When this guide is useful
A provider advertises audit support without specifying the work included.
The distinction that matters
Distinguish answering report questions, supplying workpapers and representing a taxpayer. Confirm limits, duration and additional fees in the contract.
A worked situation to investigate
An investor assumes that audit support includes handling an IRS examination, but the proposal only includes clarification of the study.
The example is illustrative. Begin with the underlying event and its source documents, then separate missing facts from disagreements about their treatment. Work through the checks below in the order that matches your file, rather than treating a completed checklist as a tax conclusion.
Build a traceable handoff
Identify the affected person, entity or property and the relevant period. Keep original evidence, corrections and the reviewer's written conclusion connected. If the facts change after review, preserve the earlier version and ask whether the change affects implementation.