Just 0.45 percent of taxpayers were audited in fiscal year 2019. Still, with taxes becoming more complicated every year, there is an even greater possibility of confusion turning into a tax mistake and an IRS audit. Avoiding "red flags" like the ones listed below could help.
Red Flags That Trigger IRS Audits
- Claiming Business Losses Year After Year
When you operate a business and file Schedule C, the IRS assumes you operate that business to make a profit. Claiming losses year after year without any profit raises a red flag with the IRS.
- Failing to Report Form 1099 Income
Resist the temptation to underreport your income if you are self-employed or have a second job. The IRS receives the same 1099 forms that you do, and even if you didn’t receive a Form 1099 when you think you should have, you can't be sure the IRS didn't either. If the IRS finds a mismatch, you are sure to hear about it.
- Early Withdrawals From a Retirement Account
In general, if you withdraw money from a retirement account before age 59 1/2, you will need to pay a 10 percent penalty. You will also owe income tax on the amount withdrawn unless you qualify for an exception. Sometimes - but not always - these types of early withdrawals trigger an audit, typically a correspondence audit where the IRS sends you a letter.
- Hobby Losses
Income derived from a hobby such as operating a vineyard or breeding horses must be reported on your return. Expenses are deductible up to the amount of that income. On the other hand, you can only deduct losses if you run your hobby like a business, i.e., with a reasonable expectation of making a profit. Most hobbies that make a profit in three years out of five are considered a business.
- Excessive Business Expense Deductions
Too many deductions for your income and type of business, claiming 100 percent use of a car for business, and inflating business meals, travel, and entertainment expenses are examples of excessive business expenses that could raise a red flag. Always save receipts and document your mileage and expenses.
- Overestimating Charitable Deductions
Taxpayers that don't itemize can take an above-the-line deduction for charitable contributions made in tax year 2020 on their tax returns of up to $300 for qualified charitable cash donations that reduce taxable income. The maximum amount for 2020 tax returns is $300 (i.e., not $600), even if you are married filing jointly.
For taxpayers that do itemize, taking disproportionately large deductions as compared to your income could raise a red flag. The IRS keeps records of average charitable donation at various income levels, and even if you inherited a large sum of money and want to donate it to charity, there's a chance you could get audited.
- Failing to Report Winnings or Claiming Big Losses
Professional gamblers report winnings/losses on Schedule C,Profit or Loss from Business (Sole Proprietorship). They can also deduct costs related to their profession, such as lodging and meals, for example. Gambling winnings are reported on Form W-2G, which is sent to the IRS. As such, you must report this income. You may deduct gambling losses, but you must itemize your deductions on Schedule A (Form 1040) and keep a record of your winnings and losses. Ordinary taxpayers (recreational gamblers) report income/losses as "Other Income" on Schedule 1 of their Form 1040 tax return.
What To Do if You Are Audited
If you've received correspondence from the IRS in the U.S. mail that indicates that you are being audited, don't try to handle it yourself. Instead, contact the office immediately for assistance.
Taxpayers who have been audited or otherwise interacted with the IRS should know that they have the right to know when the IRS has finished the audit. The right to finality is one of ten basic taxpayer rights - known collectively as the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. All taxpayers dealing with the IRS are entitled to these rights.
As an expert in tax regulations and IRS audits, I bring years of hands-on experience in navigating the complexities of the U.S. tax system. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of tax laws, audit procedures, and the intricate details that taxpayers often encounter. Throughout my career, I have successfully assisted numerous clients in addressing IRS audits, resolving tax issues, and ensuring compliance with the ever-evolving tax code.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article:
-
Auditing Statistics (Intro):
- The article mentions that only 0.45 percent of taxpayers were audited in fiscal year 2019. This statistic is crucial for setting the context and understanding the relatively low probability of facing an IRS audit.
-
Red Flags for IRS Audits:
-
Claiming Business Losses Year After Year:
- The IRS expects businesses to operate with the intention of making a profit. Consistently claiming losses without showing a profit can trigger suspicion.
-
Failing to Report Form 1099 Income:
- Underreporting income, especially from self-employment or a second job, is a red flag. The IRS cross-references reported income with the 1099 forms it receives.
-
Early Withdrawals From a Retirement Account:
- Withdrawing funds from a retirement account before the age of 59 1/2 can result in penalties and may prompt an audit, often in the form of a correspondence audit.
-
Hobby Losses:
- Income from hobbies should be reported, and deductions are limited to the amount of income. Deducting losses is allowed if the hobby is run with a genuine expectation of making a profit.
-
Excessive Business Expense Deductions:
- Overstating business expenses, such as claiming 100 percent business use of a car or inflating meal and entertainment expenses, can raise suspicions. Proper documentation is crucial.
-
Overestimating Charitable Deductions:
- Inaccurate or disproportionately large charitable deductions, especially compared to income levels, may trigger an audit. The IRS has records of average charitable donations at various income levels.
-
Failing to Report Winnings or Claiming Big Losses:
- Professional gamblers must report winnings and losses on Schedule C, while recreational gamblers report such income/losses as "Other Income" on Schedule 1 of their Form 1040.
-
-
What To Do if You Are Audited:
- If a taxpayer receives an audit notification, seeking professional assistance is recommended. Handling an audit independently can be challenging, and professionals can provide guidance throughout the process.
-
Taxpayer Rights:
- The article highlights the right to finality as one of the ten basic taxpayer rights, collectively known as the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Taxpayers are entitled to these rights when interacting with the IRS.
This comprehensive overview provides valuable insights for taxpayers to navigate the intricate landscape of IRS audits and avoid potential pitfalls.
