Tax Problems Explained

By The Legal Podcast Network (LPN)

*Tax Problems Explained* provides valuable insights from Lawrence Ullmann, blending his experience as an attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent to help individuals and businesses navigate tax challeng

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· Business

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FAQs about Tax Problems Explained:

How many episodes does Tax Problems Explained have?

The podcast currently has 14 episodes available.

Tax Problems Explained episodes:

September 23, 2026 Offer in Compromise: Can You Really Settle IRS Tax Debt for Less?
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon is joined by Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned expert with decades of experience inside the IRS and private practice. Together, they delve into the complexities of the offer-in-compromise process, a formal IRS procedure to settle tax debt for less than what is owed. Lawrence explains the critical factors the IRS evaluates, such as a taxpayer's assets, future earnings, and compliance status. He highlights common pitfalls that lead to rejected applications and compares the offer-in-compromise with simpler options like IRS payment plans. Lawrence shares insights from real-life cases, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance in navigating this intricate process. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to approach tax debt strategically and the potential benefits of pursuing an offer-in-compromise.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:54 – Understanding Offer-in-Compromise
01:59 – IRS Control in Negotiations
02:56 – Key Factors for IRS Evaluation
04:08 – Importance of Compliance
05:47 – Common Mistakes in Applications
06:43 – Offer-in-Compromise vs. Payment Plan
08:33 – Real-Life Case Example
10:06 – Consequences of Rejection
11:07 – Challenges Without Professional Help
12:48 – Assessing Offer-in-Compromise Viability
13:44 – Importance of Professional Guidance
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers listeners a comprehensive look into the intricacies of the tax system from the perspectives of an attorney, a CPA, and a former IRS agent. Designed for individuals and businesses facing tax challenges, the series breaks down complex topics into understandable segments, providing valuable insights and practical solutions. With a focus on clarity and actionable advice, the show aims to empower listeners to tackle their tax issues with confidence and informed strategies.
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16min
September 09, 2026 What the IRS Looks for in High-Income Individual Returns
Episode Summary: In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host Leann Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned former IRS agent and tax attorney, to delve into the intricacies of how the IRS evaluates high-income tax returns. Lawrence shares insights on why high-income individuals and businesses face greater scrutiny, particularly due to the complexity of their financial situations. He explains the role of IRS analytics, such as the Discriminated Income Function (DIF), in assessing these returns. The discussion highlights common areas of concern, like K-1 schedules and material participation, that can trigger IRS attention. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on how to prepare their returns to minimize unnecessary scrutiny, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:52 – Defining High-Income Taxpayers
01:18 – IRS Scrutiny on High-Income Returns
02:12 – IRS Analytics and DIF Function
03:26 – Common Issues with Deductions
05:09 – IRS Handling of Complex Income Sources
06:17 – Impact of Multiple Income Sources
07:18 – Changes in Income and IRS Attention
08:38 – Example of High-Income Tax Scrutiny
09:57 – Material Participation and Losses
11:38 – Preparing for Filing to Avoid Scrutiny
12:02 – Importance of Accurate Reporting
About the Show: Tax Problems Explained is a podcast dedicated to demystifying the complexities of the tax system for individuals and businesses alike. Hosted by experienced professionals, including attorneys and former IRS agents, the show offers in-depth discussions on tax issues, compliance, and strategies to resolve disputes. With a focus on clarity and practical advice, the series aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to navigate the often daunting world of taxes. Whether you're a taxpayer facing an audit or a business owner seeking guidance, Tax Problems Explained provides valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.
For more information, visit our website:
https://www.lawrencetullmann.com/
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15min
August 26, 2026 IRS Criminal Investigations: When Tax Issues Become Serious
Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Leann Lyon is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned expert with experience as a former IRS agent, attorney, and CPA. They delve into the critical distinctions between civil and criminal tax issues, emphasizing the role of intent in determining the nature of a tax case. Lawrence explains how a simple audit can escalate into a criminal investigation if evidence of intent to evade taxes is found. The discussion covers various indicators that might trigger a criminal investigation, such as maintaining two sets of books or altering invoices. Lawrence also provides insights into the investigative process, highlighting the importance of seeking legal counsel when faced with potential criminal charges. This episode equips listeners with valuable knowledge on how to navigate complex tax situations and understand the IRS's approach to tax compliance.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:34 – Civil vs. Criminal Tax Matters
01:45 – Conduct Raising IRS Concerns
02:37 – Transition from Civil to Criminal Investigation
03:34 – Whistleblower and External Investigations
05:08 – IRS Indicators for Serious Pursuit
06:34 – Differences in Criminal Tax Investigations
07:58 – Case Duration and Investigation Techniques
08:52 – Example of Escalation from Audit
09:15 – Misunderstandings About IRS Triggers
10:50 – Impact of Filing Amended Returns
12:48 – Responding to Serious Tax Concerns
14:09 – Importance of Legal Representation
15:00 – Statute of Limitations in Criminal Tax Cases
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of tax issues from the unique perspectives of an attorney, CPA and former IRS agent. The show is designed for individuals and businesses seeking clarity on complex tax matters, with a focus on practical solutions and insights into the workings of the IRS. Each episode breaks down intricate topics into accessible discussions, aiming to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to navigate the tax system effectively. Whether dealing with civil tax issues or potential criminal investigations, Tax Problems Explained provides valuable guidance for anyone looking to resolve their tax challenges.
For more information, visit our website:
https://www.lawrencetullmann.com/
...more
17min
August 12, 2026 Why Trying to Wait Out the IRS Usually Backfires
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, an experienced attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent, to discuss the critical topic of why delaying tax issues can lead to more complex problems. Lawrence shares insights into common reasons people postpone addressing tax matters, such as overwhelm, embarrassment, and procrastination. He explains the IRS's step-by-step escalation process when a taxpayer fails to respond to notices, highlighting how penalties and interest can accumulate rapidly. The episode provides a detailed example of the complications that arise when payroll taxes are neglected, and Lawrence offers practical advice on assessing the situation and deciding when to seek professional help. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of timely responses to IRS communications and the potential financial impact of delaying action.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
0:34 – Reasons for Delaying Tax Issues
1:50 – IRS Escalation Process
2:27 – Consequences of Ignoring IRS Notices
4:00 – Penalties and Interest Accumulation
4:36 – Example: Payroll Tax Delays
6:04 – Enforced Collection Actions
7:08 – Steps to Take When Behind on Taxes
8:24 – Business vs. Individual Tax Issues
9:09 – Final Advice for Delinquent Taxpayers
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers listeners a comprehensive look into the complexities of the tax system from the perspective of an attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent. The show is designed for individuals and businesses seeking clarity on tax-related issues and practical solutions for resolving them. With a focus on real-world examples and expert insights, the podcast aims to demystify tax processes and provide actionable advice. Whether you're facing a tax dilemma or simply want to understand the system better, Tax Problems Explained delivers valuable information in an accessible and engaging format.
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11min
July 29, 2026 Navigating Tax Challenges for Small Business Owners
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned expert with decades of experience inside the IRS and private practice. They delve into the common tax issues faced by small business owners, emphasizing the importance of proper financial management and the separation of business and personal finances.
Lawrence explains how inadequate bookkeeping, improper payroll tax handling, and failure to document deductions can lead to serious IRS scrutiny. The discussion also covers the consequences of underreporting income, even unintentionally, and the severe penalties associated with payroll tax errors. By the end of the episode, listeners gain valuable insights into avoiding these pitfalls and ensuring compliance with tax obligations, thereby safeguarding their businesses from costly mistakes.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:51 – Common Tax Issues for Small Businesses
01:18 – Importance of Accurate Bookkeeping
02:23 – Separating Business and Personal Finances
04:30 – IRS Response to Improper Deductions
05:25 – Consequences of Underreporting Income
07:04 – Challenges with Payroll and Employment Taxes
09:39 – Estimated Taxes for Small Business Owners
11:42 – Penalties for Late Tax Payments
12:54 – Real Estate Agent Tax Challenges
13:59 – Ignoring IRS Notices and Consequences
14:19 – Steps to Take When Receiving an IRS Notice
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers a comprehensive look at tax issues from the perspectives of an attorney, a CPA, and a former IRS agent. The show is designed for business owners and individuals seeking to understand the complexities of the tax system and how to navigate it effectively. With a focus on clarity and practical advice, each episode breaks down specific tax challenges and provides actionable solutions. Whether you're dealing with payroll taxes, deductions, or IRS audits, Tax Problems Explained equips you with the knowledge to manage your tax responsibilities confidently.
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17min
July 15, 2026 Navigating IRS Penalties: Reduction and Removal Strategies
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned tax professional with extensive experience inside the IRS and in private practice. They delve into the complexities of IRS penalties, focusing on when they may be reduced or removed. Lawrence outlines the most common penalties, such as failure to file and failure to pay, and explains the circumstances under which the IRS might consider abatement. The discussion covers first-time abatement, reasonable cause, and the importance of proper documentation. Lawrence also provides real-world examples of cases where penalties were successfully reduced, emphasizing the need for timely action and professional guidance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into navigating IRS penalty issues, understanding the factors that influence abatement decisions, and the steps necessary to potentially reduce penalties.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:35 – Common IRS Penalties Explained
01:27 – Reasons for Imposing Penalties
02:16 – Circumstances for Penalty Reduction
02:37 – First-Time Abatement Explained
03:24 – Reasonable Cause for Abatement
04:32 – Reliance on Professional Advice
05:25 – Factors Influencing Penalty Reduction
06:27 – Situations Where Penalties Are Not Reduced
07:34 – Example of Successful Penalty Abatement
09:36 – Misconceptions About Automatic Penalty Reduction
10:19 – Key Considerations for Addressing Penalties
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained is a podcast dedicated to demystifying the complexities of the tax system for individuals and businesses. Hosted by experienced professionals, the show offers practical advice and insights into tax issues, compliance, and resolution strategies. Each episode features in-depth discussions on topics such as IRS penalties, audits, and tax planning. The series aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to navigate tax challenges effectively and make informed decisions. Whether you're a taxpayer seeking clarity or a professional looking for expert perspectives, Tax Problems Explained provides valuable guidance in an accessible format.
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13min
July 01, 2026 What Happens When You Owe Back Taxes to the IRS
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned attorney with extensive IRS experience, to demystify the IRS collection process. Lawrence explains the progression from initial tax liability assessment to the various stages of IRS enforcement, including soft collections, CP letters, and potential asset seizures. He highlights the importance of communication with the IRS and discusses options like installment agreements, offers in compromise, and bankruptcy for resolving tax debts. Lawrence also shares real-life examples, such as a client facing passport restrictions due to unpaid taxes, and offers advice on avoiding scams. This episode is essential for anyone dealing with IRS tax issues, offering practical solutions and insights into managing and resolving tax liabilities effectively.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:51 – Initial IRS Collection Process
01:24 – IRS Notification Methods
01:44 – Escalation of IRS Collection Efforts
02:33 – Final Notice and Enforcement Actions
03:28 – Role of Automatic Collection Services
04:23 – Passport Restrictions Due to Tax Debt
05:19 – IRS Collection Tools and Asset Seizure
06:46 – Impact of Interest and Penalties
08:04 – Options for Unpaid Tax Debts
09:34 – Offer in Compromise Explained
10:38 – Bankruptcy as a Last Resort
12:22 – Consequences of Ignoring Tax Debt
14:08 – Avoiding IRS Scams
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained is a podcast designed for individuals and businesses seeking clarity on complex tax issues. Hosted by experts with backgrounds in law, accounting, and IRS operations, the show provides in-depth discussions on tax liabilities, collection processes, and resolution strategies. Each episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge and practical advice to navigate the intricacies of the tax system confidently. Whether you're facing back taxes or simply want to understand the IRS better, Tax Problems Explained offers valuable insights and solutions.
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18min
June 17, 2026 Canceled Debt and Taxes: Why Forgiven Debt Can Become Taxable Income
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the IRS and private practice. They delve into the complexities surrounding canceled debt and its potential tax implications. Lawrence explains why forgiven debt can still lead to a tax obligation, using real-world examples like credit card debt reduction and mortgage reformation. The discussion covers how the IRS defines canceled debt, the role of insolvency, and the importance of the 1099-C form. Lawrence emphasizes the need for professional guidance when dealing with canceled debt, especially in complex situations involving bankruptcy or insolvency. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to manage canceled debt and avoid escalating tax problems.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:36 – Understanding Canceled Debt and Tax Obligations
01:02 – Why Forgiven Debt Can Be Taxable
03:14 – IRS Definition of Canceled Debt
03:52 – Common Situations Leading to Canceled Debt Income
05:21 – Reporting Canceled Debt to Taxpayers
05:59 – Exceptions to Taxable Canceled Debt
06:26 – Insolvency and Its Tax Implications
07:41 – Avoiding Tax on Canceled Debt Through Insolvency
08:57 – Example of Canceled Debt and Tax Reporting
10:09 – Consequences of Ignoring Canceled Debt Notices
11:37 – Determining Solvency
13:22 – Importance of Professional Guidance in Complex Cases
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers listeners a comprehensive look into the intricacies of tax issues from the perspectives of an attorney, a CPA, and a former IRS agent. The show is designed for individuals and businesses seeking to understand and resolve tax challenges effectively. Each episode breaks down complex tax topics into understandable insights, providing practical advice and strategies. With a focus on clarity and expert knowledge, the series aims to empower listeners with the tools they need to navigate the tax system confidently.
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16min
June 03, 2026 How Long the IRS Has to Collect Taxes And What Stops the Clock
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, Host Leann lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, an experienced attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent, to demystify the IRS's tax collection timelines. Lawrence delves into the general rule of a 10-year collection period, explaining what triggers this timeline and how late filings or IRS-prepared substitute returns can alter it. He further explores the complexities of events that can pause or extend the IRS's ability to collect, such as offers in compromise, bankruptcy filings, and collection due process hearings. Lawrence also shares practical examples and insights into how installment agreements affect collection periods, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and professional guidance. This episode equips listeners with essential knowledge to navigate IRS collection processes effectively, helping them make informed decisions about their tax liabilities.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:34 – IRS Collection Timeline Basics
01:22 – What Starts the Collection Clock
02:08 – Differences in Liability Situations
03:08 – Impact of IRS Audits on Timelines
04:00 – IRS Substitute for Return Process
05:01 – Events That Pause IRS Collection
06:13 – Exceptions to the 10-Year Rule
06:36 – Payment Plans and Collection Periods
07:56 – Strategy for Expiring Statutes
08:54 – Case Example: Extended Collection Timeline
10:06 – Misunderstandings About IRS Timelines
11:01 – Strategic Planning for Tax Liability
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained offers listeners a comprehensive look into the intricacies of the tax system from the perspectives of an attorney, a CPA, and a former IRS agent. Designed for individuals and businesses alike, the show covers a wide range of tax-related topics, providing clarity and actionable insights. With a focus on demystifying complex tax issues, the series aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to navigate their tax challenges effectively and confidently.
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13min
May 20, 2026 What to Do When You Haven’t Filed Tax Returns for Multiple Years
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned tax professional with a background as a former IRS agent and private practice expert. They delve into the complexities and consequences of failing to file tax returns for multiple years. Lawrence explains common reasons why individuals fall behind, such as life-changing events, and outlines the IRS's response to non-compliance, including the Substitute for Return program. The discussion highlights the risks of accruing penalties, potential criminal charges, and the challenges of reconstructing financial records. Lawrence also provides guidance on how far back individuals need to file to regain compliance and emphasizes the importance of consulting a tax attorney. This episode is essential for anyone facing unfiled tax issues, offering practical advice to navigate the IRS system effectively.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:35 – Common Reasons for Unfiled Returns
02:04 – IRS Perspective on Non-Compliance
03:27 – IRS Substitute for Return Program
04:49 – Risks of Unfiled Returns
06:15 – Quarterly Taxes and Penalties
07:30 – Filing Past Returns: How Far Back?
09:31 – Importance of Consulting a Tax Attorney
10:01 – Process of Filing Past Returns
11:44 – Challenges in Reconstructing Records
12:50 – When to Involve a Tax Attorney
13:56 – Legal Protections and IRS Rules
About the Show:
Tax Problems Explained is a podcast designed for individuals and businesses seeking clarity on complex tax issues. Hosted by experienced professionals, the show provides insights into the workings of the IRS, offering practical advice on resolving tax problems. Each episode breaks down intricate tax topics with a focus on compliance, legal considerations, and strategic planning. Whether you're dealing with unfiled returns, audits, or other tax-related challenges, Tax Problems Explained equips listeners with the knowledge to navigate the tax system confidently.
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16min

FAQs about Tax Problems Explained:

How many episodes does Tax Problems Explained have?

The podcast currently has 14 episodes available.