No one welcomes IRS audits; however, if the IRS notifies you of a pending investigation, it’s important to stay calm. In some cases, your audit may be triggered by a discrepancy in your tax return, and in others, you may have been randomly selected.
While for many, the audit process can be completed without stress, you can ensure ease and success with professional tax accounting guidance and legal representation. Here is some helpful information on how to get ready for an IRS and state audit.
How Will I Be Notified of an Audit?
How you are notified of an audit will depend on the type of audit being conducted, along with the types of errors found in your taxes. In most cases, you will receive a certified letter from the IRS informing you of a pending audit. The letter will detail the type of audit being performed and how the IRS plans to retrieve any of your records that they need.
In more severe cases, an IRS agent will come knocking on your door instead of sending a letter. In most cases, the IRS and state agents prefer to contact a person they’re auditing by mail.
Audits Performed by the State and IRS
When you are being audited, it’s helpful to know the kind of audit being performed. While all audits may differ in severity, they all require the help of a professional. If you are being audited by your state or the IRS, you will want to work with a skilled tax resolution lawyer. There are three kinds of audits conducted by state and IRS officials:
Correspondence Audits
These are the simplest audits, requiring you to simply mail in your records at your local post office. Correspondence audits do not require you to meet face to face with an IRS or state agent. Instead, all communication is conducted through mail or by phone. The written notice you receive from the IRS will outline the documents you will need to send. Once you have submitted all the necessary information, they will inform you of their findings and explain the next steps—if any.
Field Audits
Field audits are the most complicated audits and usually involve a “field visit” from an IRS or state agent who comes to your home or the office of your accountant. These audits tend to be long and complex, as the agent will likely go through all of your tax records for any discrepancies. Usually, you will receive a written letter before an agent shows up at your door, so you have time to prepare. During a field audit, it’s in your best interest to be transparent with the auditor.
Office Audits
Office audits are less complicated than field audits but more complex than correspondence audits. These audits typically involve a combination of written and in-person communication. Usually, you’ll receive a written notice to gather your records and then you’ll make an appointment to meet with an agent in person. Once the agent reviews your records, they will send you a written notice of the next course of action.
Consult a Skilled Tax Resolution Attorney
If you have received a written notice from the IRS or your state of a pending audit, don’t panic. With the help of a skilled tax resolution attorney, you can navigate the complexities of the situation and go through the process hassle-free.
At Morgan Sebastian Law, Attorney Becky Sebastian is eager to help you navigate the complexities of your tax situation. We understand that accurately filing your taxes can be a challenge, and we are here to help you through the process. Additionally, if you end up being audited by the IRS, Becky will work to mitigate the damage and protect your rights.
To schedule a consultation with an experienced tax resolution lawyer, call 877-938-1350 or fill out our online contact form.