Timeline of an IRS Audit What Salt Lake City Taxpayers can Expect
Understanding the Key Stages and Timeframes of the Audit Process
For most taxpayers in Salt Lake City, notice of an IRS audit can be really intimidating. Understanding the timeline of an IRS audit in Salt Lake City can help lessen some of the fear and uncertainty associated with this process. While every audit is unique, there are general stages with timeframes that most audits follow. This guide will walk you step by step through what to expect from the system as a Salt Lake City resident dealing with the handlings of an IRS audit, starting from the first notification until the final resolution.
Audit Process: A Step-by-Step Journey
Initial Notification (Day 1)
The audit process begins with an official notice you receive in the mail from the IRS. The notice typically specifies which years or tax period(s) you will be audited. It is crucial to read it because it is going to notify you if you are facing a correspondence audit, office audit, or field audit-and what to do next.
There are primarily three types of audits:
- Correspondence Audit: Completed entirely through the mail
- Office audit: You must go to a local IRS office
- Field audit: An IRS agent comes to your home or business
Preparation Period (Days 2-30)
After you receive the audit notice, you will have some time to gather the documents that the IRS is requiring and prepare for the audit. The IRS usually grants you a response time of 30 days; you may, however, request more time if required. During this period you should:
- Prepare all financial documents related to your case.
- Examine the tax return(s) in audit
- Make a determination to obtain a tax professional who can assist you
Prepare a letter of explanation for any items where the IRS has questioned your return
First Contact or Exchange (Day 31-60)
For correspondence audit, you send in the required documents. For an office or field audit, you meet with the IRS auditor to have the first dialogue. This typically will take place within 30 days of your response to the audit notice.
During this part of the process, the auditor will:
- Review your documents
- Ask for information on your tax return
- You could receive a request for additional information
Information Gathers and Analysis (Days 61-90)
The IRS will likely require more information after your first meeting or correspondence. This could be:
- Electronic filing of additional documentation
- Additional questions answered
- Explain items or discrepancies found on your return
This phase will continue for dozens of days to several weeks based on how long it takes to get the information the IRS wants and how effectively you communicate with the IRS.
Preliminary Results (Around Day 90)
Once an auditor has gathered and evaluated all information needed, he will draft preliminary results. This happens 30 days from when all of your requested information is available.
You will likely receive:
- Summary of the auditor's conclusion
- Recommended changes to your tax return
- Why he or she are suggesting those changes
Response and Negotiation (Days 91-120)
You are entitled to accept or disagree with the auditor's conclusions as soon as you receive the preliminary results. If you do not agree, you can:
- Provide additional evidence substantiating your position
- Pose arguments countering the auditor's determination
- Negotiate a settlement with the IRS
This can be a multi-cycle correspondence process and can extend far beyond 30 days depending on the complexity of the matters in dispute.
Final Determination (About Day 120)
Upon completion of all issues, the IRS will make their final determination. This letter will contain:
- Final changes to your tax return
- Additional taxes, penalties, and interest
- Appeals rights
If you agree to the final determination, you will sign the proper documents and make payment arrangements for any additional taxes.
Appeals Process (If Necessary)
Final Determination If you disagree with the final determination, you have the right to appeal. Appeals process can be long and mainly involves:
- Submission of a formal protest within 30 days of receiving the final determination
- Meeting an IRS Appeals Officer
- Possible negotiation of settlement or presentation before the U.S. Tax Court
The appeal process can prolong the audit period for several months to a year or more.
Factors Affecting Timeline
Although the timeline above is a general guideline, several factors can affect the length of time your IRS audit will take:
- Complexity of your tax return: Returns with more income from a variety of sources, business interests or other unusual deductions may increase the time it takes to review.
- Your responsiveness: The quicker you are to respond to requests for information from the auditor, the quicker the audit will be.
- Availability of records: Well-organized, easily accessible records can expedite the audit very quickly.
- Audit Type: Correspondence audits are generally faster than an office or field audit.
- Business volume of the IRS: The process may take much longer during peak times, like tax season.
Conflicts or disputes: If there is much wrangling between you and your auditor, the process can take much longer.
Tips for a Less Stressful Audit
Be prepared: Keep your books and tax records neat and ready.
- Act proactively: All IRS requests must be acted upon, and all deadlines must be met on time.
- Seek professional help: Enlist the service of a tax professional who may deal with matters for you.
- Maintain communication: Keep every available line of communication open to the auditing board of the IRS.
- Know your rights: What is the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, and how can it help me?
- Be honest: Always be truthful and factual with every requirement to be presented to the IRS.
- Maintain a proper record: Note all communication with the IRS, noting the date and time of all discussions.
Conclusion
Understanding the timeline and expectations of each level of IRS audit can be crucial as it builds your confidence in moving ahead with the process. Do keep in mind that no two audits are alike, and the actual timeline depends on individual circumstances. Staying organized, responsive, and informed can work toward an expeditious resolution of an audit.
If you are audited by the Internal Revenue Service, it is best to consult with a tax lawyer in Salt Lake City who will explain everything to you and advise you on your rights as a taxpayer. Proper preparation and knowledge of the timeline could definitely ease your anxiety about the whole process.
About the Creator
Tax Law Center
Tax Law Center is a reputable company providing tax law services in San Diego. We specialize in resolving various tax issues, including tax liens, garnishments, audits, and payment plans.
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