IRS Audit and Appeals Process Flashcards
IRS Service Center -
routine review for errors
- failure to sign a return
- failure to report an item
- mathematical error or clerical error
IRS Svc. Center -
mailed a correct tax calculation
- if a deficiency,
a. request to pay additional amount
IRS Svc. Center -
no responce from taxpayer
correspondence or office audit
IRS Svc. Center -
not considered a formal examination return
taxpayer not entitled to administrative remedies available for formal examination
Discriminant Function System
- use of mathematical formulas
- most likely to contain errors and most additional revenue
- random selected returns under Nat’l Research Program
- specific factors used are not disclosed
Additional ways to random selection of returns
- information exchanged in programs with states or foreign agencies
- from an informant
- from return linked to another return being audited
- items exceeds certain thresholds
Types of examinations -
Correspondence
- for few items in question on taxpayer’s return
- by letter, ask about questionable items
- return must be verified by appropriate documentation
Types of examination -
Office
- for complex issues
- at appropriate IRS District Office by tax auditor
- must bring records to support items claimed
- only limited to issues stated in the letter
Types of examination -
Field
- for more complex issues
- a revenue agent goes to taxpayer’s place to examine records
- authorized to take testimony and administer oaths
- is an open-ended examination (investigate any questionable item on return or records)
Audit Process -
IRS required to provide taxpayer
- explanation of the process
- rights available
- that interview can be suspended any time to consult a representative
Audit Process -
Representation before IRS
- himself
- CPA
- attorney
- enrolled agent
- preparer who signed the return
***Form 2848 (Power of attorney and declaration representative) (taxpayer written authority for representation)
Audit Process -
if taxpayer agrees with adjustments…
- Form 870 (Waiver of Restriction on Assessment…)
- by signing this form,
a. taxpayer waives his right to receive statutory notice of deficiency (90-day letter)
b. gives up right to go to IRS Appeals Division (30-day letter)
Audit Process -
if taxpayer doesn’t agree with adjustments…
- a 30-day letter to appeal to IRS Appeals Office
- a 90-day letter, Notice of Deficiency, to file Tax Court petition
Appeals Process -
Oral request
Can be for,
- office examination
- correspondence examination
Appeals Process -
Written request for < $25,000
- for field examination
- file a small case for < $25,000, indicate,
a. adjustment in which disagree
b. reason for disagreement