Tax Hardship Center is a reputable tax relief company headquartered in Westlake Village, California, offering services nationwide. With over a decade of experience, they specialize in assisting individuals and businesses facing significant tax debts, particularly those exceeding $12,000. Their comprehensive services include IRS and state tax relief, penalty abatement, offers in compromise, and assistance with unfiled tax returns.
Best for individuals or businesses with substantial tax debts seeking a structured and supportive resolution process.
Key Facts at a Glance
Need-to-Know Basics
| Feature | Details |
| BBB Rating | A |
| Minimum Debt Required | $12,000 |
| Free Consultation | Yes |
| Average Fees | Discovery fees start at $495; total fees range from $2,250 to $6,500 depending on case complexity |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 14-day money-back guarantee |
| Services Offered | IRS and state tax relief, penalty abatement, offers in compromise, unfiled tax returns, audit defense, wage garnishment and bank levy releases |
| Serves All 50 States | Yes |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Location | Westlake Village, California |
Pros & Cons
What to Know Before Choosing
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Free initial consultation | Not ideal for tax debts under $12,000 |
| Transparent, flat-rate pricing model | Discovery fee required before case resolution |
| A+ BBB Accreditation | No mobile app or live chat support |
| Licensed CPAs, Enrolled Agents & Attorneys | Services not available for very low-income clients |
| 14-day satisfaction guarantee | Fees can be high for complex cases |
What Makes Tax Hardship Center Stand Out?
Tax Hardship Center shines in a few key areas that matter most to taxpayers under pressure:
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Free Consultation with No Obligation
Many tax relief firms charge for the first call or bury fees in the discovery phase. Tax Hardship Center offers a risk-free consultation so you can understand your options before committing. -
Transparent and Predictable Pricing
Unlike firms that only give vague estimates, Tax Hardship Center provides upfront, flat-rate pricing. Clients are quoted based on their specific situation, with no surprise hourly fees. -
A+ BBB Rating and Strong Credentials
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a team that includes CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys, you can feel confident your case is being handled by licensed professionals. -
Money-Back Guarantee
Their 14-day refund policy is rare in the industry and provides a layer of reassurance for new clients who may be wary of scams or poor service.
What to Watch Out For
While Tax Hardship Center offers a strong service overall, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
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Not Ideal for Small Debts
If you owe less than $12,000, you may not qualify for services—or the fees may not be worth the outcome. -
Upfront Discovery Fee
A $495 investigative fee is required before your case enters the resolution phase. This is common in the industry, but worth noting for budget-conscious users. -
No Mobile App or Chat
Unlike some larger national firms, Tax Hardship Center doesn’t currently offer a mobile app or 24/7 chat support, which could matter if you prefer more digital convenience.
Top Services Offered
How They Help You
Tax Hardship Center provides a wide range of IRS and state tax relief services, tailored to individuals and businesses with serious back tax issues. Their most popular offerings include:
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Offer in Compromise (OIC)
Negotiate with the IRS to settle tax debt for less than what you owe, based on financial hardship. -
Installment Agreements
Set up manageable monthly payments to resolve tax balances over time. -
Penalty Abatement
Reduce or eliminate penalties due to reasonable cause (e.g., illness, natural disasters, financial hardship). -
Wage Garnishment & Levy Release
Stop IRS or state from garnishing wages or freezing your bank account. -
Unfiled Tax Return Help
Get assistance filing years of unsubmitted tax returns and reduce potential penalties. -
Audit Representation
Have licensed professionals represent you in IRS or state audits, protecting your rights and negotiating outcomes.
How the Process Works
Tax Hardship Center follows a clear, step-by-step process to resolve your tax issues efficiently:
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Free Consultation
Schedule a no-obligation call to discuss your tax situation and determine eligibility for relief programs. -
Case Investigation ($495 fee)
The team reviews your IRS transcripts, income, and financials to build a custom resolution plan. -
Relief Program Strategy
Based on your profile, they propose the best option—such as Offer in Compromise, Installment Agreement, or Penalty Abatement. -
Negotiation with IRS or State Tax Agencies
Their licensed professionals handle all communication and paperwork, working to reduce or resolve your tax debt. -
Resolution and Compliance Support
Once a solution is approved, they help you stay compliant and avoid future tax issues.
✅ This structured approach ensures you understand what’s happening at each stage and gives you confidence that no detail is being overlooked.
Pricing and Fees
What You’ll Pay
Tax Hardship Center offers transparent pricing compared to many competitors in the tax relief space. Here’s what to expect:
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Initial Consultation: Free
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Discovery / Investigation Phase Fee: Starts at $495
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Resolution Fees: Typically between $2,250–$6,500, depending on case complexity and the specific resolution strategy used.
They also offer a 14-day money-back guarantee, which gives new clients peace of mind during the onboarding phase.
📌 Disclaimer: Fees vary based on your tax debt amount, filing history, and the services required.
Who It's Best For
Is This Right for You?
Who Is Tax Hardship Center Best For?
Tax Hardship Center is best suited for:
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Individuals or small business owners with $12,000 or more in tax debt
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Taxpayers who are seeking a transparent fee structure and want to understand costs upfront
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People facing serious IRS actions, such as wage garnishments, tax liens, or audits
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Those who prefer working with licensed professionals like CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and tax attorneys
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Clients who appreciate a money-back guarantee as a sign of confidence in the service
If you’re struggling with back taxes and overwhelmed by IRS notices, Tax Hardship Center is a solid choice — especially if you want a firm that blends personal service with national-level expertise.
Bottom Line
Conclusion and Final Verdict
If you owe $12,000 or more in back taxes and want a professional team with a transparent pricing model, Tax Hardship Center is a smart choice. Their combination of upfront pricing, money-back guarantee, and experienced tax professionals makes them one of the most trusted names in the industry.
✅ Ready to take the first step?
Get a Free Consultation and find out if you qualify.
FAQs
What is the minimum tax debt required to work with Tax Hardship Center?
You need to owe at least $12,000 in federal or state tax debt to qualify for services.
Does Tax Hardship Center offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes. They offer a 14-day refund guarantee during the initial phase if you’re not satisfied.
Are the fees disclosed upfront?
Yes. Tax Hardship Center is known for transparent pricing. You’ll receive a clear quote after the initial investigation phase.
What professionals handle my case?
Your case will be handled by licensed professionals, including CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and/or tax attorneys.
Is Tax Hardship Center available in all states?
Yes. They serve clients nationwide in all 50 states.
We may receive a commission if you choose to work with this provider. Our reviews are independent and based on publicly available information at the time of writing. We do not provide legal or tax advice.
