Optima Tax Relief Review 2026

Introduction

If you owe back taxes or have received IRS collection notices, finding a reliable tax relief firm is crucial. This Optima Tax Relief review breaks down how the company works, what it costs, and whether it’s legitimate based on verified information from the BBB, FTC guidance, and customer reviews.

Founded in California in 2011, Optima Tax Relief has grown into one of the best-known names in the industry, with national advertising and a large in-house team of tax professionals. This review aims to help you understand what to expect from Optima’s services and how they compare to other top-rated tax relief companies.

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How Optima Tax Relief Works

Optima Tax Relief provides full-service representation for taxpayers facing IRS or state tax issues. The company uses a two-phase program that includes an initial financial investigation to assess eligibility and a resolution phase to negotiate and finalize settlements. Within these two stages, clients go through four main steps: consultation, investigation, resolution, and ongoing support.

1. Free Consultation

The process begins with a free consultation. A specialist reviews your tax situation, income, and debt amount to determine eligibility.

2. Investigation Phase

If you qualify, Optima’s enrolled agents and tax attorneys request transcripts from the IRS to assess your standing, identify any liens or wage garnishments, and create a plan for compliance. This phase usually takes 2–4 weeks on average.

3. Resolution Phase

After reviewing your options, the company presents possible resolutions, such as an Offer in Compromise, Installment Agreement, or Penalty Abatement. Once you approve the plan, Optima negotiates directly with the IRS on your behalf.

4. Ongoing Support

Clients can track progress through the Optima Tax Relief login portal, where updates, documents, and IRS correspondence are uploaded. Customer support remains available for questions during and after resolution.

• Prefer to compare alternatives side by side? Compare Optima Tax Relief with other top-rated tax relief companies.

Who It’s Best For

Best for taxpayers with over $10,000 in IRS or state tax debt who want full representation and case management from a large, established firm.

Stand Out Features

Two-Phase Program
Optima separates investigation and resolution into distinct steps, giving clients transparency before committing to full fees.

In-House Team of Tax Professionals
Unlike many smaller firms, Optima has CPAs, enrolled agents, and tax attorneys on staff, which allows end-to-end service.

A BBB Accreditation
The company maintains an A rating with the Better Business Bureau, a strong indicator of reliability and consistent dispute resolution.

Nationwide Service
Optima serves clients in all 50 states, handling both IRS and state tax cases.

Secure Client Portal
Through the Optima Tax login, clients access real-time updates, financial documents, and IRS communication in one place.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• A BBB accreditation and long-standing industry presence.
• In-house team of attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents.
• Step-by-step process with a clear investigation phase before commitment.
• Transparent online portal for client tracking.

Cons

• Service fees can be higher than smaller competitors.
• The process may take several months depending on IRS response times.
• Some reviews mention communication delays during high-demand periods.

Is Optima Tax Relief Legit?

Yes. Optima Tax Relief is legitimate and accredited by the Better Business Bureau (A) with thousands of verified reviews. The company is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, and is properly registered to offer tax services nationwide.

Optima also complies with IRS Circular 230, meaning only licensed professionals handle tax representation. Consumer agencies such as the FTC and CFPB include Optima among legitimate companies that provide compliant tax negotiation services, distinguishing it from unregistered operators or lead generators.

Final Verdict

Optima Tax Relief remains one of the most established names in the tax relief industry, offering professional representation and a transparent two-phase process. Its in-house team of licensed tax professionals provides strong oversight and a sense of accountability rarely matched by smaller competitors.

However, Optima’s higher service fees and less flexible options make it better suited for taxpayers with complex or high-value cases rather than those seeking the lowest-cost solution. For many consumers, its reputation, A BBB rating, and national presence still provide a sense of security worth the premium.

Overall, Optima Tax Relief is a credible and experienced choice for those who value full representation and a structured approach to resolving IRS or state tax debt.

• Explore more options in our full Tax Relief Buyer’s Guide.