Facing a Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) audit or dealing with a tax dispute can be a stressful and time-consuming experience for any business or individual. At Lepore & Company, we provide expert CRA audit representation and appeals services to protect your interests, ensure compliance, and resolve disputes efficiently. With over 30 years of experience in corporate taxation, we help businesses across Hamilton, Stoney Creek, and surrounding areas navigate the complexities of CRA audits, reassessments, and appeals with confidence.
Understanding CRA Audits: What You Need to Know
A CRA audit is an in-depth review of your financial records and tax filings to verify the accuracy of your reported income, deductions, and credits. The CRA conducts audits to ensure that businesses and individuals are complying with tax laws and fulfilling their tax obligations.
Common Reasons for CRA Audits:
- Unusual or inconsistent financial reporting β Large fluctuations in income or expenses.
- Excessive deductions or credits β Claiming high business expenses, capital losses, or tax credits.
- Frequent late filings or non-compliance β Late tax returns or failure to remit taxes.
- Industry-specific audit programs β Certain sectors, such as cash-based businesses, are audited more frequently.
- Random selection β Some audits occur as part of CRAβs routine review process.
If youβve received a CRA audit notice, itβs crucial to act quickly and seek professional assistance to ensure a smooth audit process and avoid costly penalties.
Our CRA Audit Support Services
At Lepore & Company, we provide comprehensive audit representation and support, helping you respond to CRA inquiries and ensure compliance.
1. CRA Audit Representation
Dealing with the CRA can be overwhelming, but you donβt have to go through it alone. Our tax experts act as your authorized representatives, handling all communication and negotiations with the CRA on your behalf. We ensure that you provide the right documentation and responses, minimizing potential penalties or reassessments.
Our audit representation services include:
- Reviewing the CRA audit request and understanding the scope of the audit.
- Gathering and organizing all required financial records and tax filings.
- Preparing responses to CRA inquiries and requests for additional information.
- Ensuring that your rights as a taxpayer are protected throughout the audit process.
- Negotiating with CRA auditors to resolve tax disputes efficiently.
Our goal is to streamline the audit process and ensure a favorable outcome while reducing stress and financial risks for you and your business.
2. CRA Reassessments and Objections
If the CRA reassesses your tax return and issues additional tax liabilities, penalties, or interest, you have the right to challenge the reassessment through a formal objection process. We analyze the reassessment, determine if errors have been made, and prepare a well-supported objection to dispute the CRAβs findings.
Our CRA reassessment services include:
- Reviewing the CRAβs reassessment to identify discrepancies.
- Preparing and filing an objection with the CRAβs Appeals Division.
- Gathering supporting evidence to strengthen your case.
- Negotiating with CRA representatives for a fair resolution.
A successful tax objection can reduce or eliminate additional tax liabilities, saving your business thousands of dollars.
3. CRA Tax Appeals: Fighting Unfair Tax Decisions
If your objection is denied, you can escalate your case by filing an appeal with the Tax Court of Canada. Our team provides expert representation throughout the appeal process, ensuring that your case is presented effectively.
Our CRA tax appeal services include:
- Legal consultation on the best course of action.
- Preparing all necessary appeal documents and submissions.
- Representing you in negotiations with CRA Appeals Officers.
- Coordinating with tax lawyers, if necessary, for complex cases.
With our extensive knowledge of CRA regulations, tax laws, and appeal procedures, we work tirelessly to defend your case and achieve a favorable outcome.
How to Prepare for a CRA Audit or Dispute
Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk of CRA audits and disputes. Our team at Lepore & Company helps businesses and individuals maintain proper tax records, file accurate tax returns, and stay compliant with CRA regulations.
- Maintain accurate financial records β Keep all invoices, receipts, and bank statements organized.
- File taxes on time β Avoid late filings that could raise red flags with the CRA.
- Claim only legitimate deductions β Ensure all business expenses are justifiable.
- Seek professional tax guidance β Work with an experienced tax accountant to minimize errors.
By staying compliant and proactively managing tax obligations, you can lower the chances of an audit and avoid unnecessary disputes.
Why Choose Lepore & Company for CRA Audit & Appeals Services?
- Over 30 Years of Experience β Trusted tax professionals with deep expertise in CRA audits and appeals.
- Full-Service Representation β We handle all CRA communications, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.
- Customized Tax Strategies β We develop tailored solutions to protect your financial interests.
- Proven Track Record β Successfully resolving tax disputes and minimizing liabilities for businesses and individuals.
- Confidential & Professional β Your financial information is handled with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.
Whether you need assistance with a CRA audit, are facing a tax reassessment, or need to appeal an unfair tax decision, Lepore & Company is here to help.
Need Help with a CRA Audit or Tax Appeal? Contact Us Today!
If youβve received a CRA audit notice, tax reassessment, or need to appeal a tax decision, donβt navigate it alone. Our experienced tax professionals at Lepore & Company are ready to protect your rights, minimize your tax liabilities, and resolve disputes efficiently.
Contact us today!