Are tax relief helpers worth it or just a waste of money?

lisa

New member
Lately, I’ve been getting ads and calls from tax relief companies claiming they can reduce IRS debt. I owe about $5,000 in back taxes and I’m wondering if using one of these services is actually worth it.

How do they work? Do they charge a percentage of my debt upfront? If they negotiate a lower tax bill do the fees end up costing more than just setting up a payment plan with the IRS?
 
If your situation is more complex like facing liens wage garnishments, or serious financial hardship consulting a licensed tax professional (CPA, enrolled agent or tax attorney) might be a better alternative than a relief company. Just be sure to check their credentials before hiring anyone!
 
These services usually charge a hefty upfront fee ($3k+ sometimes) and promise they can negotiate a lower tax bill through an offer in compromise
 
Be careful with those tax relief companies some charge big fees and don’t actually do much. for $5K you might be better off setting up a payment plan directly with the IRS. its usually cheaper and more straightforward. but if you’re struggling look into the IRS Fresh Start Program.
 
Always go through the fine print carefully before agreeing to anything and never pay upfront fees unless you’re completely sure of what you’re getting into.
 
Most tax relief companies charge upfront fees and don’t guarantee results. If you owe $5K you might be better off setting up a payment plan directly with the IRS as i’s usually cheaper and more straightforward.
 
Tax relief companies often charge high fees and don’t always deliver results. For $5K your best bet is likely setting up an IRS payment plan yourself. Have you checked IRS options like an installment agreement?
 
Dude, dealing with the IRS is already intimidating. Why would I pay someone just to hear that I still owe money?
 
Most tax relief companies charge upfront fees or a percentage of your debt and results can vary. For $5,000 you might be better off setting up a payment plan directly with the IRS....it's usually cheaper and more straightforward.
 
Those ads can definitely feel like sharks circling the boat
Basically tax relief companies negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to lower penalties or set up payment plans. But for $5,000 honestly, you'd likely get the same results by calling the IRS directly...minus the hefty fees. Save your cash and DIY this one..you got this
 
Hard agree. i owed about $7k and went through the IRS’s own Offer in Compromise process. Took some paperwork and patience but it was free besides the $205 application fee. These companies quoted me $2,500+ just to fill out forms.
 
Bro just call the IRS. They're weirdly chill if you’re proactive. I set up a payment plan in like 20 minutes and didn’t pay a dime in fees to any third party.
 
Bro just call the IRS yourself. They’re surprisingly chill if you’re upfront and not dodging. I set up a payment plan in 20 minutes. no middleman needed
 
It’s called an “Offer in Compromise” but they’re super hard to get approved. Like u basically need to be broke and have no real assets. If that’s not u don’t waste money on middlemen.
 
I totally get it. i owed a similar amount last year and panicked when i started getting letters. The IRS will work with you directly. I used the Online Payment Agreement tool on their site and it took like 15 mins.
 
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