What to do if you receive an IRS notification

If the IRS selects your tax return for audit (also called examination), it does not automatically mean something is wrong.  The IRS usually performs audits by mail (also called correspondence audits), but sometimes in person depending on the tax amount at issue. The notice you receive will have specific information about why your return is being examined, what documents if any they need from you, and how you should proceed. Once the IRS completes the examination, it may accept your return as filed or propose changes. These changes may affect the amount of tax you owe or the amount of your refund. 

Got an IRS notice examining or auditing your income tax return?

If you are unable to understand the notice, we need to find out more about it because it will determine what action we may need to take, and where in the IRS process it falls. It is important to determine where your tax return is within the IRS process, how the return got there, and what is next. Once we determine if it is in Appeals, Collection, Exam, Litigation, Tax Return Preparation or Tax Return Processing we can proceed on what to do next in resolving the tax issue. 

Type of audit/examination and what to do for each type

The IRS notice should confirm whether the audit is being conducted by correspondence (by mail) or in person. The actions you need to take will depend on how the audit is being conducted. 

• For correspondence audits, read the letter and follow the instructions. Submit all documentation requested. The IRS will review and respond. 
• For in person audits, the examiner can suspend the interview if you would like to obtain professional assistance or speak to your representative.
• If your business is being audited, the examiner may ask for a tour of your business to better understand the operation.
• Professional help is recommended to help organize your records to help speed up the review and help the examiner make a faster decision.