Tax · 5 min read
IRS Tax Audit Accountant: When to Hire One
An IRS audit does not always mean something is wrong, but it should be taken seriously. If you receive an audit notice, you need to understand what the IRS is asking for, what documents are required, and whether you need professional representation.
What is an IRS tax audit accountant?
An IRS tax audit accountant is a tax professional who helps taxpayers respond to IRS examinations. This may be a CPA, enrolled agent, or tax attorney depending on the issue.
When to hire one
You should consider hiring an audit accountant if:
- You received an IRS audit notice
- The IRS is requesting documents you do not understand
- Business income or deductions are being questioned
- You have rental properties or multiple businesses
- You claimed large deductions
- You have missing records
- You disagree with the IRS
- The audit involves payroll taxes
- The audit could result in a large balance due
How an audit accountant helps
An audit accountant may:
- Review the IRS notice
- Organize records
- Prepare responses
- Communicate with the IRS
- Explain deductions
- Reconstruct income or expenses
- Attend meetings when authorized
- Help negotiate outcomes
