Financial hardship is a stressful situation for anyone. Owing a
tax debt that you are having difficulty repaying only adds to that anxiety.
When threatening IRS letters start to roll in, it's easy to get desperate. While
a number of tax relief solutions exist, dishonest people are also out there
ready to prey on anxious taxpayers. Learn how to avoid tax relief scams and
find a reputable company that can really provide help.
It Might Be a Scam if.....
- The
solution comes too quickly. The first step
to tax relief is to consult with a professional. This meeting should just
be a consultation, a chance for the company to gather information about
you and your tax liability. They may present program options to you and
explain the steps involved to participate. If your consultant immediately
offers a quick solution to your tax problem, look somewhere else. Most
likely it's just a sales pitch, an empty promise aimed at benefiting their
company, not you.
- They guarantee a settlement. The IRS does sometimes agree to settle for a small percentage of the amount owed. However, those cases are rare and require a thorough investigation by the IRS. Any company that guarantees a settlement is most likely being dishonest. No one has that authority. Much time and painstaking effort is involved to apply and get approval for a settlement.
- They offer a bargain, flat fee. Your tax situation is unique and so is the best tax relief solution for you. It only makes sense that you should be charged based on factors such as the complexity of your case and the number of tax years involved. Tax relief companies that charge a flat, standard fee for all customers are most likely not providing customized services. You won't be getting a bargain.
Signs of a Reputable Company
It's important to note that real tax relief is available.
Legitimate tax relief companies do exist and provide valuable services to their
clients. These professionals are able to thoroughly review your circumstances,
recommend specific tax relief programs and help you navigate through the
qualification process. Often, they are able to leverage their good reputation
and relationship with the IRS to advocate on your behalf. An honest
professional will not make any guarantees, but will work hard to get the best
tax relief solution available to you.
Take Action
The most important step in tax relief is to find a reliable
resource as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more your penalties and
interest will accumulate and the harder it will be to
find a tax relief solution. Ask a reputable professional about your particular
circumstances and start getting answers. Optima Tax Relief has a
team of professionals ready to take on your tax problems. They have the
experience and resources to offer viable solutions.
