There are different types of tax audits.
Some people are concerned that they will be audited by the IRS. Did you know that there are different types of audits?
Here are the four different types with a short explanation of each.
A tax audit performed by the Internal Revenue Service through the mail, hence, correspondence. Typically, the IRS sends you a letter explaining any questions they have regarding your return. You send back copies (not originals) of any documents that support your return.
These are usually the easiest type of tax audit to deal with, mostly because you have plenty of time to collect your paperwork.
A field audit is an audit performed by the Internal Revenue Service in your home, office, or any place other than the IRS office, i.e., the field. It can be held in the office of your enrolled agent, CPA or other professional who can practice before the IRS.
Field audits are generally the most comprehensive type of tax audit. They can examine your whole return, including documentation. You have the right to bring a tax professional with you or to stop the interview to consult a tax professional. You can even record the interview if you want.
This tax audit is performed in an Internal Revenue Service office.
If you are called in for an office audit, the IRS first sends you a letter explaining which part or parts of your tax return are being questioned. It also describes the documents you should bring to the meeting in order to support your return. You can bring a representative, such as your accountant or you can hire a CPA, attorney or enrolled agent to represent you, then you can skip the meeting altogether.
A criminal tax audit is the most serious type of audit. If you file honestly, you shouldn’t have to worry about criminal audits or the severe penalties and even jail sentences that can result. If you are notified that you will be the subject of a criminal audit, hire a lawyer.
