Review is based on email contact only.
I wanted their advice / consultancy (paid of course) on several specific questions for stock options, and international tax implications. I do appreciate the effort of the response, which was prompt, although contradicting and incomplete (due to making assumptions, not asking for specific background, etc.).
I was more than willing to pay for the consultancy, but I guess it was not appreciated.
Some (free of charge) advice from my side:
- either set up a call with potential customers to understand the situation better (charged per hr or not), or mention immediately that Orange Tax cannot help out;
- try harder not to make potential customers feel inferior. Be a bit kinder, In think we all need a bit more kindness all together. Be the better person.
It could be partly culture, but most probably its mostly common courtesy to be more polite, besides the mentioned incorrect (free) advice of the Orange Tax response.
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Comments on their response:
Addressing the multiple incorrect statements and assumptions presented:
- Firstly, the assertion that Orange Tax does not provide consultancy is inaccurate, particularly given your Google profile explicitly lists 'tax consultants'. That's an easy (and painful one) to start off with.
- Regarding my situation involving stock options, when I explained the specifics, Mr. Waal's response (as CEO/owner) was limited to advising contact with HR and mentioning the 49.5% tax rate. This advice, however, represented only a partial truth.
- For clarity, I had already consulted Human Resources, who provided no new information. My discussions with my new tax advisor, and a confirming second opinion, offered a complete picture of my tax obligations related to stock options. This comprehensive view extends significantly beyond the 49.5% rate topic, especially considering my situation as an expat living abroad (a detail previously communicated to Orange Tax).
- It is clear that Orange Tax's (specifically Mr. Waal's) 'advice' was notably incomplete and based on incorrect assumptions. This lack of thoroughness stems directly from the failure to ask any clarifying questions, relying on presumption. While errors can occur, one expects a higher standard from a tax expert specializing in expat services; this was genuinely disappointing.
- Mr. Waal's response to my review was easily understood, though dismissive – a trait he describes as 'firm'. His reply further reinforces a consistent 'I am correct and you are not' communication style. However, in this instance, that assertiveness is not founded, as the absence of any inquiry resulted in fundamentally incomplete advice. I am fortunate not to have followed that advice, as it would likely have led to significant complications with the tax authorities.
No hard feelings, I just hope that the firm is a bit more inquisitive to understand the situation, while trying to focus a bit more on a pleasant way of communication. It does require some more EQ, not just IQ.
