With Audit Defense, you’ll never face the IRS alone.
Backed by experts at
Even if your return is accurate, audits can still happen. With Audit Defense*, experts handle the IRS for you — so you don’t have to.
Starting at
$49.99
Get StartedWith Audit Defense, you’ll never face the IRS alone.
Even if your return is accurate, audits can still happen. With Audit Defense*, experts handle the IRS for you — so you don’t have to.
Starting at
$49.99
Get Started
What’s included with Audit Defense:
Resolution Strategy
Protection Plus creates a tailored plan to address your audit effectively.
IRS & State Contact
Experts handle all communication with tax authorities on your behalf.
Correspondence Prep
Your team drafts and submits every letter or response needed for your case.
Credit & Debt Support
Get help resolving denied credits or negotiating tax debt relief.
HOW IT WORKS
From first letter to final resolution, every step is handled.
Don’t panic if you get a notice.
Your Audit Defense protection lasts for three years after filing, so if the IRS or State contacts you, Protection Plus is there to help.
Contact Protection Plus to open your case.
Enroll in Audit Defense when you file your return. Once enrolled, getting help is simple: just call the toll-free number (866-942-8348) or register your case online.
To start your case, you’ll just need to provide a copy of your original tax return and any IRS or State correspondence.
A specialist is assigned to your case.
Your case is assigned to a dedicated tax audit specialist who manages the details. Behind them is a full-time team that includes credentialed professionals such as Enrolled Agents and CPAs.
You receive end-to-end representation.
From denied credits to tax fraud or debt relief, your specialist handles all communication with the IRS or State until your case is fully resolved.
Choose a filing option that includes Audit Defense.
Free Federal
& Audit Defense
Start Filing~44% of TaxAct filers qualified last year based on income & deductions. See if you qualify.
$49.99
+ State Additional
Home & Family
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFor taxes that get more complex – like childcare and property.
Everything in Free plus:
$224.98
+ State Additional
Investments
& Audit Defense
Start FilingGood for those who earned income from investment assets.
Everything in Deluxe plus:
$144.98
+ State Additional
Entrepreneur
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFor business owners, freelancers, side hustlers, and gig workers.
Everything in Premier plus:
$159.98
+ State Additional
4.4 Stars
Real People. Real Reviews.
Easy to use...peace of mind
"I’ve used TaxAct for several years...I add the audit defense option, so I’m paying extra, but the peace of mind is worth it to me. Easy to file...and almost immediately receive confirmation...of acceptance of the return..." (edited for length)
Djoe Apr 12, 2025
Easy to use...peace of mind
"I've been using TaxAct for about 15 years...from 1040EZ up to self employment...It is still super easy to file and worth every penny...The audit defense feature is the very best. I will never use another tax preparation program." (edited for length)
ShayB Apr 10, 2025
Got it done
“Able to gather the information necessary and get everything put into the application correctly...One stop shopping. Signed up for audit defense...All good points for coming back again." (edited for length)
LittleMAR Mar 13, 2025
Get TaxAct’s All Inclusive bundle
Save with forms and tools to ease tax season* — 50% off when you qualify for Refund Transfer.
$179.97$294.95
Get Started*Bundle savings based on TaxAct a la carte pricing when you qualify for Refund Transfer.
¹ Refund Transfer is a fee-based product offered by Republic Bank & Trust Company, Member FDIC. A Refund Transfer Fee and all other authorized amounts will be deducted from the taxpayer’s tax refund.
Peace of mind for your business return.
Business audits can happen even when your return is accurate. With Audit Defense, Protection Plus specialists step in so you can stay focused on your business.
Peace of mind for your business return.
Business audits can happen even when your return is accurate. With Audit Defense, Protection Plus specialists step in so you can stay focused on your business.
You get full IRS & State audit representation.
A dedicated specialist manages all communication and paper with the IRS or State on your behalf.
Your business return is covered for three years.
Audit support applies to your federal and state business tax returns for up to three years after filing and applies to Forms 1065, 1120-S, 1120, and 1040 with Schedule C/F.
Need help beyond audits? You got it.
Audit Defense covers assistance with denied credits, tax debt resolution, and fraud-related issues.
Bundle your business return with Audit Defense.
Partnerships
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFile Form 1065 as a business with two or more partners.
$224.98
+ State Additional
S-Corporations
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFile Form 1120-S to pass income through to shareholders.
$239.98
+ State Additional
C-Corporations
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFile Form 1120 as a corporation taxed separately from officers.
$239.98
+ State Additional
Sole Proprietor
& Audit Defense
Start FilingFile Schedule C/F with Form 1040 as a self-employed individual.
$159.98
+ State Additional
Frequently Asked Questions
Audit Defense provides full-service assistance if your return is audited by the IRS or state. Even if your return is filed correctly, audits can still occur. With TaxAct, Audit Defense is powered by the experts at Protection Plus.