December 01, 2025

Getting the Band Back Together: Former Commissioner Werfel on IRS Challenges Ahead

55 minutes

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.

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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 Lemons
https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-lemons-77b3641a9

Connect with Danny Werfel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-werfel-89441594

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

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This podcast is a production of Earmark Media

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

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By Roger Harris, EA and Annie Schwab, CPA

4.9

3232 ratings