How does the process during a tax audit work?
May 7, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Quentin Reuter
Dear Tax Advisor,
My name is Babette Witzelmann and I have a question regarding the process of a tax audit. In recent years, I have always done my tax return myself, as I am self-employed with a small business and thought I was doing everything correctly. However, I have now heard that the tax office wants to conduct a tax audit on me and I am somewhat concerned about the process and the consequences.
I have always diligently collected my documents and kept all receipts in order, but I am not sure if I have understood everything correctly and if my tax return is error-free. I have heard that during a tax audit, all documents are reviewed and that there may be additional payments if errors are found. I am worried that I may have overlooked something or done something wrong and would like to know how the process of a tax audit works and what steps I should take now.
Could you please explain to me how a tax audit works, what I need to pay attention to, and what documents I should have ready? Are there ways to correct any potential errors and avoid additional payments? I would be very grateful for your support and advice on this matter.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Babette Witzelmann
Dear Mrs. Witzelmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the process of a tax audit. It is understandable that you are concerned if the tax office wants to conduct an audit on you. Such an audit can indeed lead to additional payments if errors are found in your tax return. It is therefore important that you are well prepared and understand everything correctly.
During a tax audit, all documents relevant to your tax return are usually reviewed. These may include income and expense receipts, bank statements, invoices, contracts, and other documents. The tax office checks whether your information is correct and whether all tax regulations have been followed.
To prepare for a tax audit, you should carefully compile and organize all relevant documents. It is advisable to create a list of all documents you wish to submit to the tax office. I also recommend reviewing and correcting any discrepancies or errors in your tax return before the audit takes place.
If errors are found during the tax audit, you generally have the opportunity to correct them and avoid additional payments. In many cases, it is advisable to seek assistance from a tax advisor to ensure that all tax regulations are followed and to correct any errors.
Overall, it is important to cooperate with the tax office during a tax audit and have all necessary documents ready. If you are unsure or have further questions, I am happy to assist you and support you in preparing for the tax audit.
I hope that my explanations are helpful to you and I am available for any further assistance you may need.
Kind regards,
Quentin Reuter
