IRS Audit FAQ

Questions:

• What are my chances of getting through an audit without owing additional taxes?
• I am being audited and the deadline for filing this year's return is fast approaching. Should I file?
• I am being audited and I haven't heard from the auditor for months. What can I do to get the audit over with?
• Do I have to let the IRS into my home?
• The auditor is impossible to get along with. What can I do?
• Can the IRS take my house?
• Can I make a deal with the IRS to pay less than my tax bill?
• Can I challenge the IRS if I get audited and don't agree with the result?
• How likely am I to get charged with criminal tax fraud?

Answer:

Do I have to let the IRS into my home?

No. An IRS employee may not enter your home without an express invitation from you or another rightful occupant. The only exception is if the IRS has a court order, which is very rare. A field auditor may ask to come in to verify your home office deduction, but you don't have to let him in. Of course, if you don't, he'll no doubt disallow the deduction. Your choice.

For more on handling a tax audit, see Surviving an IRS Tax Audit, by Frederick Daily (Nolo).