Substantial reduction of a proposed GST and QST assessment during an audit.

A large business was undergoing an audit by Revenu Québec. Alexandre was engaged to represent the business, coordinate responses to the auditor’s requests and defend its GST and QST positions.

After reviewing the information provided, the auditor issued a proposed assessment involving a significant potential tax liability. Before a final assessment was issued, each proposed adjustment had to be examined, weaknesses in the analysis identified and the positions most likely to affect the outcome developed.

Alexandre conducted a rigorous review of the proposed adjustments to identify the most consequential issues. He developed technically sound positions, focused on the arguments capable of having the greatest impact on the proposed assessment and led the representations and discussions with Revenu Québec.

In this matter, the combination of detailed analysis, well-supported technical positions and strategic management of the audit process reduced the amount initially proposed by approximately two thirds before the final assessment was issued.

Effective audit representation involves more than responding to document requests. It requires a precise understanding of the proposed adjustments, disciplined focus on the most important issues and technically sound arguments where they can have the greatest impact.