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Preparing for a Business Audit


  • Travel and entertainment records. By law, out-of-town business travel and entertainment expenses (T & E, in auditor lingo) require greater recordkeeping than most other expenses. You must have a written record of the specific business purpose of the travel or entertainment expense, as well as a receipt for it. (IRC § 267.)

    A good way to document T & E expenses is with an appointment book or log, noting each time you incur a business expense, and the reason. Most folks aren't disciplined enough to write down every expense as it is incurred. It is okay to put together a log or diary after you have received an audit notice. But be up-front about it -- don't insult the auditor's intelligence by trying to pass off wet-inked paper as an old record. Remember, it's key to develop and maintain credibility with the auditor.

 
Example 1:
Bianca, a self-employed designer, reconstructs a calendar book with a notation for June 18, 2006, as follows: "Round-trip cab fare to office of John Johnson, prospective client, $14 (no receipt). Lunch at Circle Restaurant: Discuss proposal to decorate new offices at 333 Pine Street, $32 (Visa charge) plus cash tip of $6 (no receipt)." Bianca can also give the auditor details, if asked. The auditor will probably be satisfied if it appears reasonable.

 
Example 2:
Sam, the owner of a computer store went to an out-of-town computer retailers' convention. He spent $1,800 and claimed it as business travel expenses on his tax return. On audit, Sam produces charge card statements to prove the $1,800 was spent for hotels, meals, and convention registration. The auditor wants more and asks Sam to justify the business purpose of this trip. Sam produces an ad for the convention, an agenda of events, and notes he took at programs. If it looks legitimate, and Sam's explanation of why it was important for him to be there is convincing, the auditor should allow the deduction in full.
  • Expenses for renting or buying property. To prove business rental expenses, bring in a copy of your lease. If you purchased the property or equipment, have the purchase contract. This establishes grounds for claiming these expenses as well as a beginning tax basis of the property, if you claim depreciation expenses.

Copyright 2007 Nolo


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