Most suspicious IRS audit triggers

  • April 20, 2017
  • Mark Hughes CPA CFE

auditThe Minnesota Society of CPAs has compiled a list of red flags that could trigger an audit from the IRS.

1. Misreporting Your Income

Always make sure your income on your Form W-2 and Form 1099 matches the reported income on your return.

2. Unusually High Charitable Deductions

You may raise some eyebrows if your charitable donations are well above average for your income range.

3. Unusually Low Salaries

The IRS takes a close look at S corporation compensation practices, particularly if the salary paid to a principal owner looks suspiciously low.

4. Your Social Security Number Is Wrong

Make sure you clearly write or carefully type your Social Security number to avoid added scrutiny over your hand-filed return, or the rejection of your e-filed return.

5. Claiming Losses from “Hobby” Activities

Certain types of businesses showing losses, such as horse racing or horse breeding, will often generate increased attention.

6. Claiming a Different Amount for Your Alimony Deduction or Alimony Income than Your Ex-spouse Claimed for the Corresponding Item

This is easy pickings. You must report the Social Security number of your ex-spouse when you report your alimony deduction.

7. A Large Amount for Meals and Entertainment Expenses

Sizable meals and entertainment expenses for your type of business are common targets.

Source: Accounting Today