Why Is Tax Defense Network Calling Me? Understanding the Potential Reasons & Your Options

Tax Defense Network (TDN) calling you can feel unsettling, especially if you weren’t expecting it. The most likely reason they are reaching out is that you have either contacted them directly in the past for a free consultation, have been referred to them by a partner, or your contact information has been obtained through a third-party marketing list targeting individuals potentially experiencing tax debt or issues. It’s crucial to understand that their goal is to offer tax resolution services, aiming to help individuals and businesses navigate complex tax problems with the IRS and state tax authorities. Let’s delve deeper into the possible scenarios and your options.

Understanding Tax Defense Network and Their Services

Tax Defense Network is a company that provides tax resolution services. They specialize in helping individuals and businesses resolve issues with the IRS and state tax authorities. These issues can range from simple payment plans and Offers in Compromise (OICs) to more complex matters such as tax audits, tax liens, levies, and wage garnishments. Essentially, they act as intermediaries between you and the tax authorities, aiming to negotiate the best possible outcome for your specific situation.

How They Obtain Contact Information

The key to understanding why TDN is calling you lies in how they obtain contact information. Here are the most common scenarios:

• Direct Inquiry: The most straightforward explanation is that you or someone on your behalf previously contacted Tax Defense Network through their website, a phone call, or an online form, requesting a free consultation or information about their services. Even a seemingly innocuous online inquiry can trigger follow-up calls.
• Partner Referrals: Tax Defense Network may have partnered with other companies or organizations that provide services related to finance, debt relief, or legal assistance. If you have interacted with such a partner and consented to share your information, they might have referred you to TDN. This is a common practice in the industry.
• Third-Party Marketing Lists: TDN, like many businesses, utilizes third-party marketing lists to reach potential clients. These lists are often compiled based on demographic data, financial indicators, and publicly available information that suggests someone might be experiencing tax-related issues. This is perhaps the most unsettling scenario, as it implies your data has been compiled and sold without your explicit knowledge.
• Incorrect Contact Information: It’s also possible that you are receiving these calls due to a simple error. Incorrectly entered or outdated contact information can lead to calls being placed to the wrong number. This is less common but still a possibility.

What to Do When They Call

Regardless of how they obtained your information, it’s essential to handle the situation appropriately. Here’s a breakdown of steps you can take:

1. Identify Yourself (Carefully): When you answer, don’t immediately volunteer personal information. Politely ask who is calling and the purpose of the call.
2. Ask How They Obtained Your Information: Inquire directly about how they acquired your contact details. If they claim you requested information, ask for specifics about the date, time, and source of the request.
3. Be Clear About Your Intentions: If you’re not interested in their services, clearly and firmly state that you do not wish to be contacted again.
4. Document the Call: Keep a record of the date, time, and content of the conversation, including the name of the representative you spoke with. This information can be useful if you need to follow up or file a complaint.
5. Request Removal From Their List: Specifically request to be removed from their marketing or contact list. Reputable companies should honor this request promptly.
6. Consider Filing a Complaint: If you continue to receive calls after requesting removal, or if you believe their tactics are aggressive or misleading, consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s attorney general.
7. Do Not Provide Sensitive Information: Under no circumstances should you provide sensitive personal or financial information over the phone unless you have initiated the call and are confident in the legitimacy of the company.
8. Research Alternatives: If you do have tax issues, don’t feel pressured to commit to Tax Defense Network without doing your own research. Explore other reputable tax resolution firms or consider working directly with a qualified tax attorney or CPA.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tax Defense Network Calls

FAQ 1: Is Tax Defense Network a Legitimate Company?

Tax Defense Network is a legitimate company offering tax resolution services. However, like any service provider, their effectiveness and the quality of their service can vary. It’s crucial to do your own research and read reviews before engaging their services.

FAQ 2: What Services Does Tax Defense Network Offer?

TDN offers a range of tax resolution services, including assistance with Offers in Compromise (OIC), installment agreements, penalty abatement, audit representation, and resolving tax liens and levies.

FAQ 3: How Much Does Tax Defense Network Charge for Their Services?

The fees charged by Tax Defense Network vary depending on the complexity of your case and the services required. They typically offer a free consultation to assess your situation and provide a personalized quote.

FAQ 4: Are Tax Defense Network’s Claims of Success Guaranteed?

No legitimate tax resolution company can guarantee a specific outcome with the IRS. The IRS makes decisions on a case-by-case basis, and results depend on your individual circumstances. Be wary of any company that promises guaranteed results.

FAQ 5: How Can I Stop Tax Defense Network From Calling Me?

The most effective way to stop the calls is to directly request to be removed from their contact list during a phone call. Be firm and clearly state your desire not to be contacted again. You can also send a written request via certified mail for documentation.

FAQ 6: What Should I Do If I’m Being Harassed by Tax Defense Network?

If you believe you are being harassed, document all calls (date, time, content) and consider filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s attorney general. You can also explore options like blocking their number.

FAQ 7: Can Tax Defense Network Really Lower My Tax Debt?

Tax Defense Network can potentially lower your tax debt through various resolution strategies, such as Offers in Compromise (OIC), which allow you to settle your debt for less than the full amount owed. However, the IRS must approve the OIC based on your ability to pay, income, expenses, and asset equity.

FAQ 8: Is Tax Defense Network the Same as the IRS?

No, Tax Defense Network is a private company that offers tax resolution services. They are not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency.

FAQ 9: How Do I Know If I Need Tax Resolution Services?

You might need tax resolution services if you are facing IRS audits, have unfiled tax returns, owe back taxes you cannot afford to pay, or are experiencing wage garnishments, liens, or levies.

FAQ 10: Are There Alternatives to Using Tax Defense Network?

Yes, there are several alternatives. You can work directly with a qualified tax attorney, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or attempt to resolve your tax issues on your own by contacting the IRS directly.

FAQ 11: How Can I Verify the Credentials of a Tax Resolution Company?

Before hiring any tax resolution firm, check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and read online reviews. You can also verify the credentials of tax attorneys and CPAs through their respective state licensing boards.

FAQ 12: What Information Should I Never Give to a Tax Resolution Company Over the Phone?

Never provide your Social Security number, bank account details, or other sensitive financial information over the phone unless you initiated the call and are certain of the company’s legitimacy. Be extremely cautious of unsolicited requests for personal information.