This is a copy of a letter that I sent to Tax Relief Associates demanding a refund of one thousand dollars. I think it tells the whole story. They did nothing for my except take my money. Now they are not taking my calls and emails are being returned as "undeliverable". My next letter will be to the Califoria Bar Association. Dealing with the IRS is bad enough without these people there to steal your hard earned money.
On April 13 I responded by phone, to an Internet advertisement of your firm Tax Relief Associates. I spoke with Gilbert Soto. I explained that I was considering retaining your firm to represent me in a matter involving the internal revenue service. He explained to me the type of service your firm provides. He told me that he would email me a contract and limited power of attorney. He also asked me for my credit card information. I asked him not to charge anything to my credit card until after I read the contract and mailed back the signed consent.
That night, I received the contract and power of attorney by email. It had come in the name of Rebecca Taul as my representative. After reading the contract and considering the matter, I decided not to retain your firm. I emailed Rebecca Taul and informed her of my decision. I asked her to contact me if there were any problems or concerns. She did not reply. The following day Gilbert Soto phoned about the contract. I told him about my decision to not hire your firm. He said it was not a problem, but failed to mention that my credit card had been charged.
Imagine my surprise a week later when my bank statement arrived with a charge of $1000 paid to Tax Relief Associates. This was done without my knowledge or consent. I had not retained your firm. I was under no contract with you verbal or written. When I called Rebecca Taul the next morning she passed me off to Gilbert Soto claiming that this was not her department. When I contacted Gilbert Soto he told me he was only the sales representative and that I needed to contact the finance department. Now I am told that your finance department needs 30 days to process the return of my money. I am getting the run around and I don't like it.
I consider this stealing. I am certain that other licensing and review boards would agree. At this point, I demand that you put the back in my account as quickly as you took it out. If you do not refund the money in the next 10 days I will lodge a complaint with the California Bar Association in addition to any other consumer protection agency I can find. I trust that this matter can be resolved in and ethical and professional way without being unpleasant.
Joseph
Elkridge, Maryland
U.S.A.
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