TaxRise Reviews: What Orange County Taxpayers Should Know Before Hiring a National Tax Relief Firm

Introduction: The Promise vs. the Reality

If you’ve recently searched for help with IRS or California FTB tax problems, chances are you’ve come across ads for TaxRise. Their marketing is everywhere: Google, Facebook, YouTube. Promises of big savings, fast results, and expert help sound appealing when you’re stressed and facing tax debt.

But what do actual TaxRise reviews say? And more importantly, how does a national tax relief company compare to working directly with a licensed, local CPA?

At Boulanger CPA, we have offices in both Orange County, CA and Oklahoma City, OK. Most of our clients prefer Zoom or phone consultations for convenience, but in-person meetings are available by appointment. Unlike national firms, you’ll work directly with a credentialed tax professional who understands the IRS and state agencies like the FTB, EDD, and CDTFA.

Who Is TaxRise?

TaxRise is a national tax relief company that markets heavily to individuals with IRS tax debt. They typically advertise:

• Free consultations
• IRS debt reduction through the Offer in Compromise program
• Fast solutions and affordable payments

However, TaxRise is not a CPA firm, law firm, or Enrolled Agent firm. Most initial calls are handled by salespeople, not licensed professionals.

According to publicly available reviews on sites like BBB, Trustpilot, and Reddit, common concerns include:

• High upfront fees before any resolution work begins
• Communication gaps after signing up
• Limited access to licensed tax professionals
• Over-promising and under-delivering results

The Problem with National Call Center Firms

Many large tax relief firms operate on a volume-based model. The goal is to get as many people signed up for services as possible.

What happens after that varies widely.

Typical issues with national tax relief firms include:

• High-pressure sales tactics
• Cookie-cutter solutions that don’t fit your specific tax situation
• Lack of local representation
• Inability to meet in person or establish long-term trust

For Orange County residents, that’s a major red flag.

Why Orange County Taxpayers Are Choosing Local CPA Firms Instead

At Boulanger CPA and Consulting, we take a different approach.

We’re based locally and serve clients throughout California and Oklahoma. While most of our clients prefer virtual meetings, we’re available in person by appointment.

Here’s what sets us apart from firms like TaxRise:

• Personalized Attention: You’ll work directly with a licensed CPA, not a salesperson.
• Local Expertise: We understand California tax agencies (like FTB, EDD, CDTFA) as well as the IRS.
• Flat Fees, No Surprises: Transparent pricing and clear engagement terms.
• Strategic Case Analysis: Before recommending any resolution, we complete a compliance and financial analysis to ensure you qualify for real relief.
• No Call Center: You’re never routed through layers of assistants or junior staff. You get the senior-level attention your case deserves.

Understanding the Offer in Compromise Program

Many companies, including TaxRise, advertise the IRS Offer in Compromise as if it’s a guaranteed solution. It’s not.

The truth:

• Most people do not qualify for an OIC.
• Submitting a bad offer can waste time and trigger IRS collections.
• A licensed CPA can help you determine if you truly qualify before submitting anything.

Our practice evaluates every case carefully before recommending a strategy. Sometimes the best solution is a payment plan or hardship deferral, not a settlement offer.

When You Might Want a Second Opinion

If you’ve already spoken with TaxRise (or another national firm), it’s not too late to get a second opinion.

Schedule a free tax relief strategy call with our office and get a local, credentialed professional to review your situation. We’ll explain:

• What you actually qualify for
• What risks you face
• What the IRS or FTB might do next
• What resolution path is most realistic for your finances

No sales pressure. Just answers.

Real Help from a Local Expert

We know tax problems are stressful. Whether you’re facing a wage garnishment, IRS levy, FTB lien, or unfiled returns, you need more than a 1-800 number and empty promises.

You need a trusted expert who knows the local agencies, the tax code, and how to actually resolve these problems with as little damage as possible.

At Boulanger CPA, we represent real clients across Orange County and Oklahoma City every day—virtually or in-person by appointment. We don’t rely on gimmicks or fear-based marketing. We focus on solutions that work.

Don’t gamble your financial future on a sales pitch. Get a free second opinion today.

Call 657-218-5700, email marc@boulangercpa.com, or visit www.orangecounty.cpa to schedule a confidential consultation.

Disclaimer:
This blog is provided for informational purposes only and reflects the opinions and professional experience of Boulanger CPA & Consulting. We are not affiliated with TaxRise or any other third-party tax relief company. All information presented is based on publicly available sources and is intended to help taxpayers make informed decisions about choosing qualified, ethical, and effective tax representation. Readers should conduct their own research and consult a licensed professional before making any financial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

📣 About the Author

Marc Boulanger, CPA is the founder of Boulanger CPA and Consulting PC, based in Orange County, California.

With over a decade of experience helping individuals and businesses resolve serious IRS and State tax issues, Marc specializes in tax resolution strategies including Offers in Compromise, wage garnishment relief, and back tax compliance.

He is licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in both California and Oklahoma, and has a proven track record of helping clients settle complex tax debts and regain financial stability.

📍 Learn more at www.orangecounty.cpa or call (657) 218-5700.