What Your Bookkeeper Needs to Know If You’re Dealing With the IRS

Written By Marian Okoye

Dealing with the IRS isn’t just about tax returns—it’s about your books. If you're facing penalties, audits, or notices, your bookkeeper is a crucial part of the solution. But they can’t help if they’re in the dark.

Why Your Bookkeeper Matters

  • They provide clean, categorized data the IRS may request

  • They can prepare financial summaries needed for installment agreements or Offers in Compromise

  • They help uncover reporting errors that may have triggered IRS letters in the first place

What You Should Share

  • IRS notices and letters (CP2000, CP504, etc.)

  • Tax return copies for the affected years

  • Any documents you submitted for relief (Forms 843, 9465, etc.)

  • Communication from your tax pro or attorney

Why Communication is Key

  • Your tax person and bookkeeper should collaborate

  • Updates to bookkeeping can change the outcome of your tax resolution

  • A great bookkeeper can help prevent future problems—especially when paired with a CFO or EA

Call to Action

Overwhelmed by your IRS case and unsure what to send your bookkeeper? Join our community to get guided support.

Marian Okoye
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Why Good Bookkeeping Prevents IRS Debt in the First Place