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Best Tax Relief Companies in Denver

Larson Tax Relief, Fortress Tax Relief and Community Tax are our top picks

  • Best overall
    Larson Tax Relief
    4.9(570)
  • Customer service
    Fortress Tax Relief
    5.0(260)
  • Staff expertise
    Community Tax
    4.7(863)
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By: Matt Zane
+1 more
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Edited by: Diana Flowers

Best Tax Relief Companies in Denver

Larson Tax Relief is a top tax relief choice in Denver and comes highly recommended by local clients. If you want a team that's quick to respond and easy to reach, Fortress Tax Relief is worth looking into. Community Tax is known for handling a wide variety of tax situations and having deep expertise across the board.

If you live in Denver and your debt includes Colorado income tax, make sure the company can help you with municipal property taxes and works with the Colorado DOR and the IRS. The comparisons below break down each company's staff, terms, guarantees and services, then explain how tax relief works, what it can cost and the warning signs to watch for.

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Our 3 tax relief company picks in Denver

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

Our research team analyzed tax relief companies serving Denver and reviewed customer experiences, staff backgrounds and satisfaction policies. We selected the best companies in the city by comparing local reviews, staff credentials 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 Colorado tax relief companies

Learn More About Tax Relief

Our 3 Denver tax relief company picks

Learn more about our top picks for the best tax relief companies, based on verified reviews from Denver customers and broader Colorado 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
Get Started Read Reviews
Why we picked Larson Tax Relief

Larson Tax Relief takes a hands-on approach to tax issues in Colorado, offering direct access to experienced staff who understand both state and federal tax systems. Its 30-day money-back guarantee gives clients peace of mind. Denver reviewers point to the company’s helpful team and quick action, especially when stopping wage garnishments and negotiating with the IRS.

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

Pros
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Handles individual and business tax matters
  • Founded in 2005
Cons
  • Requires a minimum tax debt of $15,000
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 Denver reviewers say

Denver residents praise Larson Tax Relief for its professionalism, clear communication and effective resolutions, though some recent reviews note an initially rocky start before the right team stepped in.

I had been running from tax issues for over 8 years. The fear of garnishment was an everyday worry for me, and then I found Larson Tax Relief. What they did was give my family back our lives and our dreams. We can look forward to the future now without fear.”
Virginia Denver, CO
I first learned about Larson Tax Relief on a local radio station, KNUS. When I found myself with some tax challenges, I gave them a call. They were helpful, patient and thorough. I would recommend to anyone who needs help with IRS issues.”
Julianne Denver, CO
Attentional to detail, timeliness and responsiveness are staples of this establishment. … They dealt with jumping through all the hoops and I was kept updated / consulted with every step of the way.”
Steve Arvada, CO
Best customer service
Fortress Tax Relief logo

Fortress Tax Relief

5.0
260 reviews
Fortress Tax Relief logo
Staff
Attorneys
Free consultation
Yes
Guarantee
24-hour money-back guarantee
Read Reviews
Why we picked Fortress Tax Relief

Fortress Tax Relief stands out because every client works with a licensed tax attorney from day one. If your Colorado tax problem is complicated or involves both the IRS and the state, this matters. Many Denver-area reviewers say their attorney answered questions quickly and explained tough tax rules in plain language. That kind of service is rare and worth highlighting.

What to consider: Fortress Tax Relief offers a 100% refund if canceled within 24 hours after the initial attorney consultation.

Pros
  • Licensed tax attorneys handle all cases
  • Handles federal and state individual and business tax debt
  • Unique solutions for unusual tax problems
  • Operating since 2003
Cons
  • Minimum debt requirement of $15,000
Services
  • 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)
What local reviewers say

Colorado reviewers highlight Fortress’s knowledgeable and trustworthy team that delivers effective solutions to tax issues.

Fortress is the best! If you need help with the IRS and tax resolution you must have them on your side. Most people in this business are hacks. The people at Fortress are the best professionals you'll find.”
Robert Denver, CO
This was my first time in a tax bind. I was stressed and needed to find someone I felt I could trust. … It was a tremendous relief to find and work with Fortress Tax Relief. They're extremely honest, professional, thoughtful, and thorough. I highly recommend their team.”
Chad Salida, CO
Fortress Tax Relief is an outstanding organization. They listen to your issues and give great advice and options tailored to your issues. Reputable people, fully licensed, and trustworthy. If you have any tax issues, give them a call!”
Willie Colorado Springs, CO
Best staff expertise
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 brings together a broad team that includes attorneys, enrolled agents and CPAs. This is especially useful if your finances involve more than just back taxes. For example, if you need help with bookkeeping or ongoing tax prep after resolving your debt.

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

Pros
  • Transparent investigation phase fees
  • Offers services in Spanish
  • Convenient mobile app
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 Denver reviewers say

Reviewers in Denver found Community Tax to be effective at resolving tax issues and delivering positive outcomes. However, some reviewers note problems with communication.

I couldn’t be happier with the outcome, and would recommend that Libime ** handle your case. You will not be disappointed!”
Chris Denver, CO
I had problems with IRS regarding my taxes. I did everything that Community Tax said and everything went out perfectly. I was able to successfully complete the program to resolve my tax issues.”
Alejandro Denver, CO
I completed the program through them. They did exactly what they were supposed to do, and it was absolutely awesome. I felt communicated and taken care of, but that happened so late in the cycle that I can't give them a 5. At the end of the day though, they got me what I needed.”
Sean Denver, CO

» READ MORE: Best tax relief companies in Colorado

Best tax relief companies in nearby cities

Tax Relief in Denver, CO 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.

Get help navigating your tax relief options.

Owing taxes in Denver often means facing both state and federal governments. Colorado's Department of Revenue pursues collection with a general six-year collection period for state income tax, while the federal IRS collection period is generally 10 years from assessment. This guide explains how to navigate negotiations with both the IRS and Colorado DOR.

Key insights

Choose a licensed pro (CPA or EA) with documented experience fighting the Colorado Department of Revenue.

Jump to insight

A tax pro will first work to release any state-level wage garnishments. They will then negotiate with both the IRS and CO DOR.

Jump to insight

Most tax relief cases cost $2,500 to $7,500, with higher fees possible when both federal and state taxes are involved.

Jump to insight

How to choose a tax relief company in Denver

To find the best tax relief company in Denver, start by checking professional credentials, asking for price quotes from several providers and reading local reviews to catch red flags before you commit. Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Verify credentials and check for complaints

Ask for proof of licensing before you sign with any company. You can check enrolled agent status on the IRS website and confirm CPA licenses with the Colorado State Board of Accountancy. If a company dodges your request for credentials, move on.

When checking Denver businesses, pay close attention to reviews from Colorado residents. The most common complaints about tax relief companies we see on ConsumerAffairs include:

  • Poor communication and unresponsive representatives: Many clients describe long waits for callbacks or emails, with case managers not providing timely updates or being hard to reach when questions arise.
  • Multiple representative changes: Customers often report being passed between several different people, which causes confusion, repetition and sometimes missing paperwork.
  • High fees with minimal results: It’s common to see complaints about paying significant amounts only to end up with just a standard payment plan — something the client could have set up themselves — and no reduction in the debt.

    Anis from Denver ran into this problem: “They asked me to pay them $3,000 and then they said they could settle my tax bill. However, all they did was set me up on a payment plan.”

  • Aggressive upfront sales tactics followed by service delays: Some companies respond quickly while selling services but become much less available once paid, leaving clients frustrated with delays.

    Travis in Arvada said they were “very responsive and easy to work with” while he was making payments, but “after finalizing my payments, they started to become harder and harder to contact” and sometimes took months to respond.

  • Requesting the same documents repeatedly: Many customers are asked to send the same forms or paperwork multiple times, with the company claiming documents were lost or never received.

2. Compare fees from at least three companies

Always get written estimates from several providers and look closely at what each quote includes. Most tax relief cases in Denver cost between $2,500 and $7,500, depending on how complicated things are. Cases involving both federal and state may be slightly more.

Read the fine print on any contract before you pay.

Look for companies that charge a flat fee instead of a percentage of your debt, as this makes costs clearer. Be cautious if you see extra charges for basic services like requesting IRS transcripts or making routine phone calls — those should be included.

3. Ask about the consultation process

A reputable firm will offer a no-cost first meeting to review your tax situation and explain your options. If you feel rushed, pressured or don’t get clear answers during the consult, that’s a warning sign.

4. Understand what they can actually guarantee

No reputable company can promise a specific dollar result right away. Dependable firms will instead outline their process and communication plan, but will never promise a settlement amount before doing a full review.

What is tax relief?

Tax relief means working to resolve unpaid tax debt with the IRS or the Colorado Department of Revenue. This can involve setting up a payment plan, having your total amount owed reduced or stopping collections like wage garnishments.

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

Your tax professional will collect your tax paperwork and determine what kind of payment you can realistically afford. You can represent yourself, or you can authorize someone else to contact the IRS or the Colorado Department of Revenue on your behalf. Once an agreement is reached, you’ll follow through with the payment terms.

Resolving tax debt typically takes several months. If you only need a basic payment plan, you might finish in 30 to 60 days. More complicated cases — such as those involving multiple years or business tax problems — often take longer, especially if the IRS or state requests additional information.

Common Denver tax problems

Denver residents must often deal with the Colorado DOR's general six-year collection period for income tax, while the federal IRS collection period is generally 10 years from assessment. The state also uses private collection agencies that can be very aggressive.

If you disagree with a Colorado DOR bill, notice of deficiency or rejection of refund, you may be able to file a formal protest. In many income tax cases, you generally have 30 days from the mailing date of the notice to file a written protest with the Department, identify the tax periods and amounts in dispute, and explain why you believe the tax is not due.

» LEARN: Filing back taxes

Tax relief costs

Most tax relief cases cost $2,500 to $7,500. Cases involving both federal and state taxes are typically a bit more — between $3,000 and $8,000. 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.

Call the CDOR Collections Section at 303-205-8291 to ask for a plan.

Check that additional fees like transcript requests, filing a power of attorney or extra meetings are included in your quoted price. Always get a written agreement before you pay. Colorado doesn’t charge a setup fee for a standard payment plan, but interest and penalties continue to accrue. Private collection agencies, however, will add their own fees to your balance.

If the standard monthly amount is more than you can realistically afford, the Colorado DOR may consider extended terms or lower payments based on economic hardship. That request typically requires recent financial information so the Department can assess whether the usual installment amount or a levy would keep you from covering basic, reasonable living expenses.

Cost by service type

Types of tax debt relief services

Tax relief comes in different forms depending on your needs:

  • Installment agreements are the most common — you pay your debt gradually over time. If you owe less than $50,000, you can often apply for a plan online yourself.
  • Offers in compromise let you settle your debt for less than the total owed, but only about one in four applications are approved by the IRS.
  • Currently not collectible status can temporarily pause collections if you’re experiencing hardship, though penalties and interest will still add up.
  • Penalty abatement removes tax penalties for reasons like serious illness, natural disasters or a death in the family.
  • Innocent spouse relief applies when your spouse caused the tax problem without your knowledge.
  • Lien and levy release can remove claims against your property or end garnishments if you can show you’re facing a serious financial hardship.

Colorado also has its own offer in compromise program through the DOR. In limited cases, it can settle Colorado tax, penalties and interest for less than the full amount owed. You generally can't be on a regular state installment agreement while a Colorado offer is under review, so qualifying for an IRS offer does not automatically resolve or settle your state balance.

A Colorado tax warrant acts as a lien and is filed as a judgment against you. This public record generally remains in effect for six years from entry of judgment and allows the state to garnish wages or seize bank accounts.

» OPTIONS: How an offer in compromise works

Tax relief for seniors and retirees in Colorado

Older Colorado residents can lower both their property and income tax bills through several state programs.

FAQ

How do you qualify for tax relief?

Each tax relief program has its own requirements. To qualify for a payment plan, you need to demonstrate you can’t pay in full but can cover a monthly installment. If you want an offer in compromise, you must show that you cannot pay the total debt within the collection window, based on your income, expenses and assets.

Can tax relief affect my credit score?

Tax liens are no longer listed on credit reports since 2018, so tax debt itself won’t directly impact your credit score. But if the IRS or state collects from your bank account and you miss other payments, your credit can be affected by those delinquencies. Taking care of tax debt helps prevent those kinds of problems.

How is Denver tax debt different from federal taxes?

Colorado individual income tax is a flat-rate tax managed by the CO Department of Revenue (DOR), with a 4.4% rate for tax year 2025. This is a separate debt from your federal tax liability owed to the IRS. The two agencies also have different rules and hardship programs.

Can you negotiate directly with Denver about tax debt?

Yes, you can negotiate directly with the CO Department of Revenue. The 'Revenue Online' portal allows you to request a payment plan. If you need modified payment-plan terms based on financial need, call the Collections Section; you may be required to submit Form DR 6596.

What are my options if I owe Colorado back taxes?

Colorado taxpayers who owe back taxes can request a payment plan of up to 36 months or, in limited cases, settle the debt for less through an offer in compromise. Payment plans still accrue penalties and interest, and no offer in compromise is allowed once a plan is accepted.

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 Denver, then evaluated which performed best for local residents.

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

  • Staff satisfaction ratings
  • Customer service satisfaction ratings
  • Staff expertise and credentials
  • Money-back guarantees and satisfaction policie
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. Colorado Department of Revenue, "Home | Colorado Department of Revenue." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.
  2. Division of Professions and Occupations, State of Colorado, "Colorado Accountancy Homepage." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.
  3. Colorado Department of Revenue, "Property Tax Exemption for Senior Citizens in Colorado." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.
  4. Colorado Department of Revenue, "Income Qualified Senior Housing Income Tax Credit." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.
  5. Colorado Department of Revenue, "Property Tax/Rent/Heat (PTC) Rebate." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.
  6. Division of Professions and Occupations, State of Colorado, "Colorado Accountancy Homepage." Accessed Sept. 17, 2026.

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