If you’re dealing with back taxes or IRS penalties, you’re not alone. In a LendEDU survey of 600 U.S. adults, 63% of respondents who owed the IRS reported tax debts of $10,000 or more. Several of our recommended tax relief companies work with taxpayers who owe at least $10,000, although eligibility and services vary by provider. Tax relief companies may be able to help you set up payment plans, reduce eligible penalties, or negotiate a settlement, depending on your financial situation.
We evaluated 21 tax relief companies across 420 data points, including costs, services, staff expertise, and customer experience, to identify the seven best tax relief companies this year. Compare our top picks below to find a company that fits your needs and budget.
Not sure where to start? Compare each tax relief company’s minimum tax debt requirement, services, and free consultation options below to find one that fits your situation.
Table of Contents
- Reviews of the best tax relief companies
- Best tax relief company money-back guarantee: Anthem Tax Services
- Best tax relief company with the lowest-price guarantee: Alleviate Tax Relief Services
- Great tax relief company with an ongoing protection plan: Optima Tax Relief
- Great tax relief company offer in compromise support: TaxRise
- Great tax relief company for transparent expectations: BC Tax
- Best tax relief company customer service: Precision Tax Relief
- Best tax relief company initial investigation: Larson Tax Relief
- Do you need a tax relief company?
- How to choose between the best tax debt relief companies
- How to avoid tax relief scams
- FAQ about tax relief companies
Reviews of the best tax relief companies
Companies don’t make our best-of list without earning their spot. The tax relief companies we highlight here stand out for their years of experience, comprehensive investigations, and client dedication. Most of the top tax relief companies also offer money-back service guarantees.
Money-back guarantees can provide added peace of mind when hiring a tax relief company, but coverage varies by provider. Some offer refunds during the initial investigation period, while others may refund eligible service fees if they can’t reduce or rework your tax debt. Compare each company’s guarantee, including exclusions and deadlines, before deciding which provider is right for you.
Check out the reviews below for an in-depth explanation of what makes our picks stand out and they’ve been rated the best tax relief companies.
- Best Money-Back Guarantee: Anthem Tax Services
- Best Lowest-Price Guarantee: Alleviate Tax Relief Services
- Great Ongoing Protection Plan: Optima Tax Relief
- Great Offer in Compromise Support: TaxRise
- Great for Transparent Expectations: BC Tax
- Best Customer Service: Precision Tax Relief
- Best Initial Investigation: Larson Tax Relief
Best tax relief company money-back guarantee: Anthem Tax Services
Why we picked Anthem Tax Services
Anthem Tax Services may be worth considering if you owe more than $10,000 in tax debt and want the reassurance of one of the strongest money-back guarantees in the industry, promising a refund if it can’t reduce or rework your tax debt.
| Min. tax debt | $10,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, state, individual, business |
| State availability | 50 states |
| Discovery fee | $500 |
| Unique benefits | 100% money-back guarantee if you don’t save money or have payment reworked; Bookkeeping, tax preparation |
| Consultation | Check eligibility now |
Why it’s one of the best
- 100% money-back guarantee if your debt isn’t reduced or reworked
- Accredited by respected organizations, including Better Business Bureau and The TITAN Business Awards
- Free consultation with an agent
- Employs enrolled agents and tax attorneys
Anthem Tax Services provides tax relief and preparation services for individuals and businesses. Its standout feature is a 100% money-back guarantee if it can’t reduce or rework your debt (excluding bookkeeping, tax prep, and the minimum deposit). The company is also highly accredited and offers a free consultation to help you decide if it’s the right fit.
How does it work?
While the company doesn’t outline the steps it takes to resolve your tax issues, its process is similar to others.
- Take advantage of a free consultation with a tax expert to discuss your situation and hear how the company can help.
- Agree to let a team of experts from the company investigate your situation further by reaching out to the IRS on your behalf.
- If the team determines you have options to reduce your tax debt, they’ll reach out to you to discuss your options.
- Once an option is chosen, a filing will be made to the IRS to reach the best resolution.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.6 out of 5 (368 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.7 out of 5 (223 reviews) |
| 4.5 out of 5 (863 reviews) |
Best tax relief company with the lowest-price guarantee: Alleviate Tax Relief Services
Why we picked Alleviate Tax Relief
Alleviate Tax Relief Services may be the right fit if you’re concerned about paying too much for professional tax help. It offers a lowest-price guarantee and a free initial consultation. It works with taxpayers who owe at least $10,000 and provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, subject to its terms.
| Min. tax debt | $10,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, individual, business, state when combined with federal |
| State availability | 50 states and Puerto Rico |
| Discovery fee | $495 |
| Unique benefits | 30-day 100% money-back guarantee; Lowest price guarantee; Financing options available |
| Consultation | Check eligibility now |
Why it’s one of the best
- 30-day 100% money-back guarantee
- Lowest price guarantee
- Helps eligible clients explore IRS tax debt settlement and resolution options
Alleviate Tax Relief Services is a tax relief company specializing in federal taxes. It provides services across all 50 states (and Puerto Rico) to those with more than $10,000 in tax debt. This company is noteworthy for its dedication to transparency, providing detailed information to customers at every stage of the process.
Alleviate Tax offers flexible financing options, a lowest-price guarantee, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, subject to its terms. Its tax relief services include helping eligible clients explore ways to reduce or manage IRS tax debt, such as Offers in Compromise and installment agreements. A free initial consultation can help you understand your potential options and the costs involved before deciding whether to move forward.
How does it work?
After the initial consultation, the company’s website outlines a 2-phase process for getting your tax debt resolved.
- First, hop on a free discovery call to learn more about your tax debt situation and explore potential solutions.
- During Phase 1 (Investigation) Alleviate Tax initiates client protection, establishes communication with the IRS, and reviews case summary options to determine the best course of action for your tax resolution.
- Then, during Phase 2 (Resolution) the Alleviate Tax team works to secure the best resolution possible and close your case with the IRS.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.4 out of 5 (410 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 3.8 out of 5 (299 reviews) |
| 4.6 out of 5 (1,385 reviews) |
Great tax relief company with an ongoing protection plan: Optima Tax Relief
Why we picked Optima Tax Relief
Optima Tax Relief might be a good fit if you want help resolving your current tax debt of $10,000+ plus ongoing support to avoid future tax problems. It offers a free consultation, a team of tax professionals, and optional monthly protection plans that provide continued tax assistance after your initial case is resolved.
| Min. tax debt | $10,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, state, individual, business |
| State availability | 50 states + D.C. for federal, 48 states + D.C. for state |
| Discovery fee | $295 |
| Unique benefits | 15-day money-back guarantee; Optima Tax Shield™ |
Why it’s one of the best
- Full-service team with CPAs and tax attorneys
- Ongoing protection plans (Optima Tax Shield™)
- 15-day money-back guarantee for the investigation phase
Optima Tax Relief Optima has resolved over $3 billion in tax liabilities for its clients, by offering tax consultation, preparation, and resolution. Its team includes licensed professionals (tax attorneys, enrolled agents, and CPAs) who work with clients through a structured process.
It also offers a paid protection program called Optima Tax Shield™, designed to help clients stay compliant and avoid future tax problems.
Optima Tax Shield™ pricing:
| Plan | Monthly cost | Features |
| Standard | $14.99 | Ongoing filing assistance, basic IRS support |
| Premium | $29.99 | Adds audit defense, credit monitoring |
| Professional | $49.99 | Includes identity protection and full IRS communication support |
How does it work?
Here’s how it works if you decide to work with Optima.
- Start with a free consultation to review your tax situation and find out whether relief might be available.
- If you decide to move forward, the team will investigate your case, communicate with the IRS, and recommend a personalized strategy.
- Once you approve the plan, Optima will file paperwork, negotiate with the IRS, and work to resolve your tax debt.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.5 out of 5 (5,366 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.1 out of 5 (2,034 reviews) |
| 4.3 out of 5 (5,764 reviews) |
Great tax relief company offer in compromise support: TaxRise
Why we picked TaxRise
TaxRise accepts clients who owe at least $10,000 in tax debt and want to explore settling with the IRS for less than you owe. It offers a free consultation, assistance with Offers in Compromise, and a no-cost appeal if your Offer in Compromise is rejected, subject to its terms.
| Min. tax debt | $10,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, state, individual, business |
| State availability | 50 states for federal, 40 states for state |
| Discovery fee | Undisclosed |
| Unique benefits | 100% resolution guarantee; 100% compliance guarantee; No cost Offer in Compromise appeal |
| Consultation | Check eligibility now |
Why it’s one of the best
- 100% money-back guarantee
- No hidden fees
TaxRise is a newer company in the tax relief industry, but it has already helped clients resolve over $132 million in tax debt. It offers services in all 50 states and accepts clients with as little as $10,000 in tax debt.
The company specializes in negotiating IRS and state tax relief solutions, including Offers in Compromise, Installment Agreements, and Currently Not Collectible status. Though it doesn’t have decades of history like some competitors, its growing track record shows strong client outcomes.
Once you fill out the online 5-minute eligibility check, you’ll start with a free consultation. From there, you’ll pay an upfront investigation fee before the company customizes a resolution plan. If you’re not satisfied, TaxRise offers a money-back guarantee under specific conditions.
How does it work?
The company’s website outlines a three-step process for getting your tax debt resolved.
- Have a free consultation with an expert to discuss your tax troubles and learn more about the company and its services.
- Pay an investigation fee so TaxRise can evaluate your case and determine your eligibility for tax relief programs.
- Get your tax debt resolved.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 3.9 out of 5 (2,409 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.4 out of 5 (2,134 reviews) |
| 4.7 out of 5 (9,306 reviews) |
Great tax relief company for transparent expectations: BC Tax
Why we picked BC Tax
BC Tax sets clear expectations and are known for being transparent with clients that owe at least $20,000 in tax debt and want to understand their options before paying for professional help. BC Tax offers a free consultation and no discovery fee, with tax professionals who assess your situation and explain whether their services could benefit you before you commit.
| Min. tax debt | $20,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, state, individual, business |
| State availability | 50 states |
| Discovery fee | $0 |
| Unique benefits | 15-day money-back guarantee; Offers tax preparation and tax planning services |
| Consultation | Check eligibility now |
Why it’s one of the best
- 15-day money-back guarantee
- Offers tax preparation and tax planning services
- Receive a free consultation
BC Tax has been in business for over 21 years and is an excellent choice for individuals and businesses across all 50 states. Based in Colorado, the firm is staffed by enrolled agents, tax attorneys, and experienced case managers.
The staff is transparent online and in its conversations with clients about setting expectations from the start, including its free initial consultation. The federally licensed enrolled agents will assess your situation and determine whether its relief services can save you money before collecting fees.
How does it work?
BC Tax’s services follow a four-step process.
- Free consultation to discuss your situation and assess solutions.
- Sign agreements to allow BC Tax to represent you as it works towards a resolution.
- BC Tax’s staff will keep you updated as it works with the IRS and state authorities to restructure your debt.
- A resolution should be delivered to put you in better standing than where you started.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.0 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.7 out of 5 (14 reviews) |
| 4.4 out of 5 (137 reviews) |
Best tax relief company customer service: Precision Tax Relief
Why we picked Precision Tax Relief
If responsive communication and support are priorities when resolving your tax debt, Precision Tax Relief is worth considering. It earns consistently high customer ratings, offers free consultations, and uses flat-rate pricing so you can understand the cost of its services before moving forward.
| Min. tax debt | $10,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, individual, state when combined with federal |
| State availability | 50 states |
| Discovery fee | Not disclosed; upfront, flat-rate fees |
| Unique benefits | 30-day money-back guarantee; Service guarantee |
Why it’s is one of the best
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- No hidden fees
Precision Tax Relief has over 56 years of experience—more than any other company featured here. It has excellent client reviews, as well. This means that Precision Tax Relief has consistently delivered on its commitment to clients for more than half a century.
That decades-long track record also means Precision Tax Relief is no stranger to tax negotiations and settlements. The company specializes in resolving and reducing tax debt for individuals and businesses, both at the federal and state levels.
You’ll book a free consultation to get started with Precision Tax Relief. If you decide to work with the company, you’ll pay one flat fee, upfront or in installments. If you’re dissatisfied, you can take advantage of Precision Tax Relief’s 30-day money-back guarantee.
How does it work?
The company’s website outlines a three-step process for getting your tax debt resolved.
- Have a free consultation with an expert to discuss your tax troubles and learn more about the company and its services.
- Receive protection from the IRS while the Precision Tax team works on your case.
- Get your tax debt resolved
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.9 out of 5 (2,131 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.9 out of 5 (52 reviews) |
| 4.9 out of 5 (337 reviews) |
Best tax relief company initial investigation: Larson Tax Relief
Why we picked Larson Tax Relief
If you owe at least $15,000 in tax debt and want a clearer understanding of your options before paying for help, Larson Tax Relief stands out. Its free consultation includes an investigation into your IRS or state tax debt, a service many competitors charge for, so you can better understand your situation before deciding whether to hire the company.
| Min. tax debt | $15,000 |
| Free consultation? | Yes |
| Tax types | Federal, state, individual, business |
| State availability | 50 states |
| Discovery fee | $0 |
| Unique benefits | 15-day money-back guarantee |
Why it’s one of the best
- 15-day money-back guarantee
- Free consultation with a tax debt investigation
- Serving clients since 2005 with experienced staff
Larson Tax Relief has been helping individuals and businesses resolve tax debts since 2005. Its standout feature is a free consultation that includes an investigation into your IRS or state tax debt—a service many competitors charge for. The company also provides a money-back guarantee for added peace of mind.
How does it work?
The company doesn’t have a step-by-step process outlined on its website, but its process seems to be similar to other tax relief companies. You’ll schedule a free consultation with a tax professional from the firm and work with its team to determine the best strategy and outcome for your situation.
Customer satisfaction
| Trustpilot | 4.8 out of 5 (406 reviews) |
| Better Business Bureau | 4.9 out of 5 (74 reviews) |
| 4.5 out of 5 (257 reviews) |
Do you need a tax relief company?
Not everyone who owes back taxes needs professional help. In our survey, 26% of respondents facing IRS issues said figuring out what steps to take was the hardest part of resolving their tax debt.
If you’re unsure how to approach the IRS, a tax relief company can help you understand your options, determine which relief programs you may qualify for, and communicate with the IRS on your behalf. Many offer free initial consultations, giving you an opportunity to ask questions and understand potential costs before deciding whether to hire them.
How to choose between the best tax debt relief companies
Choosing a tax relief company starts with understanding what kind of help you need. In our tax challenges survey, 56% of respondents facing IRS issues didn’t agree that they could resolve their tax debt on their own.
If you’re unsure how to approach the IRS, a qualified tax professional can help explain your options and guide you through the process. But not every company offers the same services or charges the same fees. Before signing an agreement, ask yourself these questions:
- What type of help do I actually need? Start by understanding your situation. If your case is more complex, it’s important to choose a company that employs licensed professionals like CPAs, enrolled agents, or tax attorneys:
- Are you facing IRS back taxes, penalties, liens, or wage garnishment?
- Do you need representation before the IRS or just help setting up a payment plan?
- Are you pursuing an Offer in Compromise or trying to avoid collection actions?
- How much can I afford to pay upfront, and overall? Tax relief companies may charge a flat fee or hourly rate, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Avoid any company that demands a large upfront payment without explaining the scope and timeline of services. Make sure to:
- Check whether there’s a free consultation or satisfaction guarantee
- Get a written estimate with a clear breakdown of services
- Ask the tax debt relief companies if they offer financing or staggered payment options
- Is the company reputable and transparent? Watch out for red flags like vague guarantees, high-pressure sales tactics, or missing contracts. Choose a company that:
- Lists its staff credentials and licenses clearly
- Discloses all fees and services in writing
- Has strong reviews and is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Doesn’t make unrealistic promises like “settle for pennies on the dollar” without reviewing your financials
- How does it communicate and support clients? Consider calling or emailing before you commit. Responsiveness can be a good indicator of service quality. Tax issues can move fast, so you need a company that:
- Keeps you updated on your case and assigns a dedicated point of contact
- Explains your options in plain language
- Offers multiple contact methods like phone, email, and online portals
- What is its refund or cancellation policy? Some companies offer money-back guarantees or partial refunds if they can’t help resolve your case. Others charge fees regardless of outcome. Ask tax relief firms:
- Whether fees are tied to results or charged regardless
- Whether there’s a cancellation window or satisfaction guarantee
- What happens if you want to stop services halfway through
How to avoid tax relief scams
Choosing a trustworthy tax relief company is important. In our tax challenges survey, more than 15% of respondents facing IRS issues said they were concerned about tax relief scams.
While legitimate companies can help taxpayers navigate IRS programs, some firms make promises they can’t deliver. Understanding what to look for can help you choose a company with confidence.
The IRS cautions that some companies “promise to eliminate tax debt but sometimes leave taxpayers high and dry,” failing to deliver results after charging high upfront fees. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has also issued guidance on how to spot and avoid misleading claims, especially from firms that guarantee dramatic results without knowing your financial situation.
Before paying for professional tax relief services, verify that the company you’re using is legitimate and trustworthy. You should:
- Talk with a specialist on the phone to confirm the company’s experience and skills
- Read the staff bios on the company website, and look for Enrolled Agent (EA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credentials
- Check its reviews and ratings, especially with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and on sites like Trustpilot
- Avoid paying any upfront fees until you’ve confirmed the company’s capabilities
- Beware of firms that make too-good-to-be-true claims, particularly without reviewing your case
FAQ about tax relief companies
Do tax relief companies offer free consultations?
Yes, working with any tax relief company usually starts with a free consultation. You’ll chat with a representative and give them details on your tax issues. The company will quickly analyze your situation, and then map out a plan to help you get out of tax debt.
Do tax relief companies contact the IRS?
Yes, the company will contact the IRS or your state tax authority to get updated account records. After all, it can’t effectively solve your IRS tax problems without this information.
Once the company reviews these records, it will explain its recommended next steps and associated costs before proceeding.
How do tax relief companies work?
Tax relief companies will work to resolve your tax debt, using one of the following relief options:
- Offer in Compromise: This is a way of settling tax debts without paying off the full amount. Check out our guide on how to negotiate an Offer in Compromise with the IRS.
- Installment agreements: These IRS payment plans let you pay back taxes over time instead of all at once. Interest and applicable penalties generally continue to accrue until your balance is paid in full. Learn more about how to set up a payment plan with the IRS.
- Penalty abatement: If you meet certain requirements, you may be able to have any IRS penalties waived or reduced.
- Innocent spouse relief: This can keep you from being penalized for your spouse’s tax mistakes.
- Fresh Start program: The IRS Fresh Start Program is now an umbrella term for services that make existing relief options more flexible, like letting you spread your debts off over multiple years.
Tax relief firms can also help you qualify for Currently Not Collectible status, which puts any collection efforts by the IRS on hold—at least temporarily.
> Read More: What is tax relief?
Is tax relief worth it?
Hiring a tax relief company may be worth it if you owe significant back taxes, have a complicated tax situation, or need help communicating with the IRS. However, professional tax relief services can cost several thousand dollars, so you’ll want to weigh the fees against the potential benefits.
Cost is a common concern. In our tax challenges survey, 24% of respondents facing IRS tax issues worried that tax relief companies were too expensive. For example, Tax Hardship Center reports that its clients pay an average of $3,750 for professional assistance. Before hiring a company, ask for a detailed fee estimate and find out what services are included.
If you’re not prepared to pay the fees for help from tax professionals, you can work with the IRS directly to file for Currently Not Collectible status, set up an installment plan, or apply for any other relief programs. The Federal Trade Commission has detailed instructions on many of these options and how to apply online.
You can also use the IRS’ Taxpayer Advocate Service for help, or contact the National Association of State Auditors, Comptrollers, and Treasures for state-related tax assistance. If you have significant tax debt or a complicated situation, a tax resolution company may be worth considering. Many offer free consultations where you can discuss your IRS tax issues, explore potential solutions, and learn about fees before deciding whether to hire them.
Are tax relief companies legit?
There are legitimate tax relief companies, but you need to do your due diligence. A reputable tax relief company will employ licensed professionals such as enrolled agents, CPAs, or tax attorneys and offer transparent pricing and realistic expectations. They can also help you navigate complex IRS issues, negotiate settlements like Offers in Compromise, set up installment agreements, and stop aggressive collection actions.
However, the industry also includes scammy or unethical tax relief companies that make exaggerated claims, charge high upfront fees, and disappear once you’ve paid. To protect yourself:
- Look for a company with a strong BBB rating and verified reviews
- Avoid any company that guarantees dramatic reductions (“pennies on the dollar”) without first analyzing your financials
- Make sure tax relief agencies provide a clear contract, pricing breakdown, and refund or cancellation policy
Bottom line: Tax relief companies can be legit and helpful, but always do your due diligence before signing up.
If you have a financial hardship and a smaller debt (below $10,000), the IRS has several resources available to help you resolve your tax debts. When the amount you owe to the IRS is significant, and you feel you need help communicating with the IRS to find a solution, hiring a tax relief company is an option.
How we chose the best tax relief companies
Since 2020, LendEDU has evaluated tax relief companies to help readers find the best tax relief services. Our latest analysis reviewed 420 data points from 21 companies, with 20 data points collected from each. This information is gathered from company websites, public disclosures, customer reviews, and direct communication with company representatives.
These data points are organized into broader categories, which our editorial team weights and scores based on their relative importance to readers. These star ratings help us determine which companies are best for different situations. We don’t believe two companies can be the best for the same purpose, so we only show each best-for designation once.
Higher star ratings are ultimately awarded to companies that create an excellent experience and have a track record of restructuring tax debts for clients. This includes offering a free consultation, cost transparency, and employing a team of experienced tax professionals with varying licenses and certifications.
Beyond evaluating providers, we conduct original research to better understand the challenges consumers face. Our survey of 600 U.S. adults explored experiences with IRS debt, penalties, and tax relief services. The findings have also been cited by national publications, including CNBC.
List of tax relief companies we evaluated
- ALG Tax Solutions
- Alleviate Tax
- Anthem Tax Services
- BC Tax
- Blueprint Resolution Services
- Community Tax
- Enterprise Consultants Group
- Five Star Tax Resolution
- Fortress Tax Relief
- Fresh Start Initiative
- Ideal Tax
- Instant Tax Solutions
- Larson Tax Relief
- Optima Tax Relief
- Precision Tax Relief
- QuickCareTax
- SuperMoney
- Tax Defense Network
- Tax Group Center
- Tax Hardship Center
- Tax Relief Advocates
- TaxRise
- Victory Tax Lawyers
Recap of the best tax settlement companies
About our contributors
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Written by Sarah Sheehan, MATSarah Sheehan is a writer, educator, and analyst who focuses on the impact of health, gender, and geography on financial equity. Her ultimate goal? To live beyond the confines of chasing the next dollar—and to teach everyone else how to do the same.
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Edited by Kristen Barrett, MATKristen Barrett is a managing editor at LendEDU. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her wife and their pack of senior rescue dogs. She has edited and written personal finance content since 2015.
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Reviewed by Chloe Moore, CFP®Chloe Moore, CFP®, is the founder of Financial Staples, a virtual, fee-only financial planning firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, and serving clients nationwide. Her firm is dedicated to assisting tech employees in their 30s and 40s who are entrepreneurial-minded, philanthropic, and purpose-driven.