What Is a Tax Audit?
A tax audit is a review by a tax authority, such as the IRS in the US, of a tax return and the records behind it to verify that income, deductions, and credits were reported correctly. Most audits are conducted by mail and focus on specific items, and an audit does not by itself imply wrongdoing.
Types of Audits
Correspondence (mail) audits request documents for specific items; office and field audits involve meetings with an examiner.
Record Keeping
Keeping receipts, statements, and records that support a return helps answer audit questions.
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🔗 Related Terms
More Taxes Terms
- Additional Medicare Tax
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
- Capital Gains Tax
- Capital Loss
- Child Tax Credit
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Last updated: September 29, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.