In this special legislative update episode, host Brandy Spears is joined by Megan Killian, CAE (Executive VP of NAEA) and Thad Inge (VP at Van Scoyoc Associates) for an in-depth breakdown of the recently passed, sweeping federal tax legislation — a complex but critical milestone that will impact practitioners and taxpayers alike.

Together, they unpack how the bill got passed, the most significant tax provisions extended or introduced, and the implications for representation, planning, and compliance. From the child tax credit and standard deduction to SALT cap revisions, TCJA extensions, and four brand-new deductions (tips, overtime, seniors, and auto loan interest), this conversation covers what you need to know — and what’s coming next.

If you’re an EA wondering how to support your clients through these upcoming changes — or how to get involved in shaping implementation — this episode offers insight and clarity straight from D.C.

Why Listen

• Understand key provisions extended or made permanent under the latest bill

• Learn about new deductions (tips, overtime, senior income, and auto interest)

• Hear how the TCJA changes impact individual and business taxpayers

• Explore the role EAs and NAEA can play in shaping federal tax guidance

• Get insight into what's next on Congress’s tax and regulatory agenda

In This Episode:

• [00:00:00] Setting the stage: how the bill passed under pressure

• [00:04:00] What got extended from TCJA and why it matters

• [00:06:00] The SALT cap compromise and what changed for high-tax states

• [00:10:00] Individual and family updates: CTC, estate tax, and paid leave

• [00:13:00] Breaking down the four new deductions (tips, OT, seniors, car loans)

• [00:19:00] Business provisions: 199A, R&D expensing, depreciation, interest rules

• [00:22:00] New Treasury & IRS leadership and guidance rollout timelines

• [00:24:00] How EAs and NAEA can influence policy through feedback

• [00:28:00] What Congress may do next — and what likely won’t be reversed

Notable Quotes

• “This legislation doesn’t just live on paper — it shows up in the lives of clients and in the work you do every day.” – Megan Killian

• “There’s a thousand pages in this bill, and we’re just scratching the surface.” – Thad Inge

• “If EAs have good points to make, we can get those in front of Treasury. But we need that member feedback.” – Thad Inge

• “Staying informed and engaged matters — this is where policy meets practice.” – Brandy Spears

Our Guests

Megan Killian, CAE is the Executive Vice President of the National Association of Enrolled Agents. With over 20 years of executive leadership experience in membership organizations, she brings deep expertise in strategic development, change management, and team building. Prior to joining NAEA, Meg led member relations at the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants and has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the profession.

Thad Inge is the Vice President at Van Scoyoc Associates (VSA), where he helps clients navigate legislative and regulatory issues, specializing in tax, small business, benefits, fintech, and payments. Before VSA, Thad led government relations at Paychex, Inc., and held roles at the U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship. He holds a degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Miami School of Law.

Resource & Links

The Enrolled Agent Advocate Podcast

• The Enrolled Agent Advocate

Brandy Spears

• LinkedIn

• Website - NAEA.org

Megan Killian

• LinkedIn

Thad Inge

• LinkedIn