Facing an IRS Audit in Houston? Here’s How Professional Representation Can Protect You
Receiving a letter from the IRS announcing an audit can make even the most organized taxpayer feel anxious. The idea of having your finances, deductions, or business records reviewed in detail can be intimidating — especially if you’re unsure what triggered it. But here’s the truth: an audit doesn’t automatically mean you’ve done something wrong, and it certainly doesn’t mean you have to face the IRS alone.
At Infinity Resolution, Michelle Hiller, EA, provides calm, professional representation for individuals and businesses throughout Houston and across Texas who are dealing with IRS audits. With her expertise, you can navigate the process with confidence, clarity, and the assurance that your rights are being protected every step of the way.
Why the IRS Conducts Audits
IRS audits can happen for several reasons. Sometimes they’re the result of random selection, and other times, they’re triggered by certain red flags on a return — such as unusually high deductions, inconsistent income reporting, or discrepancies between IRS data and what was filed.
Common reasons for audits include:
Reporting significantly more deductions than taxpayers with similar income levels
Failing to report all income (including freelance or investment income)
Math or data entry errors on the return
Large charitable donations or business expense claims
Self-employment or small business filings that show ongoing losses
While receiving an audit notice can feel personal, in most cases it’s simply a data-driven process. The key is how you respond.
Types of IRS Audits
The IRS conducts three main types of audits, each with its own procedures and levels of scrutiny:
Correspondence Audit — This is the most common type. It’s handled entirely by mail, usually when the IRS needs clarification or supporting documentation for specific items on your return.
Office Audit — You’re asked to appear at a local IRS office and bring documentation related to specific aspects of your return. These require preparation and detailed explanation of your records.
Field Audit — The most comprehensive type, conducted at your home or business. IRS agents review books, receipts, and other documentation on-site. Field audits are serious and typically require professional representation.
Knowing what kind of audit you’re facing is the first step toward managing it effectively.
What to Do When You Receive an Audit Notice
If you receive an audit letter, don’t ignore it — and don’t panic. The notice will specify which year’s return is being reviewed, what items are in question, and the deadline to respond. The best approach is to contact a tax professional right away to review the notice and determine the next steps.
Responding accurately and on time is crucial. A delayed or incomplete response can result in penalties or an expanded review. With Michelle Hiller’s help, you’ll have someone who understands the process and can communicate directly with the IRS on your behalf, ensuring that deadlines are met and information is presented correctly.
How Professional Representation Helps
Facing the IRS alone can be stressful. Having a qualified Enrolled Agent (EA) like Michelle Hiller represent you changes the entire experience. An EA is federally licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and authorized to represent taxpayers in all dealings with the IRS — including audits, appeals, and collections.
Here’s how Michelle helps Texans through every stage of an audit:
1. Detailed Case Review
She begins by reviewing your tax return, identifying the specific issues raised by the IRS, and gathering the necessary documentation. This step often reveals that the issue is simpler than it first appeared.
2. Direct Communication with the IRS
Michelle handles all contact with the IRS so you don’t have to. She represents you professionally in correspondence, office meetings, or field visits, ensuring your side of the story is clearly presented.
3. Organized Documentation
One of the biggest audit pitfalls is disorganized or incomplete records. Michelle helps organize receipts, statements, and financial data so the IRS receives a clear, accurate picture of your situation.
4. Negotiating Fair Outcomes
If the IRS proposes additional taxes, penalties, or interest, Michelle reviews the findings, challenges any errors, and negotiates for the most favorable outcome — whether that means reducing the amount owed, setting up a payment plan, or appealing the results.
Common Mistakes Taxpayers Make During Audits
Without guidance, taxpayers sometimes unintentionally make things harder for themselves. Common mistakes include:
Providing more information than requested
Failing to respond promptly to IRS deadlines
Appearing for an audit without professional representation
Disputing findings emotionally rather than factually
Submitting incomplete documentation or verbal explanations without proof
Each of these errors can lead to higher liabilities or extended audits. Having a professional like Michelle by your side ensures the process stays focused, compliant, and efficient.
The Value of Experience and Calm Guidance
An IRS audit can be intimidating, but with the right representation, it becomes a structured process rather than a personal battle. Michelle Hiller brings years of experience helping Texans navigate the audit system with professionalism and confidence. She knows how to communicate with IRS examiners, prepare precise documentation, and keep her clients informed at every stage.
Her goal is simple: to minimize stress, ensure accuracy, and protect your financial well-being while working toward the best possible resolution.
After the Audit: Moving Forward
Once your audit is complete, the IRS will issue a report detailing any proposed changes. If you agree, you can sign the agreement and move forward. If not, you have the right to appeal — and Michelle can represent you through that process as well.
After the audit, she also helps clients put stronger financial systems in place to prevent future issues — such as improving recordkeeping, adjusting withholdings, and ensuring timely filings each year.
Take Control of Your IRS Audit with Professional Representation
An IRS audit doesn’t have to derail your life or business. With calm, expert guidance from a trusted professional, you can address the IRS confidently, respond accurately, and protect what you’ve worked hard for.
At Infinity Resolution, Michelle Hiller, EA, provides the expertise and professionalism Texans need to navigate audits with clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’ve just received a notice or are already in the middle of an audit, help is available.
Infinity Resolution
Michelle Hiller, EA
Serving Houston and all of Texas
📞 (281) 796-1143
Contact Infinity Resolution today to schedule a confidential consultation. Michelle will review your audit notice, explain your options, and represent you through every step — so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.