First of all, read the notice and make sure you understand what the IRS wants from you.\u00a0 You will find the information regarding the year they are auditing, what kind of audit they are performing, and the documentation necessary.\u00a0 You will be given a deadline for a response, usually 30 days.\u00a0 Do not set the notice aside and forget about it.\u00a0 Respond immediately and start getting organized.<\/p>\n
The IRS conducts audits in a number of ways.\u00a0 The two most common types of audits are correspondence and face-to-face.<\/p>\n
Click here to read or watch more IRS Problem resources.<\/a><\/p>\n Correspondence Audit<\/p>\n The IRS uses the mail to conduct a correspondence audit.\u00a0 More often than not, these audits are used to make corrections on your tax return.\u00a0 It is important that you respond as soon as possible.\u00a0 If the correction means that you owe taxes, any delay will add penalties and interest to what you owe.\u00a0 Read the notice carefully, gather and copy any necessary documentation, and respond by the deadline indicated.\u00a0 Keep copies of all your correspondence with the IRS.\u00a0 Be aware that if you disagree with the stated corrections, you do have a right to appeal.\u00a0 Put all of this information in writing along with the necessary documentation and mail it with your response.<\/p>\n Face-to-Face Audit<\/p>\n A face-to-face audit requires a meeting between you and a revenue agent or tax auditor.\u00a0 The notice you receive will give you a place and time for the audit or you will be requested to call to set up a meeting.\u00a0 Steps to follow when preparing for and attending a face-to-face audit include:<\/p>\n \u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Do not set the notice aside.\u00a0 You usually need to respond within 30 days. If your IRS Problem is concerning an audit and you require more information and direction, our knowledgeable staff will be able to assist you.\u00a0 Get organized and get out from under your IRS Problems with our help.\u00a0 Contact us today.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Read and re-read the notice.\u00a0 Understand what is expected of you and what documentation you will be required to provide.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Get organized.\u00a0 Gather your documents and be prepared to prove the information on your tax return is correct.\u00a0 If there are any missing records, request copies from the IRS now.\u00a0 If you are organized and ready for the auditor\u2019s questions, the audit will run smoothly and the auditor\u2019s job will be easier.\u00a0 This should work in your favor.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bring only the requested documentation.\u00a0 Do not bring any documents that were not requested.\u00a0 If you are asked about an item and the documentation is at home, it will probably be dropped.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Check your attitude.\u00a0 Do not come to the audit ready for a fight.\u00a0 Be polite and courteous.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Provide copies of the documentation.\u00a0 Do not give the IRS your originals.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Answer questions with \u201cyes\u201d and \u201cno\u201d.\u00a0 Small talk can actually provide the auditor with valuable information.\u00a0 Do not give them a reason to expand the audit.
\n\u2022\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Understand your rights.\u00a0 Get informed about the audit process, be aware that you can disagree with the IRS\u2019s findings, and know that you have the right to request an appeal.\u00a0 It is also important to note that you have the right to take a tax professional with you<\/a> to the audit.<\/p>\n
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