What Is Required at an IRS Audit?
If you've received notice that your tax returns are being audited, don't panic. If you bring the documents required by the IRS, the odds are far better that your audit will be as painless as possible.
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Read the notice
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Your audit notice includes specific information about which portions of your return caught the attention of the IRS. Read this carefully; if you know that the IRS is concerned about the amount of charitable contributions you claimed, you'll know to bring any receipts or other documents that prove that your claims are accurate.
Bring Organized Records
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The more oranized you are, the better. Bring organized records of your deductions and expenses. The word "organized" is important. The IRS agent handling your audit needs to study these documents. If you present the agent with a pile of unordered papers, your audit will simply drag on.
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Bring copies, not originals
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Only bring copies of your documents. Never bring only originals to an IRS audit. When an IRS agent requests receipts or deposit slips, make sure to hand the agent a copy, never the original.
Don't bring anything extra
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Only bring what is absolutely required. Never bring anything to an IRS audit except for documents and receipts that relate directly to the reason you are being audited. By bringing additional materials, you only complicate your audit.
Bring a professional
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A tax pro can help. You can hire a tax professional to serve as your personal advocate. The IRS allows this, and a tax pro can argue your case without the emotion that you'll undoubtedly have.
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References
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