Seeking Audit Representation In Tennessee
FEDERAL TAX AUDIT REPRESENTATION
There’s a correct way of handling an IRS examination, and there are various wrong and potentially damaging ways of doing it. Because of the possible negative outcomes that may result from an IRS tax audit, most taxpayers are understandably filled with fear upon learning that they have been selected for a tax audit. One of the major pitfalls is to not obtain competent, experienced legal assistance as soon as the audit process begins. Statements made at any point during the investigation may be used against you, and you may prove to be your own worst witness. My suggestion is that you not go into battle alone.
While we can’t ensure you that an audit will be a pleasant experience, we can tell you that having a knowledgeable and qualified tax attorney to represent you with a personal or corporate audit will greatly benefit you as you go though the investigation process, which should relieve your stress and allow you to sleep better at night.
FEDERAL TAX AUDIT OVERVIEW
The purpose of conducting an audit is to review financial information and determine a taxpayer’s correct liability. In order to make this assessment, the IRS may collect information from individuals or businesses by using a variety of methods. The most common type of audit is a Correspondence Audit. During a correspondence audit, communication between a taxpayer and the IRS will typically be conducted via mail and/or fax, at which point the taxpayer will be required to submit documentation or records to support information previously provided in a tax return.
A second type of audit is an Office Audit. Although individuals may be requested to participate in an office audit, these types of investigations are generally intended for small businesses. Although some communication may be conducted via mail and/or fax, the business’s representative(s) will likely be asked to meet with an IRS agent in order to answer specific questions or provide detailed explanations for entries made in a tax return.
A third type of audit is a Field Audit. This type of audit is similar to an office audit in that the IRS will request an in-person meeting. Rather than taking place in a local IRS office, however, an agent (or agents) will visit the business. This type of audit is common with larger businesses or corporations and will help the IRS to better understand how the business is operated.
POSSIBLE OUTCOMES
There are three possible outcomes of an IRS audit. The first is for the IRS to conclude that all of the information provided in a tax return is accurate and no changes will be made. A second possible outcome is for the taxpayer to agree with income tax changes proposed by the IRS. The third possible outcome is for the taxpayer to disagree with the income tax changes proposed by the IRS. In this case, further evaluation or an appeal may be requested by the taxpayer.
WHY YOU SHOULD CONTACT A TAX ATTORNEY
Most people are unaware of their legal rights and those of the IRS. This lack of knowledge alone can result in the mishandling or misappropriation of information with possible adverse consequences for an individual or business. A primary example is statements that are made to an IRS agent, a CPA, and/or an Enrolled Agent. Speech and any information provided to these professionals is neither protected nor classified in the event that the IRS decides to criminally prosecute a taxpayer. However, an attorney cannot be forced to disclose any communications or testify against his/her clients due to state and federal legally protected laws surrounding attorney-client privileges.
Another aspect to consider is that many CPA’s and EA’s are not explicitly trained or comfortable with audit or investigative procedures. In fact, they may find themselves in the position of having to defend their work and may inadvertently reveal information that implicates their client of wrongdoing.
Furthermore, the potential consequences of a tax audit can go beyond simply owing money to the IRS. If an agent suspects that a taxpayer has omitted or provided conflicting information, whether intentional or not, the taxpayer may face further investigation, severe fines and penalties, and/or criminal prosecution. These investigations may be extensive and prolonged for several years, which can take an arduous emotional and economic toll on taxpayers.
Don’t fight this battle alone. A skilled tax attorney will proficiently assist, represent, and protect you and your rights during an IRS audit or examination. For a FREE CONSULTATION, please contact our law offices.
Don’t Fight This Battle Alone
A skilled tax attorney who will proficiently assist, represent and protect you and your rights during an IRS audit or examination is just a phone call or an email away with Easter & DeVore, Attorneys at Law. We answer all forms of communication with 24 hours and will provide you with exceptional legal service.
Call 865-566-0125 or send us an email to make an appointment. All initial telephone consultations are free and we accept credit cards for transactional work.