IRS Audit Representation
IRS Audit Representation
Being audited doesn't mean you did something wrong, and it doesn't mean you have to face the IRS by yourself. Here's what to expect and how an Enrolled Agent represents you.
Three Kinds of IRS Audits
The IRS runs three types of audits, and knowing which one you're facing is the first step to responding the right way.
Correspondence audit
The most common type. The IRS mails a letter asking about specific items on your return — a deduction, a credit, reported income — and asks for documents or an explanation by mail.
Office audit
You (or your representative) are asked to bring records to a local IRS office for a more detailed review of several parts of a return.
Field audit
An IRS revenue agent visits a home or business to examine records in person. These are typically broader in scope and often involve business returns.
What an Enrolled Agent Does for You
As your Enrolled Agent, Kathryn can represent you in an audit, which often means you may not need to attend the meetings or calls yourself.
Once you sign Form 2848, she communicates with the auditor, gathers and submits the documents requested, and makes sure your answers are accurate and complete — because what gets said in an audit can expand its scope if it isn't handled carefully.
Getting Your Records in Order
Most audits come down to documentation: showing the IRS that what you claimed on your return is accurate and supported.
Taylor's bookkeeping and records-reconstruction work helps pull together receipts, bank records, and books so your position is backed up before the IRS ever asks a follow-up question. See Bookkeeping for more on that side of the work.
If You Disagree With the Result
If an audit's outcome doesn't look right, you generally have the right to appeal it before it becomes final.
The IRS Independent Office of Appeals reviews audit disagreements separately from the examining agent. We'll talk through whether an appeal fits your situation and what it would involve.
Related IRS Help
IRS Notices & Letters
Got a CP2000, CP14, or another IRS letter? Here's what it means and what to do next.
Back Taxes & Unfiled Returns
Behind on filing or paying? We help you get caught up and back in good standing with the IRS.
Payment Plans & Offers in Compromise
Owe more than you can pay right now? We walk you through the IRS programs that may be able to help.
Need your books in order first? See Bookkeeping, or get back to accurate filing with Tax Preparation.
Common Questions
Will I have to meet with the IRS myself?
Often, no. As your Enrolled Agent, Kathryn can represent you once you sign Form 2848, which means she can attend calls and meetings in your place for much of the process.
What triggers an IRS audit?
Audit selection is a mix of statistical scoring and case-specific factors — being selected doesn't mean you did something wrong. Many audits end with no change to the return.
Can you represent me if the audit already started?
Yes. You can bring in representation at any point in the process — before you've responded to anything, or partway through.
What if I don't have all my records anymore?
That's common. Taylor can help reconstruct records from bank and credit card statements, and we can request IRS transcripts to see what's already been reported.
Does an audit always mean I owe more money?
No. An audit can end with no change, a refund, or a balance due — the outcome depends entirely on what the review finds.
What happens if I disagree with the audit result?
You generally have the right to appeal. The IRS Independent Office of Appeals reviews the disagreement separately from the examining agent, and we can help you decide whether an appeal makes sense.
General information only — not tax advice for your situation. A professional relationship begins only after a signed engagement letter.
Last reviewed: October 2026
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