Don’t rush. Respond promptly to a notification of audit, but don’t hesitate to ask for a postponement if you need time to gather records.

Don’t lie. Answer questions truthfully, but don’t volunteer information that isn’t asked for.

Be friendly. A positive attitude will go a long way.

Keep good records. The burden of proof is initially on you.

Keep records for at least three years.

Educate yourself. Read IRS Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer. You can order this and other tax forms and publications by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676 or visiting www.irs.gov.

Ask for help. Call or visit the IRS for help in preparation of your tax return. Refer to your 1040 instruction booklet for a directory of telephone numbers, for recorded information or "live" help.

Don’t let the auditor keep your original documents.

Appeal the audit if you disagree with the findings.

Come clean. If you know one of your deductions is unsupportable, admit it and pay the tax.

If you have prepared your tax return truthfully and have saved receipts to back up your deductions, notice of an IRS audit should not make you unduly nervous. IRS employees, after all, are only doing the job we pay them to do.