Most people have absolutely no clue whatsoever when it comes to their rights during an IRS audit. Fortunately, these rights are safeguarded during the course of the audit process, not to be violated by the IRS. During an audit process, the most important right is the right to an explanation of what's going on and what's going to occur during the whole audit process. Much like any legal proceedings, you also have the right to be represented by an enrolled agent, a CPA, or a tax attorney. Among the lesser known rights is the right to claim additional deductions which you didn't claim on your original tax return. You also have the right to submit a request to the national office of the IRS on a specific issue that may arise in your audit with your specific IRS agent. Knowing your rights ensures that you're treated justly by the IRS auditor and can make the process much smoother.

When undergoing an audit, it is advised to read the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights, or IRS Publication 1. This booklet will have all the basic rights of the taxpayer. To provide you more time to refresh your memory regarding your tax return's contents, as well as to collect supporting documents, you can postpone your audit.

Before you actually meet with the IRS auditing agent, it's recommended to meet with your counsel. This is to provide you a chance to develop a strategy on how to address the problems that the auditor will bring up, whether you're working with a CPA or a tax attorney.

Only provide the documents requested in the IRS notice. Any more might lead to more IRS issues. The auditor might be prompted to delve deeper into areas that they initially overlooked.

The best way to quickly end an audit is to be ready. The auditor will realize that you will be able to support any problems of your tax return with documentation if you're able to support all your claims.

It is always best to be professional, regardless of how heated the situation may become. Obviously, the IRS auditor must treat you the same way. Lying must be avoided at all costs. Any IRS issue can be prevented if you just tell the truth.