IRS Tax Audit and Appeals Lawyers in Port Orchard Provide Effective Counsel
Dedicated Washington State attorneys represent taxpayers in examinations
Receiving a notice from the Internal Revenue Service that you are being audited can be scary and confusing. You may rightly worry about what to expect and about the financial consequences. At GSJones Law Group, P.S., our firm assists individuals and companies throughout an IRS audit, advising them about their rights and advocating for their interests. Based in Port Orchard, we represent clients in Kitsap County and surrounding areas of Washington State.
What triggers an IRS tax audit?
An audit is a review of an individual’s or business’s financial records for purposes of ensuring accurate information was reported on tax returns, so as to determine tax liability. Some common red flags that trigger audits include the following:
- High deductions relative to reported income
- Business losses over multiple years
- Mismatched 1099 or W-2 forms
- Underreported or misreported income
An audit can also be triggered if another taxpayer is audited, such as person with whom you are in a business relationship. The IRS also randomly selects taxpayers for audits using a statistical formula. If you have been notified you are being audited, our tax law attorney can help determine the cause.
Types of IRS tax audits
There are three main types of audits:
- Correspondence audit — This concerns simple issues that can often be resolved by mail.
- Office audit — More complex issues may require an in-person meeting at an IRS location.
- Field audit — This is the most comprehensive form of audit and is held at the taxpayer’s residence or business or their tax representative’s office.
The IRS notice will inform you of the type of audit and documents to be reviewed, which typically include receipts, business records, bills and other documents relating to income and expenses. No matter what kind of audit you undergo, our tax attorneys can help you understand the process, the questions auditors may ask and how to prepare the most effective responses.
Your rights during an IRS audit
When you are audited, you have the right to:
- Professional and courteous treatment
- Privacy and confidentiality about your matter
- Know why the IRS is requesting information and how it will be used
- Representation by a CPA, enrolled agent or attorney
- Appeal audit findings with the IRS or court.
Understanding your rights can help you recognize if they are being violated. It is best to avoid direct engagement with the IRS without legal support.
How the IRS appeals process works
Following the audit, you will receive an IRS report with findings. You will also be notified of your right to appeal. There are different options for moving your case to the IRS Office of Appeals, which is an independent body within the agency. At the appeals office, a neutral appeals officer will review your case. The appeals process is complicated and your case must meet certain criteria to be eligible for appeal. An experienced attorney at our firm can advise whether you meet those criteria and then craft the strongest appeal possible. If your case cannot be resolved with the IRS, we will counsel you about going to Tax Court.
Contact a qualified tax audit attorney in Kitsap County for assistance
At GSJones Law Group, P.S. in Port Orchard, we represent Washington State residents in IRS audits and appeals. To arrange a consultation, please call 360-876-9221 or contact us online.
