IRS Audit Defense in Burbank and Los Angeles — Professional Representation
An IRS audit notice is unsettling, but with proper professional representation, most audits resolve favorably. Our Burbank-based team handles all types of IRS audits for individuals and businesses throughout Los Angeles County.
Types of IRS Audits We Handle
We represent clients in correspondence audits (handled by mail), office audits (at an IRS office), and field audits (at your home or business). We also handle IRS examinations of specific schedules including Schedule C (business income), Schedule E (rental and pass-through income), Schedule A (itemized deductions), and complex equity compensation audits.
What Happens During an IRS Audit
For a correspondence audit, the IRS requests specific documentation by mail. We gather, organize, and submit that documentation on your behalf. For office or field audits, we attend all meetings with the IRS agent, manage the scope of the examination, and prevent you from inadvertently expanding the audit into additional years or issues.
Common Audit Issues in Los Angeles
LA County taxpayers face audits for a variety of issues: home office deductions (especially post-pandemic), vehicle expenses, entertainment industry deductions, large charitable deductions, Schedule C losses, real estate professional status, cryptocurrency gains, and 1099-K income from payment processors. Each requires specific documentation and strategy.
How We Approach Audit Defense
We start by reviewing your return and the IRS's information request. We identify which items are strong (well-documented) and which are at risk. We develop a documentation package that presents your case most favorably, communicate directly with the IRS on your behalf, and negotiate any proposed adjustments. We manage the entire process so you never have to speak directly with the IRS.
After the Audit: Appeals and Tax Court
If the IRS proposes adjustments you disagree with, we can appeal to the IRS Office of Appeals, which resolves most cases without litigation. For cases that do not resolve at Appeals, we can refer you to a tax litigator for U.S. Tax Court proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend an IRS audit in person?
For correspondence audits, no — everything is handled by mail. For office and field audits, you can send a licensed representative (CPA or enrolled agent) in your place. We recommend you do not attend in person.
How long does an IRS audit take?
Correspondence audits typically resolve in 3–6 months. Office and field audits can take 6–18 months depending on complexity.
What should I do if I cannot find all my receipts?
Do not panic. Many records can be reconstructed from bank statements, credit card records, and vendor confirmations. We specialize in documentation reconstruction and know what the IRS will and will not accept.
What if the IRS audits more than one year?
If the IRS examines one year and finds significant underreporting, it may expand the audit to adjacent years. Professional representation helps contain the scope and prevent expansion.
How much does audit representation cost?
Fees vary by complexity. Contact us for a consultation. In most cases, the reduction in proposed tax adjustments far exceeds the cost of representation.
Can I be audited for multiple types of taxes at once?
The IRS typically audits one return at a time, but can open examinations for multiple tax types (income tax and payroll tax, for example) simultaneously. Each is handled as a separate examination.
What can change the answer
Notice type, issue date, filing history, account status, deadlines, and current agency procedures can change the available next step. Bring the complete notice and account records to a qualified review.
Tax rules and collection procedures can change and depend on the account. Federal claims should be checked against current IRS guidance; California claims should be checked against the California Franchise Tax Board. See our editorial methodology for sourcing and update standards.
When professional help may make sense
Calculus Tax, Inc. can review notices, organize financial information, explain available paths, and communicate with the IRS or California agencies when representation is appropriate. The right next step depends on your facts, deadlines, filing history, and ability to pay.
We are based in Burbank and serve clients in Burbank and throughout Los Angeles County. See our local service-area pages for location-specific information.
Ready to Resolve Your Tax Problem?
Calculus Tax, Inc. helps individuals and businesses understand IRS debt, audits, notices, and collection options. We explain the process, review the available paths, and help coordinate next steps.