Preparing for Tax Season 2025: Key Updates and Strategies

As tax season approaches, taxpayers and businesses alike should begin organizing financial records well in advance of their tax appointments, whether these are held face-to-face, via video conference, or over the phone. The ease of this process largely depends on your record-keeping practices throughout the year. Effective preparation allows us to delve deeper into tax strategies that could save you money, such as:

  • Identifying all eligible tax deductions and credits,
  • Analyzing reporting methods and deductions tailored to your financial situation,
  • Reviewing the latest legal changes that impact your tax situation, and
  • Discussing advanced tax-planning options to minimize future liabilities.

Key Changes for 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA):

  • No Tax on Tips: A new deduction of up to $25,000 for qualified cash tips is available for customary tip-receiving positions, with phase-outs starting at certain AGI levels. This applies to both itemizers and those taking the standard deduction.
  • Overtime Tax Break: OBBBA introduces a deduction up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) for overtime pay, encouraging workforce productivity.
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  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Up to $10,000 in interest can be deducted for new personal-use vehicles, subject to income phase-outs. This change is geared towards fostering eco-friendly transportation investments.

For small businesses, the updated SALT Deduction Limit and enhanced opportunities for Section 179 Expensing offer significant financial leverage:

  • SALT Deduction Limit: Expanded from $10,000 to $40,000, this amendment incentivizes infrastructure development and local reinvestment strategies.
  • Section 179 Expensing: The immediate expense allowance for capital investments has been increased to $2.5 million, while bonus depreciation allows 100% write-off for qualified assets, promoting rapid business scaling.

To efficiently navigate these changes, consider the tax implications of varied financial transactions:

  • Sales of Property: Plan whether to report gains upfront or over time, optimizing cash flow.
  • Depreciation: Choose between spreading deductions over time or leveraging full-year deductions.

Commence your tax filing preparations by following these best practices starting January:

  • Designate a secure location for records, like a file drawer or cupboard. Promptly file documents as they arrive.
  • If submitting records electronically, print forms unless advised otherwise. Ensure completion of all segments of tax organizers received.
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  • Check for foreign financial assets and cryptocurrency holdings to ensure compliance with nuanced IRS reporting requirements.

Maintain accuracy by regularly reviewing your personal information and aligning last year's data with the current year. Also, be vigilant about:

  • Gathering complete documents if you experienced identity theft or engaged in unique financial activities.
  • Preparing detailed logs of any business vehicle use and scrutinizing charitable donations.

For personalized tax planning and preparation guidance, our Midlothian, Texas CPA firm, led by Thomas Hawbaker, offers specialized small business and individual IRS taxation services. We are committed to helping you make informed decisions that optimize tax savings now and into the future.

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