Chances of Audit

[johngilchristm]

Last year I was able to get my return analyzed before I filed it to see what the chances of getting audited were.  Can I still do that?

[AnthonyC]

The Audit Risk Meter was removed from the online version this year.  It does remain in the desktop version.  To be frank, most audits on individuals are random (and its a very low percentage) and the IRS doesn't make it publicly known what criteria they use to determine audits.  However, your "risk" will generally increase with the more schedules you have showing losses, especially when claiming losses against ordinary income, or when you have substantial underreported income.  Of course, you should always file a complete and accurate return, even if something might cause a "flag."