Ask Maxi · IRS letters
I got an audit letter from the IRS. What happens now?
An audit letter means the IRS wants to see support for specific items on your return, and it tells you whether the review will happen by mail or in person and when to respond.
Most audits are done by mail and cover a few items, like a deduction, a credit or some business expenses. They do not mean the IRS thinks you committed fraud.
What to do:
- Read the letter to see exactly which items and which year are being reviewed. Answer only what is asked.
- Note the response date, and ask for more time in writing if you need it.
- Gather records for those items: receipts, bank statements, mileage logs, invoices.
- Send organized copies, never originals, with a short cover letter that explains what each one supports.
Things to avoid:
- Ignoring it. The IRS will make its decision with or without your side.
- Sending a shoebox. A clear, labeled packet is easier to approve.
- Volunteering years or items the letter does not ask about.
At the end, the IRS either accepts the return as filed or proposes changes. If you disagree with the changes, you have appeal rights, and the letters that follow will explain the deadlines.
If an in-person audit or a revenue officer is involved, our tax attorney represents you, and we stay on your case alongside them.
Send us a photo of the first page of the notice. We will tell you what it means for you and what to do next.
Want us to handle this for you? IRS letter help →