Optima Tax Relief

Optima Tax Relief

Reviews Summary

Optima Tax Relief receives mixed reviews, with strong polarization between satisfied and dissatisfied customers. Many 5-star reviewers praise effective resolution of complex tax issues, professional service, and helpful staff, particularly highlighting successful negotiations with the IRS. However, numerous 1-star reviews accuse the company of being a scam—citing exorbitant fees, poor communication, delayed or nonexistent results, and claims that services offered (like basic payment plans) could be self-managed. Several customers allege deceptive practices, including misrepresentation of outcomes and aggressive fee collection without corresponding work. The 3-star reviews reflect moderate satisfaction but note frustrations with responsiveness and process delays. Overall, experiences vary drastically, with outcomes seemingly dependent on individual cases and assigned representatives.

About This Listing

Audit
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Audit
Payroll
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation

Contact Information

Address

6 Hutton Centre Dr Suite 300

Santa Ana, California 92707

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 7AM-6PM
Tuesday 7AM-6PM
Wednesday 7AM-6PM
Thursday 7AM-6PM
Friday 7AM-6PM
Saturday 8AM-12PM

Customer Reviews

Hector was absolutely incredible in helping me with my tax issues. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly patient. He took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all my questions, and made a complicated situation feel manageable. What really stood out was Hector?s professionalism and attention to detail. He didn't just offer quick fixes?he provided real solutions and ensured that everything was done the right way. I felt supported and confident throughout the

Our initial dealing with Optima Tax Relief was great! Last year it took a serious nose dive. We paid them $300+ to prepare our 2023 tax return in November. (An extension was requested). It is now 7 months later and no returns. Instead once again they are requesting a form that has been requested and quickly provided numerous times. This after being told that the returns were ready but needed to be reviewed- for the second time. I don't know what has happened but I would not recommend them to anyone. Once

After consulting with Lily@OptimaTax. Made me feel optimistic and confident in resolving my tax situation. In the past I've experienced with different firms. Which has been a 50/50 adventure. I've known of Optima for years just never ask for there services till now. So I sit be patient. Confident I'll be that this will be the road to relief. ????

Optima Tax Relief truly delivered for me when I was dealing with the IRS. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and walked me through every step of the process with patience and clarity. They took a huge weight off my shoulders and helped me find real solutions. I felt supported the entire time, and I highly recommend them to anyone facing tax issues. Thanks to Optima, I can finally breathe again.

THIS COMPANY IS A SCAM!!! DON'T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE AS MYSELF AND MANY OTHERS!!! Be sure to read ALL the reviews on Google as well as the Better Business Bureau website. My experience is very similar to every other one star review. How they receive an A rating from the BBB is unbelievable. Many people have been taken for thousands of dollars without any service provided. Every single response to a bad review is the same generic blank statement. I've yet to find a bad review where the party later states th

I was in a very daunting and scary place in reference to my tax situation until I contacted Optima Tax Relief. As it turned out it was the best decision I ever made. With Adriana Lopez at the helm her team guided me through the process with ease and patience and within a matter of months a resolution was made. And to my amazement the resolution was definitely a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. I could not have done it myself. I am proof if you are ever in need of a Tax problem please don't hesitate t

Amazing experience with everyone that I worked with. I would highly recommend anybody needed tax service to use them. The will do a great job for you. I only wish I could give more than five stars for rating my experience.

Working with Optima has been a great experience so far from the initial consult to the discovery page. They have been great with communicating all steps needed to get to a resolution of my tax problems. I would definitely recommend them to anyone who needs help with tax issues.

It's been quite the ride working with Optima Tax Relief for the past 1..5 years. The process is taking longer than I expected and I must admit that at times I've been quite frustrated. Yesterday I spoke with Manager, Hector Luna and he took time explaining the process to me and where I was in the process. I appreciate his patience and clarity and feel hopeful that I am close to having everything resolved within the next 4 to 8 weeks. I want to thank Hector for listening to my ranting and kindly responding w

Optima Tax Relief has helped our family more than I can say. We were in terrible shape when they took over our taxes. They did 3 years taxes for us. Got us all caught up and saved a great deal on our taxes. Leslie Barboza was a great help to me. She was always available after she was assigned to us.

So far Optimal Tax Relief has been a big help in resolving my tax issues. The process is still in negotiations but over all I'm pleased. Hector Luna was very nice and he explained the on going protocol. Great job

I encountered significant tax challenges, but the collaborative efforts of the Optima tax team have successfully initiated the resolution process. I highly recommend their services. Gabriel's guidance on available options was particularly helpful. He explained everything to me in full detail and answered all of my questions and concerns. My sincere gratitude extends to all involved in assisting with my case.

COVID left us out with no way of filing our taxes and being sure we were doing it properly. Once we returned to normal conditions, we felt lost and really just didn't know where to go or what to do. I knew we were on our way to future problems and I wasn't sure what we could afford or how we would end up. I searched for the top five tax relief experts and Optima was on the list. Everyone was helpful and upfront with what to expect. Everyone that has helped us has been knowledgeable and kept us updated a

DO NOT HIRE THESE PEOPLE! They will rip you off. 3 months in and they still didn't file my taxes. I submitted all requested documents on time. They ignore you, they prolong the process. One of the representatives didn't even know I had submitted documents from 2 weeks prior. That is how much they don't care about you.

I am currently filing a claim with the BBB for the deceptive advertising this ?company? offers. In short I owe capital gains for 2017. I have not had a tax return since 2017 nor a stimulus check. Each years return was applied to the balance owed. In 2022 I hired Optima to negotiate my amount owed. After trying to get updates on my case for 2 years, I was advised an installment plan was setup. Mind you, for the past 2 years I have requested updates on my case and was advised they are waiting on the IRS. Opti

SCAM!!!! They had one of their executive review specialists reach out to me too. Kinda rude and made me feel even worse for going with them. They offered me a minuscule refund of a little over $400, after ripping me off for over $4000. What a slap in the face. You can do everything for yourself by contacting the IRS. You can also reach out to the Better Business Bureau and the California Attorney General?s Office to voice your concerns and try to prevent someone else who is going through financial troubles

Maria was very professional, friendly, and informative. She went over everything in the same detail as the first person I spoke to when I initially retained Optima. Her purpose was to make sure that everything was explained to me, and that I fully understood it. She also explained the current stage of my account and advised the next steps that would happen as the process moved forward.

On my initial call, Alex explained everything in detail, and answered all of my questions/concerns. During the ID verification call, Maria was very professional. She identified herself and the purpose of the call. Her explanations were clear and concise. She patiently answered my questions, including repeating and clarifying when needed. Her tone and professionalism put me at ease immediately. I am confident Optima was the right choice for me.

Originally, I felt relief. Optima was really good at communicating information. I made contact with real people. They would reach out through the phone and I would go on hold for a bit but eventually I spoke to a human. I remember it being this way. That is until I had fully paid for their service. I have had no conversations with people since. When I needed clarification, or help completing the portal requests I couldn't get anybody on the phone. I eventually wrote a letter, took pictures and forwarded it

Avoid Optima Tax Relief. I would give zero stars if it was an option. Optima Tax Relief charges thousands of dollars for services that most taxpayers can do themselves, such as setting up a basic IRS payment plan. After collecting your money, they delay the process and ultimately deliver minimal results. You will not be working with a tax attorney, and the person assigned to your case may have limited qualifications. There service is based on deception. Their positive reviews are clearly internally generat

This company has treated me with respect and has given me peace of mind. They explain all the steps and details of my case in depth. I'm looking forward to getting to a resolution with the IRS once the process is over. In the meantime, I know I'm in good hands with Optima Tax Relief.

Alfredo was very helpful on our phone call yesterday. He really cares about people. He didn't waste my time and led me into the right direction. It's a relief to speak to a sweet and polite person on the phone. Thank you again Alfredo.

I recently began my journey with Optima Tax Relief. The process was explained to me clearly and although they give no guarantees of anything, I felt like they are taking my case seriously and will work hard for me. I will give another update as the journey continues but so far, I am very pleased!

Complete frauds have now had them over 5 years. They barely ever contact you and after all that I owe the IRS more and am dealing with them myself. When I originally contacted optima they said within a year. This company has had my case for 5 years and has basically admitted nothing done I asked them show me records they called because I complained with BBB but get ready they offered me 600 dollars out of 8000. Obviously I laughed and my next step is the news and finding other customers for a class action s

Thank God I talk to a caring young man, Mark Stephens. He was not judgmental, he made me feel like it wasn't the end of the world. He is going to do an investigation to get started. I've not felt like there was hope, until now. I will thank God for him and his professionalism.

I'm incredibly disappointed with Optima Tax Solutions. I contracted Optima Tax Relief Services in June 2023 to help with my tax issues(I owed the IRS $12,000). I was given an estimate of four to six months for a typical time frame to resolve such a case. The company was unresponsive to my questions and concerns. I have never been allowed to speak with anyone who knows about my account. I have often uploaded requested documents, and weeks and months later, I have been told they need more documentation. Each

Be very careful with optima. I paid over $8,000 dollars thinking this company would do something for me. I literally paid them $8,000 just to do tax returns for me that were backed dated. They got me no help, no reduction, and a horrible payment plan. I reached out to the IRS myself and got a better payment plan. After they filed my taxes there was no use for them. Big scam. Would like to get half of my money back as there was no resolution or even a good payment plan with them. Beware of this company. Stay

I am writing to express my concern regarding the status of my tax submission, as I have yet to receive a response or update despite initiating this process in January. With April now behind us, I am growing increasingly anxious about the lack of communication and clarity surrounding my tax completion. My attempts to seek assistance via phone have unfortunately been met with unhelpful responses, and I have not been provided with any deadlines or expectations for the submission of my taxes. This experience h

Exceptional Service and Expertise! ????? I cannot recommend this tax team enough! From start to finish, they provided outstanding service, demonstrating deep knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to helping their clients. They took the time to thoroughly review my situation, answer all my questions, and ensure that I received the best possible outcome. Their attention to detail and efficiency made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate their honesty, reliability, and

This is my first time dealing with Optima Tax Relief my representative Marisa Bruce walked me through the process of creating an account and getting all the documents signed very easy .. she was very helpful through this process so she gets 5 Stars.

I have talked with two other firms about working for me for a resolution. I had actually started with another firm but nothing felt right so after several calls to that firm I was convinced I was being scammed! I terminated them immediately! Today I called Optima and have just finished the initial process. I am Super Impressed with the process, the portal, but mostly with my contact, Phillip Padilla. He made the process easy and made me know that I am talking with the correct firm! I couldn't be happier! T

I want to say thank you to entire Optima Tax Relief team that help me through my tax situation. Team 225 was thorough and professional! They negotiated with the IRS on my behalf and settled my tax liability of $50 thousand dollars. They reduced my debt by 70%. Truly amazing!!

Never Use Optima Tax Relief!!! Optima Tax Relief charged me $4k+ to do my taxes (STILL NOT FILED after 2.5 years). They've dragged out the process while i've been paying a monthly fee for "protection". The only reps that reached out to me were "Customer retention reps" (aka sales reps) trying to gain more business from me wanting to charge me another $2k+ to file most recent year taxes. I called almost every month last year for an update and no one seemed to know where my taxes were in the process. The resp

Sales ladies pitch, when I first called. Don't worry about a thing, we will take care of everything for you. We, will do all the investigation for you. Not true . I paid them $1200. They asked me for some information. My respond was I don't have this information. They tell me what you have to call the I.R.S and get it for us. Optima tax relief response to me, the person taking care of my case, was sir you knew what you're getting into when you signed the contract. Don't trust these people, they're not hone

Stay away. TOTAL FRAUD service. They will gladly take you money and not return calls, They will only offer relief after you pay them their fees first. Even after several phone made to them and every time they offer same answer.. that they are working on resolution, They will tell you what you want to hear to find out at 2 years of paying them directly. Then surprise , we made out last payment and .. Sorry we can't help! Fellow Americans stay away!!!

When I first called this company Michael told me that their goal was to get a payment plan for us at $200 month or less. We paid over $3500. To this company, sent them our budget and payments. They eventually sent us an agreed upon monthly payment to the IRS at $110. Starting in August, we agreed and ok?d the plan. They wrote me an email letter confirming the plan. A few days later (5) Optima called me and said that plan the IRS will not except but they want $697.00 per month. They sent me an email stating

I reached out to Optima Tax relief because I am behind on my taxes and need help! Phillip Padilla answered my phone call. He explained everything about Optima and their process for helping people like me very thoroughly. I immediately felt weight lifted off of my chest knowing that someone will be helping me through this. The IRS is scary! I look forward to working with Phillip Padilla at Optima Tax Relief!

Worst experience I have ever had dealing with any company. I have requested a couple of times to speak to the manager. They create a ticket and no one ever calls. I paid them a lot of money and really have never heard from them; their customer service is non-existent. I started with them a year ago and the only time I hear from anyone is when my payment did not go through. Starting to think this is just a scam and all the radio ads are misleading. If I could give anyone any advice, I would say not to use Op

The agent that I talked to was clear and concise about the service I was getting with Optima. She made the experience a lot easier and made me feel like she was listening to what my needs were. So far the experience I have had with Optima has been a really positive experience.

Alan Sosa did a follow up call with me, to give me information about the process and what to expect in the very near future. He was very informative and courteous. He also took the time to answer any questions that I had. I left the conversation feeling like I was in good hands. Alan is a real asset to the Optima family.

I reached out to 4 tax companies and Andrew from Optima Tax Relief called me first. He was professional and friendly making it easy for me to understand this process. I have been so stressed dealing with the IRS...now I feel a bit better.

I do not recommend this agency's services. They do business with the IRS behind their clients' backs and lie. They never discussed the options I had on the table and locked me into an agreement to pay more than I could afford to pay the IRS. These people don't work for their clients, but against them. Optima Tax Relief responded with cheap excuses after the damage was done. They took the $200 I had earmarked for food to give to the IRS. I'm diabetic, and now it's going to be difficult for me to put food on

I had the pleasure of working with Maria Right from Optimai Tax, and I cannot recommend her enough! From start to finish, Maria went above and beyond to resolve my tax issues with professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to finding the best solution for me. Maria's knowledge of tax laws and her strategic approach to tackling complex issues were evident throughout the entire process. She took the time to explain every step to me, ensuring that I fully understood my options and the implications o

My experience was great. The agent explained everything clearly and helped me fill out forms to start phase one. Terrific service. Highly recommend Optima Tax Relief to anyone dealing with IRS issues.

It was a blessing to me and from the start I had Alen reach out to me and was very detailed on the steps that I was going through and very professional and personable. He explained everything to me about how they were going to help me out. I was very impressed with him and the knowledge that he had. Thank you to all of your staff that reached out to me concerning any questions that I might have. I look forward to working with all of you in resolving my tax situation. I am very glad that I made this phone ca

I had a similar problem with paying them $3500 only to have to pay $420 a month. I'm very depressed. I don't know who thinks Optima was a life saver but I would like to hear their stories and know why they can't help everyone the way they helped these "success stories". Update: My issues were acknowledged personally.

We started down the path with Optima Tax Relief over 5 years ago, and we still haven't resolved our tax issues. We spent over $11,000 up front before the work had even started, and they haven't delivered on any of their promises. Resolution, not complete. Negotiate with the IRS, nope. Create a structured payment plan, nothing. They are unresponsive, and we have to chase them down every step of the way. We keep receiving notifications from the IRS and we have NO CLUE where we stand. They are supposed

If I could give 0 stars I would. My husband paid them over $3,000 and they did nothing. When he called to speak with them about a refund they only offered him $200. They then wiped his information from the system so he couldn't go back and check the account. Do not I repeat DO NOT USE THEM. they are nothing but scam artist and deserve no one?s money. We spoke to Sofia Lomeli and when we advised as well that we would be leaving a review she responded with ?I will reply that what you're saying is untrue?. Not

Dealing with the I.R.S. is time consuming and exhausting. Optima Tax Relief took the lead and handled everything. They left no favorable option off the table and did a great job dealing with my unique issue. Team 225 was great. They worked like a team, tackled my case from all angles, and I heard from several different members of the team at one point or another. Even after a resolution, they continue to explore ways to reduce what I owe and to help me. If you're having an issue / mishap / mistake with

They have been very polite so far, but I haven't gotten far into what will happen with my situation. Still in the investigation process. I also wanted to add just for my own reasons that I've requested a refund for the services as I don't feel comfortable going forward after reading the reviews so I will update this review after my refund. Update: they did refund my money at the 15 day mark and I am happy with that. I just think this isn't what people might think it is because of how they advertise and it's

Gabriel was very patient and understanding with the concerns I had about My case. He was in may opinion very knowledgeable and able to address my concerns. Fine gentleman to work with.

this was one of my biggest mistakes what they did for me just made this worst. i spent over $18K just to get no helpful results. don't waste your money here. jackie "Q"

Lily Vu called me after I inquired on line, she was extremely knowledgeable and explained the process clearly, Needless to say I enrolled immediately. looking forward to getting some help or at least guidance on a plan. Sincerely Jeff

I wasn't sure what to expect when I called Optima Tax Relief, but Lily was great! She explained everything to me, making sure that the entire process was as transparent as possible. I plan to add to this review if I can as I progress through the process.

It kills me that the lowest score for this company is one star. Please listen to me and do not give these people your money. If you owe back taxes, no matter what the amount is, all they're going to do is set you up on a payment plan with the IRS. And you will pay 100% of everything that you owe the IRS. You can set this payment plan up by yourself. It's very easy. Please don't fall for this scam like I did. I paid them thousands of dollars to help me and all they did was put me on a payment plan. I fell f

All of the representatives that I had the privilege and pleasure of meeting via telephone were very professional and knowledgeable in what they are doing. I appreciate their patience and businesslike enthusiasm in getting me a resolution with the IRS. I highly recommend Optima Tax Relief Company to anyone that needs help. Thank you Optima Tax!

They're just out there to make people pay when I called for the free consultation. Their asked me how much money I have how much I have on my 401(k) how much is my house worth it? I keep telling him I need somebody to fight for me. where is IRS? The main goal is to charge you a lot of money I end up not hiring them. I want to Kyris head on with the tax court. Finally won the case the whole thing from Antonio 1000 end up paying $795. I don't recommend these scam artist to run fancy ads on TV scare people off

Truly had a wonderful experience working with Nicole. She was very patient, very professional and very kind walking me through the process. Nicole provided a lot of clear and concise information. She was very knowledgeable of the entire process and easy to understand. Nicole answered all of my questions quickly and precisely. Nicole is my rockstar!!

Title: Avoid Optima Tax Service ? A Complete Scam I would strongly advise against using Optima Tax Service. After four years of being dragged along with no resolution to my case, I can confidently say they are not legitimate. Clayton Farmer, the representative I dealt with, treated me poorly throughout the entire process. He was unhelpful, never provided any clear information about my situation, and even insinuated that I was lying about my income. It felt as if he was working for the IRS and not in my bes

I am very happy that you have the same people working at Optima. I have been an Optima customer for at least 5 years. Nydia has been my person to contact when I am ready to file my taxes. She is always to assit, knowledgeable, remembers me so it makes me feel appreciated.

I want to personally thank you for the great and professional help Optima provided in completing my Federal taxes. The Optima agent (Hector)was knowledgeable courteous and professional in the handling of my case. I will recommend Optima to all of my friends and family. Thank you Optima Regards Richard & Judith Lancioni

Dear, Sir/Madam. I had a phenomenal experience with getting started in resolving my tax issues. Anthony Moffitt was professional, knowledgeable and personable. I appreciate his attention to this matter, and hopeful that this process will provide me with a favorable outcome. Thank you!

DO NOT USE OPTIMA TAX. I paid them over 8,000 and told them I could only pay 200 a month. Went thru the whole process and I have to pay 875 a month and they told me they could negotiate with the IRS to get what I owed any lower. I could have done this on my own directly with the IRS. So I out 8000, which could have went to what I owe, but instead it went to these idiots. AND at the beginning they were YES we can get he payments you need and lower your debt with them. DO NOT USE THEM and they do not

I would like to express my gratitude to team 225 under the leadership of Hector Luna for their patients and professionalism in representing my case to the IRS .They've brought forth favorable results that were beyond my expectations . I highly recommend OPTIMA .

I owed thousands of dollars to the IRS. My wages were being garnished. Thanks to Optima Tax Relief, they were able to stop the garnishment and get me on a payment plan for the back taxes owed. Maria Wright stayed in constant contact with me. I would recommend this company to anyone who needs help with the IRS.

Do not give these people your money!!! They did not get my debt reduced one bit, hell they didn't even file one of the years that I sent them w-2?s for!!! Had to file it myself and they charged me almost $10,000 for something I could have done myself. You can too. Do yourself a favor and just call the irs yourself and set up your own payment plan. Apply that $10000 they charge towards your debt.

I have been so amazed by the professionalism and kindness in my case! Caitlyn Smith is there with me lock-in step every step of the way. She is quick to answer any questions without judgmen. I feel supported and secure with TRA. Caitlyn Smith is hands down an incredible person! I recommend TRA highly.

Update 3/2/2025 After over 3 years of waiting for results I finally requested a refund thinking that giving me my $10,000 back was only fair considering they are not holding up their end. Friday I got a counter offer from their legal team. Their offer is they refund $1,000, keep $9,000 for doing nothing and we go our separate ways. After 3 years of no responses, no help, no return calls that were promised and talk think you are entitled to keep my money?!?!?! Oh and the best part? When I tell them there is

Worst decision I have ever made did not help me at all. Worst customer service ever did nothing to reduce my taxes. Heny on team 125 s laughing at me on the phone about my IRS debt. Very unprofessional $5000 to file taxes unreal misleading and misguided sales pitch.Got me don't let them get you . The only one they're interested in saving money is themselves. They will not save you money. Do not use them.

I'm beginning to have doubts as I'm unable to connect with my resolution team, they call me at their convenience and I'm paying them. It makes no sense that I can't get straight connected to have my questions answered. I had faith in them before but now I feel I'm being strung along. I haven't even been able to file my 2024 taxes because they recommend to wait for a resolution which is still not accomplished and I'm asked to pay $296 to prevent liens from the IRS. Who is this money going to I agreed to a se

Hector is an amazing employee. He not only was attentive to a time sensitive matter, he completed what was needed and made sure to follow up after. Minus a few hiccups Optima has been great. Cannot say enough about Hector and his amazing customer service and attention to detail!

I will give your company 3 stars only based on one fact. Why does your advertiser find it necessary you yell during your entire ad. A bonus forcing to listen only because I have my radio on you feel the need to use words like, WATCH OUT, THE IRS WILL GARNISH YOUR WAGES and plenty more than that. I think you can get your point across without yelling and using threatening words.

While initially we were quite frustrated with Optima I will say that they quite quickly resolved our issues with a professional solution. Always research throughly before you choose a company but I'm very satisfied with how quickly Optima set out to resolve and make right our concerns.

I had a tax bill of about 7000 a miscalculation on my part, the IRS was sending letters I called and hired optima tax , the initial conversation was at the very least they would get the penalties and interest dropped, their fee 2500 over a third of my bill, so I paid it. 14 months later the resolution. The bill with interest had ballooned to 8500 and my payment was 117 per month ,I was misled ,scammed. I was led to believe that your expenses are taken into account.. not! Credit cards and many other b

I truly appreciate the assistance I received with OPTIMA TAX, they were very helpful people, it was truly a struggle for me to get started, but, I managed to accept the help and guidance, oh by the way, I received call backs in an orderly fashion. My case manager was AWESOME!!! Thank you so much Adriana Lopez AND Optima Tax Relief

Worst experience of my life. I thought Optima Tax would be great services but then again them scamming me out of $3,187.00 with services not properly managed. Offered me $200, unacceptable. This place of business is unprofessional and unreliable. Nothing was accomplished at all for a year and two months.

Brian was very knowledgeable and helpful and put mine and my husbands mind at ease. I really appreciate his help and expertise. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders and am hopeful for a good outcome.

Don't do it, it's a SCAM! They took us for 5,000 dollars. All they did was complete our taxes. Absolutely no negotiations, nothing. They string you along without any results, ever. Still waiting more than 4 years later.

I would give them a ZERO if possible. They promised me the world to sign up. Billed me Thousands of dollars for a year. Basically completed nothing but take my money. Made my tax bill became higher. ALL THEY WANT IS TO BILL YOU I took over my case and made out 100 times better

I was impressed by their efficiency and professionalism; they handled everything with ease and speed. Hector Luna was informative, positive and supportive throughout the process. Great communication, answered all questions.

I have just gotten started on the path to resolving a complicated IRS problem with Optima. All of the service I have received to date has been thorough and reassuring. Understanding people taking the load off of me! Much appreciated so far!

My initial consultation with Optima Tax Relief was quick and easy. I look forward to hearing back from them and getting my tax issues with the IRS resolved.

I paid over $1 K for Optima to help me with a misfiling of ?20 and ?21 taxes. Instead of helping they made it worse. I owe $22 K to IRS!!! Optima ?dropped the ball? an Optima rep told me , when staff member quit. Besides that, communication with them sucks! Rep called me at 8pm at night and didn't even know my correct name!! (I am EST- they are in Calif-)! Chose them at your own peril? and forget a refund if they screw up? as they did with me! DTB

Angelica Sinajon on Team 325 is an asset to Optima. We have been waiting and working on my case for almost a year. Every one we dealt with before Angelica didn't listen with empathy and concern. But with Angelica she is awesome and deserves to be promoted. Thank You Angelica

If I could give Optima lower than a score of ?1? I would. The absolute worst communication, the process took forever and still is not resolved. They took my money much faster than any resolution. Every time I received a call, it was like starting over. They didn't have current info and it felt like I was dealing with new incompetent people each time and it's so frustrating.i have contacted many other companies and they were so fast and so much more professional about helping me and communication. At this po

I hired Optima Tax relief early 2024. Paid upfront fee. Gave all information and power of attorney. Said I owed $280k and to resolve in resolution was going to be 28k, they had me take out a loan with Monterey Financial. They started debiting out my account but not working towards getting things done. They became unresponsive. I went to Better Tax relief they handled my whole case- start to finish for $3,600. I owed the IRS $1800 and they fixed multiple years of filings. Stay far away from these Crooks. A h

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Optima Tax Relief is a Life Coach that's determined to make you win! With Optima Tax Relief, I got the optimum experience for a lifetime. 100% debt free from the IRS. Exceptional Client Service provided by Exceptional Servants for Humanity!

Dear Optima Tax Relief, I am writing to formally demand a refund of the $12,000 I paid to Optima Tax Relief for services that were never provided. In the month of January 2023, I paid your company in good faith based on the promises made to resolve my tax issues. However, despite my repeated attempts to communicate, only minimal action and minimal effort have been made to resolve my case, and it has now been over two years since we opened this case. Additionally, three months ago, I left a review detailin

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.

Skip to main Home Best CPA's Nearby Upgrade your plans English Avatar for Nico Bottema Welcome, Nico Bottema! Share Install the tag on your site to get access to all features, tools and the insights you need. It's fast and easy. Site ID: 6455700 Get started with the tag installation 1 Copy this code. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Copy code 2 Paste the code into the of every page where you want to track user behavior or collect feedback. 3 To make sure everything is ready, verify that your code was installed. Verify installation OTHER WAYS TO INSTALL Install with a team member’s help Install on a platform Install with a npm package Explore the demo Take a tour of the product with realistic data to explore. Explore demo site Common questions View all Course How do I install the tag? Collect session data for replays, heatmaps, and on-site surveys by installing a unique tag on your site. Ready to add it? Follow the instructions in this 15-minute course. Article How do I know if the tag is installed correctly? Article Will the tag slow down my site? Suggested for you Enable 2FA now Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an additional layer of security to your account. Popular shortcuts title Feedback button Capture feedback in the wild by letting users share it at any point title Set up a Net Promoter Score® survey Measure long-term customer loyalty and happiness the tried-and-tested way. title Exit-intent survey Capture feedback before visitors leave and reduce your bounce rate Get started Interviews (new) Get real time feedback at critical times, thanks to easy, in-depth recruitment and analysis. Create project Finish your installation Surveys Feedback button Dashboard Invite team members Integrations