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Tax Season Approaches: Are You Prepared?

The countdown to tax season has begun, reminding taxpayers of the looming task of assembling all necessary documents for that crucial tax appointment—whether it be in-person, via videoconference, or over the phone. Your experience in tackling this task often hinges on the organization of your financial records throughout the year. Regardless, proper preparation allows us to:

  • Identify all legitimate deductions,

  • Assess optimal income reporting strategies and deduction categories to suit your circumstances,

  • Examine new legislation impacting your tax obligations, and

  • Explore tax planning strategies to minimize future tax liabilities.

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Updates for 2025 – This year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has introduced several significant changes, among them:

  • No Tax on Tips: Up to $25,000 in qualified cash tips can now be deducted for those in customary tip-receiving roles, with phase-out beginning at AGI over $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for joint returns. Employers are tasked with reporting tips on an employee's W-2 or providing a separate statement for 2025.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) for overtime pay that exceeds the regular rate, with phase-out starting at a MAGI of $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for joint returns. This deduction is accessible for both itemizers and those who take the standard deduction.

  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Deduct interest on vehicle loans up to $10,000 for personal-use vehicles purchased post-2024. The new Form 1098-VLI will detail the required reporting.

Additional Tax Considerations:

  • SALT Deduction Limit: The cap on state and local tax deductions has increased to $40,000, with reductions for higher incomes commencing at MAGIs starting at $500,000.

  • Super Retirement Catch Up: Raised limits for those aged 60-63 permit greater catch-up contributions for several retirement plans.

  • Child and Adoption Credits: Enhanced child tax credits and adoption credits, with varying conditions and phase-out limits.

To ensure your taxes are handled efficiently, start organizing your tax-related documents as the year kicks off. Establish a secure system—whether in a folder or a digital archive—to file all incoming paperwork. This habit not only streamlines the filing day experience but ensures nothing is overlooked. Further, addressing key aspects like foreign assets, digital currencies, and health insurance documents early on is paramount.

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Special Transactions: Certain scenarios, like property sales or substantial charitable contributions, demand meticulous preparation. Ensuring you have all requisite details such as purchase and sale dates, and maintaining accurate records of reinvested dividends or home improvements, can significantly impact your tax outcome.

We advise preparing documents meticulously and reaching out with any questions or unique scenarios for guidance. Please consult with us for specialized assistance, ensuring each facet of your situation is considered in your tax returns. Being proactive could result in optimized tax strategies and a clearer financial direction for the future.

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