back taxes\u2026I called and spoke to the IRS I owe no back taxes and all years were filed.\u201dIf this claim is true, I find it troubling because determining whether someone owes back taxes should be easy to uncover during a 30-day review period.ResolutionIn the resolution phase, Optima advertises that it will work to achieve the most optimal outcome based on the findings of the investigation.Although some reviews show that Optima significantly reduced their clients\u2019 tax debt, many reviews claimed that all the company did was set up an installment plan on their behalf with the IRS.Sometimes an installment plan is the best option, but the reviews suggest that clients were surprised by this outcome. If these client reviews are true, Optima should be upfront that an installment plan may be the best and only option.Unfortunately, I suspect that what may have happened in these cases is the Optima \u201csenior tax associate\u201d \u2013 their fancy term for salesperson \u2013 did not adequately clarify that Optima may not actually be able to settle clients\u2019 tax debt with the IRS for less than they owe.Obviously, the notion of settling one\u2019s tax debt for less than one owes \u2013 that is, obtaining an offer in compromise with the IRS \u2013 is an appealing one. I imagine that many individuals who reach out to Optima do so with such a settlement in mind.Optima likely knows this \u2013 their marketing highlights the stories of clients who owed the IRS a substantial amount of money and now owe nothing \u2013 and I imagine that their sales scripts take this into account.Of course, I have never been on a sales call with Optima tax relief salespeople, so this is simply my speculation based on what I\u2019ve seen in third-party reviews of Optima Tax Relief\u2019s services \u2013 reviews that may or may not be telling the whole story.Related: How Much to Offer in Compromise to the IRSOptima Tax Relief Client Bill of RightsOptima lays out a \u201cclient bill of rights\u201d on its website:The bill of rights hits all the right notes, but it is unclear what recourse a client has if Optima fails to make good on their promises.In fact, a number of client reviews highlighted the lack of transparency in pricing and poor communication on the status of cases, which contradict Optima\u2019s commitment to client service in the bill of rights.How to Qualify for Optima Tax ReliefIf you are interested in retaining Optima, you can request a free consultation through the company\u2019s website by filling in the following information:Amount of tax debtState of residenceContact informationThe minimum tax debt for Optima to work with you is $10,000, which is high compared to other tax relief firms.As mentioned before, the initial phone call will be with an Optima salesperson, not a credentialed tax expert. The salesperson will evaluate your case to determine whether tax relief is a suitable option for you.This leads me to believe that this consultation phase is more of a way for getting people to sign up for Optima\u2019s services rather than determining whether potential clients actually qualify for tax relief.Optima Tax Relief CostOptima does not disclose its fees (at least not in any apparent place on the website), but my research showed the following:.simple_table-49082 table tr th{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}.simple_table-49082 table tr td{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}Investigation Fee$495+Resolution Fee$1,200 - $7,000As mentioned above, you pay an upfront fee of $495 to have Optima review your case and determine the best tax relief option.The company advertises this as the Investigation Phase.Based on information I found, the resolution fee can vary.This is not different from any other tax relief firm; complex cases involving an offer in compromise will typically be more expensive while simpler cases such as the removal of a tax lien will be cheaper.That said, a lot of client reviews complained about Optima\u2019s lack of pricing transparency \u2014 a common complaint lodged against the tax relief industry.For example, a former client claimed, \u201cWe were first told the fee would be up to $4,000, but it ended up being $7,000,\u201d with the end result being \u201ca payment plan, something I could have done on my own a year ago and saved time.\u201dFees can change if a case turns out to be more complicated, but the review, if true, suggests that Optima not only failed to communicate the reason for the fee increase, but also overcharged the client for an outcome that is not difficult to obtain from the IRS.How Much Could You Save with Optima Tax Relief?The amount of money you can save depends on your specific tax situation.On its website, Optima has highlighted some cases where it was able to substantially reduce their clients\u2019 tax debts with the IRS and\/or state tax agency.Nevertheless, in some cases, Optima is only able to negotiate a payment plan for you with the IRS (and\/or state tax agency).In fact, one disturbing theme among the negative reviews is that Optima was only able to secure an installment plan even after, according to the client, appearing to promise tax reduction or elimination.At the very least, this shows that the company is not very upfront that a payment plan may be the best (and only) option.In the worst-case scenario, the lack of communication cited by client reviews after the company receives the fee shows that the company promised tax reduction without actually performing the necessary due diligence to determine whether the client qualified for such relief.Optima Tax Relief Pros and ConsPros Disclosure of Qualified Tax Professionals: On the company\u2019s website, Optima discloses the qualified tax professionals it has on staff. This is something that other tax relief companies do not do. The professionals include tax attorneys, CPAs, and EAs.Some Favorable Reviews: Optima has a good BBB rating and some good reviews.ConsPoor Client Service: Many client reviews complained about the lack of communication once Optima received their fee, including difficulty in getting a hold of case managers and not having calls returned.Opaque Pricing: A good number of reviewers claimed that Optima\u2019s actual fee ended up significantly more than estimated without an explanation as to why.High Minimum Tax Debt Threshold: There is a $10,000 minimum tax debt threshold for Optima to work with you.Is Optima Tax Relief Legit?Optima does have a BBB rating of 4.56\/5.00 and some favorable client reviews.That said, a lot of the good reviews were short and vague and did not provide much detail into the positive aspects of Optima. Below are some examples of the typical favorable review:There were also a number of negative reviews, which tended to provide much more detail on the reviewers\u2019 experience with Optima.Specifically, clients in these reviews consistently pointed out Optima\u2019s lack of transparency on pricing and its poor client service.The following table lists some representative examples of the negative comments on the BBB website:.simple_table-49085 table tr th{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}.simple_table-49085 table tr td{\ttext-align: center;\t\t}ReviewerIssueMy Take (Assuming Reviewer\u2019s Claims Are True)Quentin M.12\/08\/2021Quentin claimed that Optima told him that it could reduce his taxes within a year, but the process ultimately took about 6 years.Quentin also claimed that once he paid the $4,700 fee, he failed to get call backs, was instructed repeatedly to provide documents he had already previously provided, and was frequently routed to representatives that had no knowledge of his case. Quentin claimed that when he did finally reach his case manager, she told him that she had over 500 clients and did not call the customers about the status of their cases.Assuming Quentin\u2019s claims are true, the difference between the timeline he was promised and how long the case resolution actually took is troubling. As someone who has dealt with the IRS, I understand how drawn out the process can be, especially in light of the staff shortages and budget cuts the IRS has faced in recent years. Still, Optima should be aware of this and be realistic with the client. What I suspect is happening here is that the representative conveyed a shorter timeline as a way for Quentin to pay the resolution fee.Optima\u2019s lack of communication after receiving the fee is also concerning. The company has advertised that a case manager will be assigned to your case and be with you every step of the way. However, based on Quentin\u2019s review, he could never get a hold of anyone with knowledge of his case. His exchange with his case manager is particularly troubling, since it shows that she was overwhelmed and that no one was moving his case towards resolution. Given these circumstances, it is not difficult to imagine how Quentin\u2019s case has dragged on for nearly six years.Cara H.11\/30\/2021Cara claimed that Optima told her the fee for her case would be $4,000, but it has ended up costing her around $7,000. She also claimed that, despite all the money she paid, Optima ultimately negotiated only a payment plan with the IRS, something she could have done herself a year ago. Perhaps more concerning is that the payment plan failed to cover all the tax years in question, putting her at risk of a levy for these years.Cara has also claimed that she received no call backs when she checked in on her case for two months, a common theme throughout other negative reviews.If Cara's claims are true, the increased fees are concerning. It is not unreasonable for fees to increase if a case turns out to be more complicated, but it looks like Cara was blindsided by the jump in fees.At the very least, Optima needs to provide a rationale for why the fees increased by $3,000. Perhaps more importantly, assuming Cara\u2019s claims are true, the company needs to explain why it charged $7,000 for negotiating a payment plan with the IRS, something Cara could have done herself.Barnett M.11\/03\/2021Barnett claimed that she paid Optima $6,000 and the company incorrectly told her that her tax debt was 3 times the amount she actually owed. She laments that the \u201c[h]igh pressure sales pitch and extreme urgency convinced me to pay for the services.\u201dBarnett\u2019s experience, if true, is typical among clients that retain tax relief companies. Salespeople without the necessary credentials are under high pressure to sign up new clients and often exploit their clients\u2019 fears of the IRS and anxiety surrounding their situation. As with other tax relief companies, it looks like Optima failed to actually deliver on the sales pitches after the company received the fee.Robert T.09\/21\/2021Robert claimed that he paid $10,000 to Optima, which he had to finance with the company over 14 months. Robert also claimed that Optima failed to work on his case until the $10,000 was fully paid, which resulted in a lien being placed on his house in the amount of the tax debt during that period of time.After the 14-month period, Robert claimed that the company only negotiated a payment plan with the IRS. When Robert tried to call Optima to ask why the company could not help him reduce his tax debt, he could not get ahold of anyone and his calls were never returned.Assuming Robert\u2019s claims are true, there are a few concerning aspects in his review. First, even though Robert was financing his fee, he was still paying every month, which meant he should have been entitled to some level of service from Optima. Having a lien placed on your house is a terrifying ordeal and something that the company should have addressed immediately after taking the case.Robert also mentions that all the company did was set up a payment plan with the IRS on his behalf. Sometimes an installment plan is the best (and only) option. However, Optima should have disclosed this as a possibility upfront instead of waiting 14 months to tell him (conveniently after receiving the fee in full). This suggests that Optima failed to make a genuine effort at investigating and reviewing different options for resolving the debt with the IRS. Additionally, we have received former customers of Optima Tax Relief who came to us after Optima “didn’t help fix [their] tax problem.”Guarantees and DisclaimersOptima provides a 15-day money back guarantee. In evaluating the client reviews, I saw that clients generally had a difficult time receiving refunds when they requested their money back.It is unclear, however, whether these clients had requested refunds within the allowable 15-day window, or asked for their money back after the 15-day period.Practically speaking, since you are required to pay the investigation fee upfront and the company has 30 days to review your case, it is likely that you will only be able to receive the $495 investigation fee if you decide to get your money back within the 15-day period.Alternatives to Optima Tax ReliefBelow is a comparison of Optima\u2019s services with other prominent tax relief companies:.btn.btn-blue.dift:hover, .btn.btn-default.dift:hover {color: #5378eb;border-color: #5378eb;background: #fff !important;}\t\t\t Optima Tax ReliefChoice Tax Relief(My Company)Community TaxAnthem Tax Services \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tPros and Cons\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVisit\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRead Review\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVisit\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRead Review\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVisit\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRead Review\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tVisit\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFree Consultation\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\tServices\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTax ResolutionTax Returns\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTax ResolutionTax Returns\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTax ResolutionTax Returns\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTax ResolutionTax Returns\t\t\t\t\t\tInvestigation Fee\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$495+\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$395+\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$395+\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$495+\t\t\t\t\t\tResolution Fees\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$1,200 - $7,000\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$3,000 (Average)\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$3,000 (Average)\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$1,600 - $4,000\t\t\t\t\t\tMinimum Debt Required\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$10,000\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$10,000\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$5,000\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t$10,000\t\t\t\t\t\tRefund Policy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t15-Day Money-Back Guarantee\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t100% Money-Back Guarantee if Client Is Not in Better Position After Resolution\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMoney-Back Guarantee (Terms Not Stated on Website)\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t100% Money-Back Guarantee if Client Is Not in Better Position After Resolution\t\t\t\t\t\tDedicated Case Manager\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t\t\t\tSpeed of Service\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2-6 months\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2-6 months\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2-6 months\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t2-6 months\t\t\t\t\t\tLocation Availability\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAll 50 States\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAll 50 States\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAll 50 States\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAll 50 States\t\t\t\t\t\tPhone Number\t\t\t\t\t\t\t(800) 536-0734\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t(866) 800-0829\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t(800) 444-0622\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t(888) 548-0478\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\tIs Optima Tax Relief Worth It?In my opinion, Optima Tax Relief is not worth the time and money.Although the company has some good reviews, a substantial number of reviews focused on the lack of communication and pricing transparency during the process.Who Optima Tax Relief Is Best ForOptima\u2019s services are best for clients with relatively simple tax debt situations who do not require much hand-holding with respect to their tax issues.Who Optima Tax Relief Is Not ForOptima\u2019s services are not for clients with complex and large tax debts who value frequent communication, transparency, and updates on the status of their case.Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam?Is Optima Tax Relief a scam? Please let me know your opinion in the comments if you or someone you know has experience with this company, and I will read those comments and respond to them, but in this video I am going to share my opinion on whether or not Optima Tax Relief is a scam.Although it appears \u2014 at least based on some online reviews that could very well be fabricated (I don’t know) \u2014 that some of Optima Tax Relief’s customers are not pleased with the service they received from Optima Tax Relief, no, in my opinion, Optima Tax Relief is not technically a scam.And I’m saying this as a competitor of Optima Tax Relief; I own my own tax relief company, Choice Tax Relief, where we do all the same things that Optima Tax Relief does (but in my biased opinion, a lot better than they do), and we’re much smaller than Optima Tax Relief, but I’m not going to crap all over a competitor and call it a scam.A scam is if a company does all this advertising and takes your money with the intent to defraud you and not help you out at all.But unlike that, I do believe that most folks at Optima Tax Relief do have the intention to help their clients with their tax debt.However, I also believe \u2014 and this is just my opinion based on some people I’ve spoken to who hired my company after using Optima as well as things I’ve read online on customer review sites like Yelp or Google Reviews \u2014 that at Optima as well as at some other big tax relief companies, sometimes folks who call in are oversold or subjected to a very high-pressure sales pitch to get them to sign on the dotted line.And then when the tax team in the back office gets the case file, it’s clear that the client is not going to qualify for any kind of amazing resolution like an offer in compromise or something like that.And then the client is angry at Optima because Optima charged them some insane amount of money but wasn’t really able to do anything for them that they couldn’t have done themselves \u2014 especially folks who don’t owe very much money and who can just go set up an installment agreement themselves.Another complaint that I’ve read about Optima is that people feel like they’re just getting pushed around from person to person and their case isn’t being worked on.Now, I don’t have firsthand experience with a company like Optima, so I don’t know if this is true, but \u2014 knowing as the owner of a tax relief company how long some cases can take \u2014 I could see how something like that could happen at a big tax relief company that does a great job of marketing on television and radio and everywhere else but where cases fall through the cracks on the backend because the staff is just overwhelmed with work.So the question is, “If these things are true, does that make Optima Tax Relief a scam?” In my opinion, no. Does it make it the best tax relief company that you want to work with? Likewise no.I’m obviously biased, but if you have tax debt issues \u2014 you owe a lot in back taxes to IRS or state, you have payroll tax issues, you have years of unfiled returns (individual or business) \u2014 reach out to us at Choice Tax Relief.  You can:Email us at hello@choicetaxrelief.comBook an appointment at https:\/\/choicetaxrelief.com\/free-tax-consultation\/Call us at 866-8000-TAX.Final ThoughtsUltimately, a lot of client reviews showed that Optima failed to communicate in a timely fashion \u2014 or even respond to client inquiries at all.Additionally, many former clients mentioned that prices were not transparent and indicated they were in a worse position after working with Optima.Frequently Asked Questions.accordion-list .accordion-title:hover{color: #4db848;}How much does it cost to use Optima Tax Relief?Optima does not disclose its fees, but my research indicated an initial investigation fee of $495. Based on the BBB client reviews, the typical resolution fee ranged from $1,200 to $7,000. Some clients cited higher fees, including an $18,000 fee in one review.How long does it take Optima Tax Relief to work?Optima\u2019s estimated turnaround time is 2-6 months. Who owns Optima Tax Relief? Optima Tax Relief was founded by Harry Langenberg and Jesse Stockwell, who were students at the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania.Does Optima Tax Relief help with state taxes?Yes, Optima helps with state taxes, but it is unclear whether this service is available in all 50 states.Does Optima Tax Relief file taxes?Yes, Optima helps prepare delinquent and current-year returns.Does Optima Tax Relief hurt your credit score?No, it does not appear that retaining Optima Tax Relief will affect your credit score.How does Optima Tax Relief make money?Optima makes money primarily by working with clients to resolve their tax debts with the IRS and\/or state tax agency. Optima receives an initial investigation fee to review your file, and a resolution fee ranging from $1,200 to $7,000 (although reviews show the fees can sometimes be higher).  "},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Taxes","item":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Tax Relief","item":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/\/tax-relief\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Optima Tax Relief Review 2025: A Tax Attorney’s Honest Take","item":"https:\/\/moneydoneright.com\/taxes\/tax-relief\/optima-tax-relief-review\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]