Effectively Responding to IRS Letters

Overview

This course equips tax professionals with the knowledge and strategies needed to handle the most common IRS letters, including general notices, audit requests, collections, return inquiries, and error notices. Participants will learn how to interpret IRS correspondence, adhere to response deadlines, and effectively communicate with the IRS to resolve issues and minimize risks. The session also highlights best practices for ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties or escalation, empowering attendees to navigate IRS correspondence with confidence.

*Please Note:  If you need credit reported to the IRS for this IRS approved program, please download the IRS CE request form on the Course Materials Tab and submit to kori.herrera@acpen.com

Highlights

• Types of IRS letters: General notices, audits, collections, return requests, and errors
• Deadlines for responding to IRS correspondence
• Communication best practices for dealing with the IRS
• Avoiding escalation and penalties through proactive responses
• Ensuring compliance when addressing IRS correspondence
• Real-world examples of successful IRS communications
• Common pitfalls in handling IRS letters and how to avoid them

Prerequisites

None

Designed For

CPAs, EAs, and tax professionals handling IRS correspondence on behalf of clients

Objectives

• Identify and interpret the most common IRS letters, including general notices, audit requests, collections,
• return inquiries, and error notices.
• Understand IRS deadlines and the importance of timely and accurate responses.
• Apply effective communication strategies when corresponding with the IRS.
• Proactively address IRS concerns to avoid escalation and penalties.
• Ensure compliance with IRS requirements when responding to correspondence.
• Assess common issues that arise from IRS letters and develop resolution strategies.
• Advise clients on their rights and responsibilities when dealing with IRS correspondence.
• Implement documentation and tracking practices to manage IRS responses effectively.

Preparation

None