Sales Tax Audit Representation that’s calm, strategic, and documentation-first.
If you received a CDTFA audit notice (or the audit is already in progress), we help you control the process, challenge weak methodology, and present clean support—without turning your business upside down.
What we handle
Audit defense isn’t just “sending documents.” It’s managing scope, methodology, and support so the result reflects the real taxable measure.
Audit Representation
Responding to IDRs, managing auditor requests, and building organized support that reduces friction and exposure.
Sampling & Projection Review
Stress-testing samples, error rates, and projections; challenging assumptions when the method doesn’t fit your business.
Appeals & Dispute Support
Issue framing, position letters, rebuttals, and appeal-ready documentation when agreement can’t be reached.
How it works
A simple process that keeps you informed, minimizes disruption, and creates leverage with clear documentation.
Intake & risk triage
We identify the audit issues, timeline, and the fastest way to reduce exposure.
Records strategy
We create a focused records plan so you produce what matters—without over-sharing.
Defense package
We build clean support and issue memos that directly address the audit method.
Negotiate & resolve
We push for corrected methodology, credits, and fair treatment—then escalate if needed.
I work with California businesses facing CDTFA audits and audit inquiries, applying an auditor’s perspective to evaluate exposure, challenge methodology, and resolve matters efficiently.
- Nearly 10 years as a California sales tax auditor
- About 2 years as a California sales tax collector
- Enrolled Agent (EA) authorized to represent taxpayers before the IRS and California taxing agencies
Proof: real audit outcomes, responsibly shared
The following anonymized examples illustrate audit analysis and dispute strategy.
A business owner received a desk audit inquiry related to worker classification following a complaint from a former employee. Based on the scope and structure of the notice, we identified the inquiry as preliminary rather than a fully developed audit.
Using prior audit experience, we assessed enforcement risk and guided the client through an appropriate, measured response. The matter closed without a formal audit or assessment.
A California business was selected for CDTFA audit following reported differences in gross sales. Prior to fieldwork, we analyzed the client’s data from an auditor’s perspective to estimate exposure and identify likely audit focus areas.
After addressing the CDTFA’s specific questions regarding sales discrepancies, the audit concluded with a No Opinion Warranted determination and no further action.
A California business underwent a complex CDTFA audit involving disputed assumptions, methodology questions, and the application of tax law.
We reviewed the audit approach from an auditor’s perspective, identified methodological and legal issues, and developed structured, issue-by-issue rebuttals supported by organized documentation as the matter progressed into formal dispute and appeal channels.
FAQ
These are the questions prospects ask before they book.
Is it too late to get help if the audit already started?
No. The earlier the better, but we can often improve outcomes even mid-audit—especially around sampling, projections, and documentation quality.
Will you communicate directly with the auditor?
Yes (when you authorize us). We manage requests, timelines, and responses so you stay focused on running the business.
What do you need from me to start?
The audit notice (or current IDR list), your sales channels, and access to the key records the auditor is focusing on (POS, bank, sales summaries, invoices).
Do you help with appeals?
Yes. If resolution isn’t possible at the audit level, we help frame issues and prepare appeal-ready documentation.