“Uncovering the Truth: The Dubious Credentials of the IRS Nominee and the Tax Credit Scandal”
Former U.S. Rep. Billy Long of Missouri, who has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to head the IRS, is facing scrutiny over his credentials as a tax and business advisor. Long promotes himself as a certified tax and business advisor, with the designation CTBA added to his name on his profile. However, tax experts have raised concerns about the legitimacy of this credential, as it is offered by a small Florida firm called Excel Empire, which only requires attendance at a three-day seminar. This stands in stark contrast to the rigorous requirements for certifications like certified public accountants (CPAs) or enrolled agents, who are federally authorized tax practitioners.
In the tax profession, only lawyers, CPAs, and enrolled agents are typically allowed to represent taxpayers before the IRS. The cost of relying on advice from individuals with questionable credentials can be high if taxpayers are found to be in violation of tax laws. Excel Empire’s three-day certification course has been advertised for up to $30,000, with an upcoming session priced at $4,997. The firm’s founders claim that about 135 people have earned the CTBA designation, which is aimed at helping individuals without tax backgrounds become advisors.
Nina Olson, a prominent taxpayer advocate, has expressed concerns about the proliferation of entities providing tax advice and the lack of oversight in the industry. Long’s experience in tax matters has come under scrutiny, especially his involvement in marketing the employee retention credit, a pandemic-era benefit designed to support businesses that retained workers during COVID-19 disruptions. The credit has been widely used but also attracted fraudulent claims, leading to investigations by the IRS.
Long’s background as a real estate agent and auctioneer, coupled with his limited experience in tax policy, has raised questions about his qualifications to lead the IRS. If confirmed, Long would have significant influence over tax policies and revenue collection in the country. Trump has pledged to end IRS “overstepping,” while Republicans have proposed cutting funding for IRS modernization and tax enforcement efforts passed under the Biden administration.
Despite the controversies surrounding Long and Excel Empire, there is no evidence of wrongdoing by either party. Long has emphasized that he and his colleagues have only assisted taxpayers entitled to benefits like the employee retention credit. The IRS has recovered over $1 billion from businesses with improper claims and launched criminal investigations to recoup potentially billions more.
As the debate over Long’s nomination continues, questions remain about the qualifications and ethics of individuals providing tax advice and the potential impact on taxpayers and the federal government’s revenue collection efforts. The IRS and the Trump transition team have not responded to requests for comment on the matter.