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Prepare Now: Tax Season Strategies for 2025

As tax season approaches, meticulous preparation can significantly streamline your filing process. Whether you plan to meet your tax accountant in person, virtually via videoconference, or over the phone, good organization is imperative. The complexity of compiling your tax documents largely depends on how effectively you’ve maintained your records throughout the year. Impeccable preparation allows us more time to:

  • Analyze every possible tax deduction available to you,
  • Determine the optimal income reporting methods and deduction strategies for your situation,
  • Stay abreast of any current legislative changes impacting your tax obligations, and
  • Discuss proactive tax-planning strategies to minimize future tax liabilities.

New for 2025 – The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces various significant changes, including:

  • No Tax on Tips: You can now deduct up to $25,000 in qualified cash tips for customary tip-recipient occupations. This deduction phases out with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) over $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for couples filing jointly. Employers are required to report eligible tips on W-2 forms or a special statement for 2025.
  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime Pay: A deduction capped at $12,500 (or $25,000 for joint filers) is available for overtime earnings exceeding regular pay rates. It phases out for Modified AGI above $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for joint filers.
  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: This new provision allows deductions up to $10,000 for interest on loans for new personal-use vehicles assembled in the U.S. The deduction phases out for individual incomes between $100,000 and $150,000 and joint incomes between $200,000 and $250,000.

Other significant updates include increases in the SALT Deduction Limit, enhanced Super Retirement Catch Up contributions, and adjustments to the Child Tax Credit among others.Image 2

Start the Year Organized – Begin your tax preparation as early as January by establishing an organized system for your documents. Create designated folders for each category such as medical expenses, mortgage payments, and charitable contributions. Make sure to complete every section of your tax organizer and double-check your forms to ensure accuracy.

Whenever you have dealings with foreign financial accounts, notify us immediately to avoid significant penalties. Cryptocurrency is under scrutiny; ensure you report all transactions as you would with stock sales. If you acquire health insurance through a marketplace, include Form 1095-A in your documentation as it is critical for calculating premium tax credits. Collect any income documents separately, such as W-2s, 1099s, and K-1s, and bring them to your appointment.

Planning for Life Changes – If your marital status changed or you have new dependents, update your records to reflect the latest details. Significant life events can influence your deductions and credits, so keep copies of any related legal agreements on hand for review during your appointment.

Special Transaction Considerations – Specific transactions demand specialized reporting. Sales of property, inherited assets, and charitable donations must be accurately documented. For vehicle purchases, home energy investments, or identity theft issues, seek our guidance for potential tax credits.Image 3

If you have unique tax-related situations this year, or would like assistance assembling your data, do not hesitate to contact our office. Comprehensive tax preparation is our expertise and we are here to support you every step of the way with the latest insights from the tax world.

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