An audit letter? We take the seat across the table.
An IRS audit is a formal review of your return, and how it is handled from the first request can shape the result. We prepare your records, deal with the examiner, and represent you through the final report.
Illustration only. Each audit looks at the items listed in its own letter.
Is this you?
An audit can start with a single letter. Reach out if any of these sound familiar.
An audit letter arrived
The IRS wrote to say your return was selected for examination, by mail or in person.
A list of documents to send
The letter asks for receipts, statements, or logs, and you are not sure what to send.
Business or rental deductions
The IRS is questioning expenses from a business, side work, or a rental property.
An interview is scheduled
The IRS wants to meet, and you would rather not sit across from an examiner alone.
A seat at the table, and one you can skip.
The law gives you the right to be represented during an audit. With an Enrolled Agent in your seat, the conversation with the examiner goes through us.
Retain representation
Attorneys, CPAs, and enrolled agents can represent you before the IRS with a written power of attorney.
Pause the interview
In most situations, the IRS must suspend an interview if you ask to consult your representative.
Stay home
When you have a representative, you do not have to attend unless the IRS formally summons you.
Rights described in IRS Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer.
Records answer the questions.
Most audits come down to documentation. The examiner asks about specific items, and the right records, organized well, answer them.
- Audits start by mail. The IRS will not start an audit by telephone.
- They are done by mail, or in person at an IRS office, your home or business, or your representative’s office.
- They generally cover returns filed in the last three years, and usually no more than the last six.
- Records used to prepare a return should be kept for at least three years.
- Receipts and invoices
- Bank and credit card statements
- Mileage or vehicle logs
- Canceled checks and payment records
- Contracts, settlement statements, or closing papers
The letter lists exactly what is needed for your audit. We organize it, index it, and send only what answers the question.
From the first request to the final report.
Five steps, with one point of contact the whole way through.
- 1
Free case review
We read the audit letter, the items in question, and the deadline, and tell you what to expect.
- 2
Power of attorney
With Form 2848 on file, the IRS contacts us, and we pull your transcripts.
- 3
Prepare the records
We review the questioned items, organize your documents, and fill any gaps before anything is sent.
- 4
Represent you
We answer document requests and meet with the examiner, so you do not have to attend unless summoned.
- 5
Close it out
We review the examiner’s report with you. If you disagree, we request a manager conference or an appeal.
What to know about audits.
A few facts that take a lot of the fear out of it.
Audits start by mail
The IRS will not start an audit with a phone call. A call claiming otherwise is a warning sign.
Three years, rarely more than six
Most audits look at returns filed in the last three years, and usually no more than the last six.
You can pause the interview
In most situations, the IRS must suspend an interview if you ask to consult your representative.
What we do for you.
An Enrolled Agent leads your case, with the same person handling it from the first call to the final result.
We handle the examiner
Calls, letters, and meetings with the IRS go through us, so you are not answering questions on the spot.
Records organized
We turn a box of papers into an indexed response that answers exactly what was asked.
Every change reviewed
We check each proposed adjustment before you sign anything, and push back where the facts support you.
Appeals if needed
If you disagree with the result, we can take the case to a manager conference, mediation, or Appeals.
About IRS audits.
The questions we hear most. Anything else, ask us during your free case review.
Do I have to meet with the auditor?
When you have a representative, you do not have to attend unless the IRS formally summons you. We can meet with the examiner for you.
How far back can an audit go?
The IRS generally looks at returns filed in the last three years, may add years when it finds a substantial error, and usually does not go back more than six years.
How long does an audit take?
It depends on the type of audit, the complexity of the issues, how quickly records are available, and scheduling. We keep it moving on our side.
What if I disagree with the result?
You can request a conference with an IRS manager, ask for mediation, or file an appeal. If new information comes up after the audit closes, audit reconsideration may be possible.
Before and after the audit.
Audits often start with a letter and can end with a disagreement or a balance. These services cover both sides.
IRS Appeals & Tax Dispute Representation
Representation when you disagree with an IRS decision and want it reviewed.
View serviceRelated serviceIRS Notice & Letter Response
Clear answers and a timely response when an IRS or state letter arrives.
View serviceRelated servicePenalty Abatement
Requests to reduce or remove penalties where the case is eligible.
View serviceAudit letter on the table? Let us take it from here.
Send us the audit letter. The first case review is free and confidential.
Free case reviewNo obligationOne point of contact