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Prepare For Tax Season 2025: Key Changes and Tips

As tax season approaches, many individuals find themselves bracing for the yearly ritual of gathering necessary documents to ensure a smooth tax filing process—be it in person, via videoconference, or over the phone. How burdensome this task proves depends largely on the state of your tax record organization throughout the year. Regardless of your preparation level, coming to your tax appointment well-prepared allows us to:

  • Thoroughly explore all eligible deductions,

  • Select the best methods for income reporting tailored to your scenario,

  • Investigate recent legislative updates impacting your tax obligations, and

  • Discuss tax planning strategies to potentially lower future tax burdens.

2025 Tax Updates – This year, changes introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) include significant adjustments, such as:

  • No Tax on Tips: Deduct up to $25,000 in tips for qualifying occupations with AGI caps. This deduction is applicable even if filing with a standard deduction.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Deduct overtime exceeding regular pay rates. The benefit phases out for higher MAGI.

  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Deduct interest on new vehicle loans with certain income limitations, supported by Form 1098-VLI.

  • SALT Deduction Limit: State and local tax deduction increased, with phase-downs for higher-income taxpayers.

  • Super Retirement Catch-Up: Enhanced catch-up contributions for individuals aged 60-63, barring IRAs.

  • Child Tax Credit: Increased for 2025-2028, phased out at higher MAGI levels.

  • Adoption Credit: New refundable portions included, with updated phase-out ranges.

  • Section 179 Expensing: High immediate expense limits for qualifying business assets, beneficial for small businesses.

  • Bonus Depreciation: Permanent 100% depreciation for eligible business properties, facilitating investment incentivization.

  • Business Research Expenditures: Immediate deduction for qualifying domestic research costs.

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Prepare Strategically – Effective tax handling often influences not just your current return but future filings as well. Important considerations include:

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  • Property Sales: Options for reporting sales gains may include installment or single-year reporting.

  • Depreciation: Assess opportunity to expense investments immediately or over time, based on eligibility.

Efficient Tax Return Preparation– Organizing your records by category early in the year simplifies your tax preparation:

  • Create dedicated folders for medical records, mortgage interest, charitable donations, etc.

  • Note any foreign financial affiliations requiring special reporting to avoid severe penalties.

  • Be vigilant about cryptocurrency tax implications, as IRS enforcement is increasing.

  • Assemble annual income statements, e.g., W-2s and 1099s, to bring to your appointment.

  • Maintain Social Security details for dependents to avoid potential deductions or credits disapproval.

Detail-Oriented Reviews – Verify personal details for accuracy on your return, updating if necessary.

Life Changes – If your marital status altered during the year, or you experienced other life changes, ensure you provide all relevant documentation, including legal papers, wills, or trust agreements.

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Special Transactions – Certain transactions, such as properties sales or energy-efficient improvements, require particular attention and documentation:

  • Property Sales: Prepare necessary documentation, e.g., escrow statements and improvement records.

  • Energy Credits: Provide proof for installations like solar systems, potentially qualifying for tax credits.

  • Car Expenses: Differentiation between business vs. commuting mileage is crucial, notably where state tax rules apply.

  • Charitable Contributions: Substantiate donations with receipts and records beyond a threshold to ensure deduction eligibility.

Finally, consult with us about any unique transactions this year, ensuring you meet all documentation needs. Feel free to reach out for guidance on organizing your tax data effectively.
  

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We solve tax problems for individuals and help tax pros solve tax problems for their clients.
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