IRS Audit Defense Strategies: Your Guide to Navigating Tax Challenges

IRS Audit

Dealing with an IRS audit can be a daunting and stressful experience. It's a situation that requires careful navigation and expert guidance. At Finishline Tax Solutions, we specialize in providing comprehensive IRS tax resolution and tax relief services, ensuring that you're not alone in this complex process. In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies to defend against IRS audits and how our expertise can make a significant difference.

Understanding IRS Audits

An IRS audit involves a review of an individual's or organization's accounts and financial information to ensure information is reported correctly according to the tax laws and to verify the reported amount of tax is correct. While the thought of an audit is intimidating, understanding its basis can significantly reduce anxiety. Audits can be random or triggered by unusual or uncharacteristic activity in your accounts.

Pre-Audit Preparation

Preparation is key in dealing with IRS audits. Ensure all your tax documents are accurate, complete, and organized. This includes receipts, bills, employment documents, investment records, and any other relevant financial documentation. Good record-keeping not only helps in your defense but also in identifying any potential issues proactively.

Key IRS Audit Defense Strategies

At Finishline Tax Solutions, we employ several strategies to help our clients successfully navigate through IRS audits.

Professional Representation

Having a professional by your side during an IRS audit is invaluable. Our team of experienced tax professionals understands the intricacies of tax laws and audit processes, ensuring that your rights are protected and your case is presented effectively. We act as a liaison between you and the IRS, reducing the stress and burden of direct communication.

Effective Communication with the IRS

Effective communication is crucial. It involves responding promptly to IRS requests and presenting your information clearly and accurately. Our team ensures that all communication with the IRS is handled professionally, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings and errors.

Understanding Your Rights and Options

Every taxpayer has rights, including the right to professional representation and a fair and courteous treatment by IRS employees. Understanding these rights can significantly affect the outcome of an audit. We also explore all available options, such as appeals or alternative dispute resolutions, ensuring the best possible outcome for our clients.

Beyond the Audit: Long-Term Tax Relief Solutions

An IRS audit can be a learning opportunity. It's a chance to implement better tax practices and ensure ongoing compliance.

IRS Tax Resolution Services

Our tax resolution services include negotiating offers in compromise, setting up installment agreements, and seeking penalty abatement. These services are tailored to resolve your tax issues in a way that minimizes your financial burden.

Proactive Tax Planning

Proactive tax planning is essential in avoiding future audits. Our advisory services help you understand and apply the best tax practices, ensuring compliance and optimizing your financial situation.

How can a Tax Relief Expert Help

Navigating through an IRS audit can be challenging, but with the right strategies and expert guidance, it can be managed effectively. Finishline Tax Solutions is dedicated to providing the best in IRS tax resolution and tax relief services. Our team is ready to assist you in every step of the audit process and beyond.

If you're facing an IRS audit or seeking professional tax relief services, contact Finishline Tax Solutions today. Let our expertise guide you to a favorable resolution.

Navigating an IRS Audit: Strategies and Best Practices for a Successful Outcome

5 TOP REASONS WHY IRS WILL AUDIT YOU - FLTS

As a taxpayer, the thought of being audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can be daunting. The audit process can be complex and intimidating, leaving many individuals feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their rights and responsibilities. However, understanding the audit process and your rights as a taxpayer can help alleviate some of this anxiety. In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify the IRS audit process and provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect. We will explore your rights and responsibilities, including how to prepare for an audit, what documents you may need, and what the IRS is looking for during an audit. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of the audit process and be better equipped to navigate it with confidence. So, whether you are currently facing an audit or simply want to be prepared for the possibility, this guide is an essential resource for all taxpayers.

What is an IRS audit?

An IRS audit is an examination of a taxpayer's financial records to ensure that they are in compliance with the tax laws. The audit process can be initiated for a variety of reasons, including discrepancies in tax returns or random selection by the IRS. When you are audited, an IRS agent will review your financial records, including your tax returns, bank statements, and other financial documents, to determine whether you have accurately reported your income and deductions.

It is important to note that being audited does not necessarily mean that you have done something wrong. In fact, many audits are initiated simply because of discrepancies or errors on a tax return. However, if the IRS finds that you have underreported your income or claimed illegal deductions, you could be subject to penalties, fines, and even criminal charges.

If you are being audited, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities. You have the right to be represented by a tax professional during the audit process, and you have the responsibility to provide accurate and complete information to the IRS.

Types of IRS audits

There are several types of IRS audits, each with its own level of complexity and scope. The most common types of audits are:

Correspondence audits

A correspondence audit is the least invasive type of audit and is typically used for simple issues, such as missing or incomplete documentation. This type of audit is conducted entirely through the mail, and you will be asked to provide additional information or documentation to support your tax return.

Office audits

An office audit is conducted at an IRS office or in person at your tax professional's office. During an office audit, an IRS agent will review your financial records and ask you questions about your tax return. This type of audit is typically used for more complex issues, such as business expenses or rental property deductions.

Field audits

A field audit is the most comprehensive and invasive type of audit. During a field audit, an IRS agent will visit your home or business to review your financial records and ask you questions about your tax return. This type of audit is typically used for more serious issues, such as suspected fraud or unreported income.

Reasons for IRS audits

The IRS may initiate an audit for a variety of reasons, including:

Random selection

The IRS may select your tax return for audit simply because of a random computer screening process.

Discrepancies or errors

If there are discrepancies or errors on your tax return, such as missing or incorrect information, the IRS may initiate an audit.

High-risk transactions

If you have engaged in high-risk transactions, such as large charitable contributions or foreign bank accounts, the IRS may initiate an audit.

Information matching

The IRS may initiate an audit if the information on your tax return does not match the information reported by your employer, financial institution, or other sources.

Understanding your rights during an IRS audit

As a taxpayer, you have several rights during an IRS audit, including:

The right to professional representation

You have the right to be represented by a tax professional, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA), during the audit process. Your representative can communicate with the IRS on your behalf and help ensure that your rights are protected.

The right to appeal

If you disagree with the results of an audit, you have the right to appeal the decision through the IRS appeals process.

The right to confidentiality

The IRS is required to keep your tax information confidential, and your personal information cannot be shared with anyone outside of the IRS without your consent.

It is important to understand your rights during an IRS audit and to exercise these rights when necessary. By doing so, you can help ensure that your interests are protected throughout the audit process.

Preparing for an IRS audit

If you are facing an IRS audit, it is important to be prepared. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for an audit:

Gather all necessary documents

Before the audit, gather all necessary documents, including your tax returns, receipts, bank statements, and other financial records. Make sure that all of your records are complete and accurate.

Review your tax return

Review your tax return to ensure that it is accurate and complete. If you find any errors or discrepancies, correct them before the audit.

Understand the issues

Understand the issues that are being audited and be prepared to explain your position on each issue. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with a tax professional.

Be organized

Organize your records in a logical and easy-to-follow manner. This will help the audit go more smoothly and reduce the likelihood of errors or omissions.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you are prepared for an IRS audit and that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

What to expect during an IRS audit

During an IRS audit, an agent will review your financial records and ask you questions about your tax return. Here are some things to expect during an audit:

The audit may be conducted in person or by mail

Depending on the type of audit, the audit may be conducted in person at an IRS office or your home or business, or it may be conducted entirely through the mail.

The audit may be comprehensive or limited

The scope of the audit will depend on the issues being examined. The audit may be comprehensive, covering all aspects of your tax return, or it may be limited to specific issues.

The audit may result in changes to your tax return

If the IRS finds discrepancies or errors on your tax return, it may result in changes to your tax liability, including additional taxes, penalties, and interest.

It is important to remain calm and professional during an audit and to answer all questions truthfully and to the best of your ability.

Common red flags that trigger IRS audits

There are several common red flags that may trigger an IRS audit, including:

High income

Taxpayers with high income are more likely to be audited than those with lower income.

Large deductions

Taxpayers who claim large deductions, especially for charitable contributions or business expenses, may be subject to closer scrutiny.

Home office deductions

Home office deductions are a common trigger for audits, as they are often claimed incorrectly or fraudulently.

Business expenses

Business expenses, especially those related to travel and entertainment, are often scrutinized by the IRS.

By being aware of these red flags, you can take steps to ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete and reduce the likelihood of an audit.

Responding to IRS audit findings

If the IRS finds discrepancies or errors on your tax return, it may result in changes to your tax liability. Here are some steps you can take to respond to audit findings:

Understand the findings

Understand the audit findings and the reasons for any changes to your tax liability.

Consider appealing the decision

If you disagree with the audit findings, you have the right to appeal the decision through the IRS appeals process.

Pay any additional taxes

If the audit results in additional taxes owed, pay the taxes as soon as possible to avoid penalties and interest.

By responding to audit findings in a timely and professional manner, you can help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Appealing an IRS audit decision

If you disagree with the results of an audit, you have the right to appeal the decision through the IRS appeals process. Here are some steps you can take to appeal an IRS audit decision:

Request a conference with an appeals officer

Request a conference with an appeals officer to discuss the audit findings and present your case.

Provide documentation

Provide documentation to support your position, including financial records, receipts, and other relevant documents.

Consider mediation or arbitration

If you are unable to resolve the dispute through the appeals process, consider mediation or arbitration as a way to resolve the issue.

By appealing an IRS audit decision, you can help ensure that your rights are protected and that your interests are represented throughout the process.

Hiring an IRS audit representation

If you are facing an IRS audit, you may want to consider hiring a tax professional to represent you during the audit process. Here are some reasons to consider hiring an IRS audit representation:

Experience and expertise

A tax professional has the experience and expertise to navigate the audit process and ensure that your rights are protected.

Communication with the IRS

A tax professional can communicate with the IRS on your behalf, reducing the likelihood of errors or misunderstandings.

Peace of mind

Hiring a tax professional can provide peace of mind and reduce the anxiety associated with the audit process.

By hiring an IRS audit representation, you can ensure that your interests are protected and that the audit process goes as smoothly as possible.

Conclusion

The IRS audit process can be complex and intimidating, but by understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can navigate the process with confidence. Whether you are facing an audit or simply want to be prepared for the possibility, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the audit process and what to expect. By being prepared and aware of your rights, you can help ensure that the audit process goes as smoothly as possible and that your interests are protected throughout the process.

5 Top reasons Why IRS Will Audit You

5 TOP REASONS WHY IRS WILL AUDIT YOU - FLTS

The IRS conducts tax audits to review the details provided by taxpayers. This procedure involves revising your accounts and financial documents to verify that you provided the correct information. The IRS may also send a representative to your business for a face-to-face examination.

Since an IRS audit can lead to business closure and penalties, you should avoid it. Here, we discuss five main reasons the IRS may request this procedure. We will also cover how professional tax preparation and legal representation can help you deal with audits.

1. Incorrect Data

Providing incorrect figures is a significant reason why the IRS audits taxpayers. Such an issue may occur when you truncate decimals leading to calculation differences. It may also happen when you enter a number wrongly or miss some figures, especially zeros.

Another data issue that may lead to an IRS audit is providing the wrong social security number. This mistake often occurs when transferring figures from other documents.

Filing your returns online can avoid data mistakes and IRS audits. This method allows you to upload some information from your W2 forms. Hence, you can easily avoid typing and calculation errors.

2. Many Charitable Donations

Charitable donations qualify you for discounts on the taxes you owe. The IRS will counter-check your forms to determine eligibility if you claim such deductions. They may then request an audit if your income and the donations made in a particular duration do not match.

Avoid IRS audits related to charitable donations by providing the correct information. Further, ensure you have all the documents to prove transactions before claiming deductions.

3. Unreported Income

It may be tempting to eliminate some income when filing taxes. Unfortunately, such an issue will lead to an audit since the IRS receives income reports from your employers.

Before filing federal and state taxes, calculate the total amount earned from various sources. These include:

  • Self-employment
  • Alimony
  • Employment bonuses

If you are a business owner, your revenue may differ annually based on performance. Always confirm the income difference with the previous years to avoid raising suspicion and prevent unnecessary IRS audits.

4. Significant Business Expenses

Reporting significant business expenses is another reason the IRS may audit you. For instance, if you indicate that you spent more than three-quarters of your earnings on operation costs, the IRS may need to confirm this information.

Track business expenses and transactions to ensure you have accurate figures when filing taxes. Besides, confirm all provided details before submitting your return forms. These measures will help you avoid costly mistakes and prevent business closure during an audit.

5. Including a Home Office Deduction

If you use some parts of your home exclusively for business purposes, you may qualify for a home office deduction. However, you may not be eligible if you do not work from home often and use the rooms for other activities.

Since some taxpayers may claim home office deductions to reduce the tax owed, the IRS often flags such cases. As a result, they may audit your records to determine if you have business premises. This step also allows them to assess if the measurements you provided for your working spaces are credible and quality for a deduction.

How Legal Representation Can Help With an IRS Audit

Dealing with an IRS audit can be tricky without professional help. Getting legal audit representation allows you to avoid the stress associated with the process. An expert will help you prepare all the documents the IRS needs to verify your tax information.

 More ways the specialist may assist are:

  • Communicating with the IRS
  • Representing you during meetings
  • Filing for an audit reconsideration

Contact FinishLine Tax Solutions for Audit Representation

Dealing with an IRS tax audit can be confusing, mainly if the issues stem from an error. At FinishLine Tax Solutions, we will represent you during this process. Our professionals will also offer legal guidance and recommend ways to avoid an audit in the future. Call us today for audit representation.

Fast Track Settlement (FTS) for your Business

Tax Relief Services | Nation's Top Tax Problem Solver - FLTS

The Fast Track Settlement (FTS) is designed to help small businesses and self-employed individuals who are under examination (audit) by the Small Business/Self Employed (SB/SE) Division of the IRS. FTS uses alternative dispute resolution techniques to help taxpayers save time and avoid a formal administrative appeal or lengthy litigation.

Learn More About Fast Tract Settlement in context of the tax audit/examination process.

Tax Evasion, Fraud and the Statute of Limitations

Tax Evasion, Fraud and the Statute of Limitations
When calculating or filing back taxes, you may make various mistakes, leading to remitting an amount that is less than what you owe. While the error may be minor or accidental, the IRS may consider it as fraud or a way to evade paying taxes. Since the difference between tax evasion and fraud is confusing, you should learn about the two to avoid getting in trouble with the IRS. Here, we provide more details about these two aspects to help you differentiate them. We'll also discuss what you should do if you find yourself in such situations to avoid further consequences.

What is Tax Evasion?

Tax evasion refers to using illegal methods to avoid paying your taxes in full. For example, you may fail to submit the relevant tax filing forms then refuse to remit any amount even after an assessment. Since the IRS can determine the taxes you owe them using documents sent by third parties like your employer, they can easily detect evasion.  This issue will then lead to penalties and criminal charges depending on the gravity of the situation.

What is Tax Fraud?

Tax fraud is the deliberate misinterpretation of information regarding your taxes or failing to include some details on your return forms. An example is when you do not disclose all income sources to reduce the amount due.

Other examples of tax fraud are:

  • Using the wrong social security number
  • Claiming false deduction
  • Claiming personal expenses as business spending
  • Filing under the incorrect status
When you commit tax fraud, you may face criminal charges and get a maximum sentence of three years or a fine of up to $100,000. In some cases, you might have to pay an additional amount equal to 75% of the taxes you avoided.

Statute of Limitations for Tax Evasion and Fraud

A statute of limitations is the maximum period that parties in a dispute have to start legal proceedings from when the issue occurred.  The law gives the IRS three years to audit your returns if they suspect you provided wrong information and evaded taxes. During this period, the body will review your accounts and financial details to track expenses and income. If they detect that you failed to disclose about 25% of your income, they will hand over the matter to relevant authorities for prosecution. The statute of limitations for such a tax evasion charge will then extend up to six years. Since tax fraud is not a specific crime, the statute of limitations often differs depending on the issue at hand. For example, if you fail to pay taxes, the duration will be six years. On the other hand, the law provides a maximum of three years to prosecute those who fail to supply some information or keep the required records. It is important to note that the statute of limitations for tax evasion and fraud can be longer due to various reasons. For example, if you commit a similar or related crime, authorities will start counting the duration from the date of your last fraudulent act. Besides, when you leave the US, they will stop counting until you go back or they locate you.

Preventing Tax Evasion and Fraud Charges

Tax evasion and fraud have significant consequences on your finances and reputation. Hence, it is vital to avoid such cases by remitting the correct amount and providing accurate information when filing taxes. If you cannot pay all your taxes in full, consider working with liability experts to apply for installment agreement programs. These can also help you file your taxes to avoid errors that may appear as fraudulent attempts.

Reach Out to Tax Industry to Deal With Tax Evasion and Fraud Charges

When facing a tax evasion or fraud charge, it is crucial to get the proper representation. At Tax industry, we have qualified attorneys to help you navigate tax laws and disputes. These experts can guide you in proving honest mistakes like calculation and typing errors. If found innocent, we will assist you in choosing a Tax debt relief program to clear your tax debt. Contact us now to consult our liability experts.

6 Ways to Reduce Your Chance of an IRS Audit

IRS Audit
Failing to abide by various tax laws can lead to a financial audit by the IRS. While the causing error may be minor, the process can be costly and time-consuming. Such procedures can also halt your business if the IRS freezes your accounts, leading to significant losses and a lower client retention rate. While it is not a guarantee, taking some precautions when running a business and filing taxes can reduce the chances of an IRS audit. Here, we discuss six of those factors to help you protect your business and avoid penalties.

1. File Taxes Within the Provided Time

Sometimes, you may not have enough money to pay all the taxes you owe the IRS. Regardless, it is essential to ensure you provide your revenue information by filing back taxes. This step indicates that you acknowledge owing money and will pay when possible. It also allows you to apply for various IRS programs to stop penalty accumulation. These may include an offer in compromise, installment payment, and currently not collectible. If you do not file past taxes before the provided deadline, you may raise suspicion with the IRS leading to a financial audit. It also affects your chances of qualifying for relief programs to help you repay what you owe in the long run.

2. Claim the Right Deductions and Exemptions

Claiming a higher deduction or an exemption you do not qualify for can cause trouble with the IRS. Protect yourself from tax bills and penalties by ensuring the exemptions you claim are correct. If you have limited knowledge about this procedure and its requirements, consult a professional. By taking this measure, you can determine what you qualify for and avoid an IRS audit. These experts will also ensure that all the details you provide when remitting taxes are correct. For instance, they will counter-check your W2 and Form 1040 to ascertain that the information provided by your employer matches yours.

3. Submit Payroll Withholdings

If you are an employer, it is essential to remit all employee tax deductions to the IRS. Besides that, ensure you submit payroll reports to indicate how much your workers earn and their total tax payable. Since processing this information manually is challenging, it is advisable to get payroll software. Such platforms can reduce the chances of making tax errors related to payroll, protecting your company from audits.

4. Provide the Right Documents

When claiming a tax refund or deduction, you should attach supporting documents to avoid fines, penalties, and audits. Some of the needed items are:
  • Form W-2 for the employed
  • Form 1099-G for the unemployed
  • Records of additional income
  • Records of expenses
Other than that, it is advisable to attach canceled cheques, receipts, and explanation letters. While these documents may not be legally necessary, they can significantly reduce the chances of an audit.

5. Confirm Your Figures

One aspect that may raise a lot of suspicion with the IRS is submitting wrong tax calculations. Prevent such mistakes by double-checking your tax forms before sending them. Moreover, consider filing your taxes electronically since it notably reduces the chances of making errors. Another way to ensure you provide the correct figures is by gathering all your financial details before starting the filing process. This way, you prevent including unconfirmed information about your income or expenses.

6. Avoid Rounding Off

While working with whole numbers when filing taxes may appear simpler, it may land you in trouble. Truncating or rounding off your figures can lead to inconsistency between your tax forms and financial documents. Reduce the chances of an IRS audit by using figures as indicated on your payslip or receipts.  This measure will increase calculation accuracy and ensure your supporting documents match the information provided to the IRS.

Contact Tax Industry Today for Professional Services

Filing your taxes without professional help can increase the chances of errors, leading to audits. At Tax Industry, we offer professional filing services to help you avoid issues with the IRS. Our experts will use your financial documents and information to calculate what you owe and ensure they submit the correct information. Reach out to us today for reliable tax preparation and tax resolution services.

How Long Can the IRS Audit?

HOW LONG CAN THE IRS AUDIT?

It can be distressing to learn that the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) is auditing you or your business. According to tax law, the IRS has three years from the date of your audit notification to complete your audit. How long your IRS audit takes isn’t as simple as that, however. Learn more about how long IRS audits take in normal and special circumstances.

How Long Does a Typical IRS Audit Take?


The three years mentioned above is the statute of limitations of the audit, i.e. after you are notified, the IRS has three years to complete the audit and report its findings. During this time, they must assess and/or charge any additional taxes for the return that is under audit. Even though they have three years, it isn’t uncommon for IRS audits to close within one year. According to the IRS training manual, IRS agents are required to close audits within 26 months of opening them. Therefore, typical audits take 1-2 years from the later of the due date of the return or the date it was filed. There is an exception – if tax fraud is suspected, the statute of limitations is suspended. Should the IRS find large amounts of unreported money, they have three more years to investigate. Still, they are more likely to complete their investigations before that timeline, to adhere to their training guidelines.


Types of Audits


Depending on the circumstances under investigation, the IRS conducts three types of investigations. These are:

  • Mail audits – the IRS lets you know that your returns will be audited and ask you to send supporting documents depending on the issues. These are often completed in 3-6 months.
  • Office audits – you or your tax professional meets an IRS agent at their office, usually within one year of filing your returns. If there are no extraneous circumstances (e.g. offering incomplete information) these are completed in 3-6 months
  • Field audits – the IRS agent meets with you or your tax professional in your home or business premises. These take the longest – often one year – to complete. Field audits are reserved for complex situations, usually with small or medium-sized businesses. They can take multiple years depending on the extent of investigations.

Extension of Audit Timelines


In some cases the statute of limitations of 3 years (or 6 years in the case of suspected tax fraud) can be suspended. Various variables can lead to this, but the following are the most common reasons behind audit delays:


Multiple Adjustments


If there are more adjustments to be made on your returns, you can expect the audit period to take longer. Where there are more adjustments, the IRS agent must look over the financial records with greater detail. Sometimes, they may need to open previous returns, and this takes more time.


Small Business Audit


It takes more effort and time to audit a small business compared with auditing individuals. Tracking small business income is more difficult compared to checking out wage income from salaried people. Some small businesses don’t have proper records, so the IRS agents must check websites, client records and bank records to verify that all business income has been reported. If the business has many cash transactions, it can take time to verify the income reported versus the income earned.


Pursuing Penalties


The IRS may pursue penalties if there were a lot of adjustments to be made on your return. Pursuing penalties makes the audit process take longer, since they will have to make a case for the proposed penalties. It takes some time for the IRS to decide the penalties they wish to pursue if your returns had significant adjustments. The worst penalty is fraud, and fraud case can last years, especially if the IRS pursues criminal charges. This rarely happens, however.


IRS Audit Help


If you have a problem filing your returns, you should defer to tax professionals to ensure your returns are filed correctly. And if you have received an audit notice, our tax professionals at FinishLine Tax Solutions can help you get through the process fast and easily. Contact us today to get your IRS audit help.


Talk to a Professional Today

5 Reasons the IRS Will Audit You

5 REASONS THE IRS WILL AUDIT YOU

An IRS audit reviews an individual's or business's financial accounts to check if the information is reported accurately. The IRS can conduct a field audit at your home, office, or accountant's office. Sometimes the IRS conducts surprise audits, but most of the time, The IRS selects taxpayers based on suspicious activity.

Before you start preparing for tax season, take a look at some red flags likely to land you in the audit hot seat.

1. Math Errors

Math errors include subtraction, addition, multiplication, or division error, a transcription error in the same form or another form, an inaccurate use or selection of information from tax tables, and claiming credits or deductions exceeding limits.

To steer clear of mistakes, double-check your numbers. If you have too much on your plate, get professional help or use tax preparation software to avoid errors.

2. Unreported Income

You may be tempted not to report part of your income to decrease your tax liability, but beware-the IRS is watching your every move.

The IRS receives copies of your income reporting forms (including W-2, Form 1099-INT or 1099-DIV, and Form W-2G).

The IRS also receives information about your K1 income and foreign accounts. If you fail to report any income, an IRS agent may soon show up at your door.

3. Overstating Deductions

If you report false deductions, the IRS will become suspicious. Whenever you make a large donation, get a receipt so you can substantiate your claims. Keep receipts of business expenses. If you donated an item valued at more than $500, submit Form 8283 with your tax return.

4. Claiming Home Office Deductions

A self-employed taxpayer can deduct their home office expenses from their business income only if their home office qualifies (if they use it regularly and exclusively for their business).

Many taxpayers who claim home office deductions get the rules wrong. Fraudulent taxpayers try to claim deductions for expenses that do not qualify.

The IRS comes down heavily on people who over report deductions. If you try to claim a false deduction, the IRS can charge you with tax fraud.

5. Claiming Earned Income Tax Credit

The Earned Income Tax Credit or EITC is targeted at low-income taxpayers. If your investment income exceeds $3,650, you do not qualify for the EITC. Claiming the credit will trigger a tax audit.

Can't make heads or tails of tax rules? Let FinishLine Tax Solutions help. We offer end-to-end tax relief solutions. We will help you identity tax-saving investment avenues and ensure tax compliance.

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IRS audits Most common questions

No matter how honest and diligent you are, an IRS audit can send shivers down your spine. The reason for this fear is that most people believe that IRS audits will include a team of agents knocking at their front door and confiscating everything in their house. While this is also a possible situation in extreme cases, mostly, the audit will include agents checking your financial statements and ensuring that you haven’t been reporting incorrect information on your tax forms. So, unless you are over-reporting deductible expenses or reporting less income, you don’t need to worry about IRS audits.

Here are some of the most common questions asked about the IRS audits

I always make sure that my tax forms are filed without any errors? Why would the IRS still audit me?

The process of selecting a taxpayer for an IRS audit does not mean you have made an error. Many returns are randomly selected through an automated process when the 1099s and W-2s don’t match. In some cases, they are a result of an amending oversight. However, there are some red flags for the IRS. For example, large business expenses or charitable donations can raise eyebrows. 

Is the IRS audit affected by the amount I earn?

Yes, but only if you are earning is in millions. For example, if you earn more than $200,000 annually, there is a 1% probability that you will face an IRS audit. However, this probability increases when you earn more than $1 million.

Will I be notified of an IRS audit beforehand?

Yes, the IRS will send you a notice of the audit via mail.

What are the different types of IRS audits?

There are three types of IRS audits. 

The first one is the correspondence audit. In this audit, you will have to back up the claims made on the returns by sending additional documents. This can include mileage logs for travel, canceled checks for charities, and receipts. 

The second type of IRS audits is the in-person audit for which you will be summoned to the office of the federal agency. 

Lastly, there is a field audit. This form of the audit will be your worst nightmare. IRS agents will be visiting you at home or office and check all the tax-related documents. 

What happens when I ignore the notice of the audit?

Ignoring the notice of the IRS audit won’t make the IRS go away. Instead, the IRS will begin to think that you are hiding something. It can force the IRS to investigate immediately and impose fines or penalties. They can even get a court order to force you to cooperate. So, after you have received the notice, it is best that you respond within 30 days. 

Can the IRS only audit my last filed tax return?

No, the IRS has 3 years for pursuing an audit. So, just because the year has passed, it doesn’t mean that you are off the hook. It is possible that you receive a notice for the 2018 returns in 2020. This is why it is recommended that you keep all the tax-related documents for 3 years.

What documents do I need to provide during the IRS audit?

You only need to submit the documents requested by the IRS. If you bring anything unnecessary, it might broaden the audit’s scope. If the IRS has asked for some unaccounted paperwork, try tracing your steps. In cases of charitable donations and medical expenses, you can easily get duplicate copies.

Do I need to have tax experts present during the IRS audit?

Having tax attorneys is not mandatory during an audit. However, having a tax attorney by your side can make the whole process a lot easier for you. Hire an attorney through tax resolution services, and he will do the rest. 

After you’ve hired tax experts, you should let them do the talking. If you volunteer extra information, it can open up another investigation and compromise your advantage. 

What will be the duration of IRS audits?

The duration of IRS audits can vary. However, tax experts recommend that you set aside a complete day to deal with the audit. 

The duration of the audit will depend on a number of factors, like how organized your financial records are or how complex the issues are. In case the IRS wants more time or wants to have a follow-up meeting, you will be notified. If you want an audio recording of the proceedings, you have to give a 10-day notice to the IRS.

What penalties might I be liable to pay after the audit?

If the IRS decided that you have underpaid taxes, you might face either one of the following penalties:

  • If the IRS finds an underpayment because of undervaluation or overvaluation of the property, understating tax liability, neglecting, or disregarding rules and regulations of the IRS, you will be facing a 20% penalty.
  • For cases of serious underpayments that are related to fraud, you might face a penalty of 75%. If this is the case, it will be your responsibility to prove otherwise.
  • For all the violations made because of negligence, fraud, and not filing returns on time or valuing the property incorrectly, you might face interest payments. It will start from the due date of the return.
  • In severe cases of tax evasions, you might even face prison. 

Can the outcome of IRS audits be appealed?

If the IRS has imposed a penalty on you and you are not satisfied with the audit report, it is possible to appeal to this outcome. You will have to send an appeal letter to the IRS within 30 days after the audit proceedings ended. If the IRS denies your appeal, you can file a petition in the tax court for bills worth $50,000 or less. For the amount more than that, you will have to knock on the door or a regular court. 

For cases of IRS audits it is best that you hire tax experts from tax resolution services. An attorney will help you put a strong foot forward. There are a number of tax resolution services in the US that can help you with your tax-related issues. IRS audit can be a complicated process with extreme outcomes. However, as long as you abide by the law, you won’t have to worry about anything.