E-commerce · Evidence

Tax return and management-account comparison

Published · Reviewed by The Diligence Standard Team · Updated

Tax filings do not prove current earnings, but differences from management accounts should have a documented bridge.

Records to reconcile

  • Filed returns and supporting schedules
  • Monthly management P&Ls
  • Book-to-tax reconciliation

Warning signal

Revenue, payroll or owner compensation differs materially without a credible explanation.

Transaction impact

Earnings quality and add-back support may weaken.

Response

Prepare a period-specific bridge and send tax conclusions to the appropriate tax professional.