Every auditor is different, managing the short-lived relationship is of basic importance. If you notice you’re not making any headway with the auditor assigned your case, below is a few ways to turn the dial.
Request another Auditor (Not Commonly Granted)
Ask to speak with the auditor’s manager. When speaking with the manager explain your side, and that you believe you’re not being treated equally and if possible, would like to work with someone else. Most likely, your request will not be given, but by speaking with another party you may have invoked a discussion between the manager and auditor, you may see the tone of the audit change (hopefully for the better, not worse).
Delay the Audit
Some auditors do not like delays because many times their performance is based on cases that they close. Some collection officers’ pay is even determined by what they collect. If they know you are going to cause a delay, they can possibly lighten up a bit to allow the audit to move forward. To delay, you can ask to reschedule and pick it back up later. If they won’t allow a reschedule, you can then say you prefer to talk with a tax professional before going any further with the audit. If you request professional help, the auditor must legally grant your request.
Record the Audit
You are allowed to record your audit with the IRS if you let them know in writing ten days ahead. When the auditor knows all meetings are being recorded, this can construct a professional environment. If you are looking for a licensed tax professional to help with a tax audit, review this list of tax professionals who have experience resolving IRS audits. Alternatively, start your own search below and click “audit or examination” under the filter on the search page called “IRS Problem Experience.”
More about the process and basic taxpayer rights can be read here: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-news/fs-06-10.pdf