*Tax Problems Explained* provides valuable insights from Lawrence Ullmann, blending his experience as an attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent to help individuals and businesses navigate tax challenges effectively.
Can the IRS Take Money Directly From Your Bank Account?
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon is joined by Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent, to demystify the IRS bank levy process. Lawrence explains the circumstances under which the IRS can levy a taxpayer’s bank account, detailing the steps leading up to this serious collection action. The discussion covers the importance of tax assessments, the series of notices sent to taxpayers, and the critical 30-day period to respond to a Notice of Intent to Levy.
Lawrence also shares insights into the 21-day freeze period on levied funds and offers practical advice on how taxpayers can potentially stop or reverse a levy, including situations involving joint accounts and hardship claims. This episode is essential for anyone facing IRS collection actions, providing listeners with actionable steps to protect their financial assets.
23 Sept 2026
Offer in Compromise: Can You Really Settle IRS Tax Debt for Less?
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon is joined by Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned expert with decades of experience inside the IRS and private practice. Together, they delve into the complexities of the offer-in-compromise process, a formal IRS procedure to settle tax debt for less than what is owed. Lawrence explains the critical factors the IRS evaluates, such as a taxpayer’s assets, future earnings, and compliance status. He highlights common pitfalls that lead to rejected applications and compares the offer-in-compromise with simpler options like IRS payment plans. Lawrence shares insights from real-life cases, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance in navigating this intricate process. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to approach tax debt strategically and the potential benefits of pursuing an offer-in-compromise.
9 Sept 2026
What the IRS Looks for in High-Income Individual Returns
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host Leann Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned former IRS agent and tax attorney, to delve into the intricacies of how the IRS evaluates high-income tax returns. Lawrence shares insights on why high-income individuals and businesses face greater scrutiny, particularly due to the complexity of their financial situations. He explains the role of IRS analytics, such as the Discriminated Income Function (DIF), in assessing these returns. The discussion highlights common areas of concern, like K-1 schedules and material participation, that can trigger IRS attention. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on how to prepare their returns to minimize unnecessary scrutiny, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
26 Aug 2026
IRS Criminal Investigations: When Tax Issues Become Serious
In this episode, host Leann Lyon is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned expert with experience as a former IRS agent, attorney, and CPA. They delve into the critical distinctions between civil and criminal tax issues, emphasizing the role of intent in determining the nature of a tax case. Lawrence explains how a simple audit can escalate into a criminal investigation if evidence of intent to evade taxes is found. The discussion covers various indicators that might trigger a criminal investigation, such as maintaining two sets of books or altering invoices. Lawrence also provides insights into the investigative process, highlighting the importance of seeking legal counsel when faced with potential criminal charges. This episode equips listeners with valuable knowledge on how to navigate complex tax situations and understand the IRS’s approach to tax compliance.
12 Aug 2026
Why Trying to Wait Out the IRS Usually Backfires
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, an experienced attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent, to discuss the critical topic of why delaying tax issues can lead to more complex problems. Lawrence shares insights into common reasons people postpone addressing tax matters, such as overwhelm, embarrassment, and procrastination. He explains the IRS’s step-by-step escalation process when a taxpayer fails to respond to notices, highlighting how penalties and interest can accumulate rapidly. The episode provides a detailed example of the complications that arise when payroll taxes are neglected, and Lawrence offers practical advice on assessing the situation and deciding when to seek professional help. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of timely responses to IRS communications and the potential financial impact of delaying action.
29 Jul 2026
Navigating Tax Challenges for Small Business Owners
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned expert with decades of experience inside the IRS and private practice. They delve into the common tax issues faced by small business owners, emphasizing the importance of proper financial management and the separation of business and personal finances.
Lawrence explains how inadequate bookkeeping, improper payroll tax handling, and failure to document deductions can lead to serious IRS scrutiny. The discussion also covers the consequences of underreporting income, even unintentionally, and the severe penalties associated with payroll tax errors. By the end of the episode, listeners gain valuable insights into avoiding these pitfalls and ensuring compliance with tax obligations, thereby safeguarding their businesses from costly mistakes.
15 Jul 2026
Navigating IRS Penalties: Reduction and Removal Strategies
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned tax professional with extensive experience inside the IRS and in private practice. They delve into the complexities of IRS penalties, focusing on when they may be reduced or removed. Lawrence outlines the most common penalties, such as failure to file and failure to pay, and explains the circumstances under which the IRS might consider abatement. The discussion covers first-time abatement, reasonable cause, and the importance of proper documentation. Lawrence also provides real-world examples of cases where penalties were successfully reduced, emphasizing the need for timely action and professional guidance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into navigating IRS penalty issues, understanding the factors that influence abatement decisions, and the steps necessary to potentially reduce penalties.
1 Jul 2026
What Happens When You Owe Back Taxes to the IRS
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn Lyon sits down with Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned attorney with extensive IRS experience, to demystify the IRS collection process. Lawrence explains the progression from initial tax liability assessment to the various stages of IRS enforcement, including soft collections, CP letters, and potential asset seizures. He highlights the importance of communication with the IRS and discusses options like installment agreements, offers in compromise, and bankruptcy for resolving tax debts. Lawrence also shares real-life examples, such as a client facing passport restrictions due to unpaid taxes, and offers advice on avoiding scams. This episode is essential for anyone dealing with IRS tax issues, offering practical solutions and insights into managing and resolving tax liabilities effectively.
17 Jun 2026
Canceled Debt and Taxes: Why Forgiven Debt Can Become Taxable Income
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, host LeAnn is joined by Lawrence Ullmann, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the IRS and private practice. They delve into the complexities surrounding canceled debt and its potential tax implications. Lawrence explains why forgiven debt can still lead to a tax obligation, using real-world examples like credit card debt reduction and mortgage reformation. The discussion covers how the IRS defines canceled debt, the role of insolvency, and the importance of the 1099-C form. Lawrence emphasizes the need for professional guidance when dealing with canceled debt, especially in complex situations involving bankruptcy or insolvency. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to manage canceled debt and avoid escalating tax problems.
3 Jun 2026
How Long the IRS Has to Collect Taxes And What Stops the Clock
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, Host Leann lyon sits down with Lawrence T. Ullmann, an experienced attorney, CPA, and former IRS agent, to demystify the IRS’s tax collection timelines. Lawrence delves into the general rule of a 10-year collection period, explaining what triggers this timeline and how late filings or IRS-prepared substitute returns can alter it. He further explores the complexities of events that can pause or extend the IRS’s ability to collect, such as offers in compromise, bankruptcy filings, and collection due process hearings. Lawrence also shares practical examples and insights into how installment agreements affect collection periods, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and professional guidance. This episode equips listeners with essential knowledge to navigate IRS collection processes effectively, helping them make informed decisions about their tax liabilities.
20 May 2026
What to Do When You Haven’t Filed Tax Returns for Multiple Years
In this episode of Tax Problems Explained, Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned tax professional with a background as a former IRS agent and private practice expert. They delve into the complexities and consequences of failing to file tax returns for multiple years. Lawrence explains common reasons why individuals fall behind, such as life-changing events, and outlines the IRS’s response to non-compliance, including the Substitute for Return program. The discussion highlights the risks of accruing penalties, potential criminal charges, and the challenges of reconstructing financial records. Lawrence also provides guidance on how far back individuals need to file to regain compliance and emphasizes the importance of consulting a tax attorney. This episode is essential for anyone facing unfiled tax issues, offering practical advice to navigate the IRS system effectively.
6 May 2026
What Happens During an IRS Appeal and When It Makes Sense
Lawrence T. Ullmann discusses the purpose of IRS appeals, the role of the appeals office, eligibility for appeals, factors considered in appeal reviews, and the importance of hazards of litigation in decision-making, offering insights into resolving tax issues efficiently.
22 Apr 2026
What Actually Triggers an IRS Audit and What Doesn’t
Delve into the intricacies of IRS audits with Lawrence T. Ullmann, a seasoned professional with insights from his IRS and private practice experience. Learn about audit triggers, selection processes, and practical tips for audit preparation, offering valuable guidance for navigating tax challenges.
8 Apr 2026
Understanding IRS Notices: Which Ones Matter and Which Don’t
In this episode of *Tax Problems Explained*, Lawrence Ullmann sheds light on the significance of IRS notices, the varying levels of urgency they carry, and how individuals should respond to them. From deciphering the purpose of IRS communications to navigating complex tax issues, Lawrence offers invaluable insights to help listeners tackle tax challenges effectively.
25 Mar 2026
From Inside the IRS to Private Practice: Meet Attorney Lawrence Ullmann
Lawrence Ullmann shares his journey from studying public accounting to working within the IRS for 17 years as a revenue agent and appeals officer. He discusses the practical lessons learned inside the IRS and how his diverse background in accounting, law, and real estate shapes his approach to resolving tax issues for clients today.
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