A tax audit is an examination of an individual's or organization's financial records by a tax authority, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. The purpose of a tax audit is to ensure that the reported income, expenses, and deductions are accurate and comply with tax laws. Audits can be random or triggered by discrepancies in tax returns. During a tax audit, the taxpayer may be required to provide documentation, such as receipts and bank statements, to support their claims. The audit process can vary in length and complexity, depending on the issues being reviewed. If discrepancies are found, the taxpayer may owe additional taxes, penalties, or interest.