how long does irs have to audit a return
Audit Timeline. According to the IRS, the agency attempts to audit tax returns as soon as possible after they are filed. Traditionally, most audits take place within two years of filing. For example, if you get an audit notice in 2014, it will most likely be for a tax return submitted in 2012 or 2013. The IRS reserves the right to go back as far as six years and audit a return, particularly if the agency has reason to believe a significant error has taken place.