The State of Texas and Harris County have taken legal action against a tax services company and its owner, alleging deceptive trade practices that have left many customers without the promised tax filing services. On March 21, 2025, the Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee filed a complaint in the District Court of Harris County against HRTCS Tax Services, Inc., and Renee Hill.
According to the petition, since at least 2021, HRTCS Tax Services and its managing agent Renee Hill have engaged in a fraudulent scheme involving tax filing services. The plaintiffs claim that this business model operates for several months each year before ceasing operations abruptly. Numerous clients have reported paying for services that were never delivered. Customers are often misled into believing their taxes have been filed when they haven't, resulting in additional expenses and potential penalties from the IRS. The complaint states that defendants only accept cash payments and subsequently neglect customer inquiries after receiving payment.
The lawsuit accuses the defendants of violating multiple sections of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act (DTPA), including engaging in false advertising and failing to disclose crucial information to consumers. The State of Texas and Harris County seek a permanent injunction to prevent further illegal conduct by the defendants. They also request civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation or $250,000 if it involves consumers aged 65 or older, along with damages for affected consumers exceeding $1 million.
The plaintiffs are represented by Christian D. Menefee, Harris County Attorney; Jonathan G.C. Fombonne, Deputy County Attorney; Tiffany S. Bingham, Managing Counsel; and Moustapha Gassama, Senior Assistant County Attorney. The case is presided over by Judge Kerrylone Asberry under Case ID 2025-19406.