Take a breath. An audit notice doesn’t mean you did something wrong. It means the IRS wants to verify something on your return. Most audits are routine and resolve without major issues if you respond properly and have documentation to support your claims.

Start by reading the notice carefully. It will tell you what type of audit you’re facing, what specific items are being questioned, and your response deadline. The deadline matters. Missing it makes everything harder and can result in the IRS making decisions without your input.

Most audits are correspondence audits handled entirely by mail. The IRS questions a specific deduction or income item and asks you to send supporting documents. These are usually straightforward. Office audits require you to visit an IRS office with your records. Field audits involve an agent coming to your business location. The more complex the audit type, the more seriously you should consider professional representation.

Gather everything related to the items in question. Bank statements, receipts, invoices, contracts, mileage logs. Whatever supports the numbers on your return. If your small business tax preparation was done well and your books are clean, this step should be manageable. If your records are scattered or incomplete, start organizing now.

You have the right to represent yourself, but you don’t have to. Enrolled Agents, CPAs, and attorneys can speak to the IRS on your behalf. For simple correspondence audits over small amounts, handling it yourself may be fine. For anything involving significant money, multiple years, or complex business issues, professional help is worth it. An Enrolled Agent is federally licensed specifically to represent taxpayers before the IRS and understands how to navigate the process.

Respond by the deadline with exactly what they asked for. Don’t volunteer extra information or send documents for items they didn’t question. Answer their questions, provide your proof, and let them process it. If you need more time, request an extension before the deadline passes.

If you disagree with the audit results, you have appeal rights. The IRS notice will explain your options. You can request a meeting with a supervisor, file a formal appeal, or in some cases take the matter to Tax Court. Don’t accept a result you believe is wrong without exploring your options.

Throughout the process, keep copies of everything you send and receive. Note the dates of any phone calls and who you spoke with. This documentation protects you if questions arise later.

The worst thing you can do is ignore the notice. Silence tells the IRS to proceed without you, which usually means they assess additional tax based on their assumptions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, IRS audit representation from someone who handles these situations regularly can take the burden off your shoulders and often leads to better outcomes than going it alone.