You’ve received that most dreaded piece of mail: A letter from the IRS informing you that you have been selected for a tax audit. Before you start imagining yourself serving time in the big house for tax fraud, remember that not all audits turn out badly. If you’ve kept good records, engaged in efficient financial planning and were honest on your tax return, the experience will likely be little more than an inconvenience. Here are a few simple steps you can take to help the IRS do its job as efficiently and painlessly as possible.

Death and taxes are unavoidable. Fortunately, it's possible to get help when dealing with the IRS. For many taxpayers, getting tax assistance can save money, time, and headaches. Whether you need to survive an audit, file a tax return, or make enough deductions to qualify for a big refund, here’s a guide to finding expert tax advice.