Disclosures and FAQ

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP (“LGBS”) provides the following Disclosures and Frequently Asked Questions to assist you in resolving your account with the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Para obtener ayuda en español, comuníquese con nuestro centro de llamadas al 1-800-654-2095

Disclosures

Bankruptcy

If you are now a debtor in bankruptcy, or if the debt or debts referenced in the communication you received from LGBS have been discharged through a bankruptcy proceeding, then our communication is for informational and verification purposes only. It is not a demand for payment nor an attempt to collect a debt. Please promptly provide us written notice of the bankruptcy by sending us the case number and the name of the court in which your bankruptcy case was filed. Be sure to include your name and the LGBS account number and client code that appears in the text or letter you received from us. If you cannot locate this information, please provide other identifying information by which we can locate your account. Send this information as soon as possible to Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson LLP, P.O. BOX 805440, Chicago, IL 60680 so that we can update your account.

Text Messaging

When you opt-in for text messages from LGBS, you are agreeing to receive text messages related to your relationship with LGBS, including updates related to your account.

You can opt-out of text messages by texting STOP back to the number we texted you from. Your opt-out request will generate one final message confirming that you have been unsubscribed. You will no longer receive text messages from us. If you want to opt back into receiving texts, call our contact center at 1-800-654-2095 or text HELP to the number we texted you from for instructions.

Message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. Message frequency may vary. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

FAQ

The following is for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

How do I know this is not a scam?

Any text message you receive from LGBS will include our “short code” – 98023. “Short Codes” can be obtained only by companies that go through a rigorous approval and verification process with telecom industry authorities. It will also include our toll-free number and a link to our payment website, which can be independently verified by you online. Our messages will always include your name and a reference number or other identifying information that will coincide with information relating to your specific account. We never send generic text messages. If you call in, our representative will be able to verify your account information over the phone.

LGBS is licensed law firm with offices around the country. Learn more about us at https://www.lgbs.com. We are A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau, and a member of respected industry associations ACA International and the National Association of Court Managers.

Why have I received a text message from LGBS?

LGBS is a law firm that represents governmental entities in the collection and resolution of unpaid debt. This debt relates to unpaid taxes, fees, fines, tolls and other government receivables. Although not always the case, you may already have received written notice from LGBS, because you have been identified as one who owes an unpaid receivable to a governmental client of LGBS – in this case the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Can I pay the State directly? What payment methods are available to pay?

Yes, you have several payment options. You can pay by calling us at 1-800-654-2095. You can also pay online at www.lgbswebpayments.com or pay the State directly at www.mytax.illinois.gov with a bank account, debit card or credit card. You may also pay by phone with those payment methods, or by mail with a money order, personal check or cashier’s check sent to us at Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson LLP, P.O. BOX 805440, Chicago, IL 60680. Be sure to include your name, your account number, client code or other identifying information with any mailed payment.nformation.

What if I am financially unable to pay the amount due?

If you are unable to pay, call us at 1-800-654-2095 to discuss your individual situation. Have your account number available to provide to our agent. We will discuss your eligibility for a payment plan based on the amount of the underlying debt and your financial situation.

Does the LGBS call center have Spanish speaking individuals that can assist me?

Yes! LGBS’s call center has bilingual telephone staff on duty. Please contact the LGBS call center number provided in the text message you received for assistance.

Tenemos agentes bilingües ennuestro centro de llamadas si necesita asistencia en español.

What is the total amount that I owe?

Our call center will provide you with the current amount due for those accounts that have been referred to LGBS. This amount may differ from the amount listed in the letter you received (if you received a letter), because interest continues to accrue on your unpaid balance, additional accounts may have been referred to us, or subsequent payments may have been received. Please note that the balance we provide reflects only those amounts that have been assigned to LGBS for collection. You may owe additional amounts to the State of Illinois relating to other accounts that have not been referred to LGBS for collection.

Can I negotiate the amount due or make a partial payment?

The amount owed is not subject to negotiation or reduction. However, you can make a partial payment if you enter into a payment plan, and agree to make regular monthly payments until the full balance is paid. You can discuss the terms of a payment plan by contacting our call center at 1-800-654-2095. If you believe the amount claimed is an error, or that it does not relate to you, please contact our call center and provide us with the nature and basis for your dispute.

Can I get the hold on my license released?

You may be able to get any holds put in place by the State of Illinois released if you make payment in full using certified funds, or make an acceptable down payment and enter into a payment plan. However, it is possible that there may be additional unpaid debt or reasons other than this debt that your license is on hold. Please contact the LGBS call center number provided in the text you received for additional information about your account.