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.

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• (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

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

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This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

Recorded live from the New Orleans Tax Forum, Roger and Annie sit down with Maggie Romaniello from IRS Stakeholder Liaison to discuss this often overlooked but crucial IRS department. Maggie explains how Stakeholder Liaison serves as an advocate for tax professionals and their clients, handling everything from systemic issues like erroneous extension letters to data breach incidents and disaster response. The conversation reveals how practitioners can access this free resource directly through the IRS website and highlights the department's role in pushing for technological improvements like online accounts and streamlined processes.

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• (00:00) - Introduction and Setting the Scene
• (01:02) - Overview of IRS Tax Forums
• (01:37) - Special Guest: Maggie Romaniello from Stakeholder Liaison
• (03:07) - History and Evolution of Stakeholder Liaison
• (04:57) - Current Challenges and Changes in Stakeholder Liaison
• (05:53) - Addressing Practitioner Issues and Communication
• (16:05) - How to Contact Stakeholder Liaison
• (19:55) - Introduction to Data Safetys
• (22:07) - Steps to Take After a Data Breach
• (24:00) - IRS Support and Resources
• (25:12) - State-Specific Requirements for Data Breaches
• (27:11) - The Importance of Online Accounts
• (28:45) - Setting Up and Using IRS Online Accounts
• (37:28) - Power of Attorney and Tax Pro Accounts
• (42:31) - Handling Disasters and IRS Outreach

Connect with Maggie
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-romaniello-5189758a

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
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Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All content from this podcast by SmallBizPros, Inc. DBA PADGETT BUSINESS SERVICES is intended for informational purposes only.

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.

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• (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

Connect with Thad Inge
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thad-inge-9342155
Website: https://www.vsadc.com/

Connect with the Hosts on LinkedIn
Roger Harris
Annie Schwab

Review
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser

Subscribe
Subscribe to the Federal Tax Updates podcast in your favorite podcast app!

This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

The full transcript for this episode is available by clicking on the Transcript tab at the top of this page

All 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.

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• (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

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Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

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Annie and Roger break down the political maneuvering around the "big beautiful bill" extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, explaining why seemingly simple provisions like no tax on tips and overtime could create major headaches for the 2026 filing season. They examine proposed IRS budget cuts of 37% and workforce reductions of 20% at the same time new tax complexities are being added. The hosts also celebrate the success of the 2025 filing season while questioning whether similar results are possible given the challenges ahead, including new Commissioner Billy Long's appointment and the ongoing uncertainty about when and what form the final legislation will take.

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• (00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
• (02:14) - The Big Beautiful Bill: An Overview
• (02:37) - Republican and Democrat Perspectives
• (04:04) - Understanding Cuts and Dynamic Scoring
• (06:10) - Medicare and Eligibility Changes
• (08:23) - State and Local Tax Deduction Debate
• (11:13) - House vs. Senate: Political Dynamics
• (17:24) - New Proposals: Tips, Overtime, and More
• (29:16) - Temporary Tax Law and Its Implications
• (33:55) - Challenges with No Tax on Overtime
• (39:34) - Successful 2025 Filing Season Recap
• (44:45) - Proposed Budget Cuts and Their Impact
• (51:44) - New IRS Leadership and Future Outlook
• (56:43) - Conclusion and Future Updates

Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

Review
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This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media

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.

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• (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

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Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

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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.

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• (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

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Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

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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.

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• (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

Connect with the Roger and Annie on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerharrispbs/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-schwab-852418261/

Review
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Subscribe
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This podcast is a production of the Earmark Media