Fortress Tax Relief Reviews

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Edited by: Tammy Burns

About Fortress Tax Relief

Based in Oregon, Fortress Tax Relief is a national tax resolution firm that provides services to businesses and individuals across the country. It offers a range of solutions to resolve tax debts, including pennies-on-the-dollar settlements, payment plans and penalty elimination. Each case is handled by a licensed tax attorney who specializes in handling back tax liabilities.

Pros
  • Free consultation
  • Licensed attorneys
Cons
  • Unclear pricing terms
  • Money-back guarantee only 24 hours

Helpful Reviews

Meridian, MS
Verified purchase
Attorney Stephen **'s partner David ** handled my large and complex tax case. Mr. ** was very easy to work with and has a very strategic approach for tax resolution for individual...

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Redmond, OR
Verified purchase
Peter and Karlin at Fortress went above and beyond to help my dad resolve his IRS and CA DOR debts after he fell behind due to major medical issues. Their expertise and experience...

Read more

What is Fortress Tax Relief?

Fortress Tax Relief is a medium-sized tax relief firm that helps individuals and businesses resolve tax enforcement issues and liabilities nationwide. Each attorney undergoes more than 500 hours of training with a licensed tax attorney before being able to work with Fortress.

How does Fortress Tax Relief work?

After your free initial consultation, an attorney will review your case to ensure you’re a good candidate. Then, you will have the opportunity to meet with your attorney. If you are not satisfied with this meeting, you can request a full refund within 24 hours of the meeting.

Fortress Tax Relief products

Fortress Tax Relief offers a number of tax resolution services for the American taxpayer, including tax appeals, innocent spouse tax relief and review of tax transcripts. For complex cases, Fortress Tax Relief offers Creative Tax Relief Solutions for a more personalized approach.

Offers in compromise
For taxpayers who have difficulty paying the full amount of what they owe or have doubts as to the amount demanded, Fortress Tax Relief helps with offers in compromise (OIC). Offers in compromise allow taxpayers to settle liabilities for less than the full amount owed.
Penalty abatement
A penalty abatement reduces the amount you owe. But before the IRS can grant a penalty abatement, there needs to be “reasonable cause.” Fortress Tax Relief can help you establish that by stating the facts and providing a sound legal argument.
Installment agreements
With installment agreements, taxpayers agree to repay their tax debt in installments. Fortress Tax Relief works with taxpayers to negotiate terms that are fair and financially reasonable. Installment agreements are great for taxpayers who want to avoid or are on the verge of default.
Innocent spouse tax relief
When filing joint taxes, there are times when one spouse may be found innocent of tax liabilities. In these cases, Fortress Tax Relief can help spouses who meet the criteria with innocent spouse tax relief services, so they can be relieved of liability.
Tax appeals
Fortress Tax Relief helps clients identify the best method for a tax appeal. The two main ways are through the Collection Appeals Program (CAP) and a Request for a Collection Due Process Hearing (CDP). If a taxpayer misses the deadline for a CDP, Fortress Tax Relief helps them identify their eligibility for an “Equivalent Hearing.”
Creative tax relief solutions
Fortress Tax Relief offers creative tax relief solutions for taxpayers whose cases do not fit into one of these conventional tax strategies. Fortress Tax Relief will work with you personally to identify the best plan. This might mean combining a number of different approaches to protect your assets and resolve tax liabilities.

Fortress Tax Relief cost

Prices for Fortress Tax Relief can range from $1,000 on the low end to over $15,000 for aggravated or complex cases. The cost of tax relief varies depending on the size of tax liability. For some tax issues, Fortress Tax Relief charges a flat fee depending on how many hours are estimated for the work.

Fortress Tax Relief FAQ

How do I know if I need a tax attorney?

If you feel overwhelmed by your tax situation or owe more money than feels possible to repay, a tax attorney can help give clarity on your situation. Choose a tax attorney that offers a free consultation and is upfront with its pricing and resolution timeline from the start.

Why should I choose a tax attorney over a tax resolution company?

Generally, tax attorneys can be more aggressive in the case made to the IRS. It also takes an attorney a significant amount of hours to become licensed and the ability to practice versus an enrolled agent (EA) or certified public accountant (CPA). All Fortress Tax Relief attorneys have over 500 hours of one-on-one experience, whereas an EA can be certified in as little as six months and needs only 16 hours of continuing education each year to stay certified.

How much does the IRS usually settle for?

According to Fortress Tax Relief, the average OIC in 2023 was $16,200. But everyone’s tax situation is different and will have a different outcome. It is best to work with a legitimate tax attorney or tax resolution company that is honest about the expected results rather than overpromising what it can do.

Can you negotiate with the IRS without a lawyer?

Yes, you can negotiate with the IRS without a lawyer. However, many taxpayers find their tax situation overwhelming and the tax code complicated to sift through to figure out their rights and responsibilities. A tax lawyer works with tax issues and the IRS daily and because an attorney knows the tax laws well, it can possibly set you up with a better outcome with the IRS than you could have reached yourself.

Still have questions?

Is Fortress Tax Relief legit?

Fortress Tax Relief is a legitimate tax resolution company that has been in business since 2003. It has four tax attorneys on staff to fight the IRS on your behalf. The company never takes on more than 100 clients at a time, to ensure the attorneys can devote the needed resources to each case.

Fortress Tax Relief Reviews

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    Reviewed March 12, 2026

    Attorney Stephen **'s partner David ** handled my large and complex tax case. Mr. ** was very easy to work with and has a very strategic approach for tax resolution for individuals as well as businesses. I highly recommend Fortress Tax Relief and Attorney David **.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaffRatesFollow-ThroughHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed Sept. 21, 2025

      For years, I carried the heavy burden of tax debt, convinced that working harder would eventually get me back on track. But despite my best efforts, I kept falling deeper into a cycle of penalties, compounding interest, and mounting stress. In my search for real help, I eventually found Fortress Tax Relief—a firm that immediately stood out because they assign licensed attorneys, not clerks or call center staff, to handle cases. That distinction would prove to be critical. But before I made the decision to work with Fortress, I made the unfortunate mistake of hiring another company that seemed reputable at the time.

      That company promised to pursue an Offer in Compromise but never followed through. Instead, they simply duplicated steps I had already taken on my own—like securing “currently not collectible” status. While they handled my tax filings, they missed key deductions, frequently closed my case without warning, and shuffled me between more than a dozen reps. Each time, I had to start over—and pay again. I later learned I wasn’t alone in this experience. To make things worse, I was even belittled by their staff, despite doing everything I could to stay compliant.

      Eventually, I turned to Fortress Tax Relief, and this time, I got the support I needed. David ** and his team were professional, honest, and confident. They carefully reviewed my case and were certain I qualified for a settlement—and they were right. Although the process was delayed due to IRS staffing issues, Fortress stayed committed throughout. After multiple IRS reviews, I finally received the letter I had hoped for: my Offer in Compromise was approved. If you’re facing tax debt you genuinely can’t pay, I highly recommend Fortress Tax Relief. They deliver results—and they treat you with the respect you deserve.

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      TechPriceStaffRatesHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed Aug. 29, 2025

      When I look at the value a service provider brings—whether in my personal or professional life—I usually boil it down to two things: price and results. With Fortress, I felt I paid a fair price, but the results went way beyond what I ever expected. I had fallen into serious IRS debt after self-funding a startup with my retirement savings. My goal wasn’t just to set up a long repayment plan—I wanted to actually reduce the IRS’s taxes, interest, and penalties. Fortress made that happen. In the end, we closed my IRS matter with a six-figure reduction. To say my expectations were exceeded would be an understatement. I can honestly say I’d highly recommend Fortress to anyone dealing with IRS issues.

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      Staff

      Reviewed July 30, 2025

      I was very grateful to receive the help and expertise provided by the staff at Fortress Tax Relief. They helped me tremendously, by walking me through the process of all the steps required to assist my elderly Mother in resolving a complicated IRS issue. They assisted me in stopping any garnishments or property seizures that would have taken place without their help.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed July 14, 2025

      I’ve had the good fortune of being represented by David ** of Fortress Tax Relief. I would characterize Mr. ** as tenacious in the best sense of the word as it relates to the handling of my case with the IRS given his dogged attention to detail and a work ethic second to none. Add to this his adeptness at navigating the complex landscape of IRS policies and procedures and you end up with an attorney who leaves you totally confident that you are being represented by someone who possesses an abundance of legal skills and who takes great pride in their work. I sleep much better at night knowing that my case is the capable hands of David **.

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      Customer ServiceFollow-Through

      Reviewed July 13, 2025

      I am 73 years old and have unfiled taxes for years gone by for both Oregon and the IRS. I had a really hard time finding anyone with any good experience, dealing with the state of Oregon in particular. I finally contacted Fortress Tax relief and was given a great team headed by David **. It turned out to be the best call I ever made! I owed the Oregon Department of revenue over $70,000. David ** and the Fortress Tax teams years of experience settled my debt for under $6000! There is absolutely no way I could have done this on my own! I highly recommend Fortress! They actually do what they say!

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      Staff

      Reviewed May 27, 2025

      I’m 66 and was in for $80k. Financial Fortress set me up with a fantastic team headed up by a very experienced, talented and patient lawyer David ** and his team. Although my case took some time based on the IRS rules and my circumstances. The end result worked out well and the settlement to the IRS was about $1,000.00. This took so much stress away and I’m grateful!

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      Customer ServicePunctuality & SpeedStaff

      Reviewed May 5, 2025

      Called Fortress Tax Services for questions regarding extended time to file due to my w2. Representative was very pleasant and assured me I had until Sept for late taxes, also regarding questions about an amendment and how to go about it. He was very helpful and it was a pleasure.

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      PriceStaffBilling

      Reviewed March 12, 2025

      I can’t say enough good things about Fortress Tax Relief (David)! From start to finish, their team was professional, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. It took me a while to gather all my documents, but they never rushed me and were always supportive throughout the process. I had a significant tax debt—even though I was making my monthly payments, it felt like I was never going to get out from under it. To make matters worse, I added new taxes from the next year. I was completely overwhelmed. Fortress stepped in and took the stress off my shoulders, handling negotiations over several months to get me a plan that was actually affordable and manageable. Their expertise and dedication truly made a difference. If you're feeling stuck with tax debt, I highly recommend Fortress Tax Relief—they helped me find a way forward when I couldn’t see one myself!

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      Fortress Tax Relief
      Response from Fortress Tax Relief

      Our clients who represented themselves (or had a different tax relief firm handling thier case) prior to hiring us often tell us that the monthly payments the IRS was demanding were astronomical. Very few taxpayers know their rights, and nearly none know how to exercise them. We know them inside and out, and all of our attorneys have a ton of experience resolving tax debts. Our team takes pride in making the process easy for our clients, with simple, step-by-step instructions, and we're always here to help and guide you if you have questions. Follow our instructions, and we will take care of the rest and ensure you get the best tax relief terms to which you are entitled under the law...and we often get our clients terms that are significantly better than those to which they are entitled. We're so glad you found us and thank you for your review!

      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed March 7, 2025

      Peter and Karlin at Fortress went above and beyond to help my dad resolve his IRS and CA DOR debts after he fell behind due to major medical issues. Their expertise and experience were evident, throughout the process—they knew exactly what to do and how to handle everything with confidence and efficiency. Beyond that they showed genuine care, respect, and kindness, acknowledging not just my dad’s financial struggles but his health challenges as well. Their professionalism and compassion during my dad’s final years made a stressful situation easier and we are incredibly grateful. Highly recommend Fortress!

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      Fortress Tax Relief
      Response from Fortress Tax Relief

      We always strive to be compassionate, to reduce our clients' stress levels, and to procure a result beyond that which is the minimum required by law. We're so glad to hear you were happy with our services. Thank you!

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      Fortress Tax Relief Company Information

      Company Name:
      Fortress Tax Relief
      Formerly Named:
      Fortress Financial Services, Inc.
      Address:
      1011 SW Emkay Drive, Suite 201
      City:
      Bend
      State/Province:
      OR
      Postal Code:
      97702
      Country:
      United States
      Website:
      taxfortress.com