Do I have to meet the IRS auditor myself in Washington, DC?
Usually not. With Form 2848 on file, a CPA can attend meetings and respond on your behalf. The IRS can still summon a taxpayer in limited situations, and we prepare you in advance if that happens.
Will a federal audit lead to a DC audit?
Often. The IRS and DC Office of Tax and Revenue share information, and a federal change generally has to be reported to DC. We plan the federal response with the District return in mind.
How long does an IRS audit take?
Correspondence audits can close in a few months. Field exams of businesses commonly take six months to a year, longer if the case goes to Appeals.
What if I disagree with the examiner?
You can ask to meet the examiner's manager and, in most cases, file a written protest with the IRS Independent Office of Appeals within the deadline in the 30-day letter. If a Notice of Deficiency is issued, the 90-day deadline to petition the Tax Court is strict.
How far back can the IRS audit?
Generally three years from the date the return was filed, six years if income was understated by more than 25 percent, and with no limit for fraud or unfiled returns.
Do you only work with clients in DC?
No. Our DC office works alongside our Northern Virginia and New York teams, and we represent taxpayers nationwide.