Podcasts about tax administration

The Pentagon said it consolidated policies around protecting American military facilities from drone threats after unclear guidance that left base commanders scrambling on how to respond and years of increased unmanned aerial system sightings over key Defense Department assets. Drone incursions over American military bases jumped considerably over the last several years, alarming officials, and a Pentagon watchdog report released last week said the DOD's confused policies meant some facilities in the U.S. couldn't adequately protect themselves. Following the release of the Defense Department Inspector General report last Tuesday, which noted dire gaps in military counter-UAS policy that limited base responses to drone threats, the Pentagon said it had already adjusted its guidelines last month in an effort to give commanders “expanded authority and flexibility needed to dominate the airspace above their installations.” Countering drones in the U.S. is complex and has been a yearslong, thorny problem for the military, especially as the tech becomes ubiquitous for both hobbyists and adversaries. Stateside drone defense means navigating a delicate balance between protecting military installations while avoiding civilian harm or infrastructure damage. But the issue is only growing, top military officials have said, and the new guidance is the latest attempt by the Pentagon to manage it. The policies, which the release said was signed on Dec. 8 by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, expanded base commanders' defensive area around facilities, explicitly identified any unauthorized drone surveillance over installations as a threat, allowed UAS sensor data sharing between other federal agencies and authorized top service leaders to designate facilities as “covered,” a special classification that allows for drone defense. With tax filing season officially gearing up, the Treasury Department's watchdog is warning the IRS that its workforce reductions and delays to modernization projects have left the tax agency in a precarious position. In a memo sent Monday to the IRS commissioner, Diana M. Tengesdal, deputy inspector general for audit, wrote that the agency's cuts have brought staffing back to October 2021 levels, prior to the Inflation Reduction Act funding infusion aimed at strengthening enforcement on wealthy individuals and corporations and modernizing antiquated IT systems. The loss of personnel has led to a backsliding on previous agency priorities, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration official noted, pointing specifically to a pandemic-created backlog of tax returns awaiting processing. The tax agency had made serious strides in addressing that backlog, TIGTA found in a September 2023 report, but Trump administration staff cuts combined with the recent government shutdown have led to inventory levels that are 129% higher than pre-pandemic figures. “Inventory that is not worked during the current processing year will be carried into the 2026 Filing Season and may affect the IRS's ability to timely process tax returns during the filing season, especially with reduced staff,” Tengesdal wrote. “This could result in delays in taxpayers receiving refunds and could result in the IRS paying interest,” she continued. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority General Director Helena Alves Borges discusses the agency's modernization efforts and preparation for pillar 2. For more episodes from Lisbon, listen to "From Lisbon: Highlights From the 2025 IFA Congress."For more tax news and analysis, read the following in Tax Notes:More Countries Still Considering Amount B AdoptionOECD Building Out Work on AI Usage in Tax AdministrationEU Wants Its U.S. Subsidiaries to Be Subject to Top-Up TaxFollow us on X:Stephanie Soong: @StephanieSoongDavid Stewart: @TaxStewTax Notes: @TaxNotes**This episode is sponsored by Avalara. For more information, visit avalara.com.Join us at the inaugural Tax Trends Summit in Washington, D.C. presented by Tax Notes and the ABA Tax Section. For more information, visit taxnotes.co/taxtrends25.***CreditsHost: David D. StewartExecutive Producers: Jeanne Rauch-Zender, Paige JonesProducers: Jordan Parrish, Peyton RhodesAudio Engineers: Jordan Parrish, Peyton Rhodes

Taxpayer advocates are keeping close watch on this week's decision to name Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank Bisignano as CEO of the IRS, and have many questions about what it could mean for the agency. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Monday he was creating a new IRS CEO position, and Republicans in Congress seem to be generally supportive, though some said the White House should still name an IRS commissioner nominee. The Treasury Department assured staff in GOP Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley's office that a commissioner nominee would still be sent to the Senate. At the same time, the Senate Finance Committee voted Wednesday to advance Derek Theurer's nomination to be undersecretary for legislative affairs and Donald Korb's nomination to be IRS chief counsel. That's good news for Pete Sepp —president of the National Taxpayers Union, a taxpayer advocacy group—who is concerned that many of the top IRS positions remained unfilled. Sepp, who sat down with Bloomberg Tax Senior Reporter Chris Cioffi for this episode of Talking Tax, said Congress is right to seek answers about how the CEO job interacts with the commissioner. He said he hoped the CEO position, in the future, would be selected by an IRS oversight board that has been dormant for more than a decade. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

A new IG report reveals the IRS sent incorrect taxpayer data to the Department of Education—raising serious questions about how federal agencies exchange sensitive information. As the Department of Government Efficiency pushes for broader data consolidation across government and as the IRS continues to shed staff and funding, this slip-up shows how one error can ripple across systems and put personal privacy at risk. Here to unpack the findings and what they mean for future data-sharing efforts is the Director, System Operations, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Jena Whitley. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For tax authorities and even taxpayers, AI promises to make lives easier. At the same time, it carries risks that “cannot be taken out of the system.” Dr. Stephen Daly, reader in tax law at King's College London, describes this dynamic in a conversation with Skadden partners David Farhat and Eric Sensenbrenner, associate Stefane Victor and senior advisor De Lon Harris. The panel explores the best and worst of the impact of AI in the tax world. Tune in for insights about what AI means for taxpayers and tax authorities alike.

The likely successor to the late Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., hopes to continue his former boss's commitment to federal IT reform if elected to Congress, while also gearing up to build his own legacy in the era of DOGE. Democrat James Walkinshaw told FedScoop in an interview last week that carrying on Connolly's federal IT advocacy is especially important to him as widespread workforce and program cuts present new challenges for the government's IT staff and related initiatives. While issues like IT modernization and procurement might “become less and less sexy by the day” amid other controversies in Washington, Walkinshaw said he is a “believer” that Congress should keep its foot on the pedal in this space. Walkinshaw, who served as Connolly's chief of staff for 11 years, is vying for Virginia's 11th congressional seat this fall to succeed the late congressman following his death from cancer in May. He currently serves on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. During the interview with FedScoop, Walkinshaw shared his thoughts on the lasting impacts of DOGE, his concerns with agency adoption of AI and his policy goals, if elected. The IRS has lost a quarter of its workforce since the beginning of the Trump administration, including thousands from the tax agency's IT business unit, according to newly released watchdog data. A snapshot report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration found that more than 25,000 IRS employees either took the deferred resignation offer, retired or were separated from the agency in another way, while nearly 300 staffers were terminated via reduction-in-force actions. Combined, those departures represent 25% of the agency's workforce, which has downsized from roughly 103,000 staffers to 77,428 as of May. According to TIGTA, the IRS's IT business unit has lost 25% of its staffers over the same period, leaving the division with just over 2,100 employees. The IT management job series across agency units is down 23%, per the report. TIGTA also confirmed previous FedScoop reporting on the IRS's move in late March to place nearly 50 IT executives on administrative leave. Among those employees, 26 eventually departed via Treasury Department incentive offerings, while another 22 are still on admin leave, per the watchdog. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

What should everyone know about digitalization right now and moving into the future? How does digitalization shape our life, work and society? What makes digitalization humane? This book invites the reader into a great Finnish story. It provides a uniquely broad overview of digitalization as told by the changemakers. It has the courage to question and challenges people to act. The author, Martti Vaalahti, is a communications professional and writer who has worked with digitalization for over two decades. This book is published by Gofore Plc, translated from the Finnish by Ian Mac Eochagáin, and read by Annabel Baldwin.

A top House Democrat wants an investigation into the Department of Government Efficiency's access to IRS systems. Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Gerry Connolly requested the investigation in a May 15th letter to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. He raised concerns about DOGE plans to centralize IRS data. Connolly also highlighted potential issues with the IRS' data-sharing agreements with the Department of Homeland Security. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The National Labor Relations Board's inspector general is conducting an investigation into the Department of Government Efficiency's work at the agency. In April, an IT staffer named Daniel Berulis filed an official whistleblower disclosure with Congress highlighting concerns over DOGE's practices at the NLRB and data that may have been removed from the agency. In response to the disclosure, Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, requested an investigation in a letter to Luiz A. Santos, acting inspector general of the Labor Department, and Ruth Blevins, inspector general at the NLRB. Timothy Bearese, an attorney at the NLRB currently serving as its acting director of congressional and public affairs, told FedScoop that the agency has no comment but “can confirm that the OIG is conducting an investigation, as requested by Ranking Member Connolly.” Back In April, Bearese told NPR that the NLRB had not granted DOGE access to agency systems. At that time, he also said that there had been a past investigation based on Berulis' concerns that “determined that no breach of agency systems occurred.” A spokesperson for House Oversight Committee Democrats told FedScoop on Thursday that “there are multiple investigations into Elon Musk's violations of sensitive investigatory information at the NLRB.” House Oversight Democrats are asking a Treasury Department watchdog to open an investigation into DOGE's data and IT modernization dealings at the IRS following reports of an internal “hackathon” at the tax agency that may have involved Palantir. In a letter sent Thursday to Heather Hill, acting head of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, House Oversight ranking member Gerry Connolly, D-Va., cited “deep concern” over reporting in Wired last month that revealed plans for a 30-day sprint where DOGE engineers and a third-party vendor — potentially the data analytics giant Palantir — would create a new application programming interface connected to taxpayer data. That API, Wired reported, would essentially serve as a storage center for all IRS data and enable agency systems to interact with unknown cloud services. Building a “mega API” is likely connected to plans for a “master database” that also pulls in data from the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration, according to Wired, part of a Trump administration effort to track and surveil immigrants. “The reported data centralization and integration effort could undermine intentional compartmentalization of IRS systems,” which raises “serious privacy questions,” Connolly wrote. The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Join America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio co-hosts Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy with U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn, senior senator for Tennessee and the first woman to represent the Volunteer State in the United States Senate. She serves on the Deputy Whip Team and is a member of the Finance Committee; the Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee; the Veterans' Affairs Committee; and the Judiciary Committee. Senator Marsha Blackburn serves as the Ranking Member on the Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security and on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Law. Before her election to the Senate, Marsha represented Tennessee's 7th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives. The conversation focuses on the following topics: ✅ President Trump's State of the Union Address, presenting his vision for a Golden Age of America. ✅ Senator Blackburn requiring transparency and accountability, working with FBI Director Kash Patel in obtaining unredacted Epstein logs and other pertinent materials ✅ Senator Blackburn spearheading DOGE Acts to hold the federal government accountable for managing taxpayer dollars. Collaborative efforts with Elon Mask in making the federal government more efficient and slash wasteful spending. ✅ Strengthening the economic partnership between the U.S. and Taiwan. ✅ Senator Blackburn's recently introduced Tax Administration Simplification Act, to provide straightforward, taxpayer-focused improvements to streamline tax filing and payment for individuals and small businesses. ✅ Strengthening US-Israel ties and combating anti-Semitism with new leadership in Congress and the White House. ✅ Making America Healthy Again | Healthy foods and eating habits for a healthier America. Throughout her time in Congress, Marsha has led the fight to hold Communist China accountable. Her in-depth analyses of the Chinese Communist Party's threats to American sovereignty have prompted Congress to examine legislation countering Beijing's malign influence on global supply chains, technology infrastructure, and international organizations. After Beijing took over the once autonomous region of Hong Kong in 2019, Marsha led bipartisan legislation, which was signed into law by President Trump, that prohibits the U.S. export of crowd control equipment to the Hong Kong Police Force. Her bipartisan Open Technology Fund Authorization Act, which supports internet freedom by addressing authoritarian regimes' efforts to censor the internet, was also signed into law. At the same time Marsha has stood up to Communist China, she has worked to bolster the U.S.-Taiwan relationship. In August 2022, she visited Taiwan, met with President Tsai Ing-wen in Taipei, and called to strengthen connections between the U.S. and Taiwan. During this visit, Marsha made her stance clear: Taiwan is a country. On border policy, Marsha bases her approach on the simple truth that until our borders are secure, every town will be a border town and every state will be a border state. In the Senate, she has led the charge to fully fund the United States Border Patrol, restart construction of a physical barrier, impose harsher criminal penalties for drug smuggling, and fight for law and order on behalf of the thousands of women and girls lost to cross-border human trafficking. Further reading: Blackburn, Hassan, Colleagues Introduce the “Patients Before Middlemen Act” to Bring Down Cost of Prescription Drugs (https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/3/health%20care/blackburn-hassan-colleagues-introduce-the-patients-before-middlemen-act-to-bring-down-cost-of-prescription-drugs) Blackburn, Kelly Push for More Federal Resources to Combat Fentanyl Crisis in Tennessee (https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/2/crime/national%20security/blackburn-kelly-pushes-for-more-federal-resources-to-combat-fentanyl-crisis-in-arizona) Blackburn, Schatz Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S.-Taiwan Partnership, Safeguard U.S. from Communist China's Security Threats (https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2025/2/china/jobs%20and%20economy/national%20security/blackburn-schatz-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-u-s-taiwan-partnership-safeguard-u-s-from-communist-china-s-security-threats) americasrt.com (https://americasrt.com/) https://ileaderssummit.org/ | https://jerusalemleaderssummit.com/ America's Roundtable on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/americas-roundtable/id1518878472 Twitter: @MarshaBlackburn @ileaderssummit @NatashaSrdoc @JoelAnandUSA @supertalk America's Roundtable is co-hosted by Natasha Srdoc and Joel Anand Samy, co-founders of International Leaders Summit and the Jerusalem Leaders Summit. America's Roundtable (https://americasrt.com/) radio program - a strategic initiative of International Leaders Summit, focuses on America's economy, healthcare reform, rule of law, security and trade, and its strategic partnership with rule of law nations around the world. The radio program features high-ranking US administration officials, cabinet members, members of Congress, state government officials, distinguished diplomats, business and media leaders and influential thinkers from around the world. Tune into America's Roundtable Radio program from Washington, DC via live streaming on Saturday mornings via 65 radio stations at 7:30 A.M. (ET) on Lanser Broadcasting Corporation covering the Michigan and the Midwest market, and at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk Mississippi — SuperTalk.FM reaching listeners in every county within the State of Mississippi, and neighboring states in the South including Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Tennessee. Listen to America's Roundtable on digital platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, Google and other key online platforms. Listen live, Saturdays at 7:30 A.M. (CT) on SuperTalk | https://www.supertalk.fm

President-elect Donald Trump's plans to deconstruct the federal workforce would take a bite out of IRS efforts to answer taxpayer phone calls and enforce compliance for tax cheats. After getting billions in funding from the 2022 tax-and-climate law, the IRS started a long-needed rebuild, including bringing on more workers. Between Oct. 1, 2021 and Sept. 30, 2023, the IRS processed nearly 53,000 new hires, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration said in a September report. But Trump's promises to end remote work for federal workers and reinstate a policy that would make it easier to fire certain employees are seen as ways to end the IRS's competitiveness in the job market and ability to keep employees who are flight risks. Bloomberg Tax reporter Erin Slowey spoke with Kelly Reyes, executive director of the Professional Managers Association that represents the interests of IRS managers, about what a presidential transition means for IRS employees and how agency managers are preparing for next tax filing season. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

The IRS wants U.S. citizens to be honest about paying their tax obligations. But who keeps the I-R-S on its toes? For the last 25 years, that's been the job of the Treasury Inspector for Tax Administration known as TIGTA. It started in 1999, following landmark Congressional overhaul of the IRS in 1998. Here with a review, senior advisor Matt Schimmel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The IRS wants U.S. citizens to be honest about paying their tax obligations. But who keeps the I-R-S on its toes? For the last 25 years, that's been the job of the Treasury Inspector for Tax Administration known as TIGTA. It started in 1999, following landmark Congressional overhaul of the IRS in 1998. Here with a review, senior advisor Matt Schimmel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Diesen Monat machen wir es kurz: SPD, CDU und FDP leiten mit Vorschlägen zu Einkommensteuer, Unternehmensteuer und Finanzbildung den Steuer-Wahlkampf ein. Wir diskutieren die Vorschläge und ihre Implikationen für Verteilungsgerechtigkeit. Außerdem zeichnen wir einen Vergleich zwischen Entwicklungen in der britischen und der deutschen Steuerverwaltung seit den Pandemiejahren. Zum Abschluss stellt Julia ihr kürzlich veröffentlichtes Buch "Blackbox Steuerpolitik" vor und berichtet aus dem Entstehungsprozess. (02:23) Strategiepapier der SPD: 95% sollen entlastet werden (07:41) CDU will Unternehmensteuern senken (13:59) Finanzbildung durch die FDP: "CL_erklärt" (17:17) Britische und deutsche Steuerverwaltung im Vergleich (31:24) Julia stellt ihr Buch vor: "Blackbox Steuerpolitik" Julias Buch "Blackbox Steuerpolitik": ⁠https://dietz-verlag.de/isbn/9783801206826/Blackbox-Steuerpolitik-Wie-unser-Steuersystem-Ungleichheit-foerdert-Ein-Reformvorschlag-Julia-Jirmann⁠ Das Strategiepapier der SPD: ⁠https://www.seeheimer-kreis.de/fileadmin/data/documents/20241007_Seeheimer_Strategiepapier_Arbeitende_Mitte_staerken.pdf⁠ Stefan Bach rechnet den SPD-Vorschlag für die ZEIT durch: ⁠⁠https://www.zeit.de/wirtschaft/2024-10/steuerreform-spd-einkommen-reichtum-finanzpolitik⁠⁠ CDU-Antrag zur Unternehmensteuersenkung im Finanzausschuss: ⁠https://www.bundestag.de/dokumente/textarchiv/2024/kw26-de-unternehmensteuerrecht-1008390⁠ OECD zur Entwicklung der Unternehmensteuern weltweit: ⁠https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/tax-policy-reforms-2024_c3686f5e-en.html⁠ Mit Geld und Verstand: ⁠https://www.mitgeldundverstand.de/fibi/DE/Festival-fuer-Finanzbildung/Rueckblick/rueckblick.html⁠ Geld mit Verstand: ⁠https://www.geldmitverstand.de/⁠ Studie "Finanzbildung als politisches Projekt": ⁠https://www.otto-brenner-stiftung.de/finanzbildung-als-politisches-projekt/⁠ Der Bericht "State of Tax Administration 2024" von TaxWatch: ⁠https://www.taxwatchuk.org/state-of-tax-administration-2024/⁠ Hier könnt ihr unseren Newsletter abonnieren: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.netzwerk-steuergerechtigkeit.de/mitmachen/newsletter/⁠⁠⁠ Und hier geht's zu den Fördermitgliedschaften: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.netzwerk-steuergerechtigkeit.de/unterstuetzen/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Wir freuen uns über jegliches Feedback an yannick.schwarz@netzwerk-steuergerechtigkeit.de oder per Nachricht an einen unserer Kanäle auf den sozialen Medien: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/netzwerksteuergerechtigkeit⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credit für die verwendete Musik, jeweils von pixabay.com: Intro: Eco Technology von Lexin_Music Outro: The Pace of Africa von Purple Planet Music

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration flagged 1,800 contracted employees listed as active but were no longer assigned to an ongoing contract. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration flagged 1,800 contracted employees listed as active but were no longer assigned to an ongoing contract. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Taxpayers who can't resolve their issues with the I-R-S can turn to the Taxpayer Advocate Service. But phoning the service is likely to bring frustration of its own. That comes to light after a look-see by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Details now from TIGTA's chief of staff for inspections and evaluations, Eleina Monroe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taxpayers who can't resolve their issues with the I-R-S can turn to the Taxpayer Advocate Service. But phoning the service is likely to bring frustration of its own. That comes to light after a look-see by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Details now from TIGTA's chief of staff for inspections and evaluations, Eleina Monroe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This Day in Legal History: Carlin's Seven Dirty Words Get to SCOTUSOn July 3, 1978, the US Supreme Court delivered a landmark decision in FCC v. Pacifica Foundation, affirming the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) authority to reprimand New York radio station WBAI for airing George Carlin's "Seven Dirty Words" comedy routine. The 5-4 ruling centered on Carlin's sketch, which listed words inappropriate for public broadcast. The Court held that the FCC could regulate indecent material on public airwaves during times when children might be listening. Justice John Paul Stevens, writing for the majority, emphasized that broadcast media have unique accessibility to children and thus require special considerations. This ruling underscored the government's role in safeguarding public morality on airwaves, distinguishing broadcast media from other forms of communication due to its pervasive presence and accessibility. The decision sparked ongoing debates about free speech and government regulation, influencing policies on broadcasting standards and the permissible content on public airwaves.A federal district court in Kansas has preliminarily blocked an Education Department rule that protects children from discrimination based on gender identity in schools receiving federal funding. Judge John W. Broomes issued the injunction, affecting Alaska, Kansas, Utah, and Wyoming. This rule, which extends Title IX protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity, has now been blocked in 14 states, following similar injunctions last month.Judge Broomes, appointed by Trump, found that the states are likely to succeed in their claim that the Biden Administration exceeded its authority by expanding the definition of sex discrimination. The states argued that the regulation's definition of sexual harassment would suppress the speech of students who believe sex is immutable and binary, and who use biologically accurate pronouns. Broomes agreed, stating that the rule's definition of sex-based harassment is impermissibly vague under the Administrative Procedure Act.This decision is a setback for the Biden Administration's efforts to enhance LGBTQ rights. Since the Supreme Court's 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision, which guaranteed same-sex marriage, conservative legal efforts have focused on issues such as transgender bathroom bans, athlete bans, and restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors.The Department of Justice has not yet commented on the ruling. The case, Kansas v. Dep't of Education, is represented by the Kansas Attorney General's Office.Biden's Title IX Transgender Protections Blocked by Kansas JudgeIn light of a recent Supreme Court ruling narrowing a criminal obstruction law, lawyers for Jan. 6 Capitol rioters are preparing to challenge convictions and seek reduced sentences. The Supreme Court's decision requires prosecutors to prove that defendants destroyed or altered documents to convict them under the obstruction statute, impacting over 200 cases related to the Capitol riot.Attorneys have indicated plans to file motions in the US District Court for the District of Columbia to dismiss charges or seek resentencing for clients who did not handle documents, particularly those linked to the Oath Keepers. This move will significantly affect cases where the obstruction charge was the sole felony. Carmen Hernandez, a criminal defense lawyer, anticipates various creative legal arguments in response to the ruling.The Supreme Court's 6-3 decision on June 28, which favored Capitol rioter Joseph Fischer, has set a new precedent for interpreting the obstruction statute, originally enacted to address evidence destruction post-Enron scandal. This ruling is a setback for federal prosecutors who had heavily relied on the statute to charge participants in the Capitol attack. Elizabeth Franklin-Best, appealing for Oath Keepers' leader Stewart Rhodes, expects the ruling to substantially impact his sentence, as he was also convicted of seditious conspiracy.Several attorneys for other Jan. 6 defendants have indicated intentions to seek relief based on the Fischer ruling. The DC courts will likely face an influx of filings for years. The broader immediate impact is somewhat limited as only 249 out of over 1,400 charged individuals were affected by the statute, with 52 cases having obstruction as the only felony.The Justice Department is still evaluating the ruling's implications, and early signals suggest prosecutors might not concede in all cases. Some defense lawyers are preparing to argue that the initial indictments were flawed under the new interpretation. However, outcomes will likely vary, with hurdles for those who pled guilty before the ruling, and effectiveness depending on individual judges and defendants.The Supreme Court's re-interpretation of the obstruction statute, requiring proof of document destruction or alteration, is critical. This change affects the foundation of many convictions and challenges the prosecutorial approach, necessitating a reassessment of cases and potentially leading to significant legal revisions and reductions in sentences.Jan. 6 Rioters to Request Relief After Supreme Court RulingUS law firms are quickly capitalizing on recent Supreme Court decisions that limit federal agency powers. Within hours of these rulings, firms began sending updates and hosting webinars to explain the implications to their clients. The Supreme Court's decisions, made over three days, restrict agencies' use of internal judges, overturn the Chevron deference principle (which required courts to defer to agency interpretations of ambiguous laws), and revive challenges related to statute limitations, potentially leading to more lawsuits over old regulations.Experts believe these rulings will significantly boost administrative law challenges, particularly benefiting firms that frequently contest federal regulations. Many lawyers have reported a surge in client inquiries, noting that the end of Chevron deference might lead businesses to pursue more litigation due to increased chances of success. The statute of limitations decision is also expected to result in more legal actions, though some attorneys predict a gradual increase rather than an immediate surge in new cases.Some attorneys highlight that the post-Chevron landscape is creating uncertainty and questions among clients across various industries. There is an expectation that while some companies may adopt a more aggressive litigation strategy, others might prefer lobbying to challenge regulations, as many corporate clients are cautious about escalating legal expenses.Overall, the Supreme Court's rulings are reshaping the legal environment, prompting law firms to guide clients through this evolving landscape and capitalize on emerging opportunities.US law firms smell opportunity as Supreme Court guts agency powers | ReutersIn my column, I argue that the IRS's shift to a broader audit mandate for all high-income taxpayers could undermine tax compliance improvements. The IRS needs to reassess and refine its audit strategies to optimize resources and maximize compliance, particularly among the wealthiest individuals. I propose a hybrid audit strategy that ensures nearly 100% audit coverage for the top 1% of income earners, with progressively lower rates for lower high-income brackets. This approach would be more effective than the current broad mandate, which lacks specific metrics for measuring success and could fail to capture significant non-compliance.Previously, the IRS had a directive to audit at least 8% of returns for individuals with incomes over $10 million, which was a focused and measurable effort. The new policy, however, aims for broader scrutiny without clear methods to gauge effectiveness, raising concerns about its impact on audit rates and overall compliance. My suggested hybrid approach would combine the precision of the former directive with a progressive audit threshold system, concentrating IRS resources where they can yield the highest return.Focusing on high-income taxpayers with the greatest potential for avoidance ensures better deterrence of tax evasion. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration's report supports this, showing that audits of high-income individuals are more productive. By defining specific audit coverage thresholds for the highest income brackets, the IRS can optimize its efforts and expand compliance audits down the income brackets.The critical legal element here is the need for targeted and measurable audit strategies. Specific metrics are essential to ensure the IRS's audit efforts are efficient and effective, allowing the agency to allocate resources where they can achieve the greatest impact on revenue and compliance.IRS Hybrid Audit Approach Best Bet to Scrutinize Rich Taxpayers This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The conversation with Damien Brady, Vice President of Research for the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, focused on the recent report by the Treasury Inspector General for the Tax Administration about the IRS's failure to effectively audit high net worth individuals. The report found that the examinations were unproductive and that the IRS was shifting its focus to individuals with $400,000 or more. The conversation also touched on the need for IRS reform, the impact of tax complexity, and the challenges of balancing the federal budget. Main Street Matters is part of the Salem Podcast Network - new episodes debut every Wednesday & Friday. For more visit JobCreatorsNetwork.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Day in Legal History: House Un-American Activities Committee Probes HollywoodOn May 29, 1947, the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) began its infamous investigation into communist influence in the Hollywood film industry. This marked the start of a series of public hearings aimed at identifying and eliminating alleged communist subversion in American cultural institutions. The HUAC's probe into Hollywood was driven by the fear that communist ideology was being subtly propagated through films and entertainment, which were seen as powerful tools for shaping public opinion.The investigation led to the subpoena of numerous writers, directors, and actors, many of whom were questioned about their political beliefs and associations. The most notable outcome of these hearings was the creation of the "Hollywood Ten," a group of screenwriters and directors who refused to answer the committee's questions, citing their First Amendment rights. These individuals were subsequently blacklisted by the industry, effectively ending their careers in Hollywood.The HUAC hearings had a chilling effect on the film industry, leading to widespread censorship and self-policing by studios to avoid further scrutiny. This period is often remembered as a dark chapter in American history, reflecting the intense paranoia and political repression of the early Cold War era. The Hollywood blacklist persisted for many years, and its repercussions were felt long after the initial hearings concluded.The HUAC's actions in 1947 set a precedent for future investigations into alleged subversive activities, influencing American political and cultural landscapes for decades. This event underscores the tension between national security concerns and the protection of civil liberties, a balance that continues to be a contentious issue in modern times. The Hollywood probe by HUAC remains a significant example of how fear and suspicion can lead to widespread violation of individual rights and freedoms.PwC has become the first reseller of OpenAI's ChatGPT Enterprise, aimed at business use, marking a significant step in the adoption of AI tools in the corporate world. This agreement will also make PwC the largest user of this AI product. The deal is part of a broader trend among Big Four accounting firms, which are increasingly incorporating AI into their services. PwC had previously announced a $1 billion investment over three years to integrate AI into its operations, enhancing the efficiency of tasks such as auditing and tax accounting.Joe Atkinson, PwC's chief products and technology officer, highlighted that the firm's experience with AI will help them effectively market these tools to clients, offering significant advantages over traditional methods. PwC's substantial deployment of ChatGPT Enterprise will set it apart in the market, as the firm aims to lead clients through their AI adoption journey. As of now, PwC's largest clients are already engaging with generative AI for various functions, including marketing and customer service, utilizing advanced AI capabilities that surpass traditional chatbots. The rest of the Big Four firms—Deloitte, Ernst & Young, and KPMG—are also making substantial investments in AI, forming partnerships with major tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and IBM to enhance their services.PwC First to Resell OpenAI's ChatGPT Enterprise to ClientsYesterday, May 28, 2024, a federal judge in Texas transferred a lawsuit challenging the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) rule on credit card late fees to Washington, D.C. This decision marks the second time U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman has moved the case from his court in Fort Worth, following a federal appeals court's recent decision to relinquish jurisdiction. The CFPB seeks to defend a rule capping credit card late fees at $8, a key component of President Joe Biden's administration's effort to combat "junk fees."The transfer to Washington, D.C. could benefit the CFPB, as it is now in a jurisdiction where the agency is based. This case involves major plaintiffs, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the American Bankers Association, who are challenging the rule. The CFPB has argued that the rule is necessary, citing that credit card issuers collected over $14 billion in late fees in 2022, with an average fee of $32.Judge Pittman, a Trump appointee, previously blocked the rule from taking effect, basing his decision on a 2022 ruling by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which found the CFPB's funding structure unconstitutional. However, the Supreme Court overturned this ruling on May 16. The CFPB plans to seek the removal of Pittman's injunction, although the plaintiffs have other arguments to prevent the rule from being enforced. The transfer is seen as a strategic move to place the case in a more favorable venue for the CFPB.Texas judge again transfers lawsuit over card late fee rule to Washington, D.C. | ReutersIllinois is on the verge of implementing a progressive tax structure on sports wagering, which could see tax rates as high as 40%. The Illinois General Assembly has passed an amendment to a bill that introduces a graduated tax rate for sports wagering receipts. Businesses with sports wagering receipts between $30 million and $50 million will face a minimum tax rate of 20%, while those with receipts exceeding $200 million will be taxed at the maximum rate of 40%.This progressive tax structure is a pioneering approach in the sports betting industry and could serve as a model for other states considering the legalization and taxation of sports betting. Illinois aims to maximize state revenue from this rapidly growing industry without stifling its competitiveness. The state's approach balances the need for significant tax income with maintaining a healthy market.Illinois's model contrasts with other states like New York, which has a flat 51% tax on gross gaming revenues. Illinois's graduated system introduces a level of progressivity, that is higher rates for entities with higher revenues, potentially influencing other states to adopt similar frameworks. For instance, New Jersey is considering raising its sports betting taxes to a uniform 30%, it remains to be seen if the Garden State may consider an Illinois-style graduated rate system. Revenue from vice taxes, including those on gambling, is crucial for states facing budget deficits. However, it's essential that the revenue generated from such taxes be allocated effectively to offset the social costs associated with these activities. In the case of sports wagering, funds should support public health initiatives, addiction treatment programs, and educational campaigns.Illinois's progressive tax on sports wagering aims to balance industry growth with regulation. If the revenue is used appropriately, Illinois could become a comprehensive model for other states to follow, focusing not only on revenue potential but also on mitigating the larger social impacts of increased sports betting.Illinois Eyeing Sports Wagering Tax Up To 40%In my column this week, I address the urgent need for a proactive approach to combat biofuel tax credit fraud. A recent audit by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration highlighted significant flaws in the administration of these credits, revealing that many are awarded without proper documentation. This system's reactive nature allows fraud to flourish, as the IRS can only issue deficiency notices after fraudulent claims are filed.Biofuel tax credits, intended to promote renewable fuel production and use, have been a cornerstone of U.S. energy policy since 2004. However, the current law's limitations prevent the IRS from denying credits at the time of filing, enabling schemes that exploit information delays. To combat this, the IRS should be given the authority to enforce registration requirements and deny non-compliant claims proactively.Implementing a track-and-trace system could also help by uniquely identifying and tracking each gallon of biofuel through its production and distribution journey. This would create multiple checkpoints, making it challenging for fraudsters to repeatedly claim credits on the same fuel.Past fraud cases, such as the Washakie biodiesel fraud and schemes involving Gen-X Energy Group, illustrate how easy it is to exploit the system. Fraudsters cycle biofuel between refineries and distribution points, claiming new credits each time, or recycle biodiesel back into feedstock to produce more biodiesel for additional credits.The IRS is currently hampered by Section 4101 of the tax code, which allows taxpayers to claim credits without meeting registration requirements. This loophole leaves the IRS to address fraud only after it has occurred, often too late to recover lost funds.A track-and-trace system, used successfully in other industries, could ensure that each gallon of biofuel is tracked from refinement to consumption, making it harder for fraudulent activities to go unnoticed. By assigning unique identifiers and logging each step in a database, this system would create an auditable chain of custody.Addressing these vulnerabilities requires legislative action to empower the IRS to deny fraudulent claims at the point of filing. Strengthening enforcement capabilities and closing existing loopholes will help safeguard the integrity of biofuel tax credits and ensure they serve their intended purpose.To Combat Biofuel Tax Credit Fraud, We Need a Proactive Approach Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

About ten years ago, news outlets began reporting on an outbreak of “Identity Theft” scams targeting the IRS and our tax returns. In that season the office of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration released a report that “confirmed IRS identity theft cases, and these returns accounted for additional losses estimated to be more than $5.2 billion.” That was for just one year. While the IRS has gotten better at detecting and prosecuting these false tax returns, “Identity Theft” continues to be a growing problem. In April, AARP reported that, “American adults lost a total of $43 billion to identity fraud in 2023”. As disconcerting as those facts are, there is another, even more sinister kind of “Identity Theft” that has been happening for over two-thousand years. It is Satan's robbing followers of JESUS of the riches that come with our true “Identity in Christ”. JESUS warned His followers about this and promised to send the HOLY SPIRIT to “guide us into all truth” regarding Satan's destructive plans. In this meassage, Pastor Joe Still teaches how to live under the HOLY SPIRIT's Identity Theft Protection Plan.

Joining Pam and Rich for this discussion are Professor Daniel Ho and RegLab Fellow Christie Lawrence, JD '24 (MPP, Harvard Kennedy School of Government).Dan is the founding director of Stanford's RegLab (Regulation, Evaluation, and Governance Lab), which builds high-impact partnerships for data science and responsible AI in the public sector. The RegLab has an extensive track record partnering with government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department of Labor, and Santa Clara County on prototyping and evaluating AI tools to make government more fair, efficient, and transparent. Building on this work, the RegLab also helps agencies strengthen AI governance and operationalize trustworthy AI principles.Christie, a third-year JD student, worked with RegLab and Stanford's Innovation Clinic on projects to advise DOL on responsible AI and development practices and to support the work with Prof. Ho on the National AI Advisory Committee, which advises the White House on AI policy. In this interview, we'll learn about several RegLab projects—and the importance of helping government develop smart AI policy and solutions.Connect:Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast WebsiteStanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn PageRich Ford >>>  Twitter/XPam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School PageStanford Law School >>> Twitter/XStanford  Law Magazine >>> Twitter/XLinks:Dan Ho >>> Stanford Law School web page[00:00:00] Chapter 1: Setting the StageMention of the rapid acceleration of technology and the release of ChatGPT.Highlighting the risks associated with AI, such as bias and privacy concerns.Discussion on the relationship between AI and governance, including recent developments in AI policy and governance.Mention of the Biden administration's executive order on AI and its implications.[00:03:04] Chapter 2: The Role of Reg Lab and Collaboration with the IRSExplanation of the Reg Lab and its purpose.Discussion on the need for government agencies to modernize their technology infrastructure.Overview of the collaboration with the IRS to improve tax evasion detection using machine learning.Discovery of disparities in auditing rates and subsequent IRS reforms.Highlighting the intersection of AI, social justice, and government practices.[00:09:12] Chapter 3: Student PerspectiveChristie Lawrence shares her experience working on AI policy at Stanford Law School.Discussion on bridging the gap between policy, law, and technology.Impactful work done by students in collaboration with government agencies.[00:11:38] Chapter 4: AI and Social JusticePam Karlan's experience with AI issues in the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division.Examples of algorithmic discrimination and its implications for social justice.Discussion on the challenges of addressing AI-related issues in government practices.[00:23:55] Chapter 5: Future DirectionsOptimism about the future of AI governance and the recent executive order's impact.Anticipation of legislative proposals and state-level initiatives in AI regulation.Importance of maintaining an open innovation ecosystem and addressing talent gaps in government agencies.[00:25:55] Chapter 6: Audience Questions 

(4/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Assistant U.S. attorneys at DOJ are calling for more flexibility and consistency in their telework options. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration helped stop a $3.5 billion fraud scheme targeting pandemic relief funds. And GSA will release a new buying guide this week to help agencies purchase generative AI capabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

(4/25/24) - In today's Federal Newscast: Assistant U.S. attorneys at DOJ are calling for more flexibility and consistency in their telework options. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration helped stop a $3.5 billion fraud scheme targeting pandemic relief funds. And GSA will release a new buying guide this week to help agencies purchase generative AI capabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Helen Knight and James Hurst discuss the releases from Tax Administration and Maintenance Day on 18 April 2024 particularly the consultation launched around the VAT treatment of private hire vehicle fares. For more information on this topic and more, please visit www.mercia-group.com for further details.

The UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, has delivered the Spring Budget 2024. In a rowdy House of Commons, the Chancellor delivered what will be his last Spring Budget before a UK general election widely expected to take place in autumn this year.  Further details on some of these measures are expected to follow on Tax Administration and Maintenance Day 2024 – confirmed as taking place on 18 April – but there were plenty of interesting points (and politics) in the tax policies included in this wave of announcements. In our latest podcast Jill Gatehouse, Emily Szasz, Josh Critchlow and David Haughey from our London tax team discuss some of the tax measures they found the most noteworthy in the Spring Budget 2024, including: Replacing the current tax rules for non-UK domiciled individuals (so-called ‘non doms') with a new residence-based regime; Changes to the transfer of assets abroad rules following the Supreme Court decision in Fisher to ensure this anti-avoidance regime cannot be bypassed by individuals transferring assets offshore via a UK company; The introduction of Reserved Investor Funds (RIFs), a new type of UK investment fund in the form of an unauthorised contractual scheme; and Other changes to the UK's tax code, including: Further reductions to NICs, benefitting both employed and self-employed workers; On stamp duty/SDRT, new guidance on recently-enacted legislation restricting the application of the higher rate charge on the issue and certain transfers of UK shares and securities into clearance services or depositary receipt systems – but nothing further on the Stamp Taxes on Shares Modernisation proposal; Delaying the sunsetting of the Energy Profits Levy, so that it will end in 2029 (or earlier if energy prices fall below levels set by the previously-announced Energy Security Investment Mechanism); Establishing a new R&D tax relief expert panel tasked with ensuring relevant HMRC guidance remains up-to-date as industry develops; and Consulting on the introduction a new UK ISA, giving individuals a £5,000 annual allowance to invest in certain UK-focussed assets on a tax-free basis.

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has welcomed the recent media coverage and public discourse of the Draft Tax Administration Procedures Act, which was circulated to select stakeholders for comment from last year 2023. The Comptroller and Senior Legal Officer at the IRD have sought to clarify some of the issues surrounding the draft legislation.   For details on these developments and more, visit: www.govt.lc

The proposed Tax Administration Laws Amendment Bill and its enforcement is the focus in this edition of the Business Day Spotlight.  Our host Mudiwa Gavaza is joined by Ettienne Retief, chairman of the SA Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA)'s national tax and SARS committee.  Topics of discussion include: proposals in the new bill; history of SA's grey listing; and ways in which government could work to enforce the laws;  Business Day Spotlight is a TimesLIVE Production

Friends of Europe's Dharmendra Kanani is joined this week by Maria Elena Scoppio, Director for Indirect Taxation and Tax Administration at DG TAXUD. Fresh out of the EU Tax Symposium, Scoppio lifts the veil on what was discussed, sharing that, for the first time in the symposium, a psychologist was invited, which goes to show the importance of behavioural taxation. Given that tax is one of the most sensitive areas and subject to unanimity, Scoppio argues in favour of enhanced cooperation to advance legislation and not become trapped in "masochistic" endeavours.

Episode 200! Thanks to all the listeners here to celebrate this milestone. In this episode we're talking about the coming tax season (never too early right?). A lot of tax headlines to discuss this episode:IRS announces that this coming filing season, taxpayers may be able to file most documents and returns electronically and by 2025 the IRS will digitize all paper file returns when they are receivedIRS might push for an early end to the employee retention tax credit as the number of "legitimate claims" declinesTreasury Inspector General for Tax Administration says that while the IRS has done a good job of addressing cyberthreats, it needs to do a better job with documentation New tech being built called IVIX, the first AI powered platform to help governments address financial crimes and tax evasionTax prep companies like H&R Block and TaxSlayer have for years been sharing Americans sensitive financial data with tech giants like Meta and Google in a potential of violation of federal lawI speak with Steven Lyon, Senior Manager, Product Specialists with SafeSend to discuss all these updates and how to meet challenges as practitioners. ResourcesSteven Lyon LinkedIn ProfileAP News article, "IRS aims to go paperless by 2025 as part of its campaign to conquer mountains of paperwork", by Fatima Hussein Accounting Today article, "IRS good at addressing cyberthreats, but not documenting them" by Chris GaetanoIVIX websiteCNN article, "Tax prep companies shared private taxpayer data with Google and Meta for years, congressional probe finds", by Brian Fung

An IRS watchdog is calling on the agency to make better use of pay incentives already available to stay on track with plans to build up its workforce.The IRS has more than a dozen pay incentives available to recruit and retain employees with skills that are essential to its operations.But the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, in a recent report, found the IRS only used these pay incentives to recruit, retain or relocate about 1,400 employees between fiscal 2019 and 2022.The agency, during this period, made a total payout of $1.5 million through these incentives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An IRS watchdog is calling on the agency to make better use of pay incentives already available to stay on track with plans to build up its workforce. The IRS has more than a dozen pay incentives available to recruit and retain employees with skills that are essential to its operations. But the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, in a recent report, found the IRS only used these pay incentives to recruit, retain or relocate about 1,400 employees between fiscal 2019 and 2022. The agency, during this period, made a total payout of $1.5 million through these incentives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the politicians debate how much money it should have, the IRS cranked dutifully away this past tax filing season. The agency says it operated on schedule for the first time since 2020, the advent of the pandemic. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration tracked the season closely. With what it found, the deputy IG for audit, Diana Tengesdal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While the politicians debate how much money it should have, the IRS cranked dutifully away this past tax filing season. The agency says it operated on schedule for the first time since 2020, the advent of the pandemic. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration tracked the season closely. With what it found, the deputy IG for audit, Diana Tengesdal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's tax season and we want you to avoid being a victim of tax fraud. As we record this episode, we are a week away from tax day. However the information in this episode is good year round. So if you hear it in a best of episode, it still applies. Since 2018, more than 75,000 victims have lost $28 million to scammers impersonating the IRS over the phone, email, texts and more. That's what the FTC says (the Federal Trade Commission) which enforces consumer protection laws, including those against fraud. The true number is certainly higher because of victims who don't make reports. What the IRS won't do 1)The IRS won't call you. 2)The IRS won't text you. 3) The IRS won't email you. 4)The IRS won't call and threaten that the police are going to arrest you. 5) The IRS won't call and ask for an immediate payment on a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. 6) The IRS won't threaten to suspend your license. The IRS can't suspend your license. 7) The IRS won't say your account is on hold. 8)The IRS won't text with a message “Unusual Activity Report” with a link to click.  9) The IRS won't threaten deportation. Why? The IRS cannot revoke immigration status. 10)The IRS won't threaten to suspend your Social Security Number. They can't do that. 11)The IRS won't email you and say “We recalculated your tax return and you need to click this link to claim the higher refund.” Why? The IRS doesn't email. 12)The IRS will not email you, text you or call you saying 'This is the Bureau of Tax Enforcement, and we're putting a lien or levy on your assets'. Why? The IRS doesn't email , text or in general call.There is no Bureau of Tax Enforcement. 13) The IRS won't email or text you 'Click here to see some details about your tax refund'. Why? The IRS doesn't email or text. These emails or texts are intended to trick the reader into clicking on links that lead to a fake IRS-like website and expose the user to malware. The IRS does not use email, text messages or social media to discuss tax debts or refunds with taxpayers. How do I know this? I'm quoting the IRS website.  What you should know about these calls 1)Caller ID can be faked. Just because your Caller ID says IRS, it doesn't mean it's the IRS. 2)Ask anyone claiming to be the IRS for their name, badge number and callback number. 3)You can verify if someone is real by calling the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 800-366-4484. Link to report a scam here. .https://www.tigta.gov/reportcrime-misconduct How the IRS will contact you if they need to contact you 1)They will send a letter. 2)They will send another letter. 3) If several letters go unanswered, they might call or they could come to your house.4) BUT THE IRS WILL ONLY COME TO YOUR HOUSE AFTER THEY HAVE CALLED FIRST TO SET UP AN APPOINTMENT AND THEY WILL ONLY CALL AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS BY MAIL.  Let's say you owe unpaid taxes 1)You can appeal if you think the IRS is wrong. 2)If you do owe money, you can work out a payment plan.  IRS at 800-829-1040.  IRS Dirty Dozen  List https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-wraps-up-2023-dirty-dozen-list-reminds-taxpayers-and-tax-pros-to-be-wary-of-scams-and-schemes-even-after-tax-season Great article at Nerd Wallet https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/avoid-irs-scams#:~:text=IRS%20scams%20involve%20criminals%20impersonating,you%20don't%20actually%20owe. Episode 508 of Dads Daughters and Dollars (Don't Be Scared of the IRS, My Story) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-508-dont-be-scared-of-the-irs-my-story/id1523622122?i=1000576371700

CPA Australia's Senior Tax Manager Elinor Kasapidis attended September's invite-only, ATO-hosted OECD Forum on Tax Administration. At this event in Sydney, discussions took place between global tax regulators, administrators, and business representatives, with a raft of ideas debated. In this episode, she unpacks what was raised in the forum's agenda and offers CPA Australia's perspective on the event. Listen now. Host:  Dr Jane Rennie, CPA Australia General Manager Media and Content Guest: Elinor Kasapidis, CPA Australia Senior Manager Tax Policy

The IRS has been making progress toward eliminating a longstanding problem. Namely, companies who are delinquent in their federal taxes, but that nevertheless receive federal contracts. For the most recent figures, Federal Drive host Tom Temin talked with LaToya George, the director of the Office of Audits at the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

"For my friends, everything; for my enemies, the law" is what the latest report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration shows. Basically, you can be delinquent on taxes and still get government money if you're the right type - or else you get a dorky new hire IRS agent kicking down your door. Plus, the Supreme Court refuses to hear a challenge to the ATF bump stock ban - what dangerous precedent that sets. Finally, a noted historian explains the ancient hatred underlying the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

We've all heard the horror stories about the mess at the IRS. We've heard how many of their printers and copiers don't work because they're out of ink. We've heard about how old and unreliable their computer system is, and we've heard how multiplied thousands of refunds have been delayed as the agency deals with a massive backlog of unprocessed returns.What we didn't know until just recently is that one of the ways the IRS chose to deal with that backlog was simply to throw away thirty million unprocessed paper returns. In this edition of FAIRtax Power Radio, the Guys look at a report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration that details yet another reason why we need to put the IRS out of business by replacing the income tax with the FAIRtax.

Monday May 16, 2022 - The TREASURY INSPECTOR GENERAL FOR TAX ADMINISTRATION recently conducted an audit and issued a report on May 4, 2022 - A Service-Wide Strategy Is Needed to Address Challenges Limiting Growth in Business Tax Return Electronic Filing. "This audit was initiated because the IRS's continued inability to process backlogs of paper-filed tax returns contributed to management's decision to destroy an estimated 30 million paper-filed information return documents in March 2021. The IRS uses these documents to conduct post-processing compliance matches to identify taxpayers who do not accurately report their income." The IRS destroyed 30 Million information return documents! These information returns are required documents - taxpayers shoulder the cost and burden of producing these documents in a timely fashion. And the IRS destroyed 30 million. Don't worry - says the IRS - “There were no negative taxpayer consequences as a result of this action,” “Taxpayers or payers have not been and will not be subject to penalties resulting from this action.” So, it is important that information returns are filed - and information returns should be expanded - but, if they are destroyed, there are no consequences. Attorney Steven A. Leahy reviews this latest TIGFTA report today on Today's Tax Talk. https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/taxes/articles/irs-destroyed-30-million-paper-tax-documents-due-to-backlog/ https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/13/joe-biden-asked-to-replace-irs-chief-charles-rettig-over-tax-document-destruction.html https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/irs-blasted-for-destroying-millions-of-information-returns-due-to-backlog --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/steven-leahy1/message

The TREASURY INSPECTOR GENERAL FOR TAX ADMINISTRATION (TIGTA) conducts a yearly audit to "assess the adequacy and security of the IRS's information technology." Problems were reported in the IRS's handling of the privacy of taxpayer data, access controls, system environment security, information system boundary components, network monitoring and audit logs, disaster recovery, roles and responsibilities, and separation of duties, as well as security policies, procedures, and documentation. Two of five function areas of the IRS's Cybersecurity Framework were rated “not effective,” namely its ability to identify its cybersecurity risks, and its ability to detect cybersecurity incidents. In both areas, TIGTA said that the IRS had defined policies, procedures and strategies, but that they were not consistently implemented, leaving taxpayer information at risk. Attorney Steven A. Leahy discusses the report and its impact on taxpayer data. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/steven-leahy1/message

Today I'm talking to Special Agent David Renfro, a federal agent for the Treasury Department.  David's diverse career took him from being a Federal Air Marshal right after 9/11 to working on joint terrorism task forces and eventually as an investigator with the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, a job he calls the best kept secret in Federal law enforcement.  All along the way he had opportunities to do a wide variety of training at FLETC in Glynco, Georgia, a federal training center he recently returned to  as a staff member and program manager.This episode gives you a lot of wisdom from David as he talks about the twists and turns of his career. He explains how he decided to make each move and how to prepare for the next step in his career.  And hang on to the end where David comments on how he timed his latest career move based on his family dynamics.Resources: Man Alive, by Patrick MorelyMusic is by Chris Haugen from the YouTube Audio Library and the KCKPD Pipes and Drums.Hey Chaplain Podcast Episode 016

Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) continues to transform its operations to better serve the public, both in Jamaica and diaspora communities.Its online offerings are vastly improved and public satisfaction has been high, said Courtney Johnson, the taxpayer education officer at the TAJ. “Over 75 per cent of our customers found that using the online platform is convenient, it is safe…,” he said.Johnson said the TAJ continues to work to ensure it provides the best service possible to all customers. He notes too that the TAJ is already number one in the Caribbean; and the vision is to become a world-class organisation.In an interview with Impacting Jamaica host Byron Buckley, the TAJ taxpayer education officer spoke about various improved offerings and others to come on stream soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Brandt is the Chief Risk Officer for the Internal Revenue Service in the United States, where he leads the agency's enterprise risk and audit management programs. Prior to that, he was the Director of Planning and Research in the IRS's Large Business and International Division, with responsibility for the division's workload selection and risk identification processes. In 2016, Tom served as the Head of the Tax Administration Unit at the OECD in Paris, where he led the work of the Forum on Tax Administration, a body that brings together the leaders of tax administrations from more than 50 countries. After returning to the IRS in 2017, he founded and continues to serve as Chair of the OECD's Enterprise Risk Management Community of Interest. He's been a member of the Board of Directors for the Association for Federal Enterprise Risk Management and served as its President in 2019.

Christina Ho is joined by prominent government leaders Larry Koskinen and Michael Peckham to discuss how AI is being applied to improve $700B  worth of grantmaking. Listen as they discuss specific business challenges in grantmaking, opportunities in the grant space to leverage AI and other technology, and what some of their biggest lessons learned and motivators are after over 35 years in the government. Larry Koskinen has served the public interest for more than forty years through executive positions in the federal government, commercial professional services firms, and non-profit organizations—both within the United States and abroad. He is a member of the Federal Senior Executive Service, and is currently serving as Chief Risk Officer at the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, where he leads HUD's departmental enterprise and fraud risk management programs. Prior to joining HUD, he served as an executive in the federal Inspector General community, managing data analytics, finance, human capital, information technology, strategic planning and support operations at the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. He was Management Officer for Peace Corps International Operations and also Chief Business Architect. He served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines. Michael Peckham is the Chief Financial Officer and Director of the Financial Management Portfolio for the DHHS Program Support Center. He is a champion for positive change, creating new approaches to old problems through human-centered design, agile methodologies, microservices architecture, and applying emerging technology to promote data driven business decisions. Mr. Peckham has successfully led multiple agency-wide initiatives including the ReImagine HHS ReInvent Grants Management transformation and the HHS DATA Act initiatives.

Across the country, cities are facing severe budget shortfalls because of COVID-19 and its consequences. In this landscape, city and county governments are struggling to consistently do more with less. As local governments are looking for new ways to balance their budget and streamline their services, they should look to this innovative solution: automated revenue management. In this episode, I talk with Christy Cato, Vice President of Tax Administration at Avenu Insights & Analytics, about how automation can benefit local governments. What we discussed: How automated revenue management works. How automation can generate new revenue and keep employees on staff. How governments can implement automation for more efficient workflows. What processes you should avoid automating. This discussion with Christy Cato was taken from our show Local Government Insights. If you want to hear more episodes like this one, check us out on Apple Podcasts. If you don't use Apple Podcasts, you can find every episode here.

They can't compare to piano-playing felines, but IRS videos do have their share of online followers. Yes, the IRS has a YouTube channel of short, highly formatted videos. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration looked into the video program and found few problems, actually. Here with details, Acting Assistant Inspector General for Management Services Heather Hill joined Federal Drive with Tom Temin.

In today's Federal Newscast, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration finds the I-R-S doesn't always follow its own procedures for reviewing and adjudicating cases of missed filings or under-reported income.