

Federal Tax Updates
Roger Harris, EA and Annie Schwab, CPA
CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and Tax Preparers can keep up-to-date with the latest federal tax information while earning NASBA approved CPE credits and IRS approved CE credits by listening to the bi-weekly Federal Tax Updates podcast. The hosts Roger Harris and Annie Schwab have over 75 years of tax experience between them, which has been featured in various media outlets including Wall Street Journal, USA Today, The Morning Business Report, Bloomberg Business News, and Accounting Today.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 25, 2024 • 54min
Charting Through the 2024 Tax Season Maelstrom
Tax professionals must steer through a complex maelstrom during the 2024 filing season. Roger and Annie serve as experienced guides, helping listeners chart a course around hazards like the Employee Retention Credit squalls, the revised "economic realities" path for worker classification under new Department of Labor rules, and proposed tax law changes including an enhanced Child Tax Credit and R&D deduction restart. With their steady hands on the bridge, preparers can safely navigate these choppy waters.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
(01:11) - Diving Into the Filing Season & Tax Updates
(12:26) - The IRS Perspective on Employee Classification
(17:04) - Navigating Section 530 Relief for Misclassification
(24:05) - The ERC Voluntary Program: A Lifeline for Businesses
(27:08) - The Future of ERC and Legislative Impacts
(30:49) - Navigating Tax Repayment and IRS Policies
(32:24) - Legislative Updates and Tax Season Insights
(36:20) - The Future of Tax Laws and Political Implications
(40:03) - Understanding Beneficial Ownership Reporting
(47:19) - Dealing with 1099K Forms and Client Advisories
(51:56) - Embracing Digital Shifts in Tax Documentation
(53:18) - Thanks for Listening and Parting 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 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.

Mar 12, 2024 • 57min
Corporate Transparency Act Ruled Unconstitutional
In this episode, Roger Harris is joined by special guest Blake Oliver to unpack some of the biggest tax stories making headlines. From a federal court ruling deeming a new business reporting law unconstitutional to the staggering estimates of tax evasion by the wealthy. They also dive into the IRS's foray into direct filing for simple returns, the potential role of AI in tax preparation, and how states rank in their tax climates for businesses.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome To Federal Tax Updates
(00:55) - Special Guest Blake Oliver Joins the Show
(02:20) - Diving into the Controversial Federal Court Ruling on Company Reporting Law
(05:23) - Exploring the Implications of the Unconstitutional Ruling for Small Businesses
(18:38) - IRS's Efforts to Tackle Tax Evasion by Millionaires and Billionaires
(29:37) - The IRS Direct File System: A Move Towards Free Tax Filing
(30:24) - Exploring the IRS's New Tax Filing Program
(31:07) - The Cloud Accounting Podcast Begins
(31:24) - Potential Impact on Tax Preparers
(32:58) - Limitations and Design of the New Tax Tool
(34:38) - The Complex World of Business Returns
(35:54) - AI's Role in Tax Preparation: Hopes and Hurdles
(42:18) - IRS's Paperwork Problem and Electronic Filing
(47:30) - State Business Tax Climate Index: The Best and Worst States
(56:03) - Closing Thoughts and Future Discussions
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 SchwabConnect with Blake OliverReviewLeave 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.

Mar 5, 2024 • 17min
Excerpt: Corporate Transparency Act Ruled Unconstitutional
Here's an excerpt from next week's Federal Tax Updates podcast, Episode 27. Blake Oliver joins Roger to discuss the latest tax news headlines including how the Corporate Transparency Act has been ruled unconstitutional. Be sure to download the full episode, Monday, March 11, to hear the entire discussion.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 SchwabConnect with BlakeReviewLeave 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.

Feb 27, 2024 • 52min
Ready, Set, File! Tax Season 2024 Updates
As tax season kicks off, Annie and Roger discuss tips for practitioners and taxpayers, including using e-file and direct deposit for fastest refunds, being vigilant about IRS scam alerts, reviewing Circular 230 rules on duties and liabilities, and evaluating your processes after April to improve efficiency. They also touch on state filing deadlines, new disaster relief forms delaying state returns, and the importance of obtaining complete information before filing.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Federal Tax Updates Episode 26
(02:17) - Tips for Taxpayers and Practitioners
(04:32) - Understanding State Tax Laws
(06:38) - Challenges in Filing Business Returns
(12:07) - Importance of Security in Tax Preparation
(15:29) - Understanding Circular 230 and Practitioner's Responsibilities
(21:01) - Efficient Workflow Management during Tax Season
(28:49) - The Importance of Pricing Structure
(30:24) - Beware of Scammers: Protecting Your Practice
(34:04) - Employee Retention Credit: What You Need to Know
(44:15) - The Impact of Beneficial Ownership
(51:40) - Wrapping Up
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.

Feb 13, 2024 • 44min
Navigating New Beneficial Ownership Rules
Roger and Annie kick off the 2024 tax season by explaining the new beneficial ownership reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act. They detail who must comply, what information must be disclosed, and the tight deadlines and penalties involved. They also discuss whether accountants should assist clients with these complex filings or refer them to attorneys. Additionally, Annie provides an update on navigating ERC claims during the current filing season and Roger warns listeners to pay attention to potential last-minute tax law changes from Congress.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome To Federal Tax Updates Episode 25
(00:55) - The 2024 Tax Season
(01:41) - Beneficial Ownership Interest Reporting
(02:42) - Understanding the Rules and Implications
(03:25) - Exploring the Corporate Transparency Act
(04:04) - Impact on Small Businesses
(06:56) - Challenges and Concerns with the New Law
(08:05) - Defining Beneficial Owners
(10:14) - Understanding the Reporting Process
(12:17) - Discussion on the Challenges of Compliance
(15:36) - Advice for Navigating the New Law
(22:58) - What Should People Be Doing Right Now?
(39:53) - Updates on the Employee Retention Credit
(44:11) - Final Thoughts and Thanks For Listening
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.

Jan 29, 2024 • 44min
Your 2024 Tax Season Cheat Sheet
Get ready for the 2024 tax season with Roger and Annie! They cover critical deadlines, documentation tips, e-filing requirements, ERC updates, and other need-to-know changes that affect small businesses and tax preparers this year.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.Links mentioned in this episodeChapters(00:00) - Welcome To Federal Tax Updates Episode 24
(01:02) - Summary of employee retention credit and updates
(02:32) - Overview of voluntary program for repaying improperly claimed credits
(08:34) - Key details on the voluntary program
(12:47) - Importance of documentation for ERC claims
(15:25) - Origins and intentions of the ERC program
(18:58) - Potential changes to ERC in Congressional budget negotiations
(23:16) - Other letters and updates on ERC claims
(25:09) - Expectations for further ERC guidance
(29:22) - Using protective claims when amending returns
(32:29) - Advice for taxpayers who used third parties for ERC claims
(36:41) - Upcoming dates and other filing season reminders
(42:17) - Thanks for listening and remember to subscribe
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 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.

Jan 15, 2024 • 35min
Why Become an EA
In this episode of Federal Tax Updates, hosts Roger Harris and Annie Schwab are joined by special guest Megan Killian, Executive Vice President of the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). Megan discusses her background in association management and her role leading NAEA, the premier organization representing the interests of Enrolled Agents. She talks about the benefits of NAEA membership for EAs, including advocacy, education, community, and support obtaining the credential. The discussion covers NAEA's strategic priorities like membership growth, how the EA credential compares to the CPA, and efforts to address the talent shortage by promoting the EA path, including to accounting students and career changers. Megan also shares details on NAEA's ongoing fight to regulate paid tax preparers and protect taxpayers from unethical or incompetent preparers. Additional topics include getting involved with NAEA and using its resources to advance your career as an EA.(00:00) - Federal Tax Updates: Why Become An EA?
(00:50) - Welcome Megan Killian to the show
(01:36) - Megan's background and role at NAEA
(03:41) - Benefits of NAEA membership for Enrolled Agents
(05:39) - NAEA leadership and strategic priorities
(08:42) - Promoting the Enrolled Agent credential
(11:34) - Comparing EAs, CPAs, and other tax professionals
(14:39) - The declining number of accounting majors and CPAs
(18:23) - The EA exam as a faster credentialing path
(20:25) - Addressing the talent gap by hiring EAs
(23:16) - Helping employees become EAs
(26:33) - Regulating paid tax preparers
(30:27) - Efforts to pass federal preparer regulation
(32:23) - Getting involved with NAEA
(34:42) - Where to reach Megan and learn more
This Bonus Episode is NOT Eligilble for CE or CPE Credits Learn more about becoming an EA https://www.naea.org/Connect with Megan KillianLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megkillianWebsite: https://www.naea.org/about-naea/naea-evpConnect 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.

Jan 2, 2024 • 53min
The Long Road to Tax Certainty
With tax provisions constantly expiring and major questions looming about the future of the tax code, uncertainty reigns. Roger, Annie, and guest Thad Inge break down the state of play on tax extenders, the likelihood of action on expiring tax cuts, and the challenges businesses face in planning amidst the uncertainty.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
(02:20) - State of Congress
(07:24) - Secure Act Overview
(10:39) - Government Shutdowns and Funding
(14:33) - Potential Tax Changes
(20:07) - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(28:39) - IRS Plans for Additional Funding
(35:08) - IRS Improvements Seen So Far
(43:24) - ERC Status and Issues
(51:12) - Wrap up and thanks for listening
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.

Dec 19, 2023 • 50min
Fraud Claims and Client Trust
Dave Gribben shares insights on how his firm navigated ERC complexities through client communication, staff training, and establishing trust to overcome questionable third-party fraud claims.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Welcome To Federal Tax Updates
(04:14) - Communicating with clients at the start of the pandemic
(07:55) - Making information available as a service to the community
(09:47) - Transitioning to a remote work model
(17:02) - Handling client expectations around ERC
(26:26) - Preparing for audits and potential repayment
(36:42) - Importance of staying informed on programs like ERC
(43:39) - IRS guidance delaying Form 1099-K requirement
Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with Davehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-gribben-52439961Connect 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.

Dec 5, 2023 • 44min
Building Financial Literacy and Trust with Small Business Clients
Joey Vrooman, CPA, joins the show today and helps explain the importance of working to educate clients on financial literacy, despite common disinterest. He discusses tactics for simplifying complex terminology, using visual tools, meeting clients at their level, and the "win win" benefits for both advisor and business owner.SponsorsPadgett - Contact Padgett or Email Jeff Phillips(00:00) - Federal Tax Updates Episode 21
(00:55) - Welcome Joey to the show
(02:46) - Defining financial literacy
(05:48) - Teaching clients to understand finances
(15:46) - Understanding client personalities and tailoring communication
(18:38) - Managing pricing and margins during inflation
(22:41) - Keeping financial information simple yet accurate
(27:21) - Answering client questions on financial decisions
(30:30) - Documentation to protect against liability risks
(33:36) - Year-end tax planning with clients
(39:16) - Confusion caused by media coverage and ERTC mills
(43:20) - Wrap up and remember to subscribe
Get NASBA Approved CPE or IRS Approved CELaunch the course on EarmarkCPE to get free CPE/CE for listening to this episode.Connect with Joey https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-vrooman-cpa-87371568Connect 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.


