Iqbal Law – Tax Lawyer Ontario, Canada

Received a CRA Audit Notice?

Don't panic, but don't delay. The actions you take immediately after receiving an audit notice can significantly impact the outcome. Professional representation from the start is crucial.

Understanding CRA Audits

A Canada Revenue Agency audit is a comprehensive examination of your tax returns, financial records, and supporting documentation to verify the accuracy of your reported income, deductions, and credits. While the word "audit" can be intimidating, understanding the process and having proper representation can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome.

Types of CRA Audits

Correspondence Audit

Conducted by mail, requesting specific documents or information to verify particular items on your return

Field Audit

In-person examination at your business or home, typically for more complex cases or higher dollar amounts

Common Audit Triggers

While CRA audits can be random, certain factors increase the likelihood of selection:

Significant changes in income or deductions from previous years
High-risk industries or professions (cash-intensive businesses, contractors)
Unusual deduction patterns or amounts
Discrepancies between reported income and lifestyle indicators
Tips or information from third parties

Your Rights During an Audit

As a taxpayer, you have important rights during the audit process that must be respected:

Right to Professional Representation:You can have a lawyer, accountant, or other authorized representative present during all interactions

Right to Understand the Process:CRA must explain the audit process, your rights, and what they're examining

Right to Reasonable Requests:Information requests must be reasonable and relevant to your tax situation

Right to Privacy:Your personal information must be handled confidentially and securely

The Audit Process: What to Expect

1. Initial Contact

CRA sends an audit notification letter outlining the scope, timeline, and information required

2. Information Gathering

Auditor requests specific documents, records, and explanations related to your tax return

3. Examination Phase

Detailed review of provided information, possible interviews, and additional document requests

4. Preliminary Findings

Auditor shares initial conclusions and proposed adjustments for your response

5. Final Assessment

CRA issues final assessment with any changes, additional taxes, penalties, or interest

Critical Mistake to Avoid

Never ignore an audit notice or miss deadlines. Failure to respond can result in arbitrary assessments, additional penalties, and loss of appeal rights. Professional representation ensures all deadlines are met and your interests are protected.

How Professional Representation Helps

Having experienced legal representation during a CRA audit provides numerous advantages:

Strategic communication with CRA auditors

Protection of your legal rights throughout the process

Proper document organization and presentation

Challenge of unreasonable information requests

Negotiation of audit scope and timeline

Minimization of additional taxes and penalties

Preparation for potential appeals if necessary

Stress reduction and peace of mind

Don't Face the CRA Alone

CRA audits require immediate attention and strategic response. Our experienced tax lawyers have successfully represented hundreds of clients through the audit process, achieving favorable outcomes and protecting their interests.

Audit Defense Strategies

Successful audit defense requires a comprehensive strategy tailored to your specific situation:

Immediate Response: Quick action to protect your rights and establish professional representation
Document Review: Comprehensive analysis of your records and the CRA's requests
Strategic Communication: Professional interaction with auditors to present your case effectively
Evidence Preparation: Organized presentation of supporting documentation and explanations
Outcome Negotiation: Working to minimize additional assessments and penalties