If you’re asking yourself, “How long does it take for an IRS audit?” you're not alone. The audit process can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t know what to expect. 

Although every audit is different, there are typical timelines and common factors that can speed things up—or slow them down. Whether you’re facing a mail audit or an in-depth field review, knowing the average timeframes and key influences helps you stay calm, prepared, and in control.

How Long Does It Take for an IRS Audit on Average?

So, how long does it take for an IRS audit to finish? The length of time an IRS audit takes can vary, but it largely depends on the type of audit being conducted. There are three primary types: correspondence audits, office audits, and field audits. 

Correspondence audits—typically the fastest—are handled through the mail and usually resolve within 3 to 6 months. These focus on straightforward issues like missing documents or simple discrepancies. Office audits, which involve meeting with an IRS representative at a local office, often take between 6 to 12 months to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.

Field audits, on the other hand, are the most thorough and time-consuming. In these cases, IRS agents may visit your home, business, or your accountant's office to conduct an extensive review of your financial records. Field audits can take a year or longer, especially if your tax return includes multiple income streams, large deductions, or complicated transactions. 

What Influences How Long an IRS Audit Takes?

While the timelines above offer general guidance, it's important to remember that additional factors can also significantly influence how long an audit ultimately takes. Some of the most common factors include:

• Complexity of Your Return: If your return includes multiple income streams, real estate, or large deductions, expect more scrutiny.

• Responsiveness: Delays often occur when taxpayers don’t respond quickly or fail to submit the requested information.

• Type of Audit: As mentioned above, field audits are more time-consuming. They require planning, scheduling, and more documentation.

• IRS Workload: Staffing shortages or backlogs within the IRS can extend your audit timeline beyond normal expectations.

• Third-Party Involvement: If the IRS needs to contact your employer, bank, or vendors, the process may take longer.

Understanding these factors is critical to managing your expectations and avoiding unnecessary stress.

How to Minimize Delays During an IRS Audit

If you’re currently being audited—or think you might be—there are steps you can take to reduce delays. Here’s how:

• Respond Quickly: Always answer IRS requests as soon as possible. Missed deadlines can stall your case.

• Be Thorough: Provide all the required documents in a clear, organized format.

• Hire Help: Consider working with a tax professional or attorney who specializes in IRS audits.

• Avoid Mid-Audit Amendments: Changing your tax return during the audit can introduce new issues.

By staying responsive and organized, you can help resolve the audit faster.

Managing IRS Audit Timelines

So, how long does it take for an IRS audit to become a problem? If months pass with little communication or repeated document requests, it might be time to act. Escalating concerns to a tax lawyer or legal service may be the best move.

Whether you’re facing an IRS audit or just hoping to find affordable legal support for your small business, LegalFix is your go-to source for free legal information—and a hand-picked network of business attorneys in your state who will provide initial legal advice at no additional charge—plus small business legal services at reduced rates if you have a LegalFix Small Business Legal Plan.

You can also find helpful articles and state-specific explanations of nearly 1,600 legal topics—or browse state and federal statutes to better understand the laws that affect you—all at LegalFix.com.