As the calendar turns to 2025, the IRS is rolling out stricter audit procedures that directly affect self-employed retirees. These changes are part of a broader push to ensure compliance in the gig economy and among individuals who earn income outside traditional employment. For retirees supplementing Social Security with freelance work, consulting, or small businesses, the new rules mean greater scrutiny of tax filings.
While audits are designed to catch errors and fraud, they also create stress and financial risk for older taxpayers. Here are the eight key areas where stricter IRS audits are emerging this year.
