Optima Tax Relief Review 2025

Optima Tax Relief is ideal for individuals or small business owners who owe at least $10,000 in tax debt and need professional assistance negotiating with the IRS. Whether you’re facing wage garnishments, bank levies, or unfiled returns, Optima specializes in resolving complex tax issues through personalized solutions.

Founded over a decade ago, Optima Tax Relief has become one of the most recognized names in the industry. The company is headquartered in California and holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Their core services include Offer in Compromise (OIC), audit representation, and customized IRS payment plans.

Optima is best for taxpayers with substantial IRS debt who want a full-service team handling their case from start to finish.

What Makes Optima Tax Relief Stand Out?

Optima Tax Relief stands out for its scale, reputation, and hands-on support model that guides taxpayers from first call to final resolution:

Free Consultation with Licensed Experts
Your first call is completely free and handled by trained professionals—not sales reps. This gives you a clear overview of your options without any pressure or upfront commitment.

Nationwide Service with In-House Teams
Unlike some smaller providers who outsource work, Optima handles your case in-house with a team of CPAs, enrolled agents, and tax attorneys. You get consistent communication and a single point of contact throughout the process.

A+ BBB Rating and National Recognition
Optima holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and has been featured in major media for its work in helping Americans resolve IRS issues. Their reputation reflects years of handling high-debt, complex cases.

Structured 2-Phase Process
The company uses a two-phase approach: first, an investigation of your IRS records to determine eligibility for relief programs; second, a customized resolution plan. This method offers transparency and helps set realistic expectations early on.

What to Watch Out For

While Optima is one of the most experienced names in the industry, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

Higher Minimum Debt Threshold
Optima typically requires a minimum tax debt of $10,000, which may exclude those with smaller liabilities looking for help.

Case-by-Case Pricing
Fees are not published clearly on their website. While they offer a free consultation, final costs depend on the complexity of your case. Some users may prefer a flat-rate or fixed-fee structure.

No Weekend or Mobile Support
Customer support is available during regular business hours only, and there’s currently no mobile app or client portal, which may be a downside for those who prefer managing cases digitally.

• Offer in Compromise (OIC): Optima negotiates with the IRS to settle your tax debt for less than the full amount if you qualify.

• Installment Agreements: They help you establish affordable monthly payment plans with the IRS.

• Tax Lien & Levy Help: The team works to stop or remove IRS liens and levies from your wages or bank account.

• Audit Representation: Optima assigns licensed professionals to represent you directly in front of the IRS.

• Penalty Abatement: Reduce or eliminate penalties due to reasonable cause, such as illness or job loss.

How the Process Works

1. Free Consultation: Speak with a tax professional to review your case.

2. IRS Account Investigation: The team conducts a deep dive into your IRS records.

3. Relief Proposal: They present you with options like OIC or payment plans.

4. Negotiation: Optima negotiates directly with the IRS or state agency.

5. Resolution: A final agreement or long-term plan is put into place.

Optima Tax Relief uses a two-phase pricing model, designed to give clients clarity and choice before committing to full resolution services.

✅ Free Consultation

You’ll start with a free, no-obligation phone consultation with one of their licensed tax professionals. This helps assess your situation and determine if Optima is the right fit for your needs.

💼 Phase 1: Investigation & Analysis

Before entering the full resolution process, Optima conducts a detailed investigation of your IRS records. This includes:

• Accessing your IRS transcripts

• Reviewing your tax history

• Evaluating eligibility for programs like Offer in Compromise or hardship relief

Typical cost: ~$495–$995 (one-time fee)

You’ll receive a full report and resolution proposal based on your unique case. If you’re not satisfied, Optima offers a 15-day money-back guarantee on this phase.

⚖️ Phase 2: Resolution Services

If you choose to move forward, the resolution phase includes direct negotiation with the IRS or state on your behalf. Services may include:

• Filing for OIC

• Setting up payment plans

• Stopping wage garnishments

• Representing you in audits

Typical cost: $2,000–$5,000+ depending on case complexity

Optima does not charge hourly rates. Instead, fees are typically quoted as a flat fee after the initial investigation. This prevents billing surprises and helps clients understand the full cost upfront.

💡 Disclaimer: Final pricing depends on the amount of debt, the type of relief needed, and IRS cooperation. Always ask for a written breakdown before proceeding.

Optima Tax Relief is a strong fit for individuals or small business owners who:

• Owe $10,000 or more in back taxes to the IRS or state

• Need expert help navigating complex cases like wage garnishments, liens, levies, or multiple years of unfiled returns

• Prefer a hands-off experience, with a licensed team managing every step from investigation to IRS negotiation

• Live in any U.S. state, as Optima provides nationwide service

Whether you’re dealing with aggressive IRS collections or just want to resolve your tax debt with peace of mind, Optima’s structured approach and experienced team make it a leading choice—especially for high-debt, high-stakes situations.

If you’re overwhelmed by IRS notices, mounting penalties, or years of unfiled taxes, Optima Tax Relief offers one of the most comprehensive, professional solutions in the industry. With a nationwide team of CPAs, enrolled agents, and tax attorneys, they bring serious expertise to the table—especially for complex or high-dollar tax problems.

What makes Optima stand out is their structured two-phase process, which gives you clarity and control before committing to full services. The free consultation, combined with their BBB A+ rating and money-back guarantee, adds a layer of trust and confidence—critical in a space where scams are unfortunately common.

They may not be the cheapest or most tech-forward option, but if you want a hands-on team that fights to reduce your tax burden, Optima is a proven and highly reputable choice.

✅ Ready to take the first step?
👉 Get Your Free Tax Consultation — See if Optima can help you resolve your IRS debt today.

FAQs

What is Optima Tax Relief’s minimum tax debt requirement?

Optima generally requires a minimum of $10,000 in tax debt to accept new clients.

How much does Optima Tax Relief charge?

Fees start with an investigation phase that typically costs $495–$995, followed by a resolution phase that can range from $2,000 to over $5,000, depending on case complexity.

Is Optima Tax Relief legit and safe to use?

Yes. Optima is a legitimate, accredited company with an A+ BBB rating and licensed professionals on staff, including CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys.

What services does Optima Tax Relief offer?

Core services include:

• Offer in Compromise (OIC)

• Installment Agreements

• Tax lien and levy removal

• IRS audit representation

• Penalty abatement

• State tax relief

Does Optima offer a money-back guarantee?

Yes. Optima offers a 15-day money-back guarantee during the initial investigation phase if you’re unsatisfied with the service.

Optima Tax Relief Review 2025

• 1Key Facts at a Glance
• 2Pros & Cons
• 3Top Services Offered
• 4Pricing and Fees
• 5Who It's Best For
• 6Bottom Line