Has the IRS Sent You a Notice of Audit?
Let’s talk about this and something called a Document Request.
If the IRS has contacted you for an audit, they have assigned a field auditor to your account. Whether this is a personal audit or a business audit, the field auditor will leave their business card on your front door.
Once you call your auditor, they will set up a time to meet and bring documents. This is where you have the choice to:
- Represent yourself
- Have an attorney represent you without being at the meeting
What Happens at a Typical Audit Meeting?
At a typical audit meeting, we:
- Take all of the documents that have been provided by our client
- Organize and analyze the documents
- Attend the meeting on behalf of our client
Normally, the auditor will need more detailed explanations of expenses and, in most cases, additional documentation where things are not as self-explanatory.
Remember:
The auditor is somebody that is simply trying to get your information off of their desk. They are not trying to do you any favors by assuming things in your best interest.
A Real-World Example
This morning, we were contacted by an auditor for one of our clients. We represented this client in a past audit where the auditor actually did his job and went through the paperwork.
This time around, we got an auditor that doesn’t remember our conversations, let alone examine the documentation. Forcing the auditors to do their job has become the norm, even when the correct paperwork has been provided.
Call our office for audit representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive an IRS audit notice?
If you receive an IRS audit notice, it means a field auditor has been assigned to your case. The auditor will typically leave a business card at your residence or business. You’ll need to call them to schedule a meeting and prepare the necessary documents. You can choose to represent yourself or have a tax attorney attend on your behalf.
Can I avoid attending the IRS audit meeting in person?
Yes, you can authorize an attorney to represent you during the audit meeting. This allows your representative to handle all communications and document reviews with the auditor, saving you from attending in person.
What happens during the IRS audit meeting?
During the meeting, your representative will present and organize your financial documents, respond to auditor inquiries, and provide additional documentation if needed. The auditor often seeks further explanations and proof for expenses that aren’t clearly documented.
Are IRS auditors usually cooperative?
IRS auditors are generally neutral and are focused on closing cases. They are not inclined to assume anything in your favor and typically won’t go beyond their requirements to help your case. It’s important to be well-prepared and thorough.
What if the auditor ignores the documentation I’ve already provided?
Unfortunately, some auditors may not review previously submitted documents carefully. In such cases, your representative must persistently advocate on your behalf and ensure the auditor fulfills their duty to examine all paperwork. This can be a recurring challenge during audits.