When dealing with a tax audit or a tax assessment, you need to know where you stand.
EL
Do you?
Tax Audits
During a tax audit, an auditor is assigned to review specific aspects of your tax filing. As part of this process, he or she will inquire into your situation and has wide powers to request that documents be provided. Contact us if:
- the audit involves sensitive or complex tax issues beyond your comfort level;
- the auditor is not responsive to your representations; or
- you have concerns over how the audit is unfolding.
Tax Assessments
Once the audit is completed, the auditor may issue a notice of assessment stating your tax liability. From the moment you receive the notice, you owe a tax debt. You then have 90 days to object (i.e., challenge the assessment). Your objection will be reviewed by a different officer, referred to as the appeals officer. Contact us to have a clear assessment of your legal position, especially if you’re on the hook for a significant amount of taxes, have been assessed beyond the normal reassessment period or penalties are involved.
Do not abdicate your rights before having a clear understanding of your legal position and the options that are open to you. Turning a blind eye to the problem will not make it go away.