Got Audited Last Year - Will This Trigger Another Audit This Year?

The IRS utilizes a Discriminant Function System (DFS) to assign scores to returns based on potential noncompliance. Prior audits aren't explicitly programmed as automatic triggers for subsequent examinations, though they remain in your compliance history. The amendment itself isn't problematic if it corrected legitimate issues. What's more concerning is whether the underlying factors that triggered your initial audit have been adequately addressed in your current filing methodology.

I went through something similar! Here's what I learned: • Previous audits don't automatically trigger new ones • BUT they do put your account on a sort of "watch list" • Make sure you have documentation for EVERYTHING this year • Double-check all your 1099s match what you're reporting • Consider using a more experienced preparer who specializes in independent contractors I'm a little worried for you because contractor returns get flagged more often... 😕

Have you considered what would happen if you do get audited again? Would you know how to respond quickly? Would you be able to get someone on the phone at the IRS to explain your situation? Wouldn't it be better to have a plan in place rather than just hoping it doesn't happen? I was in a similar situation and ended up using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to actually reach an IRS agent by phone after weeks of trying. They got me through to someone who could answer my specific questions about my previous audit and how it might affect my current filing.

While I cannot say with absolute certainty, I should mention that the IRS generally maintains what they call a "DIF score" - Discriminant Information Function - for each taxpayer. This score may be influenced by previous audits, though the exact algorithm is not publicly disclosed. In my experience, if your amendment properly corrected all issues from the previous audit, your risk might not be substantially higher than normal.

I've been through this exact situation. My 2022 taxes got audited because my previous preparer messed up how they reported my business expenses. I got a new accountant who specializes in self-employed taxes for 2023, and everything went smoothly. The key is making sure whatever triggered the first audit is fixed. In my case, I had claimed too many meal expenses without proper documentation, and my home office deduction was calculated incorrectly. Once I understood what went wrong and fixed those specific issues, I had no problems the following year.

Went through this last year. Got audited for 2021. Was terrified about 2022. No audit happened. Make sure your records are organized. Keep all receipts. Document everything. The amendment itself isn't the problem. It's what caused the audit initially.

Tbh the IRS doesn't have the resources to audit everyone who got audited b4. They look for specific red flags like unusually high deductions, mismatched income reporting, or math errors. Def make sure ur 1099s match what you're reporting! Also, if ur in the same income bracket as last yr, the DIF score (what the IRS uses to flag returns) might be similar, so double-check everything that got flagged last time.

I understand your anxiety about this! As an independent contractor myself, I went through a similar situation. Here's what I learned from my tax attorney: The good news is that having a prior audit doesn't automatically flag you for another one. The IRS uses statistical models (DIF scores) that primarily look at your current year's return, not your audit history. However, you're right to be extra cautious. Here's what helped me avoid issues after my audit: • Switched to a CPA who specializes in contractor taxes • Keep meticulous records - I now photograph every receipt immediately • Match ALL 1099s exactly (even if they're wrong, report them as received and make adjustments properly) • Be conservative with deductions - only claim what you can fully document The fact that you had to amend suggests there were legitimate errors to fix. As long as your new preparer addresses whatever caused the original audit, you should be fine. Don't let fear prevent you from filing on time - that creates bigger problems! Consider getting a second opinion on your return before filing if you're still worried. Peace of mind is worth the extra cost.