07/24/2026
Not all IRS audits focus on high-income taxpayers.
Many people are surprised to learn that taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) are audited at significantly higher rates than the average individual taxpayer. According to recent IRS data, EITC returns had an examination rate of approximately 0.8%, compared to 0.3% for all individual income tax returns.
The EITC is an important tax benefit for millions of working individuals and families. However, determining eligibility is often more complicated than people realize. Filing status, residency, income, and whether a child meets the IRS's qualifying child rules all play a role. Even honest mistakes or missing documentation can result in an audit.
We've represented taxpayers in IRS correspondence audits, and many are surprised to learn that these examinations are often conducted entirely by mail. The IRS may request school records, medical records, lease agreements, or other documentation to verify eligibility for the credit. Responding completely and on time is critical.
Importantly, claiming a tax credit is not simply about qualifying. It's also about being able to substantiate your eligibility if the IRS asks. Good recordkeeping before you file can make all the difference if an audit notice arrives months later.
Source: FinanceBuzz, "Lowest-Income Filers Were Audited Nearly 3 Times as Often as Everyone Else, According to Latest IRS Data."
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/taxes/lowest-income-filers-were-audited-nearly-3-times-as-often-as-everyone-else-according-to-latest-irs-data/ar-AA28n0bT
IRS data show low-income EITC filers face higher audit rates than average taxpayers, mostly by mail. Here's why that matters for working families now.