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LEARNING CENTER

Prepare Now: Tax Season Sneaks Up Fast

The countdown to tax season has officially begun, and as many taxpayers gear up for this annual task, the importance of solid record-keeping cannot be overstated. Whether you’re attending your tax appointment in person, by video, or phone, organizing your financial documents efficiently can significantly enhance the process. Proper preparation allows us ample time to:

  • Uncover every legitimate deduction you might qualify for,

  • Analyze the optimal income reporting strategies tailored to your circumstances,

  • Navigate new tax law changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) that influence your tax obligations, and

  • Discuss future-focused tax-planning strategies that may help reduce your liabilities.

2025 Tax Updates – The OBBBA introduces several significant changes, including:

  • No Tax on Tips: For roles traditionally receiving tips, a deduction of up to $25,000 is available on declared cash tips, phasing out at $150,000 AGI for singles and $300,000 for joint filers. Employers will report qualifying tips on your W-2.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) for overtime pay at an enhanced rate, with AGI phase-out thresholds similar to tip deductions.

  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Taxpayers can now deduct up to $10,000 in interest on qualifying vehicle loans, with specified income phase-outs.

  • SALT Deduction Limit: The state and local taxes deduction cap is expanded to $40,000, though phased reductions apply to higher-income brackets.

  • Super Retirement Catch Up: For those aged 60-63, catch-up contribution limits are expanded, allowing more savings into qualified retirement plans.

  • Child Tax Credit: Provides $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, with specific phase-out criteria based on modified adjusted gross income.

  • Adoption Credit: Increased to $17,280 with partial refundability, subject to income-based phase-outs.

  • Section 179 Expensing: Revised limits help businesses expense qualifying assets immediately, with increased caps to boost upfront tax savings for eligible business expenses.

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  • Bonus Depreciation: Permanently set at 100% for qualifying assets, offering comprehensive deductions upon service commencement, regulated by specific time frames.

  • Business Research or Experimental Expenditures: Now deductible immediately for domestic expenses; international costs remain on a 15-year amortization schedule.

Navigating Your Options – When filing your return, choices between various income reporting and deduction methodologies can impact not only this year’s tax outcome but future filings too. Key considerations include property sales treatment and depreciation approaches.

Where to Start– Taking action in January sets the stage for a manageable tax season. Designate a safe and accessible filing space for all tax documentation received throughout the year, and use a provided organizer to ensure all aspects of your financial picture are considered. It’s crucial to be thorough, reflecting all foreign financial interests, digital asset transactions, and every other pertinent aspect of your financial world under IRS scrutiny.

  • Review last year's return for potential overlooked transactions or deductions.

  • Verify all dependent information and gather required forms like 1095-A or 1099s for comprehensive data collection.

  • Prepare for essential details on assets, transactions, and any unusual financial situations you've encountered this year.

  • Ensure important documents accompany you to appointments or are included if you're mailing your information.

Attention to Detail– Double-checking personal details ensures all your information, from names and addresses to Social Security numbers and beyond, is up-to-date and correct.

Changes in Life Circumstances– Significant life events, such as marital status changes, impacts on family dynamics, or inheritance matters, necessitate a detailed update of your information resources to guide effective tax strategy sessions.

For any anomalies or unique situations that could impact your taxation, reaching out ahead of time is wise. And as the digital age advances, staying informed on cryptocurrency regs and other financial developments remains critical.

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