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Business Profile

Tax Representatives

Tax Relief Advocates

Complaints

Customer Complaints Summary

  • 431 total complaints in the last 3 years.
  • 181 complaints closed in the last 12 months.

If you've experienced an issue

Submit a Complaint

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

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Complaint status

Complaint type

  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/30/2024

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    On June 13th 2024 I inquired for tax help from TRA online, they told me I needed to make a $695 retaining fee payment in order to get the process going I told him I didn't have that much money and I had a lot of questions that he wasn't answering about the service they were supposed to provide and he said he'll break up the payment into three payments and there's nothing to worry about and there is 100% money back guarantee no questions asked, so I used my ATM card and he took one of the payments over the phone that day and was supposed to take out the other two payments within 6 months and I just found out that he took all three payments and within 3 months which I did not approve.So long story short a month later I received another phone call from a different agent and said I would need to pay $3,700 more so they could move on with my case so I needed to cancel the service, so the agent canceled the service/contract it said I was not able to get my $695 refunded back, so I'm here to say I need to get all my money back the $695 they need to refund me ASAP or I'm going to write lots of reviews and also get an attorney if I have to to get all my money back and not be ripped off from ******!

    Business Response

    Date: 09/06/2024

    Dear ****,

    Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We have made several attempts to contact you via phone and email to address your concerns and refund request. Please note that your payment schedule for all fees is outlined in your signed contract.

    If there is a misunderstanding about the onboarding process, we are happy to provide a full refund. You should have received an email with direct contact information for your convenience. We kindly ask that you reach out to us at your earliest opportunity so we can resolve this matter promptly.

    We are committed to assisting you and ensuring a positive experience. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at ************************.

    Thank you again for your valuable feedback. We look forward to resolving this matter swiftly.

    Best regards,  
    Client Relations Team

    Customer Answer

    Date: 09/10/2024

    I responded to the first email they sent me and I never got a reply back from them, so I'm going to try to call them and email them again just so I can get my refund of the $695 and if they provide that to me then I will be happy with the solution and will let you know that everything's okay and satisfied thank you
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/22/2024

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    After numerous calls to TRA and my **** *******************, I have yet to receive the refund promised to me by *******************. $595 initial deposit made by six (6) monthly auto withdrawals from my debit account, and $100 that was fraudulently withdrawn from my debit account in the seventh month, within hours after I blew up that TRA was now asking me for another $1,500 to continue working on my claim. Total refund promised me over the phone was $695; however, I am also requesting an additional $56 to cover the two NSF charges ($28 each) caused by a surprise charge to my bank account by TRA in the seventh month. Total refund promised to me during a phone conversation with ******************* was $695, plus the $56 equals a total of $751 due me. After three months I still havent received my refund!!!

    Business Response

    Date: 08/26/2024

    Dear ******,

    We appreciate you bringing this matter to our attention. Our management team has attempted to contact you through both phone and email to discuss your concerns and the refund request. You should have received an email detailing the next steps, as well as a text message with our direct contact information for your convenience. We kindly ask that you reach out to us at your earliest opportunity so we can resolve this matter.

    We are dedicated to assisting you and ensuring a positive experience. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at ************************.

    Thank you once again for your valuable feedback. We look forward to resolving this matter swiftly.

    Best regards,
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/20/2024

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Date 7/23/24 **** *************************** Case: tax relief.I called to see what they could do for me. The fee was 800 dollars. I said I don't have that. She dropped it to ****** 3 payments. She made it urgent that I pay! I said monthly. She took all the money in two weeks leaving me broke. She said she would have garnish stopped in two week so it was urgent that I pay the first payment right then so I did. Garnish has not stopped. After she took all my money, she said we have a resolution for you. We will need 5800.dollars as our fee! I said oh no you never told me of such a fee. She said I told you the 695 was a retainer. I said no mamn! You never once said retainer to me or I would have told to to stop right there , I was told 1 to 200 dollars was all I would have to pay.. I as her to just give me a refund because there's no way I can pay that. She urged me to take out a loan. I said I can't do that either. I don't make enough money to pay another bill! I said please just refund my money. She hung up on me! I am a low income 65 year old woman who lives alone and I really feel like I was scammed! All I want is my money back and I was treated like a fool. Thank you

    Business Response

    Date: 08/23/2024

    Dear *********,

    Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We sincerely apologize for any confusion or frustration you may have encountered during your experience with our team. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we take your concerns very seriously.

    We have thoroughly reviewed your case, including the payment schedule and service agreement you discussed and confirmed with our representative. We strive to ensure that all clients are fully informed of the process, including the initial fees and the subsequent steps required to resolve their tax situation. The payment schedule was established based on the details agreed upon during your call, and we made every effort to communicate the urgency due to the potential consequences of delaying the resolution of your case.

    We recognize that there may have been some misunderstanding regarding the two-phase nature of our services. The $695 payment you made was intended as a retainer for the initial phase, which includes a detailed analysis of your tax situation and the formulation of a resolution strategy. The subsequent fee mentioned pertains to the comprehensive services needed to fully address your tax issue, and we apologize if this was not communicated.

    In light of your decision to discontinue our services, we have processed a full refund of the $695 as you requested. You should see this refund reflected in your account within the next 3-5 business days. If you experience any delays, we recommend reaching out to your bank directly, as we do not have control over their processes.

    We truly regret that we could not meet your expectations, and we hope this resolution provides you with some comfort. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please contact us at ************************.

    Wishing you all the best.

    Sincerely,
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/14/2024

    Type:Product Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    TRA called me telling me the first thing is to get a loan to pay TRA. I told them I don't qaulify for a loan but sure enough they got the loan for ****** with the money back verbal promise by ***** the first order of business is to get my driver license back in 2 Mos. OR.my money back. They got the loan last September AR $279 x60 Mos much more then I can afford. To this day I've had at least 5 mars who all said they were sending mail through post office and 8 Mos later nothing. They made like they had a poor connection last week only to hang up. I would like the verbal promise of total refund if I don't have drivers license by last November. I'm getting letter after leter from IRS and when I call them they ask for the code on top right. I said I'm not home but you have the letters to why am I getting them? It's a poorly run scam and my concern is do I have a poa at TRA wich they said yes then I shouldn't be garnished but zero, nothing done in 1 year. 1 phone call to me and 1 email to me. It see. Like a bunch of hoodlums with no attorney to represent me. 1 call and 1 email in 1 year and now I call a special number so they know to hang up

    Business Response

    Date: 08/19/2024

    Dear ****,

    Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. We have confirmed that our team has reached out to you and discussed this matter. It appears you have chosen to continue with our services. Please be assured that we are dedicated to resolving any outstanding concerns and ensuring your satisfaction.

    If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out at ************************* We appreciate your patience and the opportunity to address this matter.

    Best regards,  
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/14/2024

    Type:Billing Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    Fees collected, Services not done.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/19/2024

    Dear ****,

    Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. We have confirmed that our team has reached out to you and discussed this matter. It appears you have chosen to continue with our services. Please be assured that we are dedicated to resolving any outstanding concerns and ensuring your satisfaction.

    If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out. We appreciate your patience and the opportunity to address this matter.

    Best regards,  
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/12/2024

    Type:Order Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I hired TRA a year ago. Nothing has been done to stop the levys.All they have done is collect the documents from me and provide them to the **** Same thing Ive done twice already by myself. The ** is continuing to levy and reach out to my customers. TRA hasnt done anything to try and prevent this from happening. Save your money . I signed up with the understanding they werent going to try and settle with the **. This is not the case. They havent done anything that I havent already done twice.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/16/2024

    Dear *******,

    We can confirm that you have spoken with a member of our management team who clarified that we are fulfilling our responsibilities and properly handling your case. We understand that additional documentation requests from the *** and the need for timely responses can be stressful. While we strive to manage all aspects of the process efficiently, the timelines and requirements are ultimately set by the ***.

    We apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused. Please be aware that delays in receiving the requested documentation can impact our ability to effectively advocate on your behalf. We have made significant progress on your file and are nearing a resolution.

    Thank you for your cooperation and patience throughout this process.

    Sincerely,
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/10/2024

    Type:Customer Service Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    I paid a deposit of $100 then $695 for services for tax relief assistance. IRS was never contacted. Then was asked to pay over $3000 to start the process. They tried to make my wife and I sign additional documents in which I never sign. The scam artist who went by the name of **** used high pressured sales tactic to do installment payments. We did not agree and hung up. Today I notice a bank charge for $155.. This is a unauthorized installment charge to my bank dated for today 08/09/2024. I am really ****** that companies can do this to people. I want all of my money back. Deposit totaling $795 and $155 for a installment. We never agreed to continue service with TRA. ( Tax Relief Advocates. I've notified my bank next steps my Attorney. This was for a simple amendment in which we now know is free to file a 1040 X.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/19/2024

    Hello *******,

    We appreciate you reaching out to us regarding this matter. We treat these matters with utmost seriousness and would never approve any payment without appropriate authorization. Our team has thoroughly reviewed your case and has implemented the necessary actions to address the situation and initiate your refund.

    We are committed to delivering the support and service our clients expect. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, please dont hesitate to reach out to us directly at ************************.

    Best regards,
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/08/2024

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    AnsweredMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    **** out a loan for fixing my ****** tax owe to the irs this company said that they would take care of everything and did absolutely nothing and when I kept complaining they refused to talk to me I finally went to the first and now I am paying them directly

    Business Response

    Date: 08/15/2024

    Dear ********,

    We assure you that we value clear communication and have thoroughly reviewed your file. We confirm that you have spoken with a member of our management team regarding your case, and your concerns have been effectively addressed and resolved.

    If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please contact us directly at ************************.

    Thank you for your cooperation throughout this process.

    Best regards,  
    Client Relations Team
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/06/2024

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    My relationship with this company began by me inquiring about their services and began a daily barrage of more than 8-10 phone calls/texts per day. When I finally spoke to ****, the process was explained to me in such terms that it seemed like a good program. Once I paid them $795 and they looked into my finances, they informed me that the process would take more than 18 months and cost over $15,000. They never said that it would cost that much or take that long. When I had questions I was belittled and told I needed to speak to someone asap. I explained to **** that I work FT and couldnt just jump on a call. I was made to feel like a child when he said, Im in ********** and youre in ***** dont have time to jump on a call at anytime?!?! He wanted me to call them at 9pm or later. After multiple phone calls and texts I decided to terminate my relationship with TRA as I felt they werent truthful with me. They also were extremely rude when I told them that and would not even consider giving me a refund that I had paid. I feel that $795 for them to make a phone call to the *** is a little excessive.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/13/2024

    Hello ********,

    We have confirmed that this matter has been fully addressed and resolved. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us directly.

    All the best,
    Client Relations Team

    Customer Answer

    Date: 08/14/2024


    Better Business Bureau:

    I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will wait for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.

    Regards,

    ***********************************

     
  • Initial Complaint

    Date:08/06/2024

    Type:Service or Repair Issues
    Status:
    ResolvedMore info

    Complaint statuses

    Resolved:
    The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
    Unresolved:
    The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
    Answered:
    The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
    Unanswered:
    The business failed to respond to the dispute.
    Unpursuable:
    BBB is unable to locate the business.
    AFTER ENTERING TO AN AGREEMENT, SIGNING A CONTRACT, I CANNOT GET ANYONE TO CALL ME BACK NOR TEXT ME TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONS I HAVE. COMMITMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE BY TRA TO ME, HOWEVER, NONE OF THEM HAVE BEEN FULFILLED. I HAVE LEFT NUMEROUS PHONE MESSAGES ASKING FOR CONTACT, NONE HAVE CALLED. THEY TOOK MY MONEY AND RAN.

    Business Response

    Date: 08/13/2024

    Dear ******, 

    We would like to confirm that you are in direct contact with our team, and we are diligently collaborating with you to move forward with your case. Should you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

    Best regards,  
    Client Relations Team

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