Tax Resolution: The Badran Way

Amro Badran

Unlock the secrets to navigating the complex world of tax issues with Tax Resolution: The Badran Way, hosted by Amro Badran, Founder of Badran Tax. As a reputable and trusted Enrolled Agent admitted to practice before the IRS, Amro brings over 40 years of unparalleled experience to the table, making him the ultimate tax expert. Every episode dives into the real-world challenges of tax problem resolution, sharing expert consultation and proven strategies that have saved clients thousands of dollars in tax debt nationwide. Amro’s mission is clear: to deliver excellent and accurate services and empower everyone - from individuals and corporations to fellow tax professionals - with the knowledge they need to face tax problems head-on. Tune in as he shares his decades of expertise, solving the most pressing issues in tax problem resolution, and proving that with Badran Tax, a Tax Problem is truly No Problem!

Episodes

  1. 1099 vs. W-2: The Tax Mistake Freelancers Make That Triggers IRS Trouble with Nelson

    1D AGO

    1099 vs. W-2: The Tax Mistake Freelancers Make That Triggers IRS Trouble with Nelson

    In this episode, host Amro Bandan and Nelson Drasner, Enrolled Agent, discuss the critical differences between 1099 and W-2 tax classifications. Many people mistakenly think they are 1099 employees when, in fact, they may be self-employed contractors. This episode clears up confusion and explains how these differences impact taxes, deductions, and overall tax strategy. Nelson is a tax expert with over 20 years of experience as an IRS revenue agent, specializing in auditing self-employed individuals, businesses, and tax returns. His expertise is crucial for understanding how the IRS handles self-employed individuals and the tax advantages and pitfalls of being a 1099 contractor versus a W-2 employee. Expect to LearnKey differences between a 1099 contractor and a W-2 employeeTax deductions available to self-employed individuals that W-2 employees cannot claimWhat expenses self-employed people can deduct, including home office and vehicle-related expensesThe importance of paying estimated quarterly taxes when self-employedWhat happens if you misuse business expenses or make deductions incorrectlyHow employees and contractors handle tax payments differently Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] – Teaser[00:35] – Welcome & Introduction to Tax Resolution: The Badran Way[02:21] – W-2 Explained: Salary, Withholding, and Employer Taxes[06:35] – Vehicle Deductions: Ordinary, Necessary, and Not Excessive[09:32] – Uber/Lyft Drivers: Fuel, Repairs, and Customer Supplies[11:14] – Retirement Accounts for the Self-Employed: IRAs and Deductions[13:16] – Summary: Employee vs. Self-Employed – Key Takeaways Follow Nelson Drasner: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelson-drasner-35943ab8/ 👉 Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badran-tax-consultants-corp/ 🔗 More from Tax Resolution: 👉 Website: https://badrantax.com/ 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amro-badran/ 👉 Instagram:a...

    15 min
  2. IRS Can Take Your Passport Over $66K in Taxes with Christopher

    FEB 16

    IRS Can Take Your Passport Over $66K in Taxes with Christopher

    In this episode of Tax Resolution, Christopher Nichols returns to discuss an important and often overlooked aspect of tax debt: how the IRS can take action against your passport. The host and tax expert explore the details of how unpaid taxes can lead to passport restrictions, what taxpayers need to know, and how to resolve the issue. This episode is vital for anyone dealing with significant tax debt or planning international travel. Christopher is a seasoned tax resolution expert and former IRS revenue officer. With extensive experience handling complex tax situations, Christopher offers valuable insight into the IRS’s authority and the steps taxpayers can take to avoid passport issues due to unpaid taxes. Expect to LearnHow the IRS collaborates with the State Department to freeze or revoke passports for taxpayers with significant tax debtThe specific threshold for passport action and how much you need to oweThe steps taxpayers can take to resolve their tax debt and unfreeze their passportWhy contacting the IRS directly is essential for resolving passport issuesThe importance of maintaining good records, including passport details, in case of an issueHow IRS payment plans, offers in compromise, and currently not collectible statuses can help prevent passport restrictions Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] – Teaser[00:38] – Introduction: Can the IRS Revoke or Block Your Passport?[01:59] – The Process: AI-Driven Indicators & Passport Delinquent Holds[04:09] – Travel Considerations: Valid Passports vs. Renewal Restrictions[06:33] – Alternative Resolution: "Currently Not Collectible" Hardship Status[08:02] – Important Nuance: Resolution Required Even If Balance Drops Below $66k[09:46] – Closing & Thanks Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-b1b515355/ 🔗 More from Tax Resolution: 👉 Website: https://badrantax.com/ 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amro-badran/ 👉 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badrantax/ 👉 Facebook:a href="https://www.facebook.com/badrantax" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    10 min
  3. Don’t File Your 2025 Tax Return Until You Know These IRS Changes with Nelson

    FEB 2

    Don’t File Your 2025 Tax Return Until You Know These IRS Changes with Nelson

    In this episode, Amro Badran speaks with Nelson Drasner to break down the key tax law changes that will affect the 2025 tax filing season. With sweeping updates on deductions, credits, and filing thresholds, this episode is essential viewing for anyone preparing to optimize their 2025 tax return. Nelson walks through the nuances of each change, clarifies common misconceptions, and shares practical advice to help taxpayers file accurately and efficiently. Nelson is a veteran in tax law and personal finance with years of experience advising individuals and families on tax preparation and planning. Known for his candid insights and no-nonsense approach, Nelson returns to the show by popular demand to demystify the latest changes to the U.S. tax code and help listeners make informed financial decisions. Expect to LearnThe new standard deduction thresholds for single and married filers in 2025.How overtime pay deductions will impact taxable income.A new deduction for car loan interest with the U.S. made car requirement.What the $40,000 property tax deduction means for homeowners.Tips on how to avoid IRS audits and get your refund faster by filing correctly. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00] – Teaser[00:54] – Introduction of Tax Expert Nelson Drazner[01:45] – Standard Deduction Increase for 2025[02:39] – Understanding the Overtime Pay Deduction[03:36] – New Deduction for Personal Car Loan Interest[04:32] – Additional Deduction for Taxpayers Over 65[05:47] – Increased Cap for Itemized Property Tax Deductions[06:30] – Recommendation to File Early for Faster Refunds[07:51] – Closing Remarks and Thanks Follow Nelson Drasner: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelson-drasner-35943ab8/ 👉 Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badran-tax-consultants-corp/ 🔗 More from Tax Resolution: 👉 Website: https://badrantax.com/ 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amro-badran/ 👉 Instagram:a...

    8 min
  4. What Really Happens During an IRS Audit for Taxpayers to Avoid Big Mistakes with Nelson Drasner

    JAN 5

    What Really Happens During an IRS Audit for Taxpayers to Avoid Big Mistakes with Nelson Drasner

    In this episode, Amro Badran speaks with Nelson Drasner, a former IRS Revenue Agent, to demystify the audit process and share practical advice on how taxpayers can effectively handle an IRS audit. Nelson spent over 24 years auditing small business and individual tax returns and brings firsthand insight into how IRS field audits are conducted. From document requests to potential referrals for criminal investigation, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens when the IRS comes knocking. Nelson Drasner is a retired IRS Revenue Agent with more than two decades of experience. During his career, he focused primarily on auditing small business returns under $10 million. As a field agent, he conducted in-person audits, often meeting with taxpayer representatives at offices or homes. Nelson’s extensive experience makes him an expert on IRS procedures, audit triggers, and how to successfully manage the audit process. Expect to Learn What to expect when you receive an IRS audit noticeHow IRS field agents conduct audits and collect evidenceWhy having a tax representative is critical during auditsThe role of bank records, interviews, and third-party contacts in auditsTips on documentation, honesty, and how to best prepare for an audit Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00] – Teaser[00:37] – Introduction & Nelson’s IRS Audit Background[01:32] – The Audit Letter: Initial Reactions & “No-Change” Cases[02:15] – First Steps After Receiving an Audit Notice[03:03] – When an Audit Can Escalate to Criminal Investigation[03:48] – The Audit Process: Scheduling, Interviews & Document Requests[05:09] – Timeline for Providing Documents & Consequences of Non-Cooperation[05:48] – What Happens If a Taxpayer Ignores the Audit[06:48] – IRS Authority: Contacting Third Parties (Neighbors, Banks, Employers)[07:46] – Should the Taxpayer Attend the Audit? The Risks Explained[08:24] – How to Prepare for an Audit: Gathering Records & Representation[09:36] – Final Advice: Honesty on Returns & The “Audit Lottery”[10:24] – Nelson’s Closing Message: Accuracy Prevents Anxiety[10:37] – Host Recap & Key...

    11 min
  5. How Taxpayers Remove IRS Penalties using Form 843 and Proper Documentation with Christopher Nichols

    12/22/2025

    How Taxpayers Remove IRS Penalties using Form 843 and Proper Documentation with Christopher Nichols

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down again with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax and a retired IRS Revenue Officer and Appeals Settlement Officer, to explore the topic of penalty abatement. Chris shares valuable insights on how taxpayers can request the IRS to remove penalties and interest charges. With expertise in IRS procedures, Chris walks listeners through the process of filing for a reasonable cause abatement and the steps to take when penalties arise. Christopher Nichols also explains the various circumstances under which penalties can be abated, including serious illness, natural disasters, and mistakes made by tax professionals. Whether you're a business owner or an individual taxpayer, understanding the right steps to take can save you significant amounts of money. Expect to Learn: What reasonable cause abatement is and how it works with the IRS.Key factors the IRS considers when deciding to remove penalties and interest.How personal situations like illness or loss of records can impact your eligibility for abatement.The importance of documentation and verification when filing for penalty abatement.Tips for ensuring a successful penalty abatement request. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Introduction to penalty abatement and the IRS process [01:00] – What is the reasonable cause of abatement? [03:06] – Key criteria for reasonable cause: illness, death, and more [06:14] – The importance of providing documentation to support your case [08:00] – What to do if the IRS denies your penalty abatement request [10:24] – The form for penalty abatement and its role [11:30] – How long the abatement process takes and when penalties continue to accrue [12:57] – What happens if the penalty is paid before the abatement request is processed [13:30] – How to deal with multiple penalty abatements across different years [15:12] – Special cases: filing late due to unforeseen circumstances [17:25] – Can spouses blame each other for penalties? [18:41] – Resolving issues caused by a tax preparer’s mistake [19:01] – Wrap-up and final advice for penalty abatement requests Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-b1b515355/ 🔗 More from Tax Resolution: 👉 Website: https://badrantax.com/ 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amro-badran/ 👉 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badrantax/ 👉 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/badrantax 👉 TikTok: a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@badrantax"...

    19 min
  6. The Taxpayers Can Legally Remove IRS Penalties Every 4 Years with the First Time Abatement Rule

    12/15/2025

    The Taxpayers Can Legally Remove IRS Penalties Every 4 Years with the First Time Abatement Rule

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down again with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax and a retired IRS Revenue Officer and Appeals Settlement Officer, to explore how taxpayers can reduce or eliminate IRS penalties using the First-Time Penalty Abatement (FTA) program. They clarify common myths around IRS penalties, explain what types of penalties qualify, and share critical insights into how and when to request an abatement. This episode is packed with actionable tips for individuals and businesses looking to manage or reduce their IRS debt more effectively. Key Takeaways:Why the IRS issues high penalties and how they promote voluntary compliance.The requirements and timing for qualifying for First-Time Penalty Abatement.Why hiring a tax professional can help avoid costly mistakes with IRS penalties.Common misconceptions about IRS interest and penalty relief.What to do if your penalties stem from IRS errors or substitute tax returns. Episode Highlights and Timestamps:[00:00] - Introduction and Chris Nichols’ IRS background[01:17] - Can IRS penalties and interest be removed?[02:45] - Why the IRS charges high penalties and interest[04:19] - Filing vs. paying: why you should always file on time[05:42] - Overview of First-Time Penalty Abatement and how it works[07:05] - Who qualifies for FTA and how often it can be used[08:12] - Why timing is crucial when requesting a penalty abatement[10:00] - The four types of penalty relief options[12:00] - Best strategy: pay first, then request abatement[14:00] - Penalties from audits, substitute returns, and large 1099 errors[17:20] - Does the size of the penalty matter to the IRS?[18:51] - FTA applies to businesses and individuals alike[21:30] - Why most taxpayers don’t know FTA exists[22:24] - How interest on penalties works and what can be reduced[23:44] - How IRS encourages compliance with reduced interest on agreements[24:20] - Teaser for next episode: Reasonable Cause Penalty Abatement Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-b1b515355/ 🔗 More from Tax Resolution:  👉 Website: https://badrantax.com/ 👉 LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amro-badran/ 👉 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/badrantax/ 👉 Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/badrantax 👉 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badrantax   Follow the Podcast:  👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@badrantax 👉 Apple Podcast: a...

    23 min
  7. The IRS Offer in Compromise Truth for Taxpayers to Avoid Penny on the Dollar Scams - Christopher Nichols

    12/09/2025

    The IRS Offer in Compromise Truth for Taxpayers to Avoid Penny on the Dollar Scams - Christopher Nichols

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax and a former IRS Collection Revenue Officer and Appeals Settlement Officer, to demystify the Offer in Compromise (OIC) process. They cut through the misleading "settle for pennies on the dollar" advertising and explain the three core collection categories and, crucially, the three different types of OICs. Learn how the IRS calculates your ability to pay, why filing an OIC can sometimes extend your tax collection period, and what you must do to stay in compliance both before and after your offer is accepted. Key Takeaways:OIC Reality Check: Understand that the IRS accepts only about 30% of OICs filed, making pre-submission analysis essential. The Three Offer Types: A breakdown of Doubt as to Collectibility (the most common), Doubt as to Liability, and Effective Tax Administration (Hardship) offers. Reasonable Collection Potential: How the IRS determines your ability to pay by calculating your monthly income/expenses and the liquidation value of assets like home equity and vehicles. Statute of Limitation Risk: The critical warning that filing an OIC freezes and extends the 10-year Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED). Compliance Requirement: The non-negotiable rule is to be in full filing compliance for the last six years prior to submitting the offer and for five years after acceptance. Episode Highlights and Timestamps:[00:00:00] - Introduction to Offer in Compromise (OIC) and the three collection categories [00:03:36] - Offer in Compromise Acceptance Statistics (FY 2023 and FY 2024) [00:05:07] - The benefit of OIC for the IRS (clearing liabilities from their books) [00:06:22] - Forms required to file an OIC (Form 433 and Form 656) and the role of net monthly income [00:07:10] - The three basic types of Offers: Doubt as to Collectibility, Doubt as to Liability, and Effective Tax Administration (ETA) [00:09:24] - Effective Tax Administration (ETA) and hardship examples (e.g., medical expenses for the elderly) [00:14:12] - Ideal OIC candidates (people with no ability to pay and no assets) [00:15:17] - Warning: Filing an OIC freezes the Collection Statute Expiration Date (CSED) [00:23:00] - Post-acceptance requirement: The 5-year compliance contract (Form 656) [00:23:38] - Application fees, low-income exemption, and the difference between Lump Sum and Periodic Payment offers [00:27:44] - Requirements after an OIC is accepted (payments and continuing compliance) [00:33:04] - The 3-year lookback period for "dissipated assets" (e.g., cashed-in retirement or inheritance money) [00:35:09] - IRS criteria for high-profile tax cases (high dollar amount, politicians, and professional athletes) [00:36:44] - The OIC calculation is based on the ability to pay, not the amount owed Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-b1b515355/ 🔗 More from Tax...

    39 min

About

Unlock the secrets to navigating the complex world of tax issues with Tax Resolution: The Badran Way, hosted by Amro Badran, Founder of Badran Tax. As a reputable and trusted Enrolled Agent admitted to practice before the IRS, Amro brings over 40 years of unparalleled experience to the table, making him the ultimate tax expert. Every episode dives into the real-world challenges of tax problem resolution, sharing expert consultation and proven strategies that have saved clients thousands of dollars in tax debt nationwide. Amro’s mission is clear: to deliver excellent and accurate services and empower everyone - from individuals and corporations to fellow tax professionals - with the knowledge they need to face tax problems head-on. Tune in as he shares his decades of expertise, solving the most pressing issues in tax problem resolution, and proving that with Badran Tax, a Tax Problem is truly No Problem!