Professional IRS Audit Defense & Representation
Receiving an IRS audit notice can be one of the most stressful experiences for individuals and businesses alike. At LuniTax, we provide comprehensive audit defense and representation services to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Our team of experienced tax professionals, including CPAs and enrolled agents authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS, has successfully handled hundreds of audits ranging from simple correspondence audits to complex field examinations. We don't just respond to IRS inquiries—we develop strategic defense positions, gather and organize supporting documentation, negotiate with IRS agents, and fight for fair treatment every step of the way.
When you're facing an IRS audit, having expert representation makes all the difference. You never have to face the IRS alone or attend audit meetings yourself—we handle all communications and negotiations on your behalf. Our audit defense process begins with a thorough review of the audit notice and the tax returns in question. We analyze the IRS's areas of concern, identify potential vulnerabilities, and develop a comprehensive response strategy. We then meticulously gather all necessary documentation, prepare detailed explanations and supporting schedules, and present your case in the most favorable light. Throughout the process, we keep you fully informed while shielding you from the stress and complexity of direct IRS interaction.
Our audit defense services extend beyond the initial examination. If the audit results in proposed adjustments you disagree with, we represent you through the IRS appeals process, pursuing administrative appeals and office conferences to resolve disputes without litigation. We also handle collection defense matters, including offers in compromise, installment agreements, penalty abatement requests, and currently not collectible status applications. For cases involving suspected fraud or criminal tax issues, we work with tax attorneys to ensure your legal rights are fully protected. Our goal is always to minimize your tax liability, eliminate or reduce penalties and interest where possible, and resolve the matter as quickly and favorably as the circumstances allow.
Our Audit Defense Process
When you receive an audit notice, time is critical. We immediately assess the situation, reviewing the IRS notice to understand the scope of examination and deadlines involved. We conduct a comprehensive pre-audit analysis of your tax returns, identifying the issues the IRS is likely to focus on and potential areas of concern. Next, we develop a tailored defense strategy, gathering all supporting documentation, receipts, bank statements, and business records needed to substantiate your reported income and deductions. We prepare detailed written responses and explanations, often resolving correspondence audits without any in-person meetings. For office or field audits, we represent you at all IRS meetings, presenting your case professionally and negotiating the best possible outcome. If necessary, we pursue appeals and alternative dispute resolution to minimize any proposed tax assessments.
- Full IRS representation—you never have to meet with the IRS directly
- Expert defense by CPAs and enrolled agents with proven audit success records
- Strategic response development and comprehensive documentation preparation
- Appeals representation and negotiation to minimize assessments and penalties
- Collection defense including offers in compromise and payment plan negotiations
Types of Audits & Tax Controversies We Handle
Our audit defense expertise covers every type of IRS examination and tax controversy. We represent clients in correspondence audits (mail audits), office audits conducted at IRS facilities, and field audits where IRS agents examine records at your business or accountant's office. We handle specific issue audits focusing on items like home office deductions, business expenses, or charitable contributions, as well as comprehensive examinations reviewing entire tax returns. Our services extend to employment tax audits (Form 941), sales tax audits, independent contractor vs. employee classification disputes, and trust fund recovery penalty assessments. We also provide representation for IRS collection matters including wage garnishments, bank levies, liens, seizures, offers in compromise, innocent spouse relief, penalty abatement requests, and appeals of collection actions. Additionally, we assist with voluntary disclosure for unfiled returns, amended return audits, and criminal tax investigation defense. Whether you're an individual taxpayer, business owner, or corporation facing IRS scrutiny, LuniTax provides the aggressive, knowledgeable representation you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible resolution.