What Is an Audit? What to Do When You Get Audited by the IRS

A tax audit reviews an organization’s or individual’s accounts and financial information to ensure they report information correctly according to tax laws and to verify the accuracy of the reported tax amount. A government agency, most commonly the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States, conducts this process. Audits aim to minimize tax evasion, ensure compliance with tax laws, and maintain public confidence in the tax administration system.

Who Gets Audited?

Tax authorities, including the IRS, can target any taxpayer, such as individuals, companies, trusts, and non-profit organizations, for audits. However, not all taxpayers are equally likely to face an audit. The IRS and other agencies often employ a mix of random selection and computerized screening techniques to pinpoint tax returns with potential anomalies or discrepancies for closer examination. Factors that may increase your chances of an audit include having a high income, making large charitable deductions, incurring high business expenses, participating in cash-heavy industries, and having previous audit histories.

What Happens During a Tax Audit?

If the IRS or the relevant tax authority selects you for an audit, you will receive a notification through mail. This notification will outline the required information and the audit process—it can take place by mail (correspondence audit), at an IRS office (office audit), or through an in-person interview and record review at your home, place of business, or accountant’s office (field audit).

During the audit, the auditor will verify the accuracy of all reported income, expenses, and deductions. You will need to provide documentation such as receipts, bills, employment documents, or other records that support your tax return entries.

What Happens if You Ignore an Audit?

Ignoring a tax audit is a serious matter that can result in severe consequences. If you fail to respond to the audit notice, the IRS will proceed without your input and may assess additional taxes based on what they find, which often results in a less favorable outcome for the taxpayer. Additional penalties and interest can also apply to the unpaid taxes from the date they were due.

Furthermore, repeated failure to respond to IRS requests may lead to more severe enforcement actions, such as liens on property, garnishment of wages, or even criminal charges depending on the severity of the non-compliance.

Who Conducts the Auditing?

Tax audits are conducted by tax authorities. In the United States, the IRS is the federal agency responsible for enforcing tax laws and conducting audits. Each state also has its tax agency that can audit state tax returns. Trained professionals skilled in accounting and tax law work as auditors for these agencies, ensuring they can accurately assess compliance with tax regulations.

Conclusion

Understanding the audit process is essential for all taxpayers. By knowing what triggers an audit, what to expect during the process, and the consequences of ignoring one, you can better prepare yourself to handle this daunting aspect of tax compliance. Always ensure that your tax returns are complete and accurate and keep detailed records to avoid potential complications during an audit. If you do find yourself facing an audit, consider seeking the help of a tax professional to guide you through the process and represent your interests effectively.