Stay FAR away from Venning Advisors…read more
Unfortunately, Venning Advisors merged with a trusted, local firm in Suffolk, VA, and ever since, they have caused nothing but stress and problems for the original firm's loyal customers.
I dropped off my 2025 tax information before the March 15 deadline but did not receive my completed return until May 7, after the April 15 federal tax payment deadline. The filing instructions provided with my return explicitly stated that my federal taxes were due by October 15, 2026, and my state taxes by November 15, 2026. This guidance was incorrect and ultimately cost me money.
I pay a tax preparation firm good money to prepare my taxes and provide accurate instructions regarding my tax obligations. That is the service I am paying for. I should not have to second-guess the professionals I trust to handle these matters. Unfortunately, I relied on the instructions they provided and subsequently received letters from both the IRS and the Virginia Department of Taxation in July notifying me of outstanding balances that included penalties, interest, and other charges.
I mailed correspondence to both agencies explaining the situation and included the instruction sheet Venning had provided. Despite explaining the circumstances to representatives from the IRS and the Virginia Department of Taxation, I was unable to have the penalties, interest, and additional charges removed. Ultimately, I had to pay for a mistake that was not mine.
I received a letter from the firm stating:
"If the IRS contests any position, penalties, interest, and additional tax, may apply. We are not liable for any such penalties, interest, or additional tax assessments resulting from decisions made regarding unclear tax positions."
That disclaimer is particularly frustrating given that the instructions I received regarding my payment deadlines were straightforward, not an unclear tax position. I followed the guidance provided by the firm and still ended up paying additional charges as a result.
I am confident Venning Advisors has lost many loyal customers who originally trusted the local firm before the merger, and based on my experience, I understand why. Looking through the other reviews, it is clear that I am not the only customer who has experienced frustration with this firm.
Save yourself the time, money, and unnecessary stress. I strongly encourage you to choose another company to prepare your taxes.