What to do if you are audited?

What to do if you are audited begins with staying calm and reading the IRS notice carefully to understand what tax years and items are being examined and what documents are requested and the deadline to respond. Do not ignore the notice, as ignoring leads to automatic adjustments and penalties. Gather all requested records such as W-2s, 1099s, receipts, bank statements, mileage logs, and charitable donation letters, and organize them neatly by year and category. Review your original return for errors and be prepared to explain any discrepancies. Respond promptly by the deadline, if you need more time request an extension in writing. Provide only the documents requested, do not volunteer extra years or information that could expand the audit scope. Be truthful and concise, do not guess or estimate, if you do not know say you will check records. Consider hiring a CPA, Enrolled Agent, or tax attorney to represent you, especially for business or complex audits, as they can communicate with IRS on your behalf and know what auditors need. Keep copies of everything you send. If you disagree with findings, you have right to appeal within 30 days. Maintain professional, courteous communication throughout and never alter documents.