What Small Business Owners Should Know About IRS Audits

What Small Business Owners Should Know About IRS Audits

November 26, 20253 min read

When the IRS sends that audit letter, the panic hits fast. You can lose sleep, clients, and control of your business overnight. An audit isn’t just about taxes. It’s about survival.
Call Steve Perry, EA today at (678) 717-9818 or email [email protected] for immediate help.

Why Business Owners Get Audited

The IRS doesn’t choose at random. Small businesses are easy targets because they often lack airtight records or have irregular cash flow. Red flags include:

  • Reporting high deductions compared to revenue

  • Late or inconsistent filings

  • Large cash transactions or missing 1099s

  • Payroll tax irregularities

An audit can escalate fast. Once the IRS senses weakness, they dig deep into your bank records, receipts, even personal accounts. Every number becomes potential evidence.

The Real Cost of an IRS Audit

The true pain of an IRS audit isn’t just money. It’s the fear, disruption, and uncertainty.

  • Lost time and business focus

  • Financial pressure from unexpected penalties

  • Damage to your reputation with clients and lenders

  • Emotional exhaustion from constant IRS calls

Many audits end with debts that cripple the business. Once that happens, the IRS can file tax liens, seize accounts, and garnish income. And they don’t stop until they collect every cent.

Why You Need an Enrolled Agent Who Fights Back

Most taxpayers assume they can explain things to the IRS. The truth: they can’t. Once the audit starts, every word and document matters. One poorly answered letter can make things worse.
Steve Perry, EA, has represented small business owners through thousands of hours of IRS correspondence and audits. He knows how the system works, and how to make it work in your favor.

With years of experience in IRS negotiation and taxpayer representation, Steve doesn’t rely on guesswork or emotion. He relies on the Internal Revenue Manual, the rules the IRS must follow. When agents overstep, Steve calls them on it. When they push too hard, he pushes back harder.

Need to stop the IRS before they take your business? Message Steve today at www.linkedin.com/in/steveperrybtm.

Common Mistakes That Trigger IRS Trouble

Even honest business owners get audited for small errors. Understanding what the IRS looks for can prevent problems down the road.

  • Personal expenses charged to business accounts

  • Incomplete mileage and expense logs

  • Reporting income inconsistently across forms

  • Missing 1099 filings for contractors

  • Poor recordkeeping or “off the books” transactions

When the IRS finds these, they assume intent to deceive. That’s when penalties compound and criminal referrals become possible. Don’t wait for that letter to arrive.

How Steve Perry Protects His Clients

Steve doesn’t just defend business owners, he restores confidence. Each step follows a proven process to take control of the situation.

  1. Analyze every IRS notice

  2. Organize documentation to build defensible positions

  3. Negotiate with agents directly to protect client rights

  4. Push for penalty abatement or audit reconsideration when applicable

  5. Create a post-audit plan to prevent future exposure

Steve understands how it feels when the IRS targets your livelihood. He’s calm when you can’t be. Strategic when you feel trapped. And relentless until he gets the best possible solution for his client.

If the IRS is questioning your business returns or threatening penalties, reach out now. Call (678) 717-9818 or email [email protected]. Every hour of delay hampers his ability to make the strongest case and to help the business owner find all the correct receipts.

When The IRS Comes After You, You Don’t Have To Face Them Alone

There’s one simple truth about IRS audits: the agency bets on fear. They expect you to fold, to pay whatever they say, to sign documents without understanding the consequences. Steve Perry doesn’t let that happen.

With years of representing small business owners in Atlanta and beyond, Steve’s clients regularly walk away with reduced balances, removed penalties, or complete audit closures. He’s the professional who fights calmly under pressure—and wins.

Don’t talk to the IRS without protection. You deserve someone who knows your rights, shields your business, and takes control. Call (678) 717-9818 or email [email protected] today. Message Steve directly on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/steveperrybtm.

Steve Perry is a seasoned tax expert and Enrolled Agent licensed by the Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the IRS. As the founder of Books, Taxes & More, LLC, Steve brings a no-nonsense, veteran-led approach to solving complex tax issues. With a background in military leadership, accounting, and financial services, he is fiercely committed to defending clients against aggressive IRS tactics and helping them preserve more of their hard-earned money. Whether it’s tax representation, planning, or preparation—Steve speaks IRS so you don’t have to.

Steve Perry

Steve Perry is a seasoned tax expert and Enrolled Agent licensed by the Department of the Treasury to represent taxpayers before the IRS. As the founder of Books, Taxes & More, LLC, Steve brings a no-nonsense, veteran-led approach to solving complex tax issues. With a background in military leadership, accounting, and financial services, he is fiercely committed to defending clients against aggressive IRS tactics and helping them preserve more of their hard-earned money. Whether it’s tax representation, planning, or preparation—Steve speaks IRS so you don’t have to.

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