ComplaintsforAmerica's Choice Tax Relief, Inc.

• Initial Complaint

  04/30/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I Owe the *** ******* dollars, Americas Choice tax was working on my behalf. They told me that *** would take ***** dollars for the **** that I owed. They never even talked to *** they kept the money instead of sending it to the *** as promised. When I found out they have not even communicated with *** on my behalf, they that was our pay for doing your taxes.

  

  Business response

  05/13/2024

  Upon onboarding client, we conducted a tax investigation which determined she was not in compliance and had a significant balance with the **** We proceeded to file all missing tax years. We then began negotiations with the *** for the client to be placed in the *** program which places her tax liability in a non collectible status. This status will protect the client from any negative collection efforts such a wage garnishments and bank levies. Once the statute of limitations expires for the tax year, the debt will be no longer be collectible and will be removed from the account through statute of limitations. As explained to the client, this process takes time but she is protected from all collection efforts while in her resolution.
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  04/16/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  When I spoke with ******** was not told I had to pay $495.00 for this program I spoke with ******************* that stated I need to provide my ************************************* this program. I have since decided to just pay IRS on the payment plan I have and asked to be refunded for a program that has not started and was told I owe them ****** for something not even qualified for ***** Case ***** Per ******************* Hello ********,In order to process your resolution, we need the following documents: 2023 Tax Return *Please note, we will not accept screenshots. All documents must be the full statement either scanned or downloaded in pdf format. You can submit your documents in the following ways: 1) Upload directly to your Online Client Portal 2) Email: ******************************************************** 3) Fax: ************** 4) Mail (copies only - do not send originals) ********* Choice Tax Attn: **************** **************************************************************************** If you have questions, please contact our customer service team at ************** during operating hours of Monday- Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm PST. Best regards,America's Choice Tax

  

  Business response

  04/16/2024

  Upon first contact with the client, we notified the client that the first step would be to conduct a tax investigation. She was made aware of the $495 fee associated with the service. The client agreed to move forward and signed the service contract which clearly outlined the fee amount for the service as well as the scope of services which was to conduct a tax investigation and provide her with an analysis of it. As contracted, the tax investigation was conducted. Our firm contacted her and provided the results of her tax investigation as well as options for resolution. America's Choice Tax completed the service as contracted; therefore, the partial payment made of $100 (of the $495 service fee) would not be eligible for refund. 

  Customer response

  04/17/2024

  This was sent to me after everything was done stating that this is what I needed to provide to continue in the meantime. I have decided to file bankruptcy due to garnishment so the process was not completed. /case number 21580796

  
  

  ---

  From: ******************************* <***************************************>
  Sent: Wednesday, April 17, 2024 1:06 AM
  To: ******************************* <*************************>
  Subject: Fw: Important Action Required For Your Tax Resolution Case

   

  
  

  ---

  From: ******************************* <*************************>
  Sent: Tuesday, April 16, 2024 12:09 AM
  To: ******************************* <***************************************>
  Subject: Fw: Important Action Required For Your Tax Resolution Case

   

  
  

  Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

  
  

  Begin forwarded message:
  
  On Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 8:07 PM, ******************* <***********************> wrote:

  Case ID - 62170

   

   

   

  Hello ********,

  In order to process your resolution, we need the following documents: 2023 Tax Return

  *Please note, we will not accept screenshots. All documents must be the full statement either scanned or downloaded in pdf format. You can submit your documents in the following ways: 1) Upload directly to your Online Client Portal 2) Email: ******************************************************** 3) Fax: ************** 4) Mail (copies only - do not send originals) ********* Choice Tax Attn: **************** **************************************************************************** If you have questions, please contact our customer service team at ************** during operating hours of Monday- Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm PST.

   

  
  
  

  

  Business response

  04/18/2024

  The message was sent to the client because in addition to her contracting our tax investigation service, the client also contracted our tax resolution service for her tax liability. At that time, she was offered the tax preparation service for tax year 2023. She opted our of the service; therefore, at the time of processing her case for resolution, we requested a copy of the 2023 tax return as it is necessary to verify compliance and we need the information on the 2023 tax return in the event there is additional tax liability that needs to be added to her resolution. Requesting a copy of tax or financial documents is standard practice in processing a resolution.

• Initial Complaint

  03/06/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  *******'s Choice Tax Pros (ACTP) reached out to me on Sept 2023 offering their Tax Relief services. I was contacted over the phone by ACTP. They asked me for specific details about my financial situation. They asked for Income, expenses, assets, etc. The information was provided to ACTP. They told me to wait until ACTP can discuss my case with the **** After a day they reached out back to me and said that I was qualified for a Non-Collectible program. They told me that I only had to pay them $12,615.00 for a tax resolution and that will cover their services and my $63,074 *** tax liability. I asked them to explain what was a tax resolution and they told me that the tax resolution is what resolve my tax liability situation, that paying $12,615.00 dollars was better than paying $63,074 to the **** In the same call, they proceeded to connect me with ********************************** (UCFS) so they can loan me the money and pay ACTP the qty of $12,615.00. They told me how to answer UCFS questions and quickly walked me through ACTP contract. After that they started talking about them preparing an Instalment Agreement to pay the **** I called them back asking for clarifications because that was not the promised they made to me over the phone. They told me that there was a miscommunication and hat I was not a Installment Agreement candidate, that I was in a non collectible program. 7 months later they are asking again for my financials and are offering me an Installment Agreement with the *** making Payments of $490/month for a year and then payments over $1000 dollars during the second year. I am requesting ACTP to cancel the service agreement and to refund the money paid since that have not made any progress in my case but they are refusing because they still working in my case. They sated that a case can take several month by contract has a 12 month duration.

  

  Business response

  03/11/2024

  Since onboarding our client, we have submitted a penalty abatement which reduced his debt by $9000. As communicated to our client, the next step of the process is to prepare his tax returns to ensure compliance and ultimately is part of the tax strategy as we work towards his desired resolution. We have let out client know we are diligently working on his case to achieve the optimal resolution on top of the $9K in savings we have already achieved. Here at *******'s Choice Tax, our client's concerns are of paramount importance to us, and we are committed to providing every client with the highest level of customer satisfaction.

  Customer response

  04/04/2024

  I understand that I need to contact the company directly to address my issue. However, despite my attempts to resolve the matter directly with the company, I have not received a satisfactory response or resolution.

  
  

  To provide you with a statement/rebuttal and the necessary substantiation, I would like to outline the details of my ongoing issue with America's Choice Tax Pros (ACTP)

  
  

  1. Despite entering into a service agreement with America's Choice Tax Pros on September 19th, 2023,  I have not seen  progress or resolution on my tax issues.

  
  

  2. During the onboarding I was contacted by ******************* on behalf of Americas Choice Tax Pros. **** asked for my financial information and after evaluation of my financials he told me that after discussing my case with the *** it was determined that  I was a candidate for a Currently Non Collectible (CNC) program which will cost me $12,675 to pay the *** and to cover their services. **** then proceeded to connect me with ********************************** so they can loan me the money. Total loan cost is $16,875 paid directly to Americas Choice Tax Pros. 

  
  

  3. My first reflag was in November 1st, 2023 when ***********************, case manager, reached out to me asking me to complete my financial profile. I asked ***********;why was she asking for this information again if it was provided to **** back in September during the onboarding. Her response was that they needed it in order to negotiate the Installment Agreement with the ***. I told her that cant be possible because I was told that the $12,675 paid to ACTP covers everything. She said the information I had was incorrect and that she cant talk on behalf of promises made by other employees. The back and forth continued until the end of the year when a new case Manager was assigned because ****** was constantly out of the office answering communication was very poor. I complaint about the communication issues and the lack of progress on my case so they assigned ********************* as new case manager. 

  
  

  4. On Jan 10th, 2024 since nothing changed with ACTP, I decided to contact costumer service again and ask for the cancelation of their services and a refund because they brought up the installment agreement again even had my case identified as pending installment agreement in their portal. **************** representative, *****,  told me that there was a miscommunication and that I was not an Installment Agreement candidate. HE said that I was on a Currently Non Collectible (CNC) program. He also said that the $16,675 loan paid to ACTP will cover *** debt and ACTP services. 

  
  

  After the call with *****, Neaomy *******, called me. She told me that the *** was requesting additional financial information: Bank Statements, Rental Agreement, Utility Bills, Phone Bills, and Paystubs. The documents were uploaded to the portal on Jan 11th, 2024. ****** responded with an email saying that the process could take several weeks. 

  
  

  5. On Jan 12th, 2024, received an email from ****** stating the following: Upon review of their Enrolled Agent, I may qualify for a failure to pay abatement for tax year 2018. Asked me to complete form 843 to submit the request. Form 843 was sent out to ACTP on Jan 15th, 2024. 

  
  

  6. On Jan 16th, 2024, I called Neaomy bacuase I received an automated email from ACTP about pending important information documents and to what she responded that the *** is requesting additional information like Bank Statements, Rental Agreement, Utility Bills, Phone Bills, and Paystubs to what I responded that the pending information was submitted to them on Jan11th, 2024. She put me on a hold and when she came back she told me that the next steps are to establish an installment agreement with the *** starting the first year paying $400+ and the second year paying $1000+. That is when I said enough with the lies. 

  
  

  On Feb 22nd, 2024 I called Neaomis manager, *******************. I asked ***** to cancel my contract and to refund the money because they keep lying about my case, no tangible updates are provided and that all they are doing since day 1 is trying to get me in a installment agreement. She told me that she needs to discuss the case with their finance team. 

  
  

  On Feb 23rd, 2024, Called ***** again asking for status and she said that since ACTP are still working on my case they cant cancel the contract. That they need to keep working on my case. I insisted that they are not doing work on my case, that they decided long time ago that they were going to put me in an installment agreement program but since that is not the resolution discussed with me during the onboarding they are just letting the time run. She told me that they got my debt reduced by $9000 of penalty abatement, however, they cant provide evidence. The only evidence I have is the form 843 requesting the penalty abatement. No evidence of approval from *** available to evidence their claims about reducing 2018 tax debt. I downloaded the *** transcript and no evidence in the transcripts. 

  
  

  7. On February 29 ***** told me because of my finances, I am not a CNC candidate unless they can make my 2023 taxes look like I make $63,000 a year or less. That seems to be illegal to me and at this point I dont trust ACTP advise. 

  
  

  7. The company has continuously failed to provide updates or evidence of progress on my case, despite assurances that my concerns would be addressed.

  
  

  8. The recent response from the company indicates that my case has been forwarded to their legal department for review, further delaying any potential resolution.

  
  

  9. I have made numerous attempts to contact the company directly, including phone calls and emails, but have not received a satisfactory response or resolution.

  
  

  In light of these ongoing issues, my desired resolution is as follows:

  
  

  1. I request a full refund of the fees paid to America's Choice Tax Relief for their services, as the lack of progress and communication constitutes a breach of our service agreement.

  
  

  2. I expect clear and transparent communication from the company regarding the status of my case, including evidence of any progress made and the involvement of their legal department.

  
  

  3. I seek assistance from the Better Business Bureau in facilitating a resolution to this matter and ensuring that my concerns are addressed in a timely and satisfactory manner.

  
  

  I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your assistance in resolving this ongoing issue.

  
  

  Thank you for your time and consideration.

  
  

  Sincerely,

  
  

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

  
  
  
  

  

  Business response

  04/09/2024

  On or about April 5, 2024, I conducted an investigation into the complaint made by ************************* regarding the work performed by Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** 
  **************** signed a contract with America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. on or about September 18, 2023, a process termed On Boarding. During his onboarding, **************** reported to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. that he was delinquent in filing taxes for the 2014, 2018 and 2020 tax years. He also said that he had not yet filed his taxes for 2019 or 2022, but was in the process of filing for those years at that time, through the services of a CPA chosen by ****************. There was no discussion of the amount of taxes that **************** owed. 

  During the on boarding, **************** spoke with ************ at Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** From the discussion with ****************, it became apparent to ************ that **************** was interested in an *** program in which the *** deemed Mr. ******* tax debt as Currently Non Collectible (CNC). Other types of resolution that *** be available are streamlined installment agreements, partial pay installment agreements, penalty abatement and an offer in compromise. The program that an individual qualifies for depends on the amount of tax that is owed and the ability of the taxpayer to make the payments. The ability of a taxpayer to make the payments is determined by the *** and is based on the financial information submitted by the taxpayer. America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. can not make the decision for the ***. Instead, America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. represents the client in communication and negotiation with the ************************* 

  During Mr. ******* Onboarding with ACTR, **************** and ************ agreed that America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. would guarantee a federal resolution to Mr. ******* tax problems, but did not guarantee any specific resolution.
  It is the standard custom and practice for America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. employees to request financial information from its clients. In representing the clients, America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. needs to present the most current financial information to the *** for each clients case. During the processing of each clients case, America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. *** request that the clients update the financial information every few months, as the *** will request the updated information frequently during the processing. 

  In accordance with ACTRs standard custom and practice, America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. asked for specific financial information from ****************. America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. received information from ****************. Between September 2023 and February 2024, America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. contacted the *** on behalf of ************************* multiple times. During the processing of ****************** case, and based on communication with the ***, it became apparent that **************** had not provided all pertinent information regarding his financial information to ACTR. Specifically, **************** had income from an S Corporation that he failed to divulge to ACTR at time of onboarding. America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. was not aware of the information until approximately October 12, 2023. 

  Based on Mr. ******* income, and the amount of taxes that he owed, **************** did not qualify for a Currently Non-Collectible designation from the ***. Instead, The *** offered a streamlined installment agreement with tiers. Additionally, Americas Choice Tax Relief recommended **************** apply for a penalty abatement of approximately $9000.00. America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. completed the paperwork for that request and sent it to **************** for his signature, and approval to submit the form. Prior to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. sending the abatement request to the ***, **************** requested that America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. stop work on his file and refund his money. 
  As a result the penalty abatement form has not been submitted to the ************************* The **************** has recommended to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. that America'sChoice Tax Relief, **** submits the Penalty Abatement to the ************************ on Mr. ******* behalf. 

  America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. performed the work that they agreed to perform and received an offer to resolve ************************* tax delinquency. The case presented extra difficulties in that several years of taxes were not filed and the information that **************** provided was inaccurate. Therefore America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. does not believe that **************** is *********** any refund. 
  

  
  

  Customer response

  04/11/2024

   I am rejecting this response because: I am writing in response to the findings of the investigation conducted by ********* Choice Tax Relief regarding my complaint. I must express my profound disagreement with the statements made in the report, as they contain numerous inaccuracies and false statements.
  
  Firstly, it is stated that during the onboarding process, I reported to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. that I was delinquent in filing taxes for the 2014, 2018, and 2020 tax years, and had not yet filed for 2019 or 2022. This assertion is inaccurate as taxes for 2019 were missing and not reported in the *** website but evidence of the tax filling for year 2019 was emailed to ******************* on *eptember 19th, 2023, and to *********************** on *eptember 20th, 2023.  *ee Image 1 of email evidence attached. 
  
  During the onboarding **** told me that as part of the services paid to ****, the tax filings for 2019 will be updated at the *** website. On January 10th, 2024, asked ********************* about why **** have not corrected the 2019 *** tax filling as promised and her response was that it was my responsibility to contact the *** who filled the 2019 tax fillings.  
  
  Additionally, there was a discussion about the amount owed to the ***. **** performed a tax investigation and determined that I owed approximately $63,000 to the ***. The $63,000 amount was used to calculate the $12,615 **** charged for the resolution. A total of $495 was charged by **** on *eptember 18th, 2023, for tax investigation and analysis. *ee Image 2 for charge details in file attached. 
  
  **** claimed that during Mr. ******* Onboarding with ****, **************** and ************ agreed that America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. would guarantee a federal resolution to Mr. ******* tax problems but did not guarantee any specific resolution. This statement is misleading, as I was led to believe that **** will solve my tax situation by paying a $12,615 resolution.  This is untrue as ******************* did guarantee that based on the tax investigation and analysis results and after speaking with the ***, I was qualified for a Currently Non-Collectible (CNC) program and that the amount of $12,615 will cover the *** debt and **** services. ******************* guaranteed to me that no installment agreement was an option. 
  
  Moreover, it is claimed that I failed to disclose income from an '*' Corporation during the onboarding process. This assertion is entirely unfounded, as I provided all relevant financial information to your company during the onboarding process. The * corporation form 1120 was emailed to Neaomy ******* and to ******************************************************** on *eptember 21st, 2023, as requested. *ee Image 3 as evidence attached. Additionally, 3 most recent bank statements, monthly housing expenses for last 3 months: ************************************************************ ******************** life insurance statement were provided to **** when requested and confirmation email of receival was sent out to me by ****. *ee Image 2 for requested documents uploaded to the portal **** have never expressed the lack of information from my end. Any oversight or misunderstanding regarding my financial situation is solely the responsibility of America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc., not mine.
  
  **** stated that based on Mr. ******* income, and the amount of taxes that he owed, **************** did not qualify for a Currently Non-Collectible designation from the ***. However, before signing the contract with **** with the same financial information, **** told me that I was a Currently Non-Collectible candidate. The same was told to me over the phone by ***** on Jan 10th, 2024, when I called **** to complain about them for their poor service, and for trying again to put me on an installment agreement plan with the *** when I was told since day one that I was not going to pay additional money to the $12,615 paid via a loan made thorough **********************************. ***** even said that the Installment Agreement option was a miscommunication and that **** management will reach out to me to clarify the misunderstanding. They even update the case status on their portal and deleted the word installment agreement. 
  
  **** also claimed that Americas Choice Tax Relief recommended **************** apply for a penalty abatement of approximately $9000.00. America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. completed the paperwork for that request and sent it to **************** for his signature, and approval to submit the form. Prior to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. sending the abatement request to the ***, **************** requested that America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. stop work on his file and refund his money. As a result the penalty abatement form has not been submitted to the Internal Revenue *ervice. The **************** has recommended to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. that *******'sChoice Tax Relief, **** submits the Penalty Abatement to the Internal Revenue *ervice on Mr. ******* behalf.. 
  
  Again, this statement is untrue. On January 12th, 2024, **** suggested that I may qualify for a failure to pay abatement for tax 2018 and asked me to complete form 843 and to provide a reasoning behind why the debt could not be paid. Completed form 843 was sent to **** on January 15th,2024 and received by ********************* on January 16th, 2024. *ee Image 4 for evidence attached. 
  
  On February 16th, 2024, I contacted **** to follow up on the case to what ************************* told me that they are working on the Installment Agreement preparation. That is when I finally decided to stop with the lies from part of **** and on February 22nd, 2024, I  called *******************, Chief Processing Officer, and expressed to her my desire to cancel their services since **** knew since day one that all they can do for me was to negotiate an Installment Agreement with the *** and failed to tell me that before signing up for their services. ***** declined to cancel their services because **** still working on my case. After multiple attempts over the phone to cancel ****s  services, decided to send an email to **** on March 5th, 2024, requesting the cancelation of the services and the refund of the money paid. On March 6th, 2024, ******************* responded the following: 
  
  Hello ******,
  Thank you for your email. After discussing your particular case at our enrolled agent meeting last week, it was determined that the next step is to prepare your 2023 tax return in an effort to put you in a better position towards your desired resolution. The penalty abatement which would reduce your debt by $9000 has already been submitted to the ***. Tax resolution is a multi step process but I reassure you that your case has made progress and we are still pushing forward. At this time, because your case is still in progress, we cannot approve your cancellation request. In regards to your notices from the ***, we will be providing you with temporary options to avoid negative collection efforts. *hould you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you. *ee Image 5 for email evidence attached.
  
  ***** claimed multiple times that the **** submitted and got approval of the penalty abatement, the only progress made in my case, however, her response to the BBB complain says that **** did not submitted because Prior to America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. sending the abatement request to the ***, **************** requested that America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. stop work on his file and refund his money. **** received the FORM 843 on February 16th, 2023, On March 6th, 2023 **** claimed that FORM 843 was submitted to the *** on my behalf and on April 10th, 2024, **** accepted that form 843 was never submitted to the ***. 
  
  Additionally, **** have failed to respond to the multiple emails requesting evidence of approval of form 843, details about the case enrolled agent and is ignoring the request to cancel the agreement. Attached to this complain I am attaching evidence of *** account transcript that show no reduction on my debt due to penalty abatement approved by ***. In addition, *** account transcripts show the lack of progress in my case.
  
  
  In light of these discrepancies and inaccuracies in the report, I demand a thorough review of my case and a retraction of the false statements made by your company. Additionally, I reiterate my request for a full refund of the fees paid for your services, as I no longer have confidence in the integrity and competence of America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc.
  
  I expect a prompt response addressing these concerns and a commitment to rectify the situation accordingly. Failure to do so will leave me with no choice but to pursue further action to protect my rights and interests.
  
  Thank you for your attention to this matter.
  
  *incerely,
  *************************
  
  
  

  

  Business response

  04/12/2024

  America's Choice Tax denies the allegations stated by the *************************.  America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc.'s records will support the claims made by Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** 
  
  In addition to the work performed by America's Choice Tax Relief, Inc. in attempting to resolve ******************** tax problems with the **** Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** recommended and prepared a penalty abatement for ****************. **************** approved the plan.
  
  **************** has been notified of the Penalty Abatement approval. **************** will be receiving a written confirmation from the *** via mail. The penalty abatement saved **************** a substantial amount of money, over $9,750.00 (over nine thousand seven hundred fifty dollars) in penalties.  
  
  In addition, Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** has presented **************** with the offer from the *** of a payment plan.  As of now, **************** has not accepted the payment plan offer from the ***.  
  
  *******'s Choice Tax has provided **************** with a successful resolution as guaranteed in the service agreement.  Contrary to the allegations made by ****************, Americas Choice Tax Relief, **** did not guarantee that **************** would qualify for any particular program, did not agree to pay all of his $63,000.00 tax debt in return for **************** paying his enrollment fee (the enrollment fee is an amount substantially less than the tax debt **************** owed), and did not make any other promise on which we did not deliver.   
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  01/19/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  11/16/2020 I contacted Americas Choice tax to help me resolve a tax bill. I asked what they could do for me and they informed they they could request a offer in compromise which would reduce the interest and penalties that our taxes had been accruing since 2014 on our own payment plan. I told them how much our household income was and they said they could help us get this issue resolved with the offer in compromise even in spite of our income. I signed up, sent them all of our documents and paid the $4000.00 fee that was charged in payments to them until it was paid in full. My payment plan was redone by Americas Tax and they then told us we didn't qualify for the offer in compomise or any other program due to our income. All they could do was get us on a modified payment plan. So for 4 years our penalties and interest have been building up and we are making now double the payments on this plan with our balance now at $37,000. We not only paid $4000.00 but now we owe more on taxes and our payments are higher at $560 per month. We are now going to take out a second on our house to pay the tax bill which is what we could have done sooner if we didn't trust Americas choice tax. I asked for a refund or partial refund because Americas tax didn't do anything for us. They said they worked hard, but we received nothing for their services and they made it worse. They refused to give us any portion of our $4000.00 back.

  

  Business response

  01/25/2024

  At this time, we have been in contact with the client and going over all possible options. We should be able to finalize an agreement no later than end of day today.

  Customer response

  01/26/2024

   Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

• Initial Complaint

  11/20/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  This company lied about every single the promised to resolved my Tax issues I cant reach anyone at there office to get answers. Ive payed over $3000 and they have absolutely nothing I trying for a full refund

  

  Business response

  11/20/2023

  Since onboarding client in August 2022, we conducted a tax investigation that determined he was not in compliance as he had not filed his 2021 tax return. We contacted our client and relayed the documents we would need to prepare his 2021 tax return. Since September 2022-present, we have contacted the client on 15 different occasions via phone, text, and email in an effort to obtain tax documents for 2021 and add 2022 to his contract. Client provided necessary documents to prepare the 2021 tax return and it was prepared and filed in August 2022. We are still waiting for client to either 1) add 2022 tax preparation to his contract (which he said he wanted but never followed through) or 2) send us a copy of his filed 2022 tax return. As explained to client on numerous occasions, once client is compliant, his resolution can be finalized in less than 30 days. We would be more than happy to assist our client if he is ready to move forward and send the documents needed to close his case. 

• Initial Complaint

  09/12/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I feel like i was tricked into signing with Americas CHOICE. I owe the *** at the time was ********, they told Me that they can make a deal with the *** and i would not have to pay back what i owed them. They check my financial, and said i qualify. They instantly signed me up for a payment plan, told me it would be ******* dollars for the program. Didnt bother to tel me about the interest that was involved. So i ended up paying *******, for them to tell me i make to much money now, but when i signed up they said Im a perfect candidate. So a couple of months go by and i hear nothing from Americas CHOICE. Finally another month went by and they tell me i make to much money and that i would have to go on a payment plan with the ***. So in a nut shell, i payed ******* dollars to Americas choice to go on a payment plan with the ***. I just payed off Americas Choice. I was trying to get them to take off ******* dollars of that interest, and they wouldnt do it. I would steer clear of this company.

  

  Business response

  09/12/2023

  Initially, we conducted a tax investigation and preliminary financial interview to assess his eligibility into various programs *** offers for tax relief. Based on the financial information our client provided, he was advised about a variety of programs he would potentially qualify for. The client was provided a service contract which included the total cost for the Tax Investigation, Analysis, Representation and Resolution fee. As a courtesy to our client, he was offered a payment plan to ease the burden of paying the resolution fee in full. Client was not charged interest on this payment plan. Client agreed to the full price of the resolution and payment plan and signed the contract. Upon processing the client's case, financial documents to support his previously stated income were obtained. It was noted that client's income was significantly higher than originally stated. Nonetheless, we began our negotiations with the *** on behalf of our client. It was determined that although client's true income disqualified him from certain hardship programs, we were able to negotiate a much lower installment agreement of $100 (from the originally proposed $364) and would revisit the following year to ensure it did not increase. It is our mission place our clients into the best possible resolution at all times while protecting them against any negative collection efforts from the ***. Furthermore, we explained to our client that we will continue to monitor his case and will revisit the resolution should he qualify for any additional relief. We have contacted the client in good faith and have not only offered to revisit the case before the year ***** we additionally offered to file his tax returns for the next 3 years as well as monitor his current and future debt. At this time the client has refused further assistance but we have left the door open to call us should he change his mind. 

• Initial Complaint

  12/14/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  ATC has not done what was stated. I have paid them almost 4000. They filed my 2019 taxes which is worth about 250.00. They don't communicate very well, most times I've had to reach out to them. They promised that they would get my would get my taxes reduced, which they have not. They have been working on my taxes since 2020. They got me in a payment plan, in 2022 March. No offer and Compromise even offered. After receiving another letter from the Irs 12/5/2022 and speaking to a IRS rep. They didn't have any knowledge of ATC until 3/2022.) When they managed to get 1400 abated by the IRS. I believe that the service is a Scan. They claim to send out emails, yet if they don't get a response they don't follow up. The only time I have from them is if I called. I have asked for a refund to no avail. With so many dissatisfied people why are they allowed to continue to take money from clients. I believe they falsely advertise. I never received a offer & compromise, not even a rejected one. The only thing they have assisted with is a payment arrangement with the IRS. Which I'm finding through the IRS, I could have done myself. I rarely receive any communication from them unless I reach out to them. After speaking to a representative from the IRS, she suggested that stop payment. Didn't want to take the route because of the nagitive impact on my credit. Something needs to be done, the empty promises needs to be part to a stop. They continue to be paid based on the lies that they tell people to get their business.

  

  Business response

  12/27/2022

  Upon onboarding our client, we conducted a tax investigation and concluded client was not in compliance and tax returns would need to filed. We then proceeded to file the tax return and await IRS processing. During this time, we also conducted a financial assessment to best address all income, assets, and expenses in great detail. After review of this process, the client was communicated the best resolution possible based on her current financial situation. We obtained a Penalty Abatement as well as offered her a low monthly installment as her income was above the financial hardship threshold. It was explained to her that submitting an offer as she requested was not feasible due to her income and would in fact hurt her. We strive to place our clients into the best possible resolution at all times while protecting them against any negative collection efforts from the IRS. Furthermore, explained to our client that we will continue to monitor her case and will revisit her resolution should she qualify for any additional relief. 

  Customer response

  12/29/2022

   I am rejecting this response because:

  They did not deliver as they said they would. What they did I could have done on my on. They stated that they would get my taxes of almost 20,000 reduced or eliminated. Having 1,400 abated is no big deal considering I owe such a good amount. Plus I've paid them almost 4,000. They completely lied.

  
  

  
  

  
  

• Initial Complaint

  12/07/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I needed help with owed taxes they said I would be charged a certain amount for an extended time but the IRS rejected the request but americas choice still are charging me even thou I never agreed to the new payments because it’s too high for me and doesn’t make any sense for me

  

  Business response

  12/08/2022

  Since onboarding our clients in July of 2022, we conducted a tax investigation and analysis and moved to negotiate a resolution on their behalf. In doing so, we successfully obtained a Penalty Abatement for our clients removing all penalties associated with his tax liability saving them thousands of dollars. Furthermore, we were able to negotiate the lowest possible installment agreement as we found his wife's income set them over the threshold to qualify for a hardship program. Despite his signed agreement to to fully and accurately disclose the nature and extent of his income, assets, liabilities, and expenses, this income was not disclosed by our client at the time of his financial analysis and was only discovered after recovering Wage and Income transcripts for his wife. Nonetheless, we successfully placed them into the best resolution possible. Once we notified our client of the results, he then proceeded to engage in a conversation with the IRS himself which ended undoing any resolution services we had produced and ultimately ended up with an installment agreement much higher than what we had originally negotiated for them. Our client's request for cancellation of his contract and refund was denied as we successfully completed all contracted services. 

  Customer response

  12/08/2022

   I am rejecting this response because:
  
  The reason why I signed the contract was because in order for them to start the whole process they required me to give them my bank account information and sign. I told them everything they asked of me regarding my wages to the best of my abilities I wasn’t trying to miss lead them with any of the information. I don’t know what wages they’re talking about because they never shared that information with me. I had to work out a payment plan with the IRS because the original offer with Americas choice was rejected by the IRS. The new offer that Americas choice offered me was around 19 thousand that was broken up in 36 months of payments compared to the original offer of around 5 thousand broken up into 36 months. I’m asking to end the service because the original agreement was denied and I never signed anything agreeing to the new payments by Americas choice 

  

  Business response

  12/12/2022

  We placed our client in the best resolution for them based on their true financial situation.  All of our client's records are available for them to view on their online client portal including the tax investigation reports (for both taxpayer and spouse) as well as their transcripts. The service contract our client signed  and financed was for our service fee which we fulfilled.  After the penalty abatement saving them thousands, the low installment agreement we negotiated on his behalf was to be paid directly to the IRS. His contract with America's Choice Tax was never changed or altered. His request for cancellation was denied because we successfully fulfilled his service contract through a penalty abatement reducing his debt and placing him into a low installment agreement that would satisfy the IRS while protecting him against any levies or garnishments. Ultimately, our client reversed any progress we made when he made contact with the IRS changing our original negotiation. 

• Initial Complaint

  10/13/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  My husband and I enlisted the help of Americas Choice Tan Relief 6 months ago and have been making monthly payments, however, this company cannot provide me with a summary of what they completed thus far. We came to an agreement (I thought) and the company was contracted to perform services according to our needs which were very specific, and we have not been able to get a summary of the work they have completed. I have requested time and time again to speak to the case manager) but we have yet to receive a callback. Additionally, we received a letter from the IRS yesterday (10/12/2022) which stated what we filed in 2019 differs from what was reported. That said, I left messages with the case manager, and again nothing. This is extremely frustrating since they are charging us a monthly fee, which we are paying, yet we get no contact - clearly, they are not providing us with the services we agreed upon. I have left messages stating we want a refund but again cannot get the case manager on the phone to discuss it. At this point, I believe this organization is falsely advertising its services. We expected this company to be fully transparent so we could work together to get this resolved, however; that has not been the case, I need full clarification on exactly what work has been completed so I can update the IRS before we receive a levy letter on what we owe and a refund.

  

  Business response

  10/13/2022

  Client contact our office today and had a lengthy conversation with her case manager in regards to her account. Upon her request to cancel, the call was escalated to the compliance manager who discussed the case with the client further. The manager then explained to the client that upon onboarding, we conducted a tax investigation and obtained transcripts from the IRS for her and her spouse. We then determined we needed to prepare and file their 2016 & 2021 tax returns. We notified client we needed their tax organizer and pertinent tax documents for those years in order to prepare their returns. In June our client was contacted and an email was sent to the client to obtain signatures for a state power of attorney to conduct a state tax investigation (at no additional charge). The state power of attorney was never received. In August, the client began receiving monthly email and text reminders requesting tax organizer and documents to be submitted to our office by 10/10/22 in order for 2021 tax return to be submitted to IRS before the tax extension deadline. On 10/10/22, we received the first  responses from our client and ultimately tax documents from them. The client was then informed that we were still missing the completed tax organizer in addition to the tax documents they sent. Additionally, we emailed IRS documents for our clients to sign. To date, we have not received the requested completed 2021 tax organizer, signed IRS documents, 2016 tax organizer and tax documents, and state power of attorney. Lastly, we notified our client we would be happy to proceed with preparing their missing tax returns and address the underreporting for 2019 and finalize their resolution but in order to do so, we would need their cooperation by providing us with the necessary documents. At this moment, we have agreed to place the account on hold, ceasing all future payments. In the event the client wishes to resume services, we would be happy to reopen the case and resolve their tax matters. 

  Customer response

  10/25/2022

  Hello,                                                                                                                                                                                                            It appears this business has not responded to the inquiry sent and I would like to add to the original complaint. My husband and I have enlisted the help of another reputable tax agency and they have advised us our taxes were never put on hold per our agreement. This was the first step Americas Choice should have done, however; this was never completed, so therefore we are now in full-blown collection with the IRS. This is extremely frustrating and beyond unacceptable. We requested a refund which they refused since refunds are only issued within 3 days of signing the agreement. I am not sure there is anything we can do other than hire a lawyer at this point, but I'm writing in an effort to make sure this doesn't happen to someone else. Please let us know what we can do to help with this issue, happy to supply anything needed. For reference, our Complaint ID# is 1***0236
  
  
  

  

  Business response

  10/27/2022

  We have been in communication with the client via email since the complaint was filed. We have provided a summary of progress that has been made on the case to date. We have explained to our client the process and have explained that submitting Power of Attorneys does not stop the collection efforts which is why we press the matter with our clients to turn in necessary documents in a timely manner so that we may bring the case to resolution as fast as possible. Additionally, we have not received any Attempt to Levy or Attempt to Garnish letters in regards to their case. Meaning they are currently not in jeopardy of either. As for their state tax liability, we agreed to do a tax investigation only as a courtesy to to them but we were never contracted to provide state resolution services for their case which is outlined in their service agreement. We made every effort to obtain the necessary documents to finalize their resolution and they have been informed we cannot make progress without their cooperation. We have offered to proceed with our contracted services but client has refused on numerous occasions.

• Initial Complaint

  09/14/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Almost three years ago, I completed a telephone consultation with America Choice Tax (ACT). I made it clear I had an installment agreement with IRS, and was seeking an Offer in-Compromise resolution. I was told, "We can certainly help you with that." I was also told it would "take no longer than 18 months. I have not received any type of tax resolution or relief of my tax issue as promised. In fact, I am now in a worse tax condition than I was before contacting ACT. The company statement promises tax resolution and a fresh start. For almost three years, I have sent emails requesting updates. The only correspondence I have received was for me to update the financial records and agreements on an annual basis. I have not spoken with any case manager to discuss options. I have sent the records several times because they were either lost or misplaced. Now, that I am close to paying off a $5000 debt to United Consumer Financial (UCF) for services in partnership with ACT, I received a random email several days ago requesting me to provide a debit card number for an installment agreement although I have never had a discussion concerning options of tax resolution. I expressed this in my response and received a response that the "enroll" person would contact me. I have not received any communication from the company unless I called or emailed for a status update. I was repeatedly told they were working on my case but they refuse to provide specific information, allow me to speak with a case manager, or complete a financial analysis of my financial situation. This company reminds me of the Tax Lady" who was convicted of similar fraudulent practices. I contacted the IRS and I was told they have not been working with ACT on any agreement for my taxes. IRS were not able to tell me more without a records subpoena. I am seeking a portion of money returned so that I may pay the taxes owed. This company has caused me much distress, financial issues, and left me in a worse condition.

  

  Business response

  09/20/2022

  Here at America's Choice Tax we take pride in our work. We were not aware of our client's dissatisfaction but we have since reached out to her and scheduled a call to review her concerns in detail, explain our plan of action, and move forward with her case in the best possible way. 

  Customer response

  12/27/2022

   I am rejecting this response because:
  
  I am in receipt of your email regarding America's Choice Tax. Their response is not accurate.They did not offer me a partial refund. They offered me $1000 out of the nearly $4000 I have paid towards a tax solution. They apologized for not working my case until I filed a complaint with BBC. The $1000 was offered under the condition I sign an affavadavit to remove and refrain from posting a negative review, and withdraw my complaint with BBC. Additionally,  the woman, (Laura) with whom I spoke with said, " Let me work on this and I will call you in a few days." She has not neither called or returned my three messages I have left since our last contact.

  I am willing to accept the partial payment of $1000 but not on conditions that I withdraw my complaint. I am not interested in continuing this stressful process.

  To be clear, as I have told America Tax Choice on numerous occasions since I filed the complaint, I am no longer willing to work with them. Due to their neglect, lackadaisical approach, and a last minute offer they did not previously discuss with me, they have caused my taxes to go into collections. I will accept the $1000 and move on.

  
  

  

  Business response

  12/30/2022

  As previously stated to our client, we agree to offer a partial refund. She does need to sign a cancellation agreement but to be clear, it does not state anything about complaint removal. We understand our client remains unsatisfied despite our best efforts to accomplish her desired outcome. She will be receiving and email from our firm to complete the process of contract cancellation. Once completed, her refund will be processed. 

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