Federal Tax Updates

Andres Costa and Emily Goodman have acquired four accounting practices since 2021, expanding from a single location to five offices with a team of ten. They break down their acquisition strategy, from finding deals and structuring payment terms to handling employee transitions and raising client fees. Roger and Annie dig into the hard realities of practice valuations, including why a $350,000 firm might only be worth $200,000 and what sellers need to fix before they can command top dollarSponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff PhillipsGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Greetings (00:52) - Meet the Special Guests: Andre and Emily (01:55) - The Importance of Acquiring Firms (02:46) - Starting the Acquisition Journey (07:11) - First Acquisition Experiences (13:16) - Evaluating Potential Firms (26:20) - Maintaining and Scaling Operations (33:22) - Structuring Acquisition Deals (33:59) - Client Retention Strategies (35:18) - Evaluating Firm Value (37:03) - Challenges with Small Firms (40:15) - Owner Financing Benefits (48:17) - Raising Client Fees (51:02) - Transitioning Clients and Employees (59:32) - Final Advice for Buyers and Sellers Follow the Federal Tax Updates Podcast on Social Mediatwitter.com/FedTaxPodfacebook.com/FedTaxPodlinkedin.com/showcase/fedtaxpodConnect 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.

Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel and longtime agency communications chief Terry Lemons join Roger and Annie for a candid Thanksgiving conversation about the mounting challenges facing the agency heading into the 2026 filing season. The discussion covers budget cuts, staffing reductions, the lingering ERC backlog, and why a hollowed-out compliance function puts both taxpayers and tax professionals at greater risk.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff PhillipsGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Chapters(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (01:22) - Introducing Special Guests: Terry Lemons and Danny Werfel (02:33) - Danny's Post-IRS Journey (08:03) - Terry Lemons' Post-IRS Activities (12:27) - Challenges Facing the IRS and Tax Professionals (19:52) - The Importance of IRS Compliance and Modernization (30:50) - Concerns About Workforce Sustainability (31:56) - Employee Retention Credit Issues (32:37) - Fraud and Government Response (35:30) - Impact of Government Shutdown on IRS Programs (36:53) - IRS Performance and Resource Allocation (40:52) - Challenges in Tax Compliance and Enforcement (46:17) - Preparing for the Upcoming Tax Season (51:19) - College Football Predictions (53:53) - Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes Connect with Terry Lemonshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-lemons-77b3641a9Connect with Danny Werfelhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-werfel-89441594Follow the Federal Tax Updates Podcast on Social Mediatwitter.com/FedTaxPodfacebook.com/FedTaxPodlinkedin.com/showcase/fedtaxpodConnect with the Hosts on LinkedInRoger Harris - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/Annie Schwab - 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 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.

John Barucci joins the show to break down his real-life data breach. John thought he had all the right safeguards in place: cyber insurance, firewalls, security training, and a written information security plan. But a single click on what appeared to be a Social Security Administration email led to bad actors accessing nine client files, altering returns, and changing bank account information in just 38 minutes.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff PhillipsGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Greetings (00:56) - Current Events and Government Shutdown (01:56) - PTIN Renewal and Security Measures (02:59) - Introducing John Bucci's Story (04:34) - John Bucci's Cybersecurity Breach Experience (06:18) - Detailed Chronology of the Breach (18:38) - Immediate Actions Taken Post-Breach (22:14) - IRS and Software Company Responses (27:02) - Client Communication and Further Steps (30:34) - The Weight of Responsibility in Tax Practice (31:22) - The Importance of Having a Plan (32:28) - Immediate Actions Post-Breach (32:53) - Involvement of Thomson Reuters and Stopping the Breach (34:21) - Forensic Investigation and Legal Steps (35:48) - Cyber Insurance and Its Benefits (37:50) - IRS Practitioner Relief Program (43:27) - Final Reflections and Lessons Learned (50:02) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow the Federal Tax Updates Podcast on Social Mediatwitter.com/FedTaxPodfacebook.com/FedTaxPodlinkedin.com/showcase/fedtaxpodConnect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbarucciConnect 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 welcome Alan Pinck, EA and moderator of Tax Talk Today, for a wide-ranging conversation about his transition from hospitality management to tax representation work. Alan shares war stories from the days of preparing returns by hand, explains why treating IRS auditors with respect yields better outcomes than adversarial tactics, and discusses the critical differences between examination and collections work. The conversation covers everything from ghost preparers and ERC problems to building a year-round practice, teaching strategies, and why the most important day of tax season is April 16th.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff PhillipsConnect with Alanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-pinck-ea-1b29b66https://apincktax.com/ Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome (01:05) - Special Guest Introduction: Alan Pink (02:13) - Alan's Journey into Tax Profession (04:57) - Challenges and Anecdotes in Tax Preparation (13:09) - Representation and Audits (22:28) - Collections vs. Examination (29:12) - Current Issues and Credits (30:06) - Taxpayer Liability and Rule Changes (31:11) - Understanding Captive Insurance (33:35) - Advice for New Tax Professionals (34:33) - NAEA and Educational Programs (38:21) - Becoming a Tax Talk Moderator (41:36) - Challenges and Rewards of Live Shows (51:12) - Upcoming Speaking Engagements (53:19) - Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow the Federal Tax Updates Podcast on Social Mediatwitter.com/FedTaxPodfacebook.com/FedTaxPodlinkedin.com/showcase/fedtaxpodConnect 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 sit down with Blake Oliver, founder of Earmark, to cut through the AI confusion. Blake explains why AI is more like a brilliant Harvard-trained intern with amnesia than a tax professional replacement, sharing practical applications from document organization to quality control that can work in firms today. The conversation explores which AI tools are worth trying, why voice mode changes everything, and why tax professionals who start experimenting now are still early adopters, not late to the party.SponsorsPadgett -  Contact Padgett or Email Jeff PhillipsGet NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Chapters(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates (01:19) - Guest Introduction: Blake Oliver (03:27) - Diving into AI: Initial Thoughts and Comparisons (07:58) - Understanding AI and Its Limitations (15:47) - Effective Use of AI in Accounting (21:41) - Choosing the Right AI Tools (24:49) - Security and Cost Considerations (30:46) - Best Practices and Pitfalls in AI Usage (33:17) - AI Struggles with Tax Complexity (34:34) - Human Verification in Tax Analysis (35:01) - AI's Limitations and Cost (36:29) - Misconceptions About AI in Tax (40:25) - AI's Role in Administrative Tasks (41:47) - AI in Quality Control and Research (43:26) - AI in Radiology and Tax (50:10) - Future of AI in Transportation (53:05) - AI in Manufacturing and Economy (56:17) - Adapting to AI in the Accounting Industry (57:21) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow the Federal Tax Updates Podcast on Social Mediatwitter.com/FedTaxPodfacebook.com/FedTaxPodlinkedin.com/showcase/fedtaxpodConnect with Blake Oliver https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaketoliverConnect 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.

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.