Optima Tax Relief Reviews
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About Optima Tax Relief
Optima Tax Relief is a tax resolution firm that helps individuals and small businesses resolve federal and state tax issues. The company negotiates directly with the IRS and state agencies on behalf of clients. It specializes in issues such as back taxes, wage garnishments, bank levies, tax liens, payroll tax problems and IRS audits. Depending on a client’s eligibility, resolutions may include payment plans, penalty reductions, temporary hardship status or negotiated settlements.
Visit optimatax.com- Free initial consultation
- Licensed tax professionals and attorneys
- Ongoing tax protection plans available
- 15-day money-back guarantee during the investigation phase
- Upfront payment may be required
- Long-term results not guaranteed
- Some communication issues
Helpful Reviews
How does Optima Tax Relief work?
The process begins with a free consultation to review the taxpayer’s financial and tax situation. If a client enrolls, Optima Tax Relief generally uses a two-phase approach:
1. Investigation and Protection: During the investigation phase, the company gathers IRS records, reviews outstanding tax liabilities and works to stop or reduce immediate collection actions such as:
- Wage garnishments
- Bank levies
Tax professionals then analyze the client’s financial condition, filing history and eligibility for various IRS relief programs.
2. Resolution: Once the investigation is complete, Optima Tax Relief develops a resolution strategy based on the taxpayer’s circumstances. Possible solutions may include:
- Installment agreements
- Offer in compromise (OIC) settlements
- Penalty abatement requests
- Currently not collectible (CNC) status
- Audit representation
- Collection appeals
The resolution timeline depends on factors such as the amount owed, the number of unfiled tax returns and how quickly the IRS processes documentation.
Optima Tax Relief services
Optima Tax Relief specializes in resolving complex tax situations that may involve multiple years of unfiled returns, aggressive IRS collection actions or large outstanding tax balances. Its range of federal and state tax resolution services can help resolve issues using the following:
- Offer in compromise: A program that may allow eligible taxpayers to settle their tax debt for less than the full amount owed.
- Penalty abatement: A request to reduce or remove IRS penalties due to reasonable cause, such as illness or financial hardship.
- Installment agreement: A payment plan that lets taxpayers pay off tax debt over time instead of in one lump sum.
- Tax lien discharge: The removal of a tax lien from a specific property so it can be sold or refinanced.
- Wage garnishment release: Assistance in stopping the IRS from taking a portion of a taxpayer’s paycheck to cover unpaid taxes.
- Currently not collectible: A temporary IRS status that pauses collection efforts when a taxpayer cannot afford to pay.
- Statute of limitations: Guidance related to the time limit the IRS has to collect certain tax debts.
- Collection appeal: A formal process for disputing IRS collection actions, such as liens or levies.
Optima Tax Shield
In addition to tax resolution services, Optima Tax Relief offers Optima Tax Shield, a membership-based tax protection program that provides ongoing tax filing support, tax preparation services, identity theft monitoring and other services designed to help taxpayers remain compliant.
Optima Tax Relief costs
Optima Tax Relief doesn't publish pricing on its website for either tax relief services or its tax protection plans. Anecdotally, Jodi in Iowa said Optima charged $6,000 for tax relief services, and Melody in Florida paid over $8,000.
Tax relief costs vary depending on the complexity of your tax situation, the total amount of debt and the types of services required. Factors like the number of tax years involved, whether enforcement actions are in place and the level of professional support needed may also impact the final price.
With Optima’s two-phase process, the company conducts an investigation before enrolling clients in its resolution program, so customers should understand what they owe for the investigation phase before paying any additional resolution fees.
However, you may have to pay upfront. “My total cost was just under $5,000 for them to file my back taxes and negotiate on my behalf,” Chris in Georgia told us. “No one would discuss my case until it was paid in full. In the meantime, I was accruing interest and penalties on the back taxes. I could not get anyone to discuss my case until it was paid in full.”
FAQ
How long does Optima Tax Relief take to resolve a case?
Optima Tax Relief says many cases are resolved within two to 12 months. However, timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case. Factors such as the amount owed, the number of unfiled tax returns, IRS processing times, audits or appeals may impact how long resolution takes.
Does Optima Tax Relief offer a money-back guarantee?
Optima Tax Relief does not guarantee specific tax resolution outcomes. However, the company offers a 15-day money-back guarantee during the investigation phase for qualifying clients. The guarantee does not apply to clients enrolled with an immediate action team.
Does Optima Tax Relief file taxes?
Yes. Optima Tax Relief has tax preparation professionals who assist individuals and businesses with state and federal tax returns. The company may also help taxpayers file overdue returns and address related tax penalties when possible.
Does Optima Tax Relief have a debt minimum?
Optima Tax Relief works with individuals and businesses with tax debt of $10,000 or more. For debts under $10,000, Optima can refer you to one of its vetted partner companies for relief services.
Can Optima Tax Relief reduce your tax debt?
Depending on eligibility and financial circumstances, Optima Tax Relief may help taxpayers reduce or manage tax debt through programs such as an offer in compromise, penalty abatement, installment agreement or currently not collectible status.
Is Optima Tax Relief worth it?
Optima Tax Relief may be worth considering for individuals or small business owners dealing with serious IRS or state tax issues, especially cases involving wage garnishments, bank levies, tax liens or multiple years of unpaid taxes.
Optima Tax Relief may be a good fit for taxpayers seeking professional IRS representation, ongoing tax preparation support or year-round tax protection services through Optima Tax Shield. However, taxpayers with simple filing needs or smaller tax issues may find lower-cost alternatives through local CPAs, enrolled agents or tax preparation services.
Still have questions?
Is Optima Tax Relief legit?
Yes, Optima Tax Relief is a legitimate company, licensed by the IRS to practice in all U.S. states, with a physical office in Santa Ana, California. It offers a variety of tax solutions and assistance, including tax liability investigation and resolution proposals, tax preparation and compliance, and tax settlement and negotiation. The company has been in business since 2011 and is a member of the National Association of Enrolled Agents and the National Association of Tax Professionals.
Satisfied customers were grateful for the help they received from Optima. However, negative reviews mentioned delays, lack of communication and unfulfilled promises. As with any tax relief company, consumers should review service agreements carefully and compare available options before enrolling.
Optima Tax Relief Reviews
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Reviewed June 14, 2026
I looked around, did some research, looked at the reviews from the Better Business Bureau and decided to have a conversation with Optima Tax Relief and see what information they could provide. There was no cost to it and there was no pressure. The gentleman laid out to me what the situation was and what they could potentially do for me. They made no promises and I made a decision to give it a try.
They requested some documentation from me, which I provided. They've called me a couple of times to update me on the status of where their process is, what they've done for me so far, and what's been going on. They've reached out to me many more times than I've reached out to them. Their reach outs to me have been through their portal, where they've requested information. When I've supplied that information, they've in turn reached back out to me and told me what the outcome of that information supply has been. They also told me that as we move along through the process, there will be additional costs, and when we reach that point, I have the decision to either stop or go forward.
So far, as we've been to this point in the process, they've delivered on everything that they said they were going to do. We haven't received any resolution yet, but we're still midway through the process. Going up against the IRS is a challenge anyhow. At my age and status in life, I've been a law-abiding, tax-paying citizen and last thing I want to do is piss off the IRS. Having somebody else get in front of that for me and try and handle that for me has been somewhat of a relief for me. They've helped me with the issues that the IRS is trying to shove upon me. They've applied a team approach to that. It's not just me against the IRS now. I feel I have true professional experience support to help me with the IRS.
I've been very happy with Optima and with the communication with them. So far, what I've had to pay for the services I've received has been very fair. I'd be paying money to the IRS anyway and they wouldn't care. In fact, if I croaked, that'd be fine with them. They just seize my property or do whatever they do. But with Optima, I have seen the process and they are doing their best to help me out. It's been money well-spent. Everything's been positive and the people have been great. I would recommend them.
We greatly appreciate you taking the time to provide your feedback on your experience with Optima so far. We're glad that you found our communication and services helpful throughout this demanding process. Our aim is to offer the support and relieve some of the pressures of dealing with the IRS, empowering you with peace of mind. We're pleased that you would recommend our services, and we're committed to continuing to meet your expectations. Please reach out if we can assist further!
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Reviewed June 13, 2026
I received nothing but help from Optima Tax Relief, and I appreciate that. It was a good service. I had a heart attack a while back, and I missed a couple years afterwards and they helped me get caught up. My wife was doing it, but she died in the process. So, it fell on me. I needed help. So, I called out to them. I took it up around March of last year. They were wonderful. When I first called them, I kept getting on to Philippines, and that was frustrating. When I finally got the team that was working on my file, they were top-notch. It was just getting to them was the frustrating part. They knew my wife passed away. They would continue to ask for her on the phone and ask for a permission from her to talk to me, and that was frustrating. I was still in grieving, and it bugged me that I needed to get ahold of them, and I had to go through the Philippines and talk to various people before they finally got me through them.
I did send a couple of emails and got a good response from that. They did a good job, and they're still doing a good job. I'm thankful that they'd be on this side of the whole thing because on the other side, it was frustrating because I didn't know what to do or how to do it. They have a portal that I log into. I go online, log in, and I get documents and updates.
Thank you for sharing your journey with Optima Tax Relief. We deeply appreciate your kind words despite the challenges you faced early on. We're glad our team ultimately provided you the support needed during such a difficult time. It's wonderful to know you've found use in our portal and received helpful responses via email. We always aim to improve our efficiencies and sincerely thank you for your understanding. Please reach out if there's ever anything else you need—we're here to help.
Reviewed June 6, 2026
My wife was very sick. She had a liver transplant and lung cancer, and I hadn't paid my taxes in four years. I saw Optima Tax Relief advertised on TV. and they sounded more interesting than other tax people, so I signed up with them for help. They're all very nice, friendly, and very helpful. The first guy I talked to was named Steve. He was in California and he was explaining that it could take up to six months for the four years of my taxes to get taken care of. I started it in April, so I'm only about two months in.
Initially, I thought once I set up this program, IRS wouldn't be taking some money out of my retirement check, and they did the 1st of June. They took out 200 and some dollars. So far, Optima keeps asking for documents and I fax that to them. Otherwise, I really haven't heard anything and I don't think we're missing each other. I use my daughter's email and she checks it every day, that was why we found out that they needed more tax forms. To anyone thinking of using Optima, be ready for them to request a lot of forms and things, and that it takes about six or seven months, depending on how far back their taxes are.
Thank you for sharing your concerns and experience with us. We appreciate your patience as we complete your tax process, which can sometimes take up to six months. It's vital for us to gather all necessary documents, so thank you for your cooperation on that front. We understand that unexpected transactions can be worrying, and our team is committed to supporting you. Don't hesitate to reach out through your preferred contact method if you need further clarification or updates.
Reviewed June 5, 2026
I initially did a consultation with Optima Tax Relief. They get your information, what your concerns are, and what you feel like you're facing into. Then they get back and say, “Well, we'll look into it. We'll work out a plan and work out the payment for the plan, and then we'll get on it.” It's a hard thing to give out your information to people. As of right now, I'm paying Optima to perform the tasks that I need to have fixed. I am hopeful that I can be confident that it can be resolved in my favor.
They have requested some more information from me, and it's been about a month since they needed more information. So, I sent it to them, and I haven't heard anything from them since. I know there are so many people reaching out to these kinds of people right now because it's hard out here. Everything's expensive now, and nobody can afford to pay. So, I'm not disgruntled that Optima is not more forthcoming with information. Aside from all that, they're very knowledgeable. Any question that you ask, it takes time, but they do get back to you.
Thank you for sharing your experience with Optima Tax Relief. We value your patience as we address your concerns and appreciate the important information you've provided. We understand the importance of communication and assure you that our team is diligently working on your case. Please reach out to us directly if you need more current updates or have additional questions. Your confidence in our knowledge and service is critical to us, and we're committed to meeting your needs.
Reviewed May 16, 2026
Ms. Tamicah ** has been exceptionally professional, knowledgeable, patient, and effective throughout my experience. She is the only person I have dealt with over the past year who has communicated clearly, understood my concerns, explained the process thoroughly, and produced meaningful results. After paying nearly $29,000, my overall experience with Optima has been extremely frustrating. For months, I felt passed from department to department with little progress, limited accountability, and very little clear communication. I was frequently placed on hold, promised return calls that did not happen, and left feeling as though I was simply a number in the system rather than a client whose case mattered.
Much of my frustration came from communication breakdowns and being repeatedly told that nothing could be done, without receiving clear explanations or solutions. The experience has been discouraging and, at times, deeply stressful. That said, Ms. ** has been the exception. She made me feel heard, respected, and reassured. She is the reason I have been able to maintain patience through this process. In my opinion, she represents the very best of your company and should be recognized as one of your finest employees. I strongly encourage Optima to value her, support her, and do whatever is necessary to retain her.
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re very pleased to hear that our team provided the professionalism, clear communication, and support that made a meaningful difference throughout your case.
We also appreciate your candid feedback, as it helps us continue improving the experience we provide. Thank you for your patience and for placing your trust in Optima.
Reviewed July 8, 2026
Optima Tax Relief is nothing but talk!!! Initially, I was overwhelmed with frequent telephone calls. I made all of my payments under the assumption that they would negotiate with the IRS to settle my tax debt for a reduced amount (as per the many TC advertisements). I have been working with them since October 2025, and today I learned that their only action was to negotiate my monthly payments to the IRS for $600.00 per month. They did nothing to reduce the overall amount owed. All they advise is that "this is the best resolution".
I have not received any documentation from them outlining the amount they were attempting to reduce my tax debt to. I am concerned about the legitimacy of Optima Tax Relief's services. They may assure you that they will do everything possible to resolve the outstanding amount; however, you are often transferred from one representative to another, and little progress is made. I could have arranged a payment plan independently without incurring the extra expenses associated with Optima.
Reviewed July 6, 2026
I am new to Optima Tax Relief for my personal taxes, and I couldn't be happier. The team is incredibly knowledgeable, thorough, and responsive. What sets them apart is their proactive approach—they don't just help your tax issues. They offer strategic tax planning advice that has saved my Family both time and money. I highly recommend Optima to anyone looking for a trustworthy and professional tax service.
Welcome to the Optima family, and thank you for sharing your fantastic experience! We're thrilled that our knowledgeable and responsive team has made such a positive difference for you and your family. It's wonderful to hear our proactive tax planning approach has been saving you time and money. We're committed to providing this level of service to all our clients, and your trust and hearty recommendation mean the world to us. We look forward to being your trusted tax partner in the future!
Reviewed July 2, 2026
We have had a wonderful and very personal experience with Maria. She is the most experienced and knowledgeable person. AHA had went above and beyond to help us get thru this process. I would highly recommend Optima Tax Service to anyone that needed help with their Tax solutions. Great customer service and was always available to help. Thank you.
Thank you so much for your glowing review about Maria's service! We're delighted to hear she provided such a knowledgeable and personal experience for you. Her commitment to going above and beyond reflects our core values at Optima Tax Service. We greatly appreciate your recommendation and your trust in us. Please reach out anytime; we're honored to be here to assist with any future needs. Thank you for your support!
Reviewed June 28, 2026
Words cannot adequately express my deepest appreciation for Optima Tax Relief peace of mind they have given in resolving my income tax problem. I never thought my tax problem could be resolve but thanks to Optima Tax Relief the problem was completely and satisfactorily resolved. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with Optima Tax Relief. We're thrilled to hear that we’ve provided the peace of mind you needed by resolving your income tax issue completely. Your satisfaction means everything to us, and your kind words reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional service. We're here to help anytime you need, and appreciate your expression of gratitude immensely!
Reviewed June 26, 2026
Working with George at Optima Tax Relief gave me a lot of peace of mind. I was worried about my taxes and wasn't sure what to expect, but they guided me through the process step by step. They were always courteous, professional, and willing to answer my questions. I never felt rushed, and I appreciated the clear communication throughout the process. Thanks to their help, I was able to get everything completed and move forward with confidence. I am very grateful for their assistance and would gladly recommend them to others.
Thank you for sharing your experience with Optima Tax Relief. We're delighted George was able to guide you clearly and professionally, providing peace of mind as you navigated your tax concerns. Your appreciation for our team's courteousness and dedication means a lot to us. We're thrilled to have supported you effectively, empowering you with confidence going forward. We greatly appreciate your recommendation and are grateful for the opportunity to assist you.
Optima Tax Relief Company Information
- Company Name:
- Optima Tax Relief
- Website:
- optimatax.com