Federal Tax Updates

Drawing from insights gathered at five IRS tax forums this year, Roger and Annie are joined by Jeff, Amanda, and Katarina to tackle the three most pressing challenges facing small accounting firms. From remote hiring strategies to why 90% of clients accept fee increases to essential marketing basics, this episode shows how hiring, pricing, and marketing work together to create a thriving, sellable practice. Whether you're drowning in capacity issues or preparing for eventual retirement, these proven strategies offer a roadmap out of the daily grind.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (01:10) - Overview of Today's Podcast (01:27) - Insights from IRS Forums (02:43) - Key Challenges in the Industry (04:20) - Deep Dive into Hiring Issues Pricing Strategies and Challenges (07:38) - Introducing Jeff Phillips on Hiring (08:53) - Remote Work and Hiring (28:41) - Introduction and Struggles with Pricing (29:10) - Linking Pricing to Hiring Challenges (30:08) - Consequences of Poor Pricing (31:55) - Implementing a Pricing System (33:35) - Client Reactions to Price Increases (36:16) - Timing and Strategy for Raising Fees (46:31) - Marketing and Growth Strategies (48:07) - Importance of Online Presence (50:52) - Leveraging Reviews and Referrals (01:01:33) - Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Hosts on LinkedInRoger HarrisAnnie SchwabReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of Earmark MediaThe full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this pageAll content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Roger and Annie break down the preliminary list of occupations qualifying for tax-free tips, including some unexpected entries like plumbers and digital creators. They discuss the compliance headaches ahead with retroactive implementation but no updated forms until 2026. The conversation shifts to serious concerns about proposed IRS budget cuts and workforce reductions that could undermine tax enforcement when it's needed most.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Introduction and Greetings (01:25) - Upcoming Tax Deadlines (02:41) - No Tax on Tips: New Guidelines (04:16) - Industries and Occupations Affected (12:25) - Compliance and Documentation Challenges (16:24) - W-4 and W-2 Form Changes (26:04) - Call to Action: Comment on Proposed Forms (30:27) - Upcoming Changes to W2 Forms (31:16) - New Codes for Tips and Overtime (33:38) - IRS Budget Cuts and Workforce Reduction (36:42) - Impact of Budget Cuts on IRS Operations (39:29) - Challenges in IRS Enforcement and Compliance (48:12) - The Role of Practitioners and IRS Communication (55:00) - Future of IRS and Tax Law Changes (56:40) - Conclusion and Listener Engagement Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Hosts on LinkedInRoger HarrisAnnie SchwabReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark MediaThe full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this pageAll content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Roger and Annie break down the aftermath of Commissioner Billy Long's abrupt departure to become Ambassador to Iceland, leaving Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as acting commissioner amid widespread IRS staff cuts and uncertainty. They also explore the massive 900+ page "Big Beautiful Bill" (2025 Act), covering everything from permanent individual tax rate changes and Trump savings accounts for children to the new tip and overtime tax exclusions that expire in 2028. The discussion also covers significant business provisions like permanent QBI deductions, higher 1099 thresholds, and the systematic elimination of energy credits through 2028.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome o Federal Tax Updates (01:03) - Recap of Previous Podcast with IRS Stakeholder Liaison (01:53) - Discussion on IRS Forums and Observations (06:14) - Changes in IRS Leadership (09:19) - Impact of IRS Leadership Changes on Operations (19:08) - Big Beautiful Bill Overview (28:05) - Individual Tax Changes in the 2025 Act (31:28) - Changes to Standard Deductions and Itemization (33:26) - Paid Leave and Adoption Credits (35:26) - New Trump Accounts and Education Savings (39:50) - Tax Benefits for Workers: Tips and Overtime (46:31) - Senior Tax Benefits and Auto Loan Interest Deduction (47:57) - Business Tax Provisions: QBI Deduction and Depreciation (52:44) - Energy Credits and Their Phase-Out (56:42) - Political Implications and Conclusion Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Hosts on LinkedInRoger HarrisAnnie SchwabReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark MediaThe full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this pageAll content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Maggie Romaniello from the IRS Stakeholder Liaison serves as a crucial advocate for tax professionals and clients. She discusses how the Liaison addresses systemic issues like erroneous extension letters and data breaches. The conversation highlights practical steps for tax preparers to report breaches and utilize online accounts for better security. Maggie also emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration between tax professionals and the IRS, especially during disasters, to ensure a streamlined resolution process.

Washington DC tax expert Thad Inge joins the show again for a deep dive into the Big Beautiful Bill.  He breaks down the tax legislation that extends TCJA provisions and introduces new benefits like tax-free tips and overtime. Together with Annie and Roger, they explore the surprising speed of the political process, the complex implementation challenges ahead, and what small business owners and individuals need to know right now. From ERC changes to new car loan deductions, this comprehensive breakdown separates the reality from the hype surrounding one of the most significant tax bills in recent years.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (02:14) - Overview of the Big Beautiful Bill (02:43) - The Legislative Process and Political Dynamics (06:53) - Key Provisions and Extensions in the Bill (09:33) - Tax Policy vs. Political Strategy (11:33) - State and Local Tax (SALT) Debate (17:25) - Cost and Budget Considerations (26:24) - New Tax Provisions: Tips and Overtime (29:07) - Implementation Challenges and Guidance (34:18) - Transition Relief and State Standards (37:16) - Overtime and Salary Dynamics (38:17) - IRS Withholding Rules (42:24) - Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Updates (48:17) - Business Deductions and Expensing (52:22) - New Tax Provisions for Seniors and Car Loans (54:59) - Energy Credits and Legislative Negotiations (56:35) - Final Thoughts and Future Outlook Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with Thad IngeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thad-inge-9342155Website: https://www.vsadc.com/Connect with the Hosts on LinkedInRoger HarrisAnnie SchwabReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark MediaThe full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this pageAll content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Tax professional data breaches have exploded in 2025, with 327 reported incidents affecting over 342,000 taxpayers in just half a year. Glenn Gizzy, a 36-year IRS veteran now specializing in data breach prevention, reveals the sophisticated tactics criminals use to infiltrate tax practices. From phishing emails disguised as client referrals, to hackers who wait until returns are filed before changing bank account information. This conversation covers essential protection measures including Written Information Security Plans (WISP), IP PINs, proper cyber insurance coverage, and the critical steps to take immediately after discovering a breach.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Introduction and Greetings (02:21) - Today's Guest and Topic: Scams and Data Breaches (02:56) - IRS Statistics on Data Breaches (05:33) - Common Scams and How They Work (09:48) - Phishing Emails and Ransomware (14:51) - Fake Charities and Donation Scams (17:30) - Refund Thefts and Data Breaches (21:28) - IRS Communication and Taxpayer Awareness (30:10) - Signs of a Data Breach for Practitioners (32:42) - Immediate Steps After a Data Breach (34:32) - Multi-Step Process and Insurance Involvement (37:42) - Filing Returns After a Breach (40:54) - Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) (48:10) - Written Information Security Plan (WISP) (53:06) - Protecting EFIN, PTIN, and CAF Numbers (55:25) - Final Thoughts and Conclusion Connect with Glennhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-gizzi-4b6ab5205Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

Annie and Roger dissect the political drama surrounding a significant tax bill, highlighting both Republican and Democrat perspectives. They delve into the potential chaos from new provisions like tax regulations on tips and overtime wages. The conversation turns to proposed IRS budget cuts and their likely impact on the upcoming filing season. They reflect on the successes of the last tax season while questioning if similar outcomes are viable under new leadership and a complex regulatory environment.

Giles Pearson, co-founder of Accountests and former PwC partner, shares how one disastrous hire led him to revolutionize recruiting in the accounting profession. The conversation explores why traditional hiring methods fail, how skills and personality testing can predict job success, and reveals the shocking statistics about resume dishonesty. Roger and Annie also dive into New Zealand's streamlined tax system where 90% of taxpayers never file returns, sparking a fascinating debate about whether such simplicity could ever work in the United States.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (01:40) - Introducing the Guest: Gilles Pearson (03:06) - Challenges in Hiring and the Birth of Accountests (05:10) - The Importance of Testing in Hiring (08:13) - The Role of Personality and Skills Tests (13:57) - Developing Effective Tests for Accountants (24:29) - Personality Profiles and Team Dynamics (31:33) - Using Tests for Employee Development (34:35) - Succession Planning in Smaller Firms (36:50) - Accountant Stereotypes and Communication Challenges (40:42) - The Role of Personal Interaction in Accounting (44:56) - Streamlined Hiring Process with Account Tests (48:56) - Comparing Tax Systems: US vs New Zealand (56:56) - Final Thoughts and Farewell Connect with Giles Pearson https://nz.linkedin.com/in/giles-pearson-fca-8a175843https://www.accountests.com/Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel joins Roger and Annie for a wide-ranging conversation about his tenure leading the nation's tax agency during a period of unprecedented funding and modernization efforts. Werfel discusses the challenges of rebuilding IRS operations, his decision to resign during the transition to Trump, and his concerns about maintaining tax system stability while pursuing automation and reform. Using memorable analogies—from unpowered refrigerators to football stadiums under construction—he offers frank insights into what it takes to run a healthy tax system and why strong tax administration is essential for economic stability.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel to Federal Tax Updates (03:21) - Commissioner's Background and Expertise (07:01) - Challenges and Opportunities at the IRS (11:27) - IRS Modernization and Future Vision (23:27) - The Importance of a Tax System (28:59) - Why Commissioner Werfel Left the IRS (30:56) - Navigating the Transition Period (31:30) - Seeking Guidance from the Incoming Treasury Secretary (34:30) - The Importance of Listening and Feedback (42:41) - Challenges with the Employee Retention Credit (49:58) - What Changes Would You Implement if You Had Total Control (53:47) - Future Plans and Reflections (56:09) - Georgia Football and Final Thoughts Danny Werfel https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-werfel-89441594Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

Roger and Annie discuss important tax updates that occurred during the busy tax season, including new IRS guidance on Employee Retention Credits and the current status of Beneficial Ownership Information reporting requirements. They explore the significant staffing challenges and leadership turnover at the IRS, with insights from Roger's recent visit to Washington DC. The hosts then shift focus to post-tax season priorities for practitioners, offering advice on evaluating software, optimizing client relationships, and implementing strategies to improve profitability and efficiency for the next filing season.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome Back to Federal Tax Updates (01:46) - Post-Tax Season Reflections (03:02) - Employee Retention Credit Updates (12:04) - Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting (18:43) - Current Legislative Landscape in DC (25:22) - IRS Staffing and Morale Issues (31:25) - Challenges Facing the IRS (37:15) - Post-Tax Season Business Strategies (41:56) - Client Management and Pricing Strategies (46:59) - Maximizing Client Relationships and Billing Opportunities (50:55) - Preparing for the Next Tax Season (52:34) - Summer Plans and Final Thoughts Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/ReviewLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or PodchaserSubscribeSubscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media