Business ProfileforLFS Tax Group, LLC

When I first learned that ************** Rhode, CPA PLLC was merging with LFS Tax Group, I immediately called LFS SPECIFICALLY to inquire about fee structure, as I had a feeling that the price was going to increase dramatically. I was unequivocally told it would basically be the same. I submitted my taxes on February 14th, 2024. At that time, I inquired about fee structure once again and was assured "it would be about the same".Between the date of submission and April 15th, 2024, I called LFS on 3 occasions to inquire about the status of my taxes. Those calls largely went unanswered, and on the rare occasion when I WAS able to speak with someone, there was no information forthcoming. Finally, on the morning of April 15th, 2024 I called to alert them to the fact that I would need an extension. After being on hold for 10 minutes, I was informed that my taxes were ready. When I inquired about the price, I nearly fell off my chair as the fee was approximately 3x what I am accustomed to paying. When I protested, I was told that they would offer a token discount which still amounted to a bill that was 2-1/2 times what it should have been - OR - I could have my taxes prepared by someone else....this on the very day taxes were due. They had me over a barrel. I had to pay the ******.In a very spirited email exchange with *************************, Managing Member at LFS, multiple internal problems were cited as contributing factors for the delay. I am not interested in his personal problems. This was a BUSINESS transaction. If he was having trouble getting the job done, he should have said that and I would have found someone else....but he didn't.***** also stated that their billing rate was $250/hr., which is not anywhere near what ***** had traditionally charged, as my total bill for past years was $200, not $550 - so all that talk about the fee structure "being about the same" was an outright lie.LFS presents an image of being an unprofessional, unethical company. Enough!