Preparing for a review of a previously filed return

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Filing questions

By Accounting Services · Published September 30, 2026

A return review starts with a question, not a promised refund. Explain what prompted the review: a document discovered later, an unexplained figure or a concern about how information was used. Keep your description factual until the records are examined.

Preserve the filed version

Locate the return that was actually submitted, including available schedules and related correspondence. Separate it from drafts or worksheets. If you are unsure which version was filed, tell the reviewer rather than labeling the newest file as the final return.

Connect the concern to a record

Make a short list pairing each question with the document behind it. For example, identify the year and source of a statement you believe was missing. Avoid changing the original return or annotating over important figures; put your questions in a separate note.

Agree on the review scope

Ask whether the work covers one issue or the full return, and whether federal and state filings are included. Reviewing a return and preparing a correction are different pieces of work. Discuss fees, timing and next steps before assuming that both are part of the same engagement.

The IRS emphasizes reviewing returns for accuracy. A professional review may confirm an existing treatment, identify a need for more information or lead to further work. Request a consultation to explain the concern without assuming a particular financial outcome.

Source and further reading

IRS: Choosing a tax return preparer. General preparation information; your engagement and filing requirements depend on your circumstances.

What happens next

Tell ASI what you need help with. Start with your contact information and add optional context.