Kevin O'Leary's Bold Stance: How IRS Audits Could Spell Disaster for Small Businesses
"Only 2.9%" — Dive into Kevin O'Leary's concerns over IRS audit provisions that could target small businesses, impacting their growth and capital access.

Kevin O’Leary Sounds the Alarm
“Only 2.9%” — This striking figure has become the lynchpin in Kevin O’Leary’s impassioned critique of proposed IRS audit provisions. During a Fox Business interview posted on his Instagram, the Shark Tank investor expressed his apprehensions over potential legislative changes that could dramatically impact millions of small businesses across America.
The Pillars of Small Business at Risk
O’Leary, empathetic to the heartbeat of small businesses, warns of the long shadows cast by prolonged IRS audits. As stated in Sportskeeda, he emphasizes that businesses employing five to 500 individuals — constituting 62% of new job creation — are at risk. By ensuring compliance, the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) was a lifeline, yet these new provisions could recast this lifeline into a snare of nine-year audits.
Why the Numbers Tell a Different Story
At the heart of O’Leary’s argument lies data from the IRS. Contrary to the dubious portrayal of the ERC as a haven for fraud, only 2.9% of cases have been implicated. According to Sportskeeda, O’Leary claims this figure clearly endorses the legitimacy and necessity of the ERC for pandemic-stricken businesses. He asserts that extending audits can impede capital flow, leaving lending entities wary.
Entrepreneurial Spirit Under Siege
O’Leary resonates with entrepreneurs, having secured ERC funds for numerous companies. The legislative overreach, he argues, portrays programs like ERC negatively and could stifle entrepreneurial growth, dampening the vibrant spirit that energizes America.
A Call to Action on Capitol Hill
Catalyzed into advocacy, O’Leary transforms his concerns into actions, speaking with senators directly. He underscores the redundancy of increased audit powers for the IRS, advocating instead for fostering business-friendly environments. As he continues to push for legislative amendments, his message remains clear — such burdens can stall progress.
It’s crucial for small businesses to have champions like O’Leary in their corner. As the discourse unfolds, the anticipation of change lies in his determined footsteps on Capitol Hill.