Mitch Levin, CPA

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Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam? What Consumers Need to Know Before Signing Up

Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam? What Consumers Need to Know Before Signing Up

If you’re struggling with IRS debt and searching for help online, you’ve likely come across Optima Tax Relief. The company is one of the largest tax relief firms in the country — but it has also faced numerous consumer complaints, lawsuits, and investigations, leaving many taxpayers wondering: “Is Optima Tax Relief a scam?”

What Is Optima Tax Relief?

Optima Tax Relief is a California-based company offering IRS tax resolution services, including:

  • Installment agreements

  • Offer in Compromise (OIC) submissions

  • Penalty abatement

  • IRS appeals & representation

  • Back tax help

They advertise aggressively on TV, radio, and online — but reviews show a mixed reputation.

Why Some Consumers Believe Optima Tax Relief Is a Scam

Here are the most common complaints consumers report online and to regulators:

❌ 1. High Upfront Fees

Thousands of reviews mention:

  • Initial investigation fees between $295–$495

  • Resolution fees typically between $2,000–$6,000+

  • Additional fees added later in the process

Many customers say fees were charged before meaningful work was completed.

❌ 2. Promises of Results They Cannot Guarantee

Multiple complaints state that Optima:

  • Promised dramatic tax savings

  • Advertised unrealistic Offer in Compromise results

  • Suggested guaranteed IRS approval

The IRS has very strict OIC qualifications, and most applicants do not get approved.

❌ 3. Poor Communication

According to BBB and Trustpilot reports, many customers experienced:

  • Weeks without updates

  • No returned calls or emails

  • Confusing billing practices

  • Changes in assigned case managers

Lack of communication is one of the biggest industry-wide red flags.

❌ 4. Hundreds of BBB and CFPB Complaints

Optima has:

  • Hundreds of complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau

  • Complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

  • Multiple negative reviews on social media and Google

These complaints commonly reference surprise fees, delays, or poor results.

❌ 5. Legal and Regulatory Actions

Optima Tax Relief has been involved in:

  • Consumer lawsuits

  • State attorney general investigations

  • Allegations involving unfair business practices

These actions raise additional concerns for taxpayers considering their services.

Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam?

Optima is not officially classified as a scam, but the extensive number of complaints shows a pattern of issues that consumers should be aware of before paying for tax relief services.

Think of it like this:

Not everything legal is ethical — and not everything expensive is effective.

Consumers should approach with caution, do thorough research, and understand exactly what services they’re paying for.

How to Protect Yourself From Tax Relief Scams

Here are industry best practices to avoid being misled:

✔️ 1. Never trust guaranteed tax savings

No company can guarantee IRS approval — not even attorneys or CPAs.

✔️ 2. Avoid large upfront fees

Legitimate practitioners bill based on hourly work or flat-rate services.

✔️ 3. Demand full transparency

Ask:

  • What is the total cost?

  • What work is included?

  • How often will you receive updates?

✔️ 4. Check licensing

Make sure the representative is:

  • A CPA

  • An Enrolled Agent (EA)

  • Or a tax attorney

Many salespeople in large firms are not licensed.

Better Alternatives to Optima Tax Relief

Consider hiring a local, licensed tax professional, such as:

  • A CPA specializing in IRS collections

  • An Enrolled Agent

  • A tax attorney

These professionals typically offer:

  • Lower costs

  • Personalized service

  • Better communication

  • No call-center approach

Final Thoughts: Do Your Research Before Hiring Any Tax Relief Company

Optima Tax Relief is a high-profile company with a long track record — but also a long list of complaints, lawsuits, and regulatory actions that raise serious concerns for consumers.

Before committing to any tax relief service:

  • Compare pricing

  • Verify licensing

  • Ask questions

  • Read verified reviews

  • Consider speaking with a local expert

If you want help reviewing a CP14 notice, negotiating with the IRS, or setting up a payment plan, you don’t need to pay thousands of dollars upfront to a national tax relief company.

👉 We offer honest, transparent, and affordable tax resolution services — without the sales pressure. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Mitchell Levinoptima, optima tax relief, scam, installment agreement, IRS