IRS Audits

Receiving an IRS audit notice can be one of the most stressful experiences in a taxpayer's financial life. But the outcome of an audit is often determined long before the examining agent reviews your first document. At Lanphier LLP, our philosophy is simple: preparation is everything. When you are thoroughly prepared -- with organized records, a clear understanding of the issues under examination, and a well-considered strategy -- the audit process becomes manageable, and favorable outcomes become far more likely.

Our Denver-based team has represented individuals and businesses through hundreds of IRS audits, ranging from straightforward correspondence examinations to complex, multi-year field audits involving millions of dollars. We understand how the IRS examination process works from the inside, including how agents are trained, what red flags they look for, and how they evaluate the information presented to them. That institutional knowledge shapes every aspect of our audit defense strategy.

Our Preparation-Focused Approach

Before you sit across the table from an IRS agent -- or before we respond to a correspondence audit notice on your behalf -- we invest significant time in preparation. This process typically includes:

• Thoroughly reviewing the audit notice to understand the specific issues and tax years under examination
• Gathering, organizing, and reviewing all relevant documentation and records
• Researching the applicable tax law and identifying the strongest arguments in support of your positions
• Identifying potential vulnerabilities and developing strategies to address them
• Preparing you for any direct interactions with the examining agent, including what to expect and how to respond
• Establishing the scope of the examination and pushing back on any attempts by the agent to expand beyond the stated issues

In-Person and Correspondence Audits

We handle both types of IRS audits. Correspondence audits -- conducted entirely by mail -- are the most common and typically involve a single issue such as a specific deduction or credit. While they may seem simple, they still require careful attention to ensure the IRS receives exactly the right documentation and that your response is framed in the most favorable light.

In-person (field) audits are more intensive examinations that involve direct meetings with an IRS revenue agent, often at your place of business or at our offices. These audits can cover multiple issues and multiple tax years, and they require a more comprehensive defense strategy. We attend all meetings with the examining agent, manage all communications, and ensure that the examination stays focused on the stated issues.

Protecting Your Rights

Throughout the audit process, we are vigilant about protecting your rights as a taxpayer. You have the right to representation, the right to privacy, the right to know why the IRS is asking for information, and the right to appeal any findings you disagree with. Our team ensures these rights are respected and that the examination is conducted fairly and within the bounds of IRS procedures.

If you have received an audit notice or believe you may be selected for examination, contact our Denver office as early as possible. The sooner we begin the preparation process, the stronger your position will be.