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Prepare for Tax Season: Key Updates and Strategies

As tax season approaches, the annual task of organizing financial records looms. Whether you plan to meet your accountant in person, via videoconference, or by phone, the ease of this chore depends heavily on your year-round recordkeeping habits. Regardless of past efforts, being thoroughly prepared for tax preparation has significant benefits:

  • Identify and apply all eligible deductions;

  • Choose the optimal income reporting methods for your unique circumstances;

  • Analyze current tax law changes impacting your status;

  • Discuss alternative strategies to lower future taxes.

New Changes for 2025 – Significant updates due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) include:

  • No Tax on Tips: Taxpayers in tip-based roles can now deduct tips up to $25,000, phasing out for higher income earners. This applies to both standard and itemized deduction filers.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Deduction available for overtime exceeding regular pay, with limits phasing out at higher income levels. This can be a significant relief for both single and joint filers.

  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Up to $10,000 interest deduction for loans on new, personal-use vehicles, promoting domestic vehicle purchases.

  • SALT Deduction Limit: Increased limit, while higher income tax payers experience a phased decrease.

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  • Super Retirement Catch Up: Heightened catch-up contributions for taxpayers aged 60-63, responding to growing retirement savings needs.

  • Child Tax Credit: Enhanced credit amounts for dependents, supporting families with dependent children.

  • Adoption Credit: Increased refundable amounts, providing financial aid for adoption-related costs.

  • Section 179 Expensing: Greater upfront tax savings for businesses with increased limit and reduction thresholds.

  • Bonus Depreciation: Permanence of 100% depreciation deduction delivers immediate fiscal benefits, fostering business reinvestment.

  • Research or Experimental Expenditures: Domestically incurred expenses are immediately deductible, encouraging local innovation.

Effective Tax Strategies – Your tax choices can dramatically affect both current and future returns:

  • Property Sales: Decide between lump-sum gain reporting or installment methods.
  • Depreciation: Opt for extended depreciation or immediate asset write-offs.
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Begin your tax preparations early in the year. Establish an organized storage system for your documents to streamline the process. Whether you meet your accountant face-to-face or send your documents electronically, follow these guidelines for optimal readiness:

  • Organize documents by income and expense types, segregate medical and mortgage documents.

  • Alert your accountant of any foreign financial interests or cryptocurrency dealings to ensure correct filings and avoid penalties.

  • Gather all annual income statements and maintain separate records for easy access.

  • Formulate questions as they arise and ensure dependents’ Social Security information is accurate.

  • Be aware of special transactions that necessitate specific treatment on your tax return.

Accuracy in details is crucial. Review and update personal information to avoid any errors on your returns. Marital status changes, dependent verification, and certain transactions require detailed documentation and should be discussed directly with your accountant.

  • Special Transaction Considerations:
    • Report all property sales accurately with necessary purchase/sale data.
    • Track inherited or gifted property details for precise capital gain calculations.
    • Document any home sale or purchase thoroughly to maximize applicable deductions.
    • Consider energy credits for home improvements and applicable vehicle purchase incentives.

Finally, if any atypical events occurred during the year that might influence your tax situation, consult your tax advisor for advice on necessary documentation and potential implications on your tax return.

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