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Best Tax Relief Companies in Austin

We compared 41 brands and chose the top tax relief companies

  • Best overall
    Larson Tax Relief
    4.9(568)
  • Customer service
    Fortress Tax Relief
    5.0(258)
  • Staff expertise
    Community Tax
    4.2(853)
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By: Matt Zane
+1 more
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Edited by: Cassidy McCants

Best Tax Relief Companies in Austin

Larson Tax Relief takes the top spot as the best tax relief company in Austin, based on local client feedback and consistent results. Fortress Tax Relief is also a good option if you’re looking for a responsive support team, and Community Tax stands out for its broad range of tax expertise.

Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
  • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
  • 4,893,584 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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  • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
  • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

Our 3 tax relief company picks in Austin

  1. Best overall: Larson Tax Relief
  2. Best customer service: Fortress Tax Relief
  3. Best staff expertise: Community Tax

Our research team vetted tax relief companies that are available in Austin. We chose the best companies in the city by comparing local reviews, staff expertise and money-back guarantees.

Read our full methodology below for all the details. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations.

Compare tax relief companies

Our 3 Austin tax relief company picks

Learn more about our top picks for the best tax relief companies, based on verified reviews from Austin customers and broader Texas feedback on ConsumerAffairs.

Best overall

Larson Tax Relief

Larson Tax Relief
4.9
568 reviews
Staff
Enrolled agents
Free consultation
Yes
Money-back guarantee offered
30 days
Learn More Read Reviews

We chose Larson Tax Relief because it delivers a 15-day money-back guarantee and has built a stellar reputation over nearly 20 years. The company can handle even the most complex cases, including audits to asset seizures. Clients praise the helpful staff who explain everything clearly and keep them updated without pressure.

What to consider: Larson Tax Relief requires a minimum tax debt of $25,000 to become a client, which may exclude some potential clients.

Pros
  • 15-day money-back guarantee
  • No upfront retainer fee
  • Handles complex business tax issues
  • Founded in 2005
Cons
  • Requires a high minimum tax debt
  • 941 payroll tax issues
  • Accounts receivable levies
  • Asset seizures
  • Audits
  • Bank levies and wage garnishments
  • Corporate formation or shutdown
  • Installment agreements
  • State tax relief
  • Tax liens
  • Tax return preparation
  • Trust fund recovery penalty
  • Unfiled tax returns

Austin customers praise Larson for its knowledgeable and professional staff, transparent pricing and ability to deliver reliable results.

“They were very informative and knew what they were doing. They explain all of the documents very well. The whole process was easy and lot more affordable than other tax settlement companies.”
Brian Austin, TX
“I cannot say enough good things about Larson Financial! … They are true professionals who were able to handle everything for me. So thankful for the time and commitment they dedicated to my case and the great result!”
Nicole Austin, TX
Best customer service

Fortress Tax Relief

Fortress Tax Relief
5.0
258 reviews
Staff
Attorneys
Free consultation
Yes
Money-back guarantee offered
24-hour money-back guarantee
Read Reviews

Fortress Tax Relief stands out because all clients work with a licensed tax attorney for every case, which is rare in the industry. This means you always have an expert on your team who can handle complex IRS negotiations. Reviewers consistently mention quick responses, clear direction and real expertise — especially valuable if your situation is complicated or high-stakes.

What to consider: Fortress has a money-back guarantee, but it’s only valid for 24 hours after your first meeting with an attorney.

Pros
  • Licensed tax attorneys handle all cases
  • Specializes in high-debt cases
  • Unique solutions for unusual tax problems
  • Operating since 2003
Cons
  • High minimum debt requirement of $20,000
  • High price for complex cases
  • Appeals
  • Business and individual tax relief
  • Creative tax resolutions
  • Currently not collectible (CNC) status
  • Innocent spouse tax relief
  • Installment agreements
  • Offer in compromise (OIC)
  • Penalty abatement
  • Trust Fund Recovery Penalties (TFRP)

Fortress customers in Texas say the company offers reasonable costs, clear communication and a highly effective team that delivers fast, hassle-free IRS resolutions.

“Seyward helped us coordinate information by providing easy-to-follow directions in a genial, reassuring manner— that was just what was needed as we navigated unknown waters … We were able to overcome the initial hardships imposed by the IRS without further financial fallout.”
George Austin, TX
“They stay on top of things and are always an email or phone call away to answer any questions or concerns we might have!! Highly recommend them!!”
Luke Arlington, TX
“I paid the flat max fee that was beyond reasonable and they were able to work directly with the IRS and were able to have my penalties and interest removed. Roughly 200k. If it is possible they will do it. They really do care about their clients.”
Jason Troup, TX
Best staff expertise

Community Tax

Community Tax
4.2
853 reviews
Staff
Attorneys, enrolled agent, CPAs
Free consultation
Yes
Money-back guarantee offered
100% money-back guarantee
Read Reviews

Community Tax earned our pick because it brings together a team that includes enrolled agents, CPAs and tax attorneys. Its mix of professionals means you can get help with everything from tax resolution to ongoing bookkeeping or payroll — all under one roof. This is especially useful if your tax needs go beyond a single IRS issue and you want support for the long haul.

What to consider: Community Tax’s current money-back guarantee policy is unclear, so you may want to look into this more before signing up.

Pros
  • Transparent investigation phase fees
  • Offers services in Spanish
  • Convenient mobile app
Cons
  • Resolution process can be lengthy
  • Investigation fee is nonrefundable
  • Accounting, bookkeeping and payroll services
  • Amended tax returns
  • Community Tax Assurance Program (subscription)
  • Currently not collectible (CNC) status
  • Installment agreements
  • Offer in compromise (OIC)
  • Penalty abatement
  • Tax preparation
  • Tax resolution
  • Wage garnishment relief

Customers in Austin praise Community Tax for its compassion, professionalism and life-changing help resolving IRS issues. However, some Texas reviewers report issues with miscommunication.

“The experience with Community Tax was beautiful and they solved my problems. Until today, I have the peace of mind that I was looking for. I have nothing to do with IRS. Community Tax does that for me.”
Eber Austin, TX
“During a dark and desperate financial time my wife, Claire, and I were able to seek and receive dedicated assistance from Mr. John ** with Community Tax. … We appreciate their dedication and help.”
Claire Austin, TX

» READ MORE: Best tax relief companies in Texas

Best tax relief companies in nearby cities

Tax Relief in Austin, TX Buyers Guide

Jump into our guides and start learning

In this guide

Top Picks

See who reviewers like

Larson Tax Relief logo
Fortress Tax Relief logo
Community Tax logo
See our top picks

Simplify your search

Compare tax relief providers that match your needs.

Tax problems in Austin primarily involve the federal IRS, since Texas has no state income tax. This federal focus means you need a pro with deep IRS experience, not just state law. This guide will help you choose the right professional and understand your options in Austin.

Key insights

Since Texas has no state income tax, you may want to focus on a firm’s federal IRS expertise.

Jump to insight

A tax pro will analyze your finances to determine the best relief program, then negotiate directly with the IRS or state agent on your behalf.

Jump to insight

Your costs depend on the debt amount and the complexity of the case, such as a simple payment plan versus a detailed settlement offer.

Jump to insight

How to choose a tax relief company in Austin

To select the right tax relief company in Austin, start by confirming the firm’s credentials, comparing at least three estimates and reading local reviews for any warning signs. Here’s what you should look for:

1. Verify credentials and check for complaints

Ask to see proof of licensing before you hire anyone. You can find enrolled agents on the IRS website and verify CPA licenses with the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy. If a company hesitates or refuses to share its credentials, move on.

Check online reviews from customers in Texas. The most common complaints about tax relief companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

  • Poor communication and unresponsive representatives: Clients frequently report that their calls and emails aren’t returned, representatives are difficult to reach and it takes weeks or months to get any updates about their case.

    Austin resident Edgar was satisfied with his tax service, but experienced delays due to a lack of communication from his representative. He said he waited weeks to find out he was missing information. Of his rep, he said, “He just failed to properly inform me of what I needed. He was waiting, and I didn’t know he was waiting.”

  • Multiple representative changes: Clients are often handed off to different case managers, requiring them to retell their story again and again which can result in lost or misplaced paperwork.
  • High fees with minimal results: Many customers pay thousands of dollars up front but only get basic payment plans they could have arranged themselves, without any actual reduction in what they owe.
  • Aggressive upfront sales tactics followed by service delays: Some companies are very responsive before getting paid, then become hard to reach and slow to act once the fee is collected.
  • Requesting the same documents repeatedly: Customers are asked to submit the same paperwork several times, and companies claim not to have received documents even when clients have proof of sending.

2. Compare fees from at least three companies

Ask for itemized quotes from at least three firms and review what’s included. Most tax relief work costs between $2,500 and $7,500, depending on your case’s complexity.

Many companies use flat pricing, which is easier to understand than percentage-based models. Watch out for added charges for basics like pulling transcripts or phone calls — these should be included in the standard fee.

Get multiple consultations. The first one should always be free.

3. Ask about the consultation process

A reputable tax relief company will give you a free initial consultation and take the time to discuss your options honestly. If you feel rushed, pressured to sign right away or get vague answers, consider looking elsewhere.

4. Understand what they can actually guarantee

No one can promise a specific settlement before reviewing your file with the IRS. Trustworthy companies will lay out their process and communication standards, but won’t guarantee an exact outcome before evaluating your case.

» COMPARE: Top tax relief servicers

What is tax relief?

Tax relief means coming up with a solution for back taxes with the IRS or the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. This might mean negotiating a payment plan, reducing your balance through a settlement or stopping actions like wage garnishments or bank levies.

Since Texas has no state income tax, collection pressure comes almost exclusively from the IRS. The agency uses standard federal tools like wage garnishments, bank levies and Notices of Federal Tax Lien.

Common reasons to seek tax relief

  • Wage garnishments, bank levies or property liens
  • Unfiled returns from past years
  • Business payroll tax debt
  • Penalties larger than the original tax owed
  • Major life disruptions that made paying taxes impossible

The tax relief process

After you hire a company, it will collect your tax records and review your finances to see what you can realistically afford. Only licensed tax professionals are allowed to contact the IRS or state agency on your behalf and negotiate a solution. Once an agreement is set up, you’ll move into the payment phase.

The TX Comptroller’s Taxpayer Advocate offers free help: 888-334-4112.

The process of resolving your tax debt can last several months. Simple payment plans may be approved in one to two months, but more complicated cases — like those with multiple unfiled returns — may take longer if the IRS asks for more documents.

Common Austin tax problems

The most frequent problem is federal IRS debt, often from self-employment income common in Austin’s tech and gig economies. Many taxpayers fall behind on quarterly estimated payments, leading to large IRS penalties.

Small business owners also need to be mindful of their obligations to both the state and federal government. The professionals at Dabney Tax and Accounting Services in Houston advise their clients that, “While you may not owe state income tax, small business taxes in Texas can still be complex and demand your attention.”

» LEARN: Take control of your back taxes

Tax relief cost

Most tax resolution cases cost $2,500 to $7,500. Flat fees are standard, providing a clear price upfront. Hourly rates are $200 to $400 per hour, but are less common and usually for complex litigation. Percentage-based pricing is rare and should raise a red flag.

Be alert for extra charges like fees for transcripts, power of attorney filings or additional meetings. These should be built into your main package — always ask for a detailed contract before agreeing to anything.

For federal debt, the IRS charges a setup fee for long-term installment agreements (over 180 days). This fee is lower if you agree to automatic debit payments.

Cost by service type

Types of tax debt relief services

Tax relief options depend on your circumstances, but you can expect:

  • Installment agreements are the most common solution, letting you pay off your tax bill over time. If you owe less than $50,000, you can often set up the plan yourself online.

    For federal debt, the easiest way to get a payment plan is by using the ‘Online Payment Agreement’ tool on the IRS website. This is available for debts under $50,000.

  • Offers in compromise (OIC) allow you to settle for less than you owe, but the IRS only approves about a quarter of these.
  • Currently not collectible status means collections stop temporarily if you’re in hardship, but interest and penalties keep adding up.
  • Penalty abatement can remove penalties if you have a good reason like a serious medical issue or natural disaster.
  • Innocent spouse relief is for people whose spouse incurred the tax debt without their knowledge.
  • Lien and levy release can remove claims on your property or stop wage and bank account seizures if you show immediate financial hardship.

The IRS can file a ‘Notice of Federal Tax Lien’ after a demand for payment is ignored. This public lien is valid for 10 years and attaches to all your assets, including future-acquired property.

» OPTIONS: How an offer in compromise works

FAQ

How do you qualify for tax relief?

Eligibility for tax relief depends on the type of relief you’re seeking. For instance, for a payment plan, you must show you can’t pay in full but can handle monthly payments. To get an OIC, you need to prove you can’t pay the entire debt during the collection period and the IRS decides if your offer is the most it can reasonably collect.

Can the IRS garnish my wages?

Yes, the IRS can garnish your wages without going to court. It will notify your employer to withhold a portion of your paycheck. You’ll receive a series of notices first, which gives you a chance to establish a payment plan before garnishment begins.

How is Austin tax debt different from federal taxes?

Tax debt in Austin is almost exclusively federal debt owed to the IRS, as Texas doesn’t have a state income tax. This is different from other states that have both a federal (IRS) and a state tax agency.

Where do I pay Austin taxes or set up a payment plan?

You can pay your federal taxes or set up a payment plan directly on the IRS website. The Online Payment Agreement tool is the fastest way to apply for an installment agreement if you owe $50,000 or less.

Methodology

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a data-backed process informed by expert editorial judgment and verified customer reviews. We started with tax relief companies available in Austin, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

We prioritized reviews from Austin and Texas customers, supplemented by national data. Our evaluation included:

  • Staff satisfaction ratings
  • Customer service satisfaction ratings
  • Staff expertise and credentials
  • Money-back guarantees and satisfaction policies
Guide sources

ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:

  1. Dabney Tax & Accounting Services, “Small Business Taxes in Texas.” Accessed Nov. 12, 2025.
  2. Internal Revenue Service, “Online payment agreement application.” Accessed Nov. 12, 2025.
  3. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, “Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.” Accessed Nov. 12, 2025.
  4. Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, “Welcome to Texas State Board of Public Accountancy.” Accessed Nov. 12, 2025.

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