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  5. Best Tax Relief

Best Tax Relief Companies in Chicago

Larson Tax Relief, Five Star Tax Resolution and Community Tax are our top picks

  • Best overall
    Larson Tax Relief
    4.9(570)
  • Staff expertise
    Five Star Tax Resolution
    4.4(131)
  • Customer service
    Community Tax
    4.7(863)
Author picture
By: Matt Zane
+1 more
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Edited by: Diana Flowers

Best Tax Relief Companies in Chicago

Larson Tax Relief is the best tax relief company in Chicago, based on recent reviews from local clients. Five Star Tax Resolution is a good choice. Community Tax stands out for offering a smooth customer experience.

If you’re comparing tax relief help in Chicago, ask whether a firm has experience with both Illinois DOR cases and any Chicago taxes or fees that are handled directly by local governments. The rest of this guide compares the top companies and explains how to choose a provider, how tax relief works, what it may cost and the red flags to watch for.

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Our 3 tax relief company picks in Chicago

  1. Best overall: Larson Tax Relief
  2. Best staff expertise: Five Star Tax Resolution
  3. Best customer service: Community Tax

Our research team vetted tax relief companies that are available in Chicago. 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 Illinois tax relief companies

Learn More About Tax Relief

Our 3 Chicago tax relief company picks

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

Best overall
Larson Tax Relief logo

Larson Tax Relief

4.9
570 reviews
Larson Tax Relief logo
Staff
Enrolled agents
Free consultation
Yes
Guarantee
30-day money-back guarantee
Read Reviews
Why we picked Larson Tax Relief

Larson Tax Relief has spent nearly 20 years helping people in Illinois find solutions to challenging tax problems. What sets it apart is the consistent feedback from Chicago clients who say the process is straightforward. Its 30-day money-back guarantee gives added peace of mind, and clients mention that staff members are proactive.

What to consider: To become a client, Larson requires a minimum tax debt of $15,000.

Pros
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Handles complex business tax issues
  • Founded in 2005
Cons
  • Some clients report a slow resolution process
Services
  • 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
What Chicago reviewers say
Chicago reviewers describe Larson as professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. Clients especially praise representatives for resolving difficult IRS issues efficiently and providing reassurance throughout the process. However, some note frustration with slow progress.
Laron Tax, specifically Maria, made the whole process painless. She was informative and patient when I asked a bunch of questions. Could not have been happier with my service. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of their services.“
Alex Chicago, IL
Larson has represented me twice already. They called the school the first time and took the case and helped me all the way through. They really did a fantastic job. … One of the best decisions I've made in my life. They were wonderful. They answer calls and questions promptly.“
Angeline Chicago, IL
Although it is a stressful situation, they are both receptive and prompt on their follow-up. I would just appreciate an alternative to being able to resolve my tax issues going forward.”
Timothy Blue Island, IL
Best staff expertise
Five Star Tax Resolution logo

Five Star Tax Resolution

4.4
131 reviews
Five Star Tax Resolution logo
Staff
Attorneys, enrolled agents, CPAs
Free consultation
Yes
Guarantee
No
Read Reviews
Why we picked Five Star Tax Resolution

Clients in Illinois can expect to work with credentialed professionals, from attorneys to CPAs. Reviews indicate that the firm’s communication is consistent, and the process is clearly outlined from the beginning.

What to consider: Five Star Tax Resolution does not publish its fees online. You have to schedule a consultation with a tax attorney to get a quote.

Pros
  • Consultation with a licensed tax attorney
Cons
  • A few reviewers report poor communication
Services
  • Asset seizures
  • Audit support and representation
  • Back taxes and unfiled returns
  • Business tax help
  • Currently not collectible (CNC) status
  • Installment agreements
  • Offer in compromise (OIC)
  • Penalty abatement
  • Tax levies and wage garnishment release
  • Tax liens
  • Tax preparation
What Chicago reviewers say
Clients say Five Star provides professional, stress-free help by handling IRS communications and guiding them through paperwork to secure manageable payment plans or extensions. However, a few reviewers in the Chicago area report poor communication.
Best part? They followed through long after the contract was signed. I never felt abandoned or confused. Their team checked in, answered questions, and made sure everything stayed on track. Real commitment you don’t see often these days.”
Abigail Chicago, IL
I was drowning in tax debt and felt like there was no way out. I finally reached out for help, and they walked me through every step. They dealt with the IRS for me and got my payments lowered to something I could actually afford. I feel so relieved!”
Ralph Chicago, IL
I was unsure how to handle a final demand letter for payment. The team's immediate, calm, and supportive action took away all my stress. They were very easy to work with on the complicated financial disclosure paperwork.”
Diana Arlington Heights, IL
Best customer service
Community Tax logo

Community Tax

4.7
863 reviews
Community Tax logo
Staff
Attorneys, enrolled agents, CPAs
Free consultation
Yes
Guarantee
14-day money-back guarantee
Read Reviews
Why we picked Community Tax

Community Tax has built a reputation in Chicago for guiding clients through stressful tax situations with attentive support. Clients say questions get answered quickly, and staff walk them through each step.

What to consider: Community Tax offers a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Pros
  • 14-day money-back guarantee
  • Attentive, step-by-step customer support
Cons
  • Resolution process can be lengthy
  • Investigation fee is nonrefundable
Services
  • 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
What Chicago reviewers say
Local reviews highlight Community Tax’s professional, knowledgeable and effective ways of resolving long-standing IRS issues and easing financial stress. However, a common thread in complaints involves frequent staff turnover.
Community Tax followed up with me on everything. I didn’t have to give them a call. They were great. One of the main agents was Chris and he constantly kept me informed.”
Daniel Chicago, IL
Working with Community Tax took a big burden off of me as far as the IRS. They just let me know what was happening step-by-step which made the process a lot easier. Their consultant, Chris, was extremely attentive and extremely knowledgeable. He walked me through a couple of things. He was great. Everything in my experience with them was to my liking.”
Edward Chicago, IL
Very good customer service, always answer my questions, especially shout out to Raul **.”
BELEM Granite City, IL

Tax Relief in Chicago, IL Buyers Guide

Jump into our guides and start learning

In this guide

Top Picks

See who reviewers like

Larson Tax Relief logo
Five Star Tax Resolution logo
Community Tax logo
See our top picks

Simplify your search.

Get help navigating your tax relief options.

Unpaid Illinois state taxes and some locally imposed taxes administered by the state trigger collection from the Illinois Department of Revenue, an agency with an enforcement collection period that can vary from 2 years to 20 years or longer, depending on the collection actions involved. A tax relief company can help you stop collections and negotiate manageable terms. We've broken down your options and the steps to find legitimate help in Illinois.

Key insights

Verify that your chosen firm has specific experience with the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR).

Jump to insight

First, your professional will work to stop aggressive IDOR collection actions, then they will work to get you compliant with unfiled returns before negotiating a payment plan or 'offer in compromise' settlement.

Jump to insight

Most tax relief cases cost $2,500 to $7,500, depending on the services needed and the complexity of your case.

Jump to insight

How to choose a tax relief company in Chicago

To select the right tax relief provider in Chicago, start by confirming the firm’s credentials, request quotes from at least three different providers and examine reviews from local clients for signs of trouble. Focus on the following essentials:

1. Verify credentials and check for complaints

Before you hire anyone, ask for proof of licensing and credentials. You can use the IRS site to look up enrolled agents, and you can confirm CPAs with the IL Dept. of Financial & Professional Regulation. If a firm refuses to provide documentation, move on.

Checking online reviews from Illinois customers is critical. The most common complaints about tax relief companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

  • Poor communication and unresponsive representatives: Many clients mention that staff do not return phone calls or emails, making it hard to get updates or answers about their case. Noah from Waukegan described that same issue to us. He said, “Paid 3k and have to chase down follow ups and updates, now going on 3 weeks without response.”
  • Multiple representative changes: Customers often say their case is handed off to several different managers, which means having to repeatedly explain their history and resubmit paperwork.

    Kevin in Crystal Lake said that after paying $3,600, “they needed this form, and then they needed this form, then they switched people on me, now I have to resend everything,” adding that “nothing came of it.”

  • High fees with minimal results: Some people report paying thousands of dollars only to have companies set up basic payment plans — solutions they believe they could have arranged themselves.
  • Aggressive upfront sales tactics followed by service delays: Numerous reviews point to a big difference between attentive sales calls before money is paid and a sudden lack of responsiveness after you become a client.
  • Requesting the same documents repeatedly: It's common for customers to be asked for the same documents over and over, even after providing them, which leads to frustration and delays.

2. Compare fees from at least three companies

Get written, detailed estimates from at least three providers and make sure you understand what services are included. Expect most tax relief companies to use flat-fee pricing, which is easier to compare than percentage-based models. Be cautious if you see extra charges for basics like requesting IRS transcripts or a simple phone call — those should be baked in.

3. Ask about the consultation process

The first consultation should always be free and give you clear guidance on your options. If the company rushes you, pressures you to sign quickly or avoids answering your questions, that’s a warning sign to look elsewhere.

4. Understand what they can actually guarantee

No one can promise a specific dollar amount of savings before they’ve reviewed your situation in detail. Trustworthy firms will explain their process and communication plan, but won’t make big promises about the outcome before doing their homework.

» COMPARE: Top-rated tax relief companies

What is tax relief?

Tax relief involves negotiating a solution for unpaid tax debt with either the IRS or the Illinois Department of Revenue. This could involve negotiating a payment plan, seeking to reduce your total bill or stopping collections like wage garnishments.

The Illinois Department of Revenue has broad collection powers, with an enforcement collection period that can vary from two years to 20 years or longer. It may use collection agencies, file liens in a public state registry, and garnish wages up to 15% of gross pay.

If you disagree with an IDOR bill or collection action, a payment plan isn’t your only option. Chicago taxpayers may be able to request internal review, file a petition with the Illinois Independent Tax Tribunal or file in circuit court.

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
A promise to settle tax debt for "pennies on the dollar" is a classic scam.

How long does tax relief take?

A tax relief professional will start by gathering all your tax documents and figuring out what you can reasonably pay. Only licensed pros can contact the IRS or the Illinois Department of Revenue on your behalf. Once a solution is approved, you’ll move to the payment stage.

The tax relief process can take several months from start to finish. Straightforward cases like setting up a payment plan may take 30 to 60 days. More complex cases, especially those with several years of unfiled returns or business tax debt, usually require more time, particularly if the IRS needs more information.

Common Chicago tax problems

Chicago residents may be surprised by the Illinois Department of Revenue’s (IDOR) authority over Illinois state taxes and some locally imposed taxes it administers. The state's enforcement collection period can vary from two years to 20 years or longer, depending on the collection actions involved. IDOR can garnish wages, place liens or refer unpaid accounts to collection agencies if taxes remain unpaid.

» LEARN: Filing back taxes

Tax relief costs

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

Use the 'MyTax Illinois' portal to request an installment plan online.

Be on the lookout for extra charges, such as transcript fees, power of attorney filing fees or additional meeting fees. These should be included in your total cost. Always request a complete quote in writing before making any commitment.

The IDOR does not charge a setup fee for its installment plans. However, private collection agencies used by the state will add their own fees, often a percentage of the debt, to your total balance.

Cost by service type

Types of tax debt relief services

Depending on what you owe and your circumstances, you have several tax relief options:

  • Installment agreements are the go-to choice for most people. You pay off your tax debt in monthly payments. You can often set up an agreement yourself online if you owe less than $50,000.

    You can request a state payment plan through the 'MyTax Illinois' portal. However, this option is typically only available after your account is already in the collections process, and online requests are tied to balances that are actively in collection.

    Before IDOR approves an installment plan, you generally need to have all required returns filed through the current date, and if the agreement amount is over $15,000, it may require a detailed financial statement.

  • Offers in compromise allow you to settle your debt for less, but keep in mind, approval rates are low — the IRS generally accepts about one in four.
  • Currently not collectible status lets you pause collections if you’re genuinely unable to pay, but interest and penalties continue to accrue.
  • Penalty abatement removes penalties if you have a good reason, like severe illness or a family emergency.
  • Innocent spouse relief is for those whose spouse’s actions caused the tax issue without their knowledge.
  • Lien and levy release can help lift legal claims on your assets or stop wage and bank account seizures if you can prove immediate financial hardship.

    An Illinois state tax lien continues for 20 years from filing unless sooner released, while the IRS generally has 10 years after assessment to collect, subject to extension or suspension in some circumstances. This gives the state extreme leverage to seize assets.

» OPTIONS: How an offer in compromise works

FAQ

Can the IRS garnish my wages?

Yes, the IRS can take a portion of your paycheck through wage garnishment without going to court. Your employer will get a notice, and you’ll receive several warnings first, giving you a chance to set up a payment plan. If you ignore a final notice, garnishment can begin quickly and is harder to reverse once it starts.

What happens if I can't afford to pay my tax debt?

If you can’t pay, you might be eligible for currently not collectible status, which puts collections on hold (though interest and penalties will keep accruing). There’s also the partial payment installment agreement, where you pay what you can and the rest could be forgiven when the collection period ends. Some tax debt may be written off if you qualify.

Where do I pay Chicago taxes or set up a payment plan?
For Illinois state taxes and certain locally imposed taxes that IDOR administers, you can pay or request a payment plan through the 'MyTax Illinois' portal. This option is generally only available after your balance has reached the collections stage, and MyTax Illinois installment-plan requests are for balances that are actively in collection.
Can you negotiate directly with the city of Chicago about tax debt?
It depends on the type of debt. If you have an IDOR balance, you may be able to request an installment plan through 'MyTax Illinois' after you receive a collection notice indicating you're eligible. Some Chicago-specific taxes, fees and other city debts are handled directly by local offices instead of IDOR, so you'll need to work with the agency listed on your notice.
What tax breaks do Illinois retirees get?
Illinois retirees get a full state exemption on pension, IRA, 401(k) and Social Security income, with no age or income limit. The state's 4.95% flat tax still applies to wages, interest and other income that isn't retirement income.

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 Chicago, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

We prioritized reviews from Chicago and Illinois 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 article include:

  1. Illinois Department of Revenue, "MyTax Illinois." Accessed Sept. 16, 2026.
  2. Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, "About IDFPR." Accessed Sept. 16, 2026.
  3. Illinois Department of Revenue, "Illinois Department of Revenue." Accessed Sept. 16, 2026.
  4. Illinois Department of Revenue, "MyTax Illinois Facts." Accessed Sept. 16, 2026.

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