Checking the mail is a daily routine task for many individuals, but it can surprisingly be filled with a variety of emotions. Looking for that package you ordered? Happy it arrived safely. Received a birthday card filled with a few bucks in the mailbox - excited about the unexpected boost to your pocketbook. Got another bill? Cue being upset or angry, maybe even both. However, imagine you open up the mailbox and receive a letter from the Internal Revenue Service. Wheels immediately begin to turn as you attempt to think about the possible contents inside.

As you open it up and see that an audit has been arranged for your tax return, that sinking and depressed feeling may turn to panic. No one wants to have their finances or tax returns examined closely due to the possibility of having to pay more in taxes owed. Even those who file on time and have no intention of attempting to cheat the system may feel some increased anxiety when put on notice. Audit counts have fallen significantly in recent years but the odds you may be required to compete one of the four types of audits are far from zero. Should you find yourself in a similar situation, consider a few tips in order to prepare and get through the upcoming process.

Positive Attitude

Although it may be difficult, maintaining a positive attitude about the audit and a friendly, cooperative demeanor with the IRS agent is important. Remember, it was not he or she who selected you, they are simply attempting to confirm that all of the information reported is accurate.

Delay

Time is on your side and many audits may be delayed for some period. This not only allows for you to gather thoughts, collect, and organize records but it also opens a window of opportunity for seeking some guidance and assistance.

Learn

Attempt to learn from the process and avoid any future mistakes. Even if the discrepancies don’t result in any more funds being owed, take note of the recommendations provided by the agent and attempt to put them to use where applicable.
Focus

Always maintain your focus and try not to ramble when providing answers to any questions. Doing so could open up the door for more questions or lead the agent to look at something which may or may not have been on their radar. Never lie, but answer only the questions you are asked directly.
Interaction

Expect there to be a significant amount of back and forth between you and the agent. As he or she gathers information, it will sometimes warrant the collection of data or asking for proof of certain expenses and documentation is key. If this backup information isn’t readily available, ask for time to provide the necessary items. This may then lead to other information being needed, so any audit is rarely a short process.

Professional assistance can make the entire audit process easier to understand and the tax experts at Bloch Rothman and Associates are willing to assist you or your business today. In addition, they can also take care of multiple other issues dealing with paying or owing back taxes, required audits from other entities besides the IRS, or any other personal or corporate wealth management issues. Along with providing a quality tax service, our group can also complete tax returns or answer any other factors associated with financial issues or concerns you may have. Serving in Denver and all of the surrounding areas for 35 years, our firm has an extensive history in helping clients with any and all of their tax issues or dealings with the Internal Revenue Service. If you have questions about your personal, business, estate or any other filings, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your tax needs and filings, there are also a number of bookkeeping and payroll services offered to assist you and your business. We look forward to meeting you and serving whatever your needs may be soon!