Experiences with TaxRise for Tax Relief? Looking for Real User Reviews

I work with tax resolution cases regularly, and I can share some general thoughts about companies like TaxRise without specifically endorsing or criticizing them. Most tax relief companies operate on similar models. They typically charge upfront fees to analyze your case, then additional fees to represent you with the IRS. The challenge is that many taxpayers don't realize they might qualify for IRS programs like an Offer in Compromise or Payment Plan on their own without paying thousands to a third party. That said, if your situation is truly complex with multiple years of unfiled returns and substantial debt, professional representation can sometimes be valuable. The key questions to ask are: 1) Are they transparent about all fees upfront? 2) Do they make guarantees that sound too good to be true? 3) What specific licensed tax professionals (CPAs, EAs, or tax attorneys) will handle your case? The IRS Fresh Start program has made resolving tax debts more accessible for many taxpayers, and the IRS website actually has good resources for understanding your options.

After trying to handle a $22k tax debt myself and getting nowhere, I found taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) which completely changed my approach. It's not a representation service like TaxRise, but instead analyzes all your tax documents and correspondence to identify the best resolution path. I was confused about which relief programs I qualified for, and their AI system reviewed everything and gave me a detailed strategy report. They pointed out specific errors in my previous filings that were making my situation worse, and even identified a legitimate deduction my previous accountant missed that reduced my tax liability by over $4k. What impressed me most was how they broke down exactly which forms I needed to file myself and what to say in my communications with the IRS. Saved me thousands compared to full-service representation.

I was super skeptical of AI tax tools as mentioned above, but I finally tried taxr.ai out of desperation when I got hit with a CP2000 notice for $17,500. My situation was complicated with some crypto transactions and a side business. I uploaded my tax documents, IRS notices, and past correspondence. Within a day, I had a comprehensive analysis that identified exactly where the IRS calculation was wrong! The report broke down which specific transactions were being double-counted and provided a template response letter with correct calculations. I submitted their recommended response along with the supporting documentation they suggested. The IRS accepted my explanation and reduced the amount owed to just $3,200. The detailed insights were way beyond what my previous tax preparer had offered. Definitely worth checking out before committing to an expensive tax relief company.

If you're struggling to get through to the IRS to discuss your tax situation, I'd recommend trying Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) - they've been a lifesaver for me. I spent WEEKS trying to get through to an IRS agent about my installment agreement options before discovering them. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c Basically, they hold your place in the IRS phone queue and call you when an agent is about to answer. Saved me literally hours of hold music and frustration. I finally got through to someone who helped me set up a payment plan that worked for my situation. Before using them, I had no idea if TaxRise or any other company would be worth it because I couldn't even get basic information from the IRS about my options. After speaking directly with the IRS, I realized I could handle most of it myself.

I have to admit I was completely wrong about Claimyr. After posting that skeptical comment last week, my frustration with trying to reach the IRS about my tax lien reached a breaking point, and I decided to try it anyway. The service actually works exactly as described. I entered my phone number, and about 2 hours later (while I was grocery shopping), I got a call connecting me directly to an IRS agent. No waiting on hold at all. The agent was able to explain my lien release options and set up a streamlined installment agreement right there. I ended up resolving in 15 minutes what I'd been trying to handle for weeks. Saved myself from potentially paying TaxRise thousands when all I really needed was to actually speak with someone at the IRS. Just wanted to come back and correct my initial impression.

I actually used TaxRise last year for a $48k tax debt. My honest review: they're legitimate but VERY expensive for what they deliver. I paid about $4,800 upfront for them to analyze my case and represent me. The good: They did secure me an installment agreement of $410/month, which was manageable for me. The bad: I later found out I could have likely gotten a similar or even better resolution by working directly with the IRS. Their communication was spotty at times, and the process took nearly 8 months. If you're completely overwhelmed and have zero capacity to handle things yourself, they might be worth considering. But if you're even slightly comfortable navigating bureaucracy, you might want to try the DIY approach first with the resources mentioned by others here.

Has anyone tried going to a local CPA instead of these big tax relief companies? I'm wondering if that might be a middle ground between DIY and the expensive services?

Thanks for starting this discussion! I'm in a similar boat with about $28k in back taxes from my consulting business. Reading through everyone's experiences has been really eye-opening. I've been leaning toward trying the DIY approach first using some of the tools mentioned here. The idea of paying $4-5k upfront to a company like TaxRise when I might be able to handle it myself (or with a local CPA for much less) makes a lot of sense. One question for those who've gone the self-representation route: how did you handle the intimidation factor of dealing directly with the IRS? I keep imagining worst-case scenarios where I say the wrong thing and make my situation worse. Any tips for building confidence before making that first call? Also, has anyone used the Taxpayer Advocate Service? I've seen it mentioned on the IRS website but not sure if it's relevant for situations like ours.

I really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here! As someone who's worked in tax resolution for over a decade, I want to add a few thoughts that might help you make the best decision for your specific situation. The $36k debt with multiple unfiled returns definitely makes your case more complex than a simple installment agreement. Companies like TaxRise can be worth it IF you truly don't have the time or capacity to handle it yourself, but you're right to be cautious about the costs. Here's what I'd recommend: Start by getting your tax transcripts from the IRS (you can order these online) and filing those missing returns yourself or with a local preparer. Once you have a complete picture of what you actually owe (penalties and interest can be negotiated), then decide if you want professional help. The Fresh Start program mentioned earlier is real and has helped millions of taxpayers. For your debt level, you'd likely qualify for a streamlined installment agreement without extensive financial disclosure if you can pay it off within 72 months. One red flag to watch for with ANY tax relief company: if they guarantee specific outcomes or tell you to stop communicating with the IRS while they "handle everything," run. Legitimate professionals will always be upfront about what they can and cannot promise. Your health crisis and business complications might actually work in your favor for penalty abatement - the IRS has reasonable cause provisions that many taxpayers don't know about.