IRS Audit!

No, I didn't get audited, but I understand that a lot of business owners, or even regular employees, have a strong fear of the  IRS. Sure, if you cheat or don't keep good records, you can end up in a legal mess. So, be honest and be sure you keep all your records. If you don't have a record of a deduction, don't use it. On the other hand, as long as you do have records, then feel free to take deductions. Don't let fear of an audit keep you from taking them. If you get income outside your job or business, report it. The IRS will already know about it because the person that paid you will have reported it. Don't try to be sneaky. You'll just end up regretting it later.

If you hire a CPA to file your taxes, he or she will make sure everything is properly documented. Then, if you're audited, you contact your CPA and let them handle the whole process. Even if it's just a correspondence audit, where they send you a letter asking for explanation, check with your CPA before you reply. Your CPA will have the skills and experience to handle the situation to your advantage.

If you need a CPA and you're in the Tampa or Brandon Florida area, contact Tanya Higginbotham Certified Public Accountant of Accountability Team, LLC.

Your CPA will make sure you get all your documents back when tax filing is done. Make sure you store them safely. If doing so electronically, be sure to keep backups. An audit is a rare thing and shouldn't put you into a panic, but don't take it too lightly. Let your skilled, experienced CPA guide you through the process and even represent you before the IRS.