Q: Can I be audited by the IRS? A: Yes, anyone who files a tax return may be audited. Hire an attorney experienced in tax law to represent you during an audit.
Can I be audited by the IRS?
Yes, it is possible for anyone who files a tax return to be audited by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). An audit is an examination of your tax return to ensure that the information is accurate and meets the tax law requirements. The IRS has the authority to audit taxpayers for a variety of reasons, such as discrepancies in their reported income, deductions, or other financial information.
If you receive an audit notice, it is important to take it seriously and respond promptly. Failure to respond or cooperate with the IRS can lead to additional penalties, fines, or legal action. Therefore, it is recommended that you hire an attorney experienced in tax law to represent you during the audit process. They can help you understand your rights, obligations, and options for responding to the audit, as well as ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process.
In some cases, the IRS may determine that there are discrepancies in your tax return and require you to pay additional taxes, penalties, or interest. If this happens, your attorney can help you negotiate a settlement or payment plan with the IRS, or represent you in court if necessary.
However, it is important to note that certain taxpayers may be more likely to be audited than others, such as those with high incomes, self-employment income, or complex financial arrangements. In addition, the IRS has limited resources and may focus their audits on areas where they believe there is a greater likelihood of uncovering errors or violations.
In general, the best way to avoid an audit is to ensure that your tax return is accurate and complete, and that you can provide documentation or evidence to support your reporting if needed. If you have concerns about your tax return or potential audit issues, it may be helpful to consult with your attorney or tax professional to address them proactively.