Tax Audit Attorney
When the IRS calls, do you have a strategy in place? Experienced legal counsel can be the difference between getting through an audit in one piece and experiencing significant loss.
Effective Representation Makes All The Difference
Located in New York City, New York, tax audit attorney provides comprehensive legal and financial protection to individuals both domestically and abroad during the audit process.
We have been representing individuals and companies during the IRS audit process for more than 25 years. Our tax defense firm has experience in working with government auditors, and taking proactive steps to protect our clients’ privacy during the IRS audit process.
Contact M. Bradford Randolph, Esq., PLLC, for representation during audits by the IRS or state taxation authorities at 212-759-0097.
Protect Yourself During An IRS Audit
Tax examinations or audits, are intense procedures used by the IRS to investigate your financial and business information. The IRS has many broad powers at its disposal. It may summon your bank accounts, require you to provide employment records and information about your debts. The IRS can also contact third parties — including your employer, business associates, family and friends — question them and require them to testify as to your financial circumstances.
IRS audits can not only result in increased tax penalties, but can also cause personal embarrassment, place strain on working relationships and cause damage to personal reputations.
If you received an Information Document Request (IDR) from the IRS, you are being audited. Every move you make during the IRS audit process has the potential to expose you to additional financial liability and potential criminal charges. It is extremely important to speak with an experienced tax lawyer.
As an experienced tax attorney, has been successfully representing individuals during the audit process for more than two decades. In addition to being a lawyer, Mr. Randolph is also a certified public accountant (CPA). This financial background allows him to thoroughly evaluate his clients’ financial situation to determine what steps are necessary to protect them against additional tax liabilities and potential criminal charges.
New York State Tax Audits
Contrary to common belief, tax audits in New York are not limited to those conducted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance also performs audits to help ensure compliance with state tax laws. These audits may focus on income tax, sales tax or other state-imposed taxes.
A taxpayer may be selected for an audit due to discrepancies in reported income, excessive deductions or inconsistencies between state and federal tax filings. The audit process typically begins with a notification letter requesting documentation to verify reported financial information.
Understanding the scope of a state audit and preparing accordingly can help mitigate the potential penalties or additional tax liabilities.
How Long Does A Tax Audit Take?
The duration of a tax audit typically varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the taxpayer’s financial situation and the responsiveness of the taxpayer in providing the requested documentation.
A straightforward audit may be completed within three to six months. In contrast, more complex audits, particularly those involving businesses or multiple years of tax filings, may extend beyond one year.
Unfortunately, delays can occur due to missing documentation, disputes over tax assessments or scheduling conflicts between the taxpayer and the auditing agency.
To expedite the process, maintain organized financial records and respond promptly to audit inquiries. Seeking professional assistance can also help streamline the audit and facilitate compliance with state tax regulations.
Can You Handle An Audit Yourself?
While you have the right to represent yourself during a tax audit, doing so can introduce several potentially significant risks.
- Lack of legal knowledge: Tax laws are complex, and misinterpretations can lead to unfavorable audit outcomes.
- Potential for increased liability: Without professional legal guidance, you may inadvertently provide information that results in additional tax assessments or penalties.
- Limited negotiation ability: An attorney with deep experience in tax law can be invaluable in negotiating settlements, payment plans or penalty reductions that may not be accessible when handling audits alone.
Engaging a tax attorney helps to ensure your rights are protected and that the audit process is managed effectively. Further, professional representation helps to mitigate risks, potentially improving the likelihood of a favorable resolution.
Wondering What You May Be Facing? Call Us Today.
If you are facing a tax audit, you need an experienced tax attorney to explain your legal options. Send us an email or call 212-759-0097. We are located in Rockefeller Center.