ComplaintsforUS Tax Lien Association, LLC

• Initial Complaint

  04/19/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I am writing to formally request a refund for the transaction I made with the United States Tax Lien Association (*****). I purchased two packages in July 2022: the first is a Qualified Retirement Plan (QRP) costing $4,997, and the second includes ten classes accompanied by a lifetime support guarantee, priced at $20,000. I purchased the package in *************************** 2023. However, I did not receive the promised support, which is why I had not requested a refund earlier. Despite the numerous attempts to reach out to the ***** team, my efforts have been overlooked. Moreover, they are leading me to believe that a refund will be issued, yet their actions suggest otherwise. In the **************** video training series, founders ************************* and *********************** emphasized the commitment to providing comprehensive support for students throughout their investment endeavors. They assured that the ***** team would work closely with students, offering step-by-step guidance on understanding and implementing the Qualified Retirement Plan (QRP); however, I got an overall explanation and a name of a book for self-learning. They also stated multiple times that they would give 100% of our money back if we were not satisfied. We were initially assured that purchasing properties with our retirement account would incur no penalties. Contrary to this, my accountant has informed me that there is a $11,000 penalty for the withdrawal from my retirement account. In a desperate attempt to report the incident, I contacted them. Their reply was that they could provide the funds for the **** however, they also informed me that this would result in the termination of any future support from their side.I proposed to them that if they wish to discharge me, there is no issue. I hereby request that, as part of the resolution for the first package, a minimum reimbursement of $10,000 to be made. I have attached a more explanation on the letter uploaded below.

  

  Business response

  05/10/2024

  I have been personally attending to Ms. ***** concerns since April 1, 2024. Our first interaction was the result of an escalation from our Client Support division.  During this encounter I learned that ************ had improperly used the Qualified Retirement Plan and demanded that I speak with her accountant. After explaining that ***** does not provide financial advice, I ultimately agreed to participate in a three way call with Ms. ***** Accountant. It was during this call that I learned of Ms. ***** mismanagement and was able to clarify some details about the type of retirement structure we form for clients. In short, ************ defied our written instructions pertaining to rollover deposits and instead took a normal distribution resulting in tax consequences. Please find attached clear instructions provided to ************ regarding rollover procedures. It is my understanding (through speaking with Ms. ***** accountant) that her investment was made outside of her retirement plan.  Although USTLA shares no fault in this matter, an offer of full refund (2 LLC entities, 1 solo 401k plan - $4,997) was made as a good faith gesture.

  This complaint also references an additional program purchased priced at $20,000. It is important to clarify that this program is far more than ten classes. ************ enrolled in ****** Private One on One training which includes two full days of private instruction with a tax lien and deed investing expert. As part of this training, ************ also enjoyed ten individual training sessions with an expert (video conference), 1 year of membership to our ************************ (ULS), 2 tickets to our Year End event (attended in 2023), and ongoing access to a private coaching hotline. ************ was also appointed a private concierge to assist in scheduling fulfillment and address any potential concerns. It is notable that Ms. ***** account does not reflect any record of dissatisfaction throughout her training fulfillment. Although Ms. ***** training deliverables have been fully rendered, records relinquished by her mentors showcase a thorough record of attentiveness post training. This includes executive level phone, email, and video conference support at no additional charge. 

  Ms. ***** desire to pursue refund only became apparent after her training deliverables had been completed and an offer to refund her retirement structure was made.

  Lifetime support is a feature offered to all clients that enroll in USTLAs introductory Protege Program offered at $1497. This includes the opportunity to re-attend future two day trainings taught by USTLAs founder, *************************, access to our general client service toll free number, and support via email. As a Protege member, ************ has lifetime access to these amenities.

  The allegation of being overlooked is offensive as the attached records and emails detail an extensive record of ongoing support by numerous members of USTLA, including myself.

  It is USTLAs position that our offer to fully refund Ms. ***** retirement structure, despite sharing no responsibility for her personal mismanagement, is exceedingly generous and fair. ************ is in possession of the instructions if she chooses to accept this offer.
  

  
  

  Customer response

  05/14/2024

  I am rejecting this response because:

  The promises stated in the CDs series are very different than what was promised. On the CDs series ************************* and *********************** were excited to announce that the students would be participating in the program called the protg call with one hour for 26 lessons plus workshop with Q & A available to the students which I never receive any protg call or workshop. In the promotional video, ****************** and ******************** assured prospective learners of step-by-step instruction on how the *** operates.Contrary to these assurances, I was directed to a book for self-study rather than receiving the promised guidance. The discrepancy between the support outlined by **** and **** in the CD series and the actual support received is quite disappointing. The lack of follow-through on these commitments has left me without the necessary direction to effectively utilize the *** materials.
  

  *****s lack of transparency and misleading practices have resulted in significant financial distress for me. When I sought their assistance for my property issues in *******, their response was to defer action until the *** issue was resolved, stating, I will direct you to the appropriate channels for guidance on your property after we resolve the ***. This indicates that their support claims may not be genuine, and their main concern appears to be avoiding accountability. I am now trapped with a property that is unsellable and burdensome, facing imminent demolition costs as the City of *********************** of *********** has slated the property for demolition due to its poor condition. These impending expenses jeopardize my current home and pose the risk of escalating tax liabilities.
  Given the current challenges and the pressure from the ***** team, I am feeling quite overwhelmed. The risk of losing my home is particularly troubling. In an effort to resolve this matter equitably, I suggest that $10,000 be kept for the materials supplied with the outdated CDs, and the rest be refunded, including the $4,997 for the ***. This offer is made in a spirit of compromise,recognizing the difficulties encountered. Holding onto the full $20,000 while only returning the *** fee seems unfair. While it might appear easier to simply part ways and keep the entire sum, such an outcome would be unjust.
  Please convey this message to ************************* and urge him to take appropriate action to rectify the situation.My financial stability and compliance with tax obligations depend on the timely return of my investment.
  I trust that you will address these concerns with the seriousness they deserve and look forward to a prompt and fair resolution.
  Sincerely,

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

  
  

  

  Business response

  05/23/2024

  *********************** has been referenced multiple times. ****************** affiliation with USTLA was dissolved near the time of Ms. ***** enrollment at *****. Naturally, a transitional phase occurred where training and promotional materials involving ****************** were removed and replaced. Its also necessary to establish that the CDs referenced were training assets (audio training lessons), not promotional materials. Notably, ************ has had digital access to all of USTLAs current training materials digitally via the Home Study Course members area accessible from our website. 

  
  Ms. ***** enrollment in ****** Home Study Course is referred to as the Protege Program. I believe the lessons referenced in Ms. ***** complaint pertain to Protege Calls. As these are not live calls, there is no Q&A associated nor would they be marketed as such. However, USTLA maintains an archive of these calls. As a current member, ************ may inquire with ****** Services ****************** OR ************) and obtain access to the library of calls free of charge. 

  
  ************ enrolled in USTLAs program in June 2022. Although USTLA historically conducted live 3 day workshops for Protege members, we have not conducted an in-person workshop since March 2020. Since the pandemic, USTLA has offered multi-day live training conducted via Zoom and taught by our founder, *************************..  These events are typically offered twice per month and may be attended multiple times by any Protege member. Our records indicate that ************ attended this event on two separate occasions; once in August 2022 and again in March 2023. 

  
  Since every clients situation is unique, a client may not purchase a *** structure until theyve attended a 1:1 private consultation to confirm their eligibility and understanding of the product. Nonetheless, the *** is a retirement investing vehicle that allows an individual to become the administrator and trustee of their own retirement plan. It is made extremely clear to any prospective purchaser what this responsibility entails and that USTLA is not a financial advisor. A list of potential CPAs familiar with these structures was provided to ************ at the time of purchase.

  
  As a graduated student, ************ has lifetime access to the Executive Advisory Coaching hotline that is operated by one of our elite coaches. I have directed ************ to this resource as a reminder of her eligibility. I did in fact suggest to ************ that we first address the *** before confusing this matter with any other potential challenges. I cannot overstate that Ms. ***** tax complications are a result of her own mismanagement and direct defiance of our clear instructions pertaining to deposit/rollover protocol. Although USTLA is not at fault in any manner for this error, we have still offered to refund the full transaction as a show of goodwill. 

  
  We are saddened to learn of Ms. ***** challenges but cannot take responsibility for the consequences of her poor decisions. It is abundantly clear that USTLA has over-delivered every element promised as a result of her enrollment. We do not intend to place pressure on ************. We continue to believe that our offer to refund Ms. ***** *** structure despite no wrongdoing is extremely equitable. We remain available to ************, via direct correspondence or through the BBB, in an effort to seek mutual resolution.
  

  
  

  Customer response

  05/28/2024

  Hello,
  I mentioned *********************** in the emails because he and ************************* co-created a series of videos and CDs, promising to personally guide us through the Qualified Retirement Plan (***) process.Unfortunately, this promise was not fulfilled; instead, I was directed to a self-study book. The United States Tax Lien Association (*****) claims I received digital materials, but in reality, I was given two links that did not provide the educational workshops I expected. These links were part of a marketing tactic by ************************* to sell more of their outdated CDs, often encouraging participants to bring friends to their workshops. The first link led to workshop where ************************* made lofty promises, and the second featured both **** and **** promising home-based *** instructiona promise that was never realized. Access to these links has since been lost. The remaining CD series materials are out-of-date, with some CDs and USBs malfunctioning, which I still possess as proof. *********************** appears in the CD series and videos,raising questions about the legality and ethics of selling content featuring someone no longer affiliated with the company. Upon joining *****, I was informed by ***************************** that ****************** was no longer associated with the business due to alleged theft from his partner, *************************. This information casts doubt on the integrity of the business and its offerings. If ****************** had indeed committed theft, it would contradict the positive image portrayed in their CD series.
  The CD series from *****, featuring ************************* and ***********************, promised an engaging series of protege calls with 26 one-hour lessons, claiming to offer structured training on the 1st and 3rd of each month, complete with Q&A sessions and continuous guidance. ************************* assured us that the training would be interactive and far from dull,providing opportunities for face-to-face interaction with him, ****, and other experts. However, upon enrolling for the 1:1 training and the 10-session live online program, I discovered that these protege calls, as advertised, were no longer available. This discrepancy was confirmed by salesperson ***************************** after signed-up. This situation feels unjust to students who, like me, believed in the authenticity of the claims made. Furthermore, *****s assertion that students could only purchase a *** after demonstrating a clear understanding of its structure was contradicted by my experience. Despite not fully grasping the *** structure, I was still encouraged to proceed with the purchase. This inconsistency is further highlighted by their communication records, which seem to boast of my frequent attempts to seek clarification on the ***, only to be met with reluctance or outright refusal from the staff to engage in discussion.To add to the confusion, I received emails from staff like ***********************,explicitly stating their inability to provide financial, legal, or personal advice. This lack of clarity and support has left me questioning the integrity of *****s educational offerings.
  The ***** team has been persistent in their efforts to dismiss me. Despite my repeated explanations of the difficulties Im facing, they continue to pressure me into agreeing to their terms. Specifically, they insist that a refund is contingent upon my agreement to terminate my association with them and to cease all future communications.This condition is unreasonable, considering I have obtained two separate packages: one related to the Qualified Retirement Plan (***) and another consisting of a series of ten virtual online classes. I have clearly stated my plan to dissolve the Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) after fulfilling my tax responsibilities.
  Upon the dissolution of the LLCs, it is imperative that the ***** company releases any funds held, as retaining them post-dissolution would constitute unauthorized possession.
  Below is an example of the type of demands they are making.
  The refund will come in the form of a check for $4,997.00 and be processed in the next ***** business days. Please know that your acceptance of this proposal is contingent upon your acknowledgement of the following:
  1)Should you choose to dissolve any LLC entities or your Qualified Retirement Plan, you alone are responsible for these measures.
  2) You acknowledge that any and all services entitled to you as a ***** client have been rendered in full. 
  3)Your status as a client will be amended to "discharged" and you may not contact ***** or any of its affiliates in the future.
  4) You agree not to pursue any legal remedies or file suit against ***** at any time in the future.
  5) You may not engage any regulatory or consumer advocacy bodies, public or private, in a matter that involves ***** or any of its affiliates.
  6) You agree not to make any derogatory or disparaging remarks with respect to ***** or its affiliates on any forum or platform, virtual or physical, at any time in the future.
  After investing $26,400 to engage in the program, its clear that a complete termination without a fair financial settlement is unjust. Furthermore, the situation with my properties exacerbates my distress. The city plans to demolish my Indiana property, adding significant charges to my account.Additionally, Im unable to sell my second property due to pending title clearance. The actions of ***** have significantly disrupted my life,tranquility, and financial independence. Despite communicating my predicament to ***** for nearly two months, their efforts seem focused on dismissing me rather than providing support. This response contradicts their professed commitment to student welfare.
  Moreover, In the instructional video,************************* and *********************** assured students of comprehensive support throughout our investment process. However, this claim is contested as the material presented in the videos and lectures is no longer current and requires updating to maintain accuracy. Additionally, there are other inconsistencies not addressed in the training. My experience with my mentor, *******************, was disheartening; he had ignored my emails, only responding selectively, leaving me without support. Furthermore, ******************* repeatedly claimed in his lectures that after purchasing a property, we could delegate the title clearance to the flipper. This information is incorrect; flippers generally do not agree to purchase properties with unclear titles. The assertion that title clearance costs around $1,000 is also misleading; actual costs begin at $2,000 and can escalate to $5,000 or more, as advised by legal counsel.
  I possess a property in ******** that requires a clear title. Despite reducing the asking price, I have yet to find a flipper willing to purchase it. The property remains on the market without any buyers. Moreover, numerous undisclosed discrepancies by the ***** staff have significantly impacted me.
  I am writing to reiterate a decision I have conveyed through our previous correspondence. Over the past two months, I have reported my concerns multiple times and in various formats. Despite my clear communication, there seems to be an ongoing attempt to alter my stance.
  I must emphasize that my decision is irrevocable.Integrity and transparency are paramount to me, and unfortunately, I have not found these qualities to be upheld in our interactions. Therefore, I am compelled to withdraw my investment. I seek a straightforward and honest process to disengage and retrieve my funds.
  Thank you for your attention to this matter.
  Sincerely,
  *********************
  

  

  Business response

  06/07/2024

  Because ************ seems to have a new list of grievances after each response, I will attempt to keep our position succinct to the manner in which our services are promoted and the terms contracted prior to purchase.

  Please find attached digitally signed purchase contracts that illustrate the products purchased and terms. 

  The QRP is a self-managed, self-administered retirement vehicle. USTLA clients are unable to purchase a QRP prior to having a personalized consultation with an authorized representative. The purpose of this consultation is to confirm eligibility and reassert the definition of self-managed and administered. As mentioned in previous responses, ***** is unable to act as a custodian or financial advisor. As with any other QRP client, ************ was directed to a financial professional of her choosing should she need guidance specific situation. Despite this, ************ routinely defied many clear instructions relative to funding, rollovers, etc.

  As mentioned, **************** initial enrollment occurred at a transitional period at USTLA. Our most current training and supplemental materials have been uploaded to USTLA's members area on the website for more than a year and remain accessible to ************. Should she need accessing this content, our support department is contactable Mon-Fri during business hours via phone and email.

  "CDs" are no longer part of our training programs and have been replaced by digitized audio trainings accessible in the members area.

  Please find attached the deliverables advertised in conjunctions with **************** purchase of the Protege Program and One on One mentorship.

  Should this matter continue past this date, USTLA requests that future claims pertain to promotion relative to delivery. 

   

   

  Customer response

  06/10/2024

  The individuals at ***** have shown a lack of decency. Despite my numerous complaints, they refuse to acknowledge their wrongdoing. Whether they have digital content now is irrelevant; the issue is with the outdated CDs I purchased in the past, some of which do not work. I have proof of this. ************************* and *********************** appeared in videos promising step-by-step guidance from a professional who would come to our house, set up the system, and teach us bit by bit. However,this never happened. Once they received the payment, they emailed stating they are not financial advisors. ***** emailed me multiple times, stating, Hi ******, I cannot provide financial, legal, or personal advice. ****** should have a customer service department that can inform you of what needs to be filled out for them to process the rollover. Best Regards, *****. ******************* recommended a self-learning book, and these statements are on video and emails.They mislead students into thinking they are joining a great program but never reveal the whole truth. This has caused me significant financial harm since joining *****.
  Despite repeatedly reaching out to the ***** team for help with the **** I was passed through staff who provided no real information. ************************* has tried multiple times to discharge me to get rid of me. They also teach deceptive practices. For example, ******************* taught me on video how to deceive a flipper by lying about the cost of clearing the title. He stated it costs $1,000 but to tell the flipper it costs $1,500 to pocket the rest. This information is incorrect; lawyers charge between $2,000 and $5,000. Additionally, ****** stated on video, If you are going to sell to a flipper, you just quitclaim deed over to the flipper; you dont need to worry about it, let them deal with it. This is also incorrect; no flipper buys a house if the title is not clear.I havent sold the house I bought in 2022 because no flipper wants a quitclaim deed.
  Furthermore,there is no protege program as advertised. They sell outdated CDs online with ***********************, who has committed theft according to *****************************. They do not care about their students, only themselves. They mislead people online and refuse to take responsibility for their actions. I have been communicating with ************************* by email for more than two months, requesting my investment money back, but he is the one in charge of securing his bosss legacy while his boss,*************************, cowardly hides and takes no responsibility for his wrongdoing.This is the last chance to return my investment money and take some responsibility because I have suffered significant losses. Make no mistake,************************* and his staff will not walk away ****-free. I will pursue them in court if they dont have the decency to take some losses as I have. If we go to court, I will ask the judge for a full refund plus a compensation package for the ordeal I have been through. Perhaps these individuals should get a real job and stop ruining peoples lives.

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

  
  

• Initial Complaint

  12/20/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I took one of their courses with the understanding upfront that if I was not satisfied, they would offer a 100% refund. All you have to do is call or review their materials and they will state many times that if you are not satisfied you will get a 100% refund. I took what they called a class which was only a sales page over and over again and as soon as I requested a refund because they were not teaching any materials, I stopped receiving any emails or course materials. The fact that I have paid for the materials that they still have not provided, due to the fact that I have asked for a refund is just one complaint. The second complaint is that , I have given them ample time to correct the decision, and they have provided me with radio silence. The last email I sent detailing and outlining that they had only 30 days to correct this issue before I moved. Things forward was sent to them on November 23, 2022. Since that date they have not responded to any emails, phone calls or communications of any kind. The resolution of this complaint would be the refund of the $1500 for the class and materials that they never provided

  

  Business response

  12/31/2022

  Dear **************,

   

  I am in receipt of your message and am investigating this matter. Please know our office has been closed for the holidays. I apologize for any frustrations you've experienced in seeking a refund and the need to involve the BBB in this matter. I assure you this matter will be handled promptly. We return to the office on Tuesday, January 3. I have three questions before proceeding:

   

  1) When did ***************** dissatisfaction with the program or request a refund?

  2) Have you attended a two day virtual workshop?

  3) Is it acceptable to wait until January 3rd to process your refund? 

   

  You may contact me directly by email at **************** or by phone/text **************.

   

  Regards,

   

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

  Operations ***********************************************************dn="**********" title="Click to Connect **********">**************.You may contact me directly by email at **************** or by phone/text **************

   

   

   

  Customer response

  12/31/2022

  I am rejecting this response because: this is only a notification saying that their office will be closed until January 3 and that they will make a decision upon that time. If at that time they correct the mistake I will update this to say as such. If not, I will continue to leave my complaint open.
  

  

  Business response

  01/04/2023

  **************,

   

  Your refund was processed yesterday (January 3). Please refer to the attached screenshot. It may take a couple days for your financial institution to reflect this update.

   

  I remain available to you via email or phone if you wish to discuss this matter.

   

  Regards,

   

  ******

   

   

  Customer response

  01/10/2023

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to my concern, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  It appears that I have received the refund and as long as it remains in my account and its not debited again this will be a successful resolution

*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. ↩