IRS Audit Guide
What triggers an IRS audit, how to respond, and how to protect yourself before filing
Articles
IRS Payment Plans: How to Set Up an Installment Agreement
IRS Payment Plans: How to Set Up an Installment Agreement Owing more to the IRS than you can pay in a lump sum is stressful, but there is a structured solution. The IRS installment agreement program lets you pay your ta
Hobby vs Business: When the IRS Cares
The IRS distinguishes between hobbies and businesses using a profit motive test. If your side project loses money, here is how to prove it is a real business.
Cryptocurrency Tax Guide 2026: What the IRS Expects
The IRS treats cryptocurrency as property. Every sale, swap, or payment is a taxable event. Learn how to report crypto on your tax return.
Penalty Abatement: Getting IRS Penalties Removed
First-time penalty abatement removes penalties for taxpayers with a clean history. Reasonable cause abatement covers illness, disasters, and other circumstances. Learn how to request relief.
Common Tax Filing Mistakes That Trigger Audits
Math errors, unreported income, and inflated deductions are the top audit triggers. Avoid these 10 common mistakes that get the IRS attention.
Tax Planning for Newlyweds: First Year Tips
Getting married changes your tax situation significantly. From filing status to withholding adjustments, here is what newlyweds need to know.
IRS Identity Theft Protection: PIN and Prevention
Tax-related identity theft affects millions annually. The IRS Identity Protection PIN program prevents fraudulent returns filed under your SSN. Here is how to enroll.
Tax Penalty Calculator: How Much Will the IRS Charge?
Late filing penalties are 5% per month. Late payment penalties are 0.5% per month. Learn how to calculate what you owe and how to reduce penalties.
Currently Not Collectible Status: IRS Hardship
If you truly cannot afford to pay, the IRS may place your account in Currently Not Collectible status. Collections stop temporarily while the statute of limitations continues to run.
IRS Payment Plans: Setting Up Installment Agreements
Cannot pay your full tax bill? The IRS offers installment agreements for balances under $50,000 with monthly payments. Learn how to apply and what interest rates to expect.
IRS Penalties: Late Filing, Late Payment, Accuracy
The IRS imposes separate penalties for late filing, late payment, and accuracy issues. Failure-to-file penalties are 10 times steeper than failure-to-pay. Learn the rates and how to avoid them.
Tax Scams to Watch For in 2026: IRS Warnings
The IRS dirty dozen list highlights the worst tax scams each year. From fake IRS agents to inflated refund schemes, here is how to protect yourself.
How to Handle a Tax Audit: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting audited is stressful but manageable. Learn what triggers audits, how to respond, and the documents you need to have ready.
Tax Statute of Limitations: IRS Audit Time Limits
The IRS generally has three years to audit your return and ten years to collect taxes owed. Certain situations extend these limits. Know your rights and timelines.
Tax Debt Relief Options: IRS Fresh Start Program
The IRS Fresh Start program expands installment agreements, eases lien filing, and doubles the threshold for simplified payment plans. Learn if you qualify and how to apply for relief.
IRS Audit Red Flags: What Triggers an Audit
Only 0.4% of returns get audited, but certain patterns raise your odds. Large charitable deductions, home office claims, and unreported income are top triggers. Learn what to avoid.
How to Respond to an IRS Audit Notice
Receiving an audit notice is stressful but manageable. Learn the types of audits, what documentation to gather, your rights during the process, and when to hire professional representation.
How to File Taxes for the First Time (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
Filing taxes for the first time can feel overwhelming. This step-by-step guide walks you through everything from gathering documents to submitting your return.
What to Do If You Get an IRS Notice: A Step-by-Step Response Guide
Got an IRS notice? Learn what CP2000, CP14, and LT11 mean, how to read any IRS notice, the 30-day response window, and when to get professional help.
IRS Free File 2026: Who Qualifies and How to Use It
If your income is under $84,000, you can use IRS Free File for completely free federal tax filing. Here is how to find the right program.
Taxes on Side Hustles: When Does the IRS Care?
The IRS considers any income over $400 from self-employment taxable. With the $600 reporting threshold for payment apps, more side hustlers receive 1099-K forms. Here is how to handle it.
Estate and Inheritance Tax Basics for Heirs
The federal estate tax exemption is $13.61 million in 2026. Most heirs owe nothing, but state inheritance taxes and step-up basis rules still matter. Here is what heirs need to know.
How to File Your Taxes for the First Time: Step-by-Step Guide
First-time filer? This step-by-step guide covers gathering W-2s, choosing free filing software, completing Form 1040, avoiding common mistakes, and what to do with your refund.