{"id":853,"date":"2019-05-06T17:01:11","date_gmt":"2019-05-06T17:01:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/taxreliefprofessional.com\/?p=853"},"modified":"2023-09-26T22:21:13","modified_gmt":"2023-09-26T22:21:13","slug":"what-to-expect-during-an-irs-tax-audit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/taxreliefprofessional.com\/irs-tax-audits\/what-to-expect-during-an-irs-tax-audit","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect During an IRS Tax Audit"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In 2016 the IRS audited<\/a> nearly 1.1 million tax returns. That’s about 0.5% of all tax returns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While it’s a small percentage, a tax audit is always a possibility. One way to make it less of a possibility is to understand and avoid certain IRS audit triggers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, if you do end up being one of the unlucky 0.5%, it’s important to know what to expect during an IRS audit and what you can do to speed up the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We want to help you handle a difficult and stressful process with more ease. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the IRS tax auditing process<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What a Tax Audit Is<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every year, the IRS chooses to audit certain tax returns. They are looking to verify that the income and deductions you claimed are accurate and legitimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s a smart idea to always keep your financial documents organized<\/a>. This will help you prepare for taxes and will make the auditing process easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How do you get audited? There are three different types of audits the IRS performs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Mail audits<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Office audits<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Field audits<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    It’s important to note that no matter which type of IRS tax audit, the IRS will never reach out to you via the phone or email. You will only ever receive notifications from the IRS through the postal service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Mail Audits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    A mail audit is the easiest type of audit. You do not have to meet with an auditor in person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Instead, the IRS will ask you to send additional documentation to help back up the claims you made on your tax return. If you claimed a certain amount in deductions for charitable contributions, the IRS will ask for a letter which verifies those donations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Office Audits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    An office audit happens at a local IRS office. You’ll meet face-to-face with an auditor and they’re more in-depth than a mail audit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    You’re allowed to bring a lawyer or accountant with you to these meetings. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    You’ll also be asked to bring along specific information to back up your claims. Often these include receipts and banking or other types of documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Field Audits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    A field audit is the most serious and complicated of all the audits. This type of audit takes place in your home or office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    These audits happen when the IRS needs to investigate more than just a deduction or two. Instead, a field audit is extremely thorough and will most likely cover every item listed on your return.<\/p>\n\n\n

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    \n Evaluate your tax situation\n <\/h2>\n

    \n By evaluating your tax situation, you can identify areas where you may be able to reduce your tax burden and make informed decisions about your financial future.\n <\/p>\n \n \n\n\n

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