How to Respond to IRS Agents Showing Up at Your Home or Business

How to Respond to IRS Agents Showing Up at Your Home or Business

Dealing with IRS agents can be intimidating. If agents show up at your home or business unannounced, it’s important to know your rights and respond appropriately. Here’s a guide on what to do if IRS agents come knocking.

Remain Calm

Take a deep breath. Don’t panic or get emotional. Stay polite and professional. Losing your cool could escalate the situation unnecessarily. Remember, IRS agents are just doing their job¹.

Ask for Identification

Politely ask to see the agents’ credentials and written notice. All IRS agents must carry ID and documents stating the reason for their visit. Don’t assume someone is an agent based on a badge or ID alone. Call the IRS to verify the agents are legitimate if you have any doubts.

Don’t Answer Questions

You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Be cooperative but don’t volunteer information or answer questions. Simply state, “I decline to answer any questions without my lawyer present.”

Don’t Consent to a Search

IRS agents can’t search your home or business without a warrant. Don’t consent to a search under any circumstances. State clearly, “I do not consent to a search.”

Don’t Sign Anything

Never sign anything an IRS agent gives you without reviewing it carefully first. Politely state, “I need to review this with my accountant or lawyer before signing.”

Don’t Turn Over Documents

Don’t hand over any documents without speaking to a tax professional first. Simply say, “Let me consult my accountant and get back to you.” Photocopy any documents the IRS takes.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Record the Interaction

Inform agents you are recording the interaction and do so openly. Recording provides proof if your rights are violated. Some states require both parties consent to recording so check your local laws first².

Get Witnesses

Ask colleagues, family or neighbors to observe the interaction. Their testimony could support your version of events if necessary.

Take Notes

Document everything that transpires – what was said, what actions were taken, timelines, etc. Notes help keep the facts straight.

Consult a Lawyer

Contact a tax attorney or CPA immediately. Don’t say anything or turn over anything until you’ve spoken to counsel. Let the agents know when to expect a response.

Comply With Subpoenas

If agents serve a subpoena, you must comply within the stated timeframe or challenge it legally. Consult a lawyer to review your options. Ignoring a subpoena can lead to charges³.

Stay at Your Business

If agents visit your place of business, don’t leave them unattended. Politely assign someone to stay with them at all times.

Don’t Badmouth the IRS

As frustrating as the situation may be, avoid making negative remarks about the IRS or its practices. Don’t give them ammunition against you.

Don’t Alter Records

Resist any urges to alter or destroy records after an IRS visit. That constitutes obstruction of justice, which is illegal⁴.

Hire Representation

Work with an experienced tax attorney, CPA or enrolled agent for guidance navigating the audit process. Legal counsel protects your rights.

Be Proactive

If you know an audit or IRS visit is likely, get out in front of it by organizing records and consulting experts beforehand. Being prepared gives you an advantage.

Dealing with IRS agents can be unsettling but knowing your rights and handling the situation properly makes a big difference. Stay calm, don’t answer questions, speak with counsel, and let the legal process run its course. With the right help, you’ll get through it.

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