Surviving a Tax Audit

Successfully defending an IRS audit requires advance preparation and clearly established goals.  An understanding of IRS audit objectives, special examination programs, the probable behavior of the examining agents and the available procedural options, are critical in evaluating alternative courses of action during an audit, especially if the exam team proposes an increase in tax. 

For the taxpayer representative, identifying issues before the audit commences, ensuring that they are adequately supported if challenged, and developing an overall strategy for the potentially unagreed case can substantially enhance the chances of a better outcome.  In this one-hour presentation, tax controversy attorney Philip Karter provides step by step guidance to managing a Tax Audit, and review substantial ethical considerations faced by attorneys and accountants operating within this space.

Learning Objectives:

I.     Quantify exposure, analyze risk and employ tactical considerations for a tax audit

II.    Determine the adequacy of supporting records and other evidence

III.   Respond to request for information from the IRS

IV.   Pinpointthe line between civil and criminal tax investigations

V.    Consider alternative dispute resolution options

VI.   Successfully conclude your client’s audit

VII.  Review Loving v. IRS  and the corresponding, Circular 230 implications

VIII. Distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable contingency fees