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What to do if…
you receive an audit notice from a tax authority and the response deadline is soon

Short answer

Act today: verify the notice is really from the IRS, then contact the IRS using the notice instructions to confirm what they need and request more time if you can’t respond by the due date.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t ignore the due date — if you don’t respond, the IRS may complete the audit without your information.
  • Don’t assume it’s real just because it says “IRS” — if anything seems off, verify via IRS notice/letter resources before sharing information or sending documents.
  • Don’t send original records unless specifically required — keep originals and send copies.
  • Don’t sign anything agreeing to changes if you don’t understand it.
  • Don’t dump a huge pile of unrelated documents — stick to what the notice asks for.
  • Don’t “fix” your return by filing something new in a panic without understanding what the notice is asking for.

What to do now

  1. Capture the key facts (2 minutes).
    Write down: the notice/letter number, tax year, due date, the items being questioned, and the contact details shown on the notice.

  2. Verify it’s really the IRS before you respond.
    Use the IRS guidance on “How to know it’s the IRS” / “Understanding your IRS notice or letter” to verify notices and letters. If your notice doesn’t match what you find or it looks suspicious, follow IRS instructions to verify through official IRS contact routes.

  3. Contact the IRS before the deadline using the notice’s instructions.
    Tell them you received the audit/examination notice and want to comply. Ask:

    • What exact documents they need (and for which line items)
    • Whether they want copies by mail, fax, upload, or in-person
    • Whether they can note your file and what the correct way is to request extra time (if you need it)

  4. If you need more time, request it clearly and immediately.
    Ask for a specific extension and propose a realistic date you can meet. Keep the reason brief and factual (waiting on records, illness, adviser appointment, etc.). The key is getting your request in before the due date.

  5. Build a clean response packet.

    • Create a folder and a simple index: “Item 1 → documents A/B/C”, etc.
    • Put your name, SSN/ITIN (as instructed), tax year, and notice number on every page you send (or a cover sheet), so it can’t be separated from your file.
    • Include a short cover letter that lists what you’re enclosing and answers the IRS questions directly.

  6. Send in a trackable way and keep proof.
    If mailing, use Certified Mail (or another trackable option) and keep receipts plus a full copy of what you sent. If uploading, save confirmations and file copies.

  7. If you’re overwhelmed or the stakes are high, get representation (without delaying step 3).
    If you want someone to deal with the IRS for you, you can authorize a representative using Form 2848 (Power of Attorney). If the deadline is close, contact the IRS yourself today to request extra time while you arrange representation.

  8. Know you have rights — don’t sign away options in a rush.
    The IRS publishes taxpayer rights and processes in Publication 1. If you disagree with proposed changes, focus first on meeting the response deadline (or getting an extension) and asking what the next step is to dispute or appeal.

What can wait

  • You don’t need to perfectly reconstruct your entire tax life tonight — you need to respond on time (or secure extra time) and provide what the notice specifically requests.
  • You don’t need to decide whether to “fight” the audit today — first, keep the process from moving forward without your input.
  • You don’t need to contact multiple agencies — keep communication focused on the specific IRS notice you received.

Important reassurance

An audit notice is alarming, but it’s a structured process with clear next steps. The most protective move when the deadline is close is to verify the notice, communicate early, respond in an organized way, and keep proof of everything you send.

Scope note

These are first steps for the moment you realize the response deadline is near. If the audit involves complex business issues, large amounts, multiple years, or potential penalties, you may need professional tax help beyond this guide.

Important note

This is general information, not legal or tax advice. IRS notices and timelines vary by letter type and audit stage. If you’re unsure what you received, can’t meet the deadline, or think serious penalties could apply, get qualified help promptly.

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