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

Former IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel and longtime agency communications chief Terry Lemons join Roger and Annie for a candid Thanksgiving conversation about the mounting challenges facing the agency heading into the 2026 filing season. The discussion covers budget cuts, staffing reductions, the lingering ERC backlog, and why a hollowed-out compliance function puts both taxpayers and tax professionals at greater risk.

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Welcome to Federal Tax Updates
• (01:22) - Introducing Special Guests: Terry Lemons and Danny Werfel
• (02:33) - Danny's Post-IRS Journey
• (08:03) - Terry Lemons' Post-IRS Activities
• (12:27) - Challenges Facing the IRS and Tax Professionals
• (19:52) - The Importance of IRS Compliance and Modernization
• (30:50) - Concerns About Workforce Sustainability
• (31:56) - Employee Retention Credit Issues
• (32:37) - Fraud and Government Response
• (35:30) - Impact of Government Shutdown on IRS Programs
• (36:53) - IRS Performance and Resource Allocation
• (40:52) - Challenges in Tax Compliance and Enforcement
• (46:17) - Preparing for the Upcoming Tax Season
• (51:19) - College Football Predictions
• (53:53) - Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

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

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

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

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