Getting an audit notice from the IRS or your state taxing authority can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. But if you've purchased TurboTax Audit Defense, you're not alone! This service, provided in partnership with TaxAudit, aims to take the burden off your shoulders. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to contact TurboTax Audit Defense and what to expect during the process.
Facing an Audit? Let's Get Started!
Feeling that knot in your stomach after opening an official-looking letter from the IRS? Don't panic! The very first step is to take a deep breath and understand that help is available. If you opted for TurboTax Audit Defense, you have a team of experts ready to assist you. Let's find out how to connect with them.
Step 1: Confirm Your Audit Defense Coverage
Before reaching out, it's crucial to confirm that you have indeed purchased TurboTax Audit Defense for the tax year in question.
Sub-heading: Checking Your Purchase History
Did you buy it directly through TurboTax online or via the desktop software?
For TurboTax Online users: Log in to your TurboTax account. Navigate to your past tax returns. Look for an option related to "MAX Benefits" or "Audit Defense" in your purchase history or the details of the specific tax return.
For TurboTax Desktop users: Open your TurboTax desktop software and the relevant tax file. There should be a section or option that indicates whether you purchased Audit Defense. You might also have a separate membership certificate.
Sub-heading: Understanding the Coverage Period
It's important to note the coverage period. TurboTax Audit Defense generally covers your federal return for three full years and your state return for four years. This aligns with the typical statute of limitations for audits. However, some users have reported changes in coverage duration for recent tax years, so always verify the expiration date on your membership certificate. If you purchased Audit Defense for a specific year, ensure that the audit notice falls within that coverage window.
Step 2: Locate Your Audit Defense Information
Once you've confirmed your coverage, the next step is to find the specific contact details for TaxAudit, the exclusive provider of TurboTax Audit Defense.
Sub-heading: The Primary Contact Method
The most direct way to contact TurboTax Audit Defense (TaxAudit) is by phone. Their dedicated toll-free number for Audit Defense members is:
(877) 829-9695
Sub-heading: Online Portal Access
You can also access information and potentially initiate contact through their dedicated online portal:
Website: intuit.taxaudit.com or
taxaudit.com/audit-defense
This website is a valuable resource for FAQs, understanding the process, and potentially reporting your audit notice online.
Sub-heading: What Information to Have Ready
When you contact them, having the following information at hand will make the process much smoother:
Your TurboTax User ID and password (if applicable).
The tax year for which you received the audit notice.
Your Audit Defense membership number or code. This is crucial for them to verify your coverage.
A copy of the audit notice or letter you received from the IRS or state taxing authority.
Any supporting documentation related to the audited items on your tax return.
Step 3: Reporting Your Audit Notice to TaxAudit
This is the most critical step once you receive an audit notice. Do not directly contact the IRS or state taxing authority unless specifically instructed to do so by your TaxAudit representative.
Sub-heading: Calling TaxAudit
As soon as you receive an audit notice, call the toll-free number: (877) 829-9695.
Explain your situation clearly. State that you have received an audit notice and are a TurboTax Audit Defense member.
Provide your membership details. Give them your membership number or the relevant tax year so they can quickly verify your coverage.
Follow their instructions carefully. They will guide you on the next steps, which will typically involve providing them with a copy of the audit notice.
Sub-heading: Reporting Online (if available)
While calling is generally recommended for prompt action, some services may allow you to initiate the process online through the intuit.taxaudit.com portal. Look for a "Report an Audit" or similar section.
Step 4: What Happens Next? The Audit Defense Process
Once you've reported your audit to TaxAudit, their team of professionals will take over.
Sub-heading: Your Dedicated Audit Defense Team
You will be assigned a personal audit defense team, typically consisting of experienced CPAs or Enrolled Agents (EAs). These professionals specialize in tax audits and will work on your behalf.
Sub-heading: The Scope of Their Services
TaxAudit's Audit Defense service covers a wide range of support, including:
Evaluating the Notice: They will carefully review your audit notice to understand the specific issues the IRS or state is questioning.
Explaining the Situation: Your audit defense team will clearly explain what the audit is about and what potential outcomes to expect.
Developing a Plan of Action: They will formulate a strategy to respond to the audit notice and gather necessary documentation.
Preparing IRS Documents: They will help you prepare and organize all required documents and responses for the taxing authority.
Communicating with the IRS/State: Crucially, they will handle all communication with the IRS or state taxing authority on your behalf. You will not have to directly speak with the auditors unless your representative advises it. This includes submitting documents, answering questions, and negotiating.
Representing You in Meetings: If in-person meetings or phone conferences are required, your TaxAudit representative will attend and represent your interests.
Tax Debt Relief Assistance (if applicable): If the audit results in you owing additional taxes, penalties, or interest, they will work to reduce the amount owed and help you explore resolution options.
Tax Identity Theft Support (if applicable): If the audit is due to tax identity theft, they will assist in resolving the issue and helping you refile your return.
Sub-heading: Your Role and Responsibilities
While TaxAudit handles the heavy lifting, you still have some key responsibilities:
Prompt Reporting: Report any audit notices immediately to TaxAudit. Delays can complicate your case.
Providing Information: Timely provide all requested documents and information to your audit defense team. They cannot defend you without the necessary records.
Signing Power of Attorney: You will need to sign a Power of Attorney (Form 2848 for IRS) allowing TaxAudit to represent you. Do not alter this document.
Cooperation: Cooperate fully with your audit defense team and follow their advice and strategies.
Step 5: Resolution and Peace of Mind
The goal of Audit Defense is to resolve your audit with the most favorable outcome possible.
Sub-heading: Audit Completion
Once the audit is concluded, TaxAudit will inform you of the resolution. This could range from no change to your tax liability, a reduced tax liability, or an agreement on additional taxes, penalties, or interest owed.
Sub-heading: Long-Term Coverage
The peace of mind that comes with Audit Defense extends beyond the immediate audit. The coverage typically lasts for the full statute of limitations period, meaning you're protected if the same tax year is questioned again in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions related to TurboTax Audit Defense:
How to know if I have TurboTax Audit Defense?
You can check your TurboTax account's purchase history or the details of the tax return in question. If you purchased it, it will usually be listed as "MAX Benefits" or "Audit Defense" and you should have received a membership certificate.
How to find the TurboTax Audit Defense phone number?
The dedicated toll-free number for TurboTax Audit Defense (TaxAudit) is (877) 829-9695.
How to report an IRS audit letter to TurboTax Audit Defense?
Call TaxAudit directly at (877) 829-9695 as soon as you receive the letter. Have your membership details and the audit notice ready.
How to access my TurboTax Audit Defense membership details online?
Visit intuit.taxaudit.com and log in with your credentials to access your membership information.
How to prepare for contacting TurboTax Audit Defense?
Gather your TurboTax User ID, the tax year in question, your Audit Defense membership number, and a copy of the audit notice.
How to ensure my TurboTax Audit Defense is still active?
Check your membership certificate for the expiration date. Federal returns are typically covered for 3 years, and state returns for 4 years from the filing date.
How to understand what TurboTax Audit Defense covers?
It covers full representation by CPAs or Enrolled Agents for federal and state income tax audits, handling all communications, preparing documents, and representing you in meetings. It also includes tax debt relief and identity theft support.
How to avoid directly contacting the IRS during an audit with Audit Defense?
Once you've reported your audit to TaxAudit, their representatives will handle all communication with the IRS on your behalf. Do not contact the IRS directly unless instructed by your TaxAudit representative.
How to provide documents to my TurboTax Audit Defense representative?
Your TaxAudit representative will guide you on the best way to submit documents, often through a secure online portal or via mail/fax.
How to get help if I didn't purchase TurboTax Audit Defense but received an audit notice?
If you did not purchase Audit Defense, TurboTax offers a free Audit Support Center for general guidance. However, for full representation, you would need to seek independent tax professional help.