Sales and use tax audits present huge challenges to large, middle market and small companies alike. Whether you are a multi-million dollar manufacturer or a corner liquor store, the sales tax auditor will eventually show up. STRG has successfully defended hundreds of companies before the California State Board of Equalization, as well as other state agencies around the country, resulting in millions of dollars worth of reductions in audit liabilities for our clients.
Our success stems from a two-pronged approach to the audit. In addition to contesting items scheduled in the audit working papers, we uncover hidden credits and overpayments of sales or use tax which can be used to offset the audit liability. Because auditors are paid to assess tax, these hidden credits are often overlooked. As a result, even when an audit liability appears rock solid, there is usually an opportunity to decrease the audit assessment.
At the outset of the engagement, we will tailor an audit defense strategy to fit your specific needs. We offer sales and use tax audit defense services beginning with a pre-audit review all the way through the appeals process, settlement, or formal hearing before the Members of the Board of Equalization or appropriate state agency. We also provide sales and use tax consulting services, such as legal research and requests for opinion.
We are successful because we have experience as former California State Board of Equalization audit staff. We know how sales tax auditors think and the best ways to minimize or offset audit deficiencies. We also have experience working for some of the largest “Big 4″ accounting firms in the world.
The best time to involve us is before the auditor arrives; however, we can reduce the liability at any stage, even after the audit liability has been paid.
Call us immediately regarding any sales tax audit or liability. Many audit representations can be performed on a “recovery based” fee arrangement. That is, our fees can often be based on the reduction in the liability so you only pay a fee if the audit liability is reduced.
Key Benefits
* Sales Tax Auditors and “Big 4″ Public Accounting Experience
* Credits will be Uncovered to Offset Liability
* Contingent or “Recovery Based” Fees (i.e., no recovery, no fee)
