IRS / DOR Audits

Few things in life are more intimidating than facing an audit (technically called an Examination).Going into an audit alone is like entering a boxing match with both hands tied behind your back.

You don't want to just "wing it" on your own and hope for the best with your fingers crossed. Something said innocently or in jest can be used against you even after the audit process is complete! Our office will be with you EVERY STEP OF THE WAY before, during and even after the audit. We know what to do for you when you are facing an audit.

Always our goal is to obtain a "No Change" Letter (if appropriate) or to make certain that if there is additional tax to be assessed, it is the lowest amount under the law.

TYPES OF IRS AUDITS

The IRS has two major forms of Audits. First are Audits that are conducted through the mail (called a Correspondence Audit), where they simply ask you to sign your return if you forgot to do so, or send in W-2's or any other forms of documentation you may not have included in your return. The second form of an audit is when the IRS requests an in-person audit (called a Home / Office Audit).

Both types are serious, and failing to supply the IRS with the correct information during a mail Audit could result in an in-person Audit. More importantly, an in-person Audit may be an sign that the IRS has serious concerns regarding the correctness of your tax return. Furthermore, all IRS Audits should be taken seriously because they can often lead to other tax years and other tax deductions not originally stated in the Audit letter.

Procedures for an Audit

Answer all the IRS's inquires truthfully. However, only answer the questions you are asked, and do not divulge any more information than is needed. You could inadvertently open doors to other areas subject to audit by talking about information that was otherwise not relevant to your Audit. If you are asked to bring certain documents to an in-person Audit, bring only those requested documents!

Understandably, many people do not like facing an Audit alone, even if they have done nothing wrong and all of their deductions are above reproach. Our office will be able to assist you by responding to a through-the-mail Audit to ensure that accurate documentation is sent in. In the event of an in-person Audit, we can help you compile the accurate information. In some instances we can even represent you at the Audit without you even having to be present!

It makes sense to have a tax attorney represent you during an Audit. The tax auditor will  appreciate working with a tax attorney who knows the tax code. This will save the tax auditor time, effort and aggravation because they will not have to explain the tax code to an individual who isn't an expert in the area of tax law.

The IRS will not be deterred and they won't disappear. Call us for a FREE CONSULTATION and let's discuss all YOUR options in ending your tax problems.