<\/span><\/h3>\nRevenue Audits are now an integral part of the taxation system.\u00a0 They complement the system of self-assessment and promote voluntary compliance.\u00a0 The function is to detect and deter noncompliance.<\/p>\n
The purpose of an audit is to determine the accuracy of returns of tax liability, tax payments and claims for repayment.\u00a0 They may identify additional liabilities, in which event the unpaid tax or overpaid repayment may be charged together with interest and penalties.<\/p>\n
Remedial action may be required by the taxpayer on foot of an audit where irregularities and errors are discovered in the course of the audit.\u00a0 In the case of significant tax evasion, reference may be made to the investigations and prosecutions division of the Revenue Commissioners.<\/p>\n
Audits may be undertaken randomly.\u00a0 Purely random audits are less common. More commonly, they may be based on profiling, \u00a0information received or on examination of returns. An audit may be undertaken by an individual or by a group of auditors.\u00a0 This will depend on the nature of the business and its complexity.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Profiling<\/span><\/h3>\nRevenue operate a risk evaluation analysis and profiling system.\u00a0 There are a series of principles built into the system, which are constantly adjusted in order to identify high-risk cases of evasion and under-declaration. Revenue takes into account matters such as<\/p>\n
\n- the reconciliation of VAT returns with other income returns, the returns of other traders;<\/li>\n
- the difference in margins with similar \u00a0businesses in the sector;<\/li>\n
- low drawings and salaries;<\/li>\n
- abnormally high overheads;<\/li>\n
- loans to company participators;<\/li>\n
- unexplained capital changes;<\/li>\n
- poor compliance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n