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!

  1. Sep 21

    Why the IRS Can Penalise You, Even When the Tax Return Is Correct

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down again with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax, and John Kelshaw, Executive Board Member at Federal Employees (Newark) Federal Credit Union and a former IRS employee, about due diligence requirements for paid tax preparers. They explain IRS screening of refundable credits, warning letters and audits, documentation standards, Form 8867, and the risks of failing to follow up on inconsistent information. John draws on 40 years working for the IRS, along with experience at Jackson Hewitt and as a VITA volunteer, to explain how preparers can protect themselves. His guidance centers on asking relevant questions, retaining supporting documents, and treating each client file as a separate due diligence record. Expect to Learn: How to recognize the refundable-credit issues the IRS systems review for due diligence concerns.Why warning letters can put a preparer on the IRS’s radar and increase the likelihood of further review.The questions to ask and document when a client’s household, income, or dependency information affects a credit.How to follow up when information is inconsistent, inaccurate, or incorrect before claiming a credit.Why Form 8867 documentation must be retained in the client file when it supports the credits claimed.The risk of preparer and company penalties when due diligence requirements are not met. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser[00:49] – Welcome & Introduction to the Due Diligence Episode with John and Chris[04:18] – The Five Ws and Three I's: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and Consistency[07:10] – Penalty Amounts: Up to $2,650 Per Return (25 Returns = $65,000)[11:06] – Circular 230: Rules for Paid Tax Preparers[14:48] – Training vs. Penalties: A Call for Standardised Preparation[17:48] – Closing Remarks Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-ea-b1b515355/ Follow John Kelshaw: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kelshaw-a70a60207/ 👉 Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/federal-employees-newark-federal-credit-union/ 👉 Company’s Website: https://www.fenfcu.com/ 🔗 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 Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    Why the IRS Can Penalise You, Even When the Tax Return Is Correct
  2. Sep 14

    Former IRS Agent John Kelshaw Reveals: How the IRS Really Conducts an Audit

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down again with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax, and John Kelshaw, Executive Board Member at Federal Employees (Newark) Federal Credit Union and a former IRS revenue agent and instructor. They explain audit selection, office and field audits, pre-audit research, documentation, representation, appeals, and steps taxpayers can take to reduce avoidable problems. Drawing on his experience working IRS examination cases, John describes how revenue agents assess returns, identify potential issues, and use the facts and circumstances of each case. He also shares how honesty, organized records, and timely responses can affect an audit’s direction and resolution. Expect to Learn: How IRS audit selection can begin when a return’s DIF score identifies patterns or statistics that differ from similar returns.The difference between office audits for generally smaller taxpayers and field audits involving more complex business or partnership issues.Why taxpayers should consider speaking with a representative if they are uncomfortable with the audit process or may disclose unnecessary information.The importance of keeping records, responding to IRS mail, and avoiding false or self-created documentation during an audit.How unresolved audit findings can move from a discussion with the agent to a manager conference, Appeals, and potentially Tax Court.Why taxpayers remain responsible for the accuracy of a signed return even when a preparer completed it. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser[01:03] – Welcome & Introduction to the IRS Audit Episode with John and Chris[05:43] – Collection vs. Exam Backgrounds: John and Chris's Perspectives[12:19] – Expensive Vehicles and Lavish Expenses: Ordinary, Necessary, and Reasonable[18:43] – A Client Story: Six Years of Non-Filing and Payroll Issues[25:29] – Deposits: If You Can't Prove It's a Loan, It's Income[29:58] – The 30-Day Letter: Formal Protest and Appeals[34:10] – How Many Cases Does an Agent Handle?[39:24] – Make a Decision: The Best Advice from a Manager[46:28] – Appeals Officers and the Hazards of Litigation[49:23] – "My Accountant Did It": The Taxpayer Is Still Responsible[50:47] – Closing Remarks Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-ea-b1b515355/ Follow John Kelshaw: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kelshaw-a70a60207/ 👉 Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/federal-employees-newark-federal-credit-union/ 👉 Company’s Website: https://www.fenfcu.com/ 🔗 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 Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    Former IRS Agent John Kelshaw Reveals: How the IRS Really Conducts an Audit
  3. Sep 7

    Don't Accept an IRS Audit Until You Know This is with John Kelshaw

    In this episode, Amro Badran sits down again with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax, and John Kelshaw, Executive Board Member at Federal Employees (Newark) Federal Credit Union and a former IRS revenue agent and instructor. They explain audit appeals, the difference between 30-day and 90-day letters, collection appeal options, and factors that can affect case timelines. John began at the IRS as a college co-op, became a revenue agent, and stayed for nearly 40 years before later returning as an instructor. Chris draws on 20 years as a revenue officer and experience reviewing collection cases in appeals to explain how documentation, financial hardship, installment agreements, and offers in compromise shape resolution options. Expect to Learn: How to raise audit disagreements with the revenue agent and pursue an independent review through appeals.Why an appeal can provide another evaluation of the facts without increasing the tax owed, although interest may continue to accrue.The difference between a 30-day letter, which allows time to protest, and a 90-day letter, which generally leaves Tax Court as the next option.How collection appeals evaluate installment agreements, currently not collectible status, and offers in compromise.Why staffing losses and less experienced personnel can extend appeals timelines and complicate case handling.How financial records, bank-deposit analysis, and accounting data can shape an IRS examination of a business. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser[00:47] – Welcome & Introduction to the IRS Audit Appeals Episode[05:28] – How Long Does the Appeals Process Take?[08:46] – The Impact of DOGE Cuts: Loss of Senior IRS Employees[12:12] – Fear as a Compliance Tool: The Al Capone Effect[15:30] – QuickBooks in Audits: What the IRS Looks For[16:11] – Closing Remarks Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-ea-b1b515355/ Follow John Kelshaw: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kelshaw-a70a60207/ 👉 Company’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/federal-employees-newark-federal-credit-union/ 👉 Company’s Website: https://www.fenfcu.com/ 🔗 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 Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    Don't Accept an IRS Audit Until You Know This is with John Kelshaw
  4. Jun 8

    IRS Fined Millions for Taxpayers to Claim Their Money Back Before the July 10 Deadline

    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 major tax court ruling that could impact millions of taxpayers who were charged IRS penalties and interest during the COVID-19 pandemic. They explain how a recent court decision challenged the IRS's authority to assess certain penalties during the national emergency period and what taxpayers can do now to protect their right to a possible refund. The discussion features tax professionals explaining the background of the Kwong Case, the IRS appeal process, and the steps individuals and business owners should take before the filing deadline. They provide practical guidance on reviewing IRS transcripts, identifying eligible penalties, and submitting a protective refund claim using Form 843. Expect to Learn: What the Kwong Case is and why it could affect taxpayers nationwide.Which tax years may qualify for penalty and interest refunds.How to check your IRS transcripts for eligible penalties.The purpose of Form 843 and how to file a protective refund claim.Why taxpayers must act before the July 10, 2026 deadline. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] – Teaser[00:44] – Introduction: The Kwong case and its benefit for taxpayers[02:21] – Protective refund claim must be filed by July 10, 2026[04:28] – Look for FTF (failure to file), FTP (failure to pay), failure to deposit codes[07:11] – IRS appealed; filing the claim preserves your rights regardless of appeal outcome[08:09] – Applies to personal income, business, payroll, and special assessment returns[08:39] – Summary: if you were charged penalty/interest for 2019‑2022, file a claim – it’s your money Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-ea-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 Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    IRS Fined Millions for Taxpayers to Claim Their Money Back Before the July 10 Deadline
  5. Mar 9

    Owe money to the IRS? Look out for these letters in your mailbox!

    In this episode of Tax Resolution, host Amro Badran sits down with Christopher Nichols, Director of Tax Resolution at Badran Tax, to answer one of the most common tax season concerns: what happens if you file your tax return and owe money to the IRS but cannot pay. The conversation walks through the full IRS collection process, explaining each notice a taxpayer may receive and what actions can follow. From the first CP14 letter to the critical certified Letter 11 or 1058, this episode breaks down the timeline, the risks, and the rights taxpayers have before enforcement actions such as wage garnishments or bank levies begin. Christopher Nichols is a former IRS professional with over 20 years of experience as a Revenue Officer and four years as an Appeals Settlement Officer. With direct experience handling collections, levies, and appeals, he provides inside knowledge on how the IRS processes unpaid balances, how enforcement actions are triggered, and what legal rights taxpayers have during the collection process. His expertise offers practical guidance for anyone facing IRS debt. Expect to LearnThe step by step IRS notice process, including CP14, CP501, CP503, and CP504Why certified Letter 11 or 1058 is the most important notice to respond toWhat Collection Due Process rights are and how they protect youWhat happens if you miss the 30 day deadline to file for a hearingWhy penalties and interest can quickly increase your original tax balance Episode Breakdown with Timestamps[00:00] – Teaser[00:48] – Welcome & Introduction to IRS Final Notices Explained[03:14] – The Critical Letters: LT 11 and 1058 – Certified Mail and CDP Rights[07:47] – Missed the Deadline? The Equivalent Hearing and Lost Rights[11:15] – Offer in Compromise Under Appeals: A Second Chance[13:56] – The Cost of Delay: Penalties, Interest, and Growing Balances[14:58] – Closing Summary: Don't Ignore the Notices Follow Christopher Nichols: 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-nichols-ea-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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    Owe money to the IRS? Look out for these letters in your mailbox!
  6. Feb 23

    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: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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    1099 vs. W-2: The Tax Mistake Freelancers Make That Triggers IRS Trouble with Nelson
  7. 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:https://www.facebook.com/badrantax 👉 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@badrantax Follow the Podcast: 👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@badrantax 👉 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

    IRS Can Take Your Passport Over $66K in Taxes with Christopher
  8. 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: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: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tax-resolution-the-badran-way/id1858507497 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Rz4nHO16Z0LJs5b9b60lb?si=aee5a07c81a74ae3

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

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!