Fraud and Consumer Alerts

Deceptive Government Filing Assistance is a Scam

May 2023

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) provides free assistance to taxpayers. Representatives of the agency will answer your questions and help you file the appropriate documents for free.

Reputable independent businesses will perform these same tasks for a fee. Their representatives will provide an honest explanation of the services offered and the cost of each service.

Disreputable independent businesses, however, falsely claim to have a special relationship with the Comptroller’s office and give the illusion that you will receive some sort of preferential treatment by using their services. These claims are not true. Be aware that some fee based independent businesses also try to confuse taxpayers by having a business name that sounds like the name of a government agency. They may also have a website that uses government photos and icons.

The truth is that filing documents and information with CPA is easy, especially with the free government assistance provided to the public. And remember, any person or business that demands a fee for providing a service to file a report or information with the Comptroller’s office is not employed with our agency.

Contacts - Free Comptroller Assistance

• Online websites, emails, and tools are available 24/7.
• Telephone assistance is available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, except during holidays.
• Customers with hearing loss or speech impairment can connect with the agency by dialing 711 to connect with Relay Texas for assistance with your call.
• For assistance in Spanish (Español): 800-252-7875.

Additional contact information is available under Contact Us.