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.
- 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 does not 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.
Keep in mind that you may have to pay up front. “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?
Optima Tax Relief is a legitimate company 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.
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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- 4,889,664 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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- We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
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Reviewed May 21, 2026
The outcome turned out great! This took over 2 years, in which I still never received an explanation why. The communication over this time was not good. From what I heard after they accepted the offer from Optima was the money I owed was from a different year 2019 that I had a payment plan set up & there were no taxes owed for 22, 23, 24. I am grateful for the outcome.
Thank you for choosing Optima to assist you with your tax needs! We wish you well moving forward.
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Reviewed May 19, 2026
I have been a customer for nearly a year and Angelica ** was patient and answered all my questions. This was by far the best customer experience I have had. All you representatives could get valuable insight as to the total satisfied customer experience from her. I have been a IT Customer Service manager for over 25 years and she is an extremely competent agent.
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We’re delighted to hear that Angelica provided such patient, knowledgeable, and outstanding service, and that your experience with her has been your best to date. Your perspective is especially meaningful, and we will be sure to share your recognition with her. We truly appreciate your continued trust in our team.
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 May 15, 2026
My experience with Optima Tax Relief was good from the beginning. I spoke with Andrew ** and he was very thorough and explained the process and possibilities involved. He was patient and took his time and walked me through the process. We are just beginning this whole process, but I do feel that I am good hands with Andrew and am hopeful for a positive outcome. I am glad I contacted Optima Tax Relief.
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad to hear that Andrew provided thorough guidance, took the time to walk you through the process, and helped set clear expectations from the start. It’s great to know you feel confident moving forward, and we appreciate the opportunity to support you. Thank you for choosing Optima Tax Relief.
Reviewed May 14, 2026
I would like to thank Hector ** for the assistance he provided. While working through what was definitely a tough time for me personally, he kept me up to date and informed of the progress every step along the way. His professionalism and calm demeanor really helped me. When my frustration of being in the position I was in with the IRS got to me and expressed my angst to Hector, he did not let it get to him. He maintained his composure, addressed the issues and calmed my concerns. Again, Thank You Hector and his team for all their hard work on my behalf.
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re pleased to hear that Hector provided consistent communication, professionalism, and steady support during a challenging time. It’s especially meaningful to know he was able to address your concerns and help bring a sense of reassurance throughout the process. We will be sure to share your kind words with Hector and his team. We truly appreciate your trust in Optima.
Reviewed May 22, 2026
Thank you to Rey for making me feel comfortable and not judging me for not filing. I appreciate all your help in this matter. Look forward to taking care of this matter and making my life easier and less stressful.
Thank you for your kind feedback. We’re glad to hear that Rey made you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Providing a respectful, nonjudgmental experience is very important to us, and we’re pleased Rey was able to assist you during this time. We appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to help make this process easier and less stressful for you.
Reviewed May 22, 2026
Omar was very helpful. He outlined what documents I needed to submit in the portal or via fax. He always asked if I needed additional clarifications or I needed additional assistance. He's very customer friendly and very knowledgeable.
Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We’re delighted to hear that Omar provided clear guidance and made the process easier by outlining the required documents and offering ongoing support. His commitment to being knowledgeable, attentive, and customer-focused is exactly what we strive for. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.
Reviewed May 20, 2026
I really enjoyed the call with Hector. He took the time to go over everything with me and made sure I understood everything. I didn't have to keep asking him to repeat himself everything was clear and understandable. I wish I could get him every time. I really felt comfortable talking with him!
Thank you for your kind feedback. We’re glad to hear Hector took the time to clearly explain everything and made you feel comfortable throughout the conversation. It’s great to know his support made such a positive impression. We appreciate your trust in our team.
Reviewed May 20, 2026
Mr Frank was awesome. He explained clearly and made sure I was satisfied and understood everything before ending the call. As a side note I do have a major complaint about complaint about the agent spoke with before him. Please review and call back so we can have a conversation about her. Again, Frank was outstanding and should be used as an example.
Thank you for your feedback. We’re pleased to hear Frank provided outstanding service and made such a positive impression. We also appreciate you bringing your concerns to our attention and would welcome the opportunity to discuss them further. Please contact us at your convenience so we can assist you directly.
Reviewed May 20, 2026
Professional rep and very descriptive with answers. So far my dealing with this company have been all positive. I am awaiting next steps in the negotiations and are waiting to see what they really can do for me.
Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad to hear your experience has been positive and that our representative has provided clear, detailed guidance. We appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to support you through the next steps.
Optima Tax Relief Company Information
- Company Name:
- Optima Tax Relief
- Website:
- optimatax.com