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Is Anthem Tax Services Legit? A Deep Dive into Their Reputation and Services

Yes, Anthem Tax Services is a legitimate company offering tax resolution services. However, like many companies in this industry, their effectiveness and value can vary significantly depending on the complexity of your case and the specific representatives you work with. It’s crucial to conduct thorough due diligence before engaging their services, understanding both the potential benefits and the possible downsides.

Understanding Anthem Tax Services

Anthem Tax Services aims to assist individuals and businesses struggling with IRS tax debt. They offer a range of services, including tax negotiation, audit representation, and penalty abatement. The company positions itself as a champion for taxpayers facing overwhelming tax burdens, promising to navigate the complex world of IRS regulations on their clients’ behalf. But what does that really mean, and how do they deliver on that promise?

Their Core Services

Anthem typically provides the following services:

Offer in Compromise (OIC) Assistance: This involves negotiating with the IRS to settle your tax debt for a lower amount than you owe.
Penalty Abatement: Seeking to have penalties reduced or removed due to reasonable cause.
Installment Agreements: Setting up a payment plan with the IRS to pay off your tax debt over time.
Audit Representation: Representing you during an IRS audit to ensure your rights are protected.
Tax Lien and Levy Release: Working to remove IRS tax liens and levies placed on your assets or wages.
Innocent Spouse Relief: Seeking relief from tax liabilities incurred by a spouse or former spouse.

Assessing Legitimacy: What to Consider

While Anthem Tax Services is a registered business, determining its legitimacy requires a more nuanced approach than simply confirming its existence. Here’s what you should consider:

Transparency: Does the company clearly explain its fees and services? Are they upfront about the potential outcomes and risks involved? Lack of transparency is a major red flag.
Qualified Professionals: Are their representatives Enrolled Agents (EAs), Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), or tax attorneys? Having qualified professionals on staff is crucial for providing effective tax resolution services.
Client Reviews and Testimonials: What are past clients saying about their experiences? While online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, they can offer valuable insights into the company’s performance. Pay close attention to patterns in the feedback.
Complaint History: Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other consumer protection agencies to see if the company has a history of complaints. A high volume of unresolved complaints is a cause for concern.
Guarantee or Refund Policy: Does the company offer any guarantees or refunds if they are unable to achieve the desired outcome? Be wary of companies that make unrealistic promises or offer no recourse if they fail to deliver.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious of tax resolution companies that exhibit the following characteristics:

Upfront Fees with No Guarantee of Results: Avoid companies that demand large upfront fees without providing a clear path to resolution or guaranteeing specific outcomes.
Aggressive Sales Tactics: Pressure tactics and overly optimistic promises are often signs of a scam.
Claims of “Inside Connections” with the IRS: No legitimate tax resolution company has special connections with the IRS.
Guarantees of Specific Outcomes: It is impossible to guarantee specific outcomes when dealing with the IRS, as each case is unique.
Lack of Credentials: Ensure that the representatives you are working with have the necessary qualifications and expertise.

FAQs About Anthem Tax Services

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about Anthem Tax Services:

What are the typical fees charged by Anthem Tax Services? Fees vary based on the complexity of your case and the specific services required. Anthem typically charges a consultation fee to evaluate your situation, followed by fees for their services based on an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a percentage of the tax debt. Get a clear, written estimate before committing to any services.
Does Anthem Tax Services guarantee results? No reputable tax resolution company can guarantee specific outcomes. The IRS makes decisions on a case-by-case basis, and the outcome depends on various factors, including your financial situation and the applicable tax laws. Anthem should only guarantee to provide competent representation within the scope of the service agreement.
How long does it take for Anthem Tax Services to resolve a tax issue? The timeframe for resolving a tax issue can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the responsiveness of the IRS, and the specific resolution strategy employed. Simple cases may be resolved in a few months, while more complex cases can take a year or more.
What qualifications do Anthem Tax Services’ representatives have? Anthem’s representatives may include Enrolled Agents (EAs), Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), or tax attorneys. Inquire about the qualifications and experience of the specific representative who will be handling your case.
What happens if Anthem Tax Services is unable to resolve my tax issue? Even with competent representation, there is no guarantee that Anthem will be able to achieve your desired outcome. Discuss the potential outcomes and risks involved with Anthem before engaging their services. Find out if they offer options for reducing future service costs if their initial work does not achieve the expected results.
How can I verify Anthem Tax Services’ credentials? You can verify the credentials of Enrolled Agents (EAs) through the IRS directory, Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) through your state’s Board of Accountancy, and tax attorneys through your state’s Bar Association.
What is an Offer in Compromise (OIC), and how does Anthem Tax Services help with it? An Offer in Compromise (OIC) is an agreement with the IRS to settle your tax debt for a lower amount than you owe. Anthem can help you determine if you qualify for an OIC, prepare the necessary paperwork, and negotiate with the IRS on your behalf. However, OICs are not suitable for everyone, and the IRS has strict eligibility requirements.
Can Anthem Tax Services stop IRS collection actions, such as wage garnishments or bank levies? Engaging a tax resolution company like Anthem may temporarily halt some collection actions, as the IRS is required to communicate with your representative. However, the IRS can resume collection actions if a resolution is not reached or if you fail to comply with the terms of a payment agreement.
What should I do if I have a complaint about Anthem Tax Services? First, attempt to resolve the issue directly with Anthem’s customer service department. If you are unable to reach a resolution, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or your state’s consumer protection agency. You can also consider filing a complaint with the IRS if you believe Anthem has engaged in unethical or illegal practices.
How does Anthem Tax Services handle client confidentiality? A reputable tax resolution company should have strict policies in place to protect client confidentiality. Anthem should comply with all applicable privacy laws and regulations, including the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA). Ask them for specifics regarding their data security protocols.
What is the difference between Anthem Tax Services and a non-profit credit counseling agency? Anthem Tax Services is a for-profit company that provides tax resolution services. Non-profit credit counseling agencies typically offer free or low-cost financial counseling and debt management services. A non-profit credit counseling agency might be a better option if you have a broader range of debt problems beyond just tax debt.
What are the alternatives to using a tax resolution company like Anthem Tax Services? You can attempt to resolve your tax issues on your own by working directly with the IRS. You can also consult with a local CPA or tax attorney for assistance. Many resources are available online and through the IRS website to help you understand your options and navigate the tax system. Working directly with the IRS or a local professional might save you money, but it requires time and effort.

Conclusion: Proceed with Caution and Due Diligence

While Anthem Tax Services offers valuable assistance for taxpayers struggling with IRS debt, it’s essential to approach their services with caution and conduct thorough due diligence. Evaluate your individual needs, compare Anthem’s services and fees with other providers, and carefully review client reviews and testimonials. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose the tax resolution solution that is best suited for your specific situation. Remember, knowledge is power when dealing with complex financial matters like tax resolution.