Liberty Tax specializes in offering consumers an advance of their anticipated tax refund. It is one of the largest institutions in this business. It uses a wide range of marketing strategies, including billboards and TV ads featuring actor Jon Hamm.
Liberty also offers online filing services and a mobile app. Its software imports W-2 and 1099 forms, allowing customers to file their taxes faster. Its premium software can cost up to $1,300.
The company also sells prepaid cards that can be loaded with the anticipated refund amount. The card can be used at a retail store, to make a purchase or withdraw cash. There is a $5 monthly fee and transaction fees.
Despite its marketing, Liberty has been accused of misleading consumers. The District's Attorney General alleges that the company falsely advertises that it gives away $50 upfront with "no catch." In fact, the company secretly increases prices for most of its lowest-income customers who accept these upfront cash payments, overcharging them by an average of more than $200 compared to customers who do not.
The Office of the Attorney General is seeking a court order requiring Liberty to stop misrepresenting its products, provide monetary relief to thousands of DC consumers who were harmed and pay civil penalties. The lawsuit is a critical step to protect DC consumers who file taxes with Liberty.
As part of the settlement, Liberty will be required to enhance its quality control measures and establish a system to identify and curb abuse. The company will be prohibited from hiring former CEO and founder John T. Hewitt; and the company must ensure that its employees receive adequate training on how to spot potential fraud and other violations of consumer protection laws. In addition, the company must conduct onsite compliance reviews at all of its stores and use mystery shoppers to help monitor and detect compliance issues.
In addition to its online services, LIBERTY TAX LOANS has a network of more than 300 retail locations across the country where tax preparation experts work with clients to complete their returns. The company also operates an online tax prep platform called Liberty Tax Service Online, which allows consumers to file their taxes from home and get a fast turnaround on their refund. The site features a simple interface, which makes it easy for users to enter their information and answer questions to get started. It also features live customer support via phone and email.
0 মন্তব্যসমূহ