When the IRS conducts an audit of your tax return, it thoroughly examines your financial records and transactions to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax laws. After completing the audit, the IRS issues a report detailing its findings, which may include adjustments to your tax liability, additional taxes owed or penalties assessed.
If you disagree with the audit results, you have the right to appeal the findings. Concerning audit results could be rooted in errors in the IRS’s calculations, misunderstandings about tax laws or regulations or missing information that was overlooked during the audit.
Steps to take
The first thing you’ll need to do is review the examination report. Go through the audit findings, including the proposed changes to your tax return and the amount of tax, interest and penalties, to understand the reasons for the IRS findings. Having this information can help strategize your appeal.
Next, you should initiate the appeals process by submitting a written protest to the IRS office specified in the instructions form. Explain why you disagree with the audit findings and provide supporting documentation to substantiate your claims. Remember, you must do so within a specific timeframe (usually 30 days).
After receiving your protest letter, the IRS will schedule an appeals conference to review your case. You will have the opportunity to present your arguments and evidence to an impartial appeals officer who will reconsider the audit findings during this conference. The appeals officer may either uphold the audit findings, make revisions or settle the case through negotiation with you and the IRS.
It’s essential to understand your rights, options and the steps involved in the appeals process if you are considering appealing an IRS tax audit. Familiarizing yourself with relevant tax laws and seeking legal guidance can help protect your interests and ensure you have the best possible chance of achieving a favorable outcome.