Optima Tax Relief Review 2025: Is It legit?
Optima Tax Relief is a legitimate and established firm founded in 2011 and headquartered in Santa Ana, CA. Although Optima has assisted thousands of taxpayers and maintains accreditation with the Better Business Bureau, customer reviews frequently express concerns about high service fees, aggressive sales tactics, and slow communication during the resolution process. This 2025 review takes an in-depth look at how Optima Tax Relief performs today, weighing its legitimacy against the most common client feedback.
Key Takeaway
Optima Tax Relief is a well-known name in the tax resolution industry, offering hands-on support to individuals with $10,000 or more in tax debt. However, it falls short in terms of transparency and customer satisfaction compared to some of our top-rated tax relief companies.
As a long-established tax relief company, Optima Tax Relief has garnered both positive and negative reviews. When compared closely, TaxRise often offers more favorable terms and a more customer-friendly experience — making it a compelling alternative for many taxpayers.
Trusted Tax Rating:
Optima Tax Relief is a well-known name in the tax resolution industry, offering hands-on support to individuals with $10,000 or more in tax debt. However, it falls short in terms of transparency and customer satisfaction compared to some of our top-rated tax relief companies.
As a long-established tax relief company, Optima Tax Relief has garnered both positive and negative reviews. When compared closely, TaxRise often offers more favorable terms and a more customer-friendly experience — making it a compelling alternative for many taxpayers.
Key Takeaway
Table of Contents
Company Snapshot & Credibility
- Founded / Headquarters: Optima Tax Relief was founded around 2010 and is headquartered in Santa Ana, CA.
- Scope & Staffing: The company claims to employ a full team of CPAs, tax attorneys, and enrolled agents, and operates across all 50 states for federal tax resolution (some state-level limitations may apply).
- Accreditations & Reputation:
- Accredited by the Better Business Bureau
- It claims to have resolved billions in tax debt.
- However, it also has a significant number of customer complaints, especially around communication, billing, and timeline delays.
Is Optima Tax Relief a Scam?
No, Optima Tax Relief is not a scam. It is a real, operational tax resolution firm with physical presence, licensed professionals, and a track record. That said, “legitimate” does not guarantee “ideal”. The quality of experience varies widely, and many negative reviews warn about communication breakdowns and hidden costs. These complaints seem to stem from overpromising, a lack of transparency, and subpar client service.
By comparison, TaxRise (our featured pick) has earned stronger reviews across multiple platforms for its clear communication, transparent pricing, and customer-first approach. Clients frequently highlight the company’s responsiveness and the professionalism of its tax professionals. While no tax relief firm is perfect, TaxRise’s higher satisfaction ratings and consistent follow-through set it apart as a more trustworthy and dependable option for taxpayers seeking real results without the frustration often reported with larger, less personalized firms like Optima.
What Services Does Optima Tax Relief Offer?
- Free initial consultation
- Money-back guarantee for the initial investigation
- Team of CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and Tax Attorneys
- Available in All 50 States
- Assists with federal and state taxes
- Investigation / case analysis
- Rework payment plans
- Offers Optima Tax Shield (Tax ID Protection and more)
- Free initial consultation
- Money-back guarantee for the initial investigation
- Team of CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and Tax Attorneys
- Available in All 50 States
- Assists with federal and state taxes
- Investigation / case analysis
- Rework payment plans
- Offers Optima Tax Shield (Tax ID Protection and more)
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How Much Does Optima Tax Relief Charge?
One of the biggest criticisms in client reviews is pricing transparency. Below is what public sources generally report (estimates, not guarantees).
- Investigation Fee: Around $295 (some sources say $495). This is refundable within 15 days in some cases
- Resolution Fee/Full Service Cost: Highly variable. Some reports place it from $1,200 to $10,000+, depending on complexity.
- Subscription Fees (Optima Tax Shield): Monthly fees ranging from approximately $14.99 to $49.99 for ongoing audit or compliance protection.
- Hidden “Upsells”: Some clients report that after investigation, they are pressured into accepting higher fees or upgraded packages.
- Refunds/Guarantees: The 15-day refund applies to the investigation phase. The resolution fees are generally nonrefundable after the investigation window closes.
Because the actual fee depends so heavily on the case, many clients complain they could not get accurate cost estimates upfront — a common frustration in reviews.
Optima Tax Relief Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers tax resolution services.
- Established name and accredited team.
- 15-day refund for the initial investigation phase.
- Optional sign-up with Optima Tax Shield.
- Nationwide availability.
Cons
- Weak pricing transparency and inaccurate quotes.
- Many customer complaints about poor responsiveness, slow communication, and service delays.
- Subscription adds ongoing costs.
- Even for cases in process, some clients say Optima did little that could not have been done independently.
Pros
- Offers tax resolution services.
- Established name and accredited team.
- 15-day refund for the initial investigation phase.
- Optional sign-up with Optima Tax Shield.
- Nationwide availability.
Cons
- Weak pricing transparency and inaccurate quotes.
- Many customer complaints about poor responsiveness, slow communication, and service delays.
- Subscription adds ongoing costs.
- Even for cases in process, some clients say Optima did little that could not have been done independently.
Optima Tax Relief Reviews
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Optima Tax relief is the biggest scam I have ver dealth with. Aft charging me almost $9000 and 3 years of dragging my account out they can back to... read more
Joseph A.
October 15, 2025Run from this company as fast as you can. Any positive remarks you see I can assure you are not true. They claim they can negotiate your debt and create... read more
Bill P.
October 14, 2025I’m a really upset customer and will never do business refer and leaving the worse review I can. Why? Well I’ve paid you all close to $6,000 only for nothing... read more
vincent k.
October 14, 2025My experience with Optima Tax was great! No long waiting, fast and efficient service. And the Sr. Agent that helped me, Marisa. She was very helpful, and made my experience... read more
Sampson R.
October 13, 2025 -
Excellent experience, professional help with a great result
Chris B.
October 12, 2025Chris Do gave me alot of information. I look forward to coming back with an updated review
Mrsluvit M.
October 11, 2025Listened to radio ads and thought hey I’ll give this a try. I got sucked into fast talks and sales tactics. Paid the initial investigation fee. Part of what I... read more
doggcrapper1
October 11, 2025Just talking with my rep. Phillip, I feel as if a ton was lifted off my shoulders. His calm, cool, and helpful demeanor has given me a comfort I haven't... read more
Norris D.
October 10, 2025 -
Hired Optima to file back and current taxes. Filed for a six-month extension without my knowledge, while the IRS is charging me 41,800 per month in penalties. Its now... read more
Ted A.
October 10, 2025 Theresa C.
October 10, 2025Leonard made the entire process easy. So excited to get a new start thanks to optima. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Demarcus W.
October 9, 2025Unfortunately they did nothing for me!! I could have done it all my self!! All they did was take my money and 10+ months later I’m on a payment plan... read more
Tario R.
October 9, 2025
Platform | Rating | Number of Reviews |
Google Reviews | 4.2 | 4,878 |
Trustpilot | 4.5 | 4,563 |
Better Business Bureau (BBB) | A | 1,637 |
Updated: October 2025
Approximate Online Sentiment Ratio*
*Based on real reviews and online forums.
Customer Sentiment Snapshot
Optima holds a generally positive score, but is no stranger to criticism. There are many negative reviews that cite unmet promises, poor follow-through, and communication breakdowns. Some users say the promised contact with the IRS never actually happened, or the results delivered were only basic installment plans that clients could have negotiated themselves.
This is a contrast to TaxRise, our featured top pick, and our other professionally reviewed tax relief companies, which consistently emphasize transparency, communication, and client empowerment throughout the resolution process. Unlike Optima, which has been criticized for limited updates and unclear next steps, TaxRise keeps clients informed at every stage and provides direct access to their case specialists. The company also avoids overly aggressive sales tactics, focusing instead on educating clients about their options and helping them understand realistic outcomes before any commitment is made.
Our Verdict
Optima Tax Relief is a serious, legitimate tax resolution company with broad service offerings and a long track record. If you have large tax debt (≥ $10,000) and need a full-service provider, Optima could serve you well — provided you are informed about their fees, timelines, and communication challenges.
However, due to transparency issues, high cost, and the complaints from clients about service delays, we believe TaxRise is a stronger starting option for many taxpayers. It has a similar tax debt minimum requirement, but has a great 100% money-back guarantee, and a more favorable online reputation that makes it a better choice for moderate to heavy tax debt burdens.
Alternatives to Optima Tax Relief
While Optima Tax Relief remains one of the most recognized names in the tax resolution industry, it isn’t the only option — nor is it necessarily the best fit for every taxpayer. Many clients who research Optima ultimately discover that other firms offer comparable services with greater transparency, lower entry costs, or stronger customer satisfaction.
If you’ve been hesitant about Optima’s high fees or mixed reviews, it’s worth exploring other reputable alternatives that deliver personalized tax relief without the frustration of hidden costs or communication gaps. Among the most notable competitors, TaxRise consistently stands out for its customer-centric approach, clear consultation, and services tailored for a broader range of tax debt situations.
Optima Tax Relief vs. TaxRise
When comparing Optima Tax Relief to TaxRise, the difference largely comes down to transparency, accessibility, and customer experience. Optima has the advantage of scale: a large, established team of tax professionals and years of experience handling complex IRS cases. However, many clients report feeling like just another number in a long queue. Communication delays, unclear pricing, and unnecessary upsells can make the process frustrating, especially for those already stressed by tax debt.
TaxRise, on the other hand, positions itself as a more modern, client-focused alternative. The company offers clearer explanations of fees upfront and a satisfaction guarantee that reinforces its commitment to results. While both companies employ experienced tax attorneys and enrolled agents, TaxRise’s more transparent process, streamlined technology, and reputation for personalized support make it a standout choice for taxpayers seeking real relief without feeling pressured or left in the dark.
Trusted Tax Relief's Top Choice
Trusted Tax Rating:
- Best for Back Taxes Relief and Resolving Penalties
- Streamlined 2-Phase Tax Resolution Process
- CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and Tax Attorney on Staff
- Millions of Dollars Saved For Their Clients
- Fully Licensed To Work In All 50 States
- 100% Resolution Money-Back Guarantee
- BBB Rating: A+, BBB Torch Award for Ethics Winner
Min. Tax Debt: $10,000
Trusted Tax Relief's Top Choice
- Best for Back Taxes Relief and Resolving Penalties
- Streamlined 2-Phase Tax Resolution Process
- CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and Tax Attorney on Staff
- Millions of Dollars Saved For Their Clients
- Fully Licensed To Work In All 50 States
- 100% Resolution Money-Back Guarantee
- BBB Rating: A+, BBB Torch Award for Ethics Winner
Min. Tax Debt: $10,000