Receiving a notice from the IRS is almost always a frightening experience that may trigger visions of auditors combing your financial records for mistakes. Fortunately, most situations are not so serious and can be easily resolved if you have legal advice from an experienced attorney. If you’ve received a letter from the IRS, read the following tips before responding.

What to Know About Your IRS Letter

1. Understand the Purpose of the Notice

Many taxpayers assume that a letter from the IRS automatically means they’re being audited, but this isn’t always the case. The IRS may send a notice if you’re owed a larger or smaller refund, you have a balance due on your taxes, or their agents have questions about your return. Many of these situations can be resolved through the mail without meeting an auditor in person.

2. Be Aware of Scams

Scam artists understand the fear of the IRS and will take advantage of it for their own gain. If you’re contacted through email, social media, or over the phone by someone claiming to be an IRS agent, you can almost always be sure it’s a scam. Agents will always notify you by mail before making a phone call.

You should also be wary of angry letters demanding immediate payment or threatening to have you arrested. If you’re uncertain about the validity of the message, you can contact the IRS directly.

3. Get Legal Advice

An experienced tax attorney can clear confusion by explaining the purpose of your IRS letter. They’ll help you decide on the best course of action and can even deal with the IRS directly on your behalf.

Having a skilled legal professional on your side takes the uncertainty out of tax issues and helps you avoid common mistakes that could make the situation worse.

For more than a decade, Corey C. Davis, CPA has been helping taxpayers throughout Texas Hill Country work through problems with the IRS. If you’ve received a notice, you can rely on their team to deliver the sound legal advice and representation you need. Visit their website for a closer look at their services or call (830) 257-8800 to get legal advice from an experienced attorney and CPA.