---
title: IRS Audit Help: What to Expect and Your Rights | TaxTruce
url: https://taxtruce.com/coverage/audit-help
updated: 2026-10-29
---

# Got an IRS audit letter?

Audits start by mail. You have rights.

Updated October 8, 20263 sources[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

An IRS audit is a review of your return and records to make sure they are right. The IRS starts an audit by mail, never by phone. Most audits look at returns filed in the last 2 years.

## Who it fits

People who got an audit letter or a CP2000 notice about income that doesn't match.

Who it fits
:   Got an audit letter

Cost
:   No fee to respond. A one time 30 day extension is usually allowed for mail audits.

IRS form
:   Form 2848 lets a tax pro speak for you

## What to know first

**It starts by mail**

The IRS notifies you of an audit by mail. It won't start an audit by phone.

**It may not mean a problem**

Some returns are picked by a formula or because they are tied to someone else's audit.

**How far back**

Usually returns from the last 3 years. If there is a big error, more years may be added, but usually not more than 6.

**Ask for more time**

For mail audits, the IRS can usually grant a one time 30 day extension.

**Answer by the date**

If you don't respond, the IRS finishes the audit without you and sends its proposed changes.

**You can have help**

You have a right to representation. Enrolled agents, CPAs and attorneys can represent you on any matter.

## Common questions

How long should I keep records?

The law says keep the records you used to prepare a return for at least 3 years from the date you filed it.

Source: [IRS: IRS audits](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/irs-audits)

Is a CP2000 an audit?

It is a notice that income reported to the IRS does not match your return. It is not a bill, but you may need to reply by the date listed.

Source: [IRS: Understanding your CP2000 notice](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp2000-notice)

Do I have to agree to extend the time limit?

No. But if you don't agree, the auditor will decide based on what you already gave.

Source: [IRS: IRS audits](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/irs-audits)

Results depend on your situation. Not every case qualifies.

## More guides

[**How do I know if an IRS letter is real?**](/answers/how-do-i-know-if-an-irs-letter-is-real)[**Who can legally represent me before the IRS?**](/answers/who-can-represent-me-before-the-irs)

## Sources

1. [IRS: IRS audits](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/irs-audits)
2. [IRS: Understanding your CP2000 notice](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/understanding-your-cp2000-notice)
3. [IRS: Understanding tax return preparer credentials](https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications)

Other ways to get help

## Compare with the others

[Can't pay in full

### Offer in compromise

Ask the IRS to take less than you owe. Hard to get.

See offer in compromise](/coverage/offer-in-compromise)[Can pay over time

### Payment plan

Pay what you owe a little each month.

See payment plan](/coverage/installment-agreement)[Can't pay at all

### Not collectible

The IRS pauses collection while money is too tight.

See not collectible](/coverage/currently-not-collectible)

Run the numbers with our [free tax tools](/tools), like the penalty and payment plan math.