Beware of the red flags that can get you into trouble with the IRS
ALBANY, GA -- For many tax time is a stressful time of the year and the thought of an audit can make things even worse. Although there isn't much you can do to avoid an audit, there are some red flags that could signal the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
"If you want to avoid an audit one of the best pieces of advice is to report all of your income," said Mauldin and Jenkins Certified Public Accountant John McDuffie.
He said when you get your W-2 form from you employer, the IRS has already been told about those finances. So, not reporting them on your taxes will send a red flag up for them to notify you. Another thing that could trigger an audit is charitable donations.
"Audits are sometimes triggered by very high levels of contributions relative to the income that is reported on the return," said John McDuffie.
If you're faced with an audit, one way to find good advice is to go to the IRS website and type in audits.
On that website is a video series titled "Your Guide to an IRS Audit." This series will give you a detailed description of the steps you need to take if audited.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWFXL