Navigating Proposed Tax Changes: Strategic Planning for OBBBA Impacts

The dynamic landscape of U.S. tax legislation is on the brink of transformation with Congress's One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). This analytical review delves into the intricacies of both the House and Senate versions of OBBBA, providing insights essential for strategic tax planning amidst legislative uncertainty.

Image 1

Key Provisions and Implications

Both branches of Congress propose significant alterations to tax policies initiated under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, many scheduled to expire by the end of 2025. Here, we delineate the pivotal provisions:

  1. Extending the Standard Deduction and Revising Tax Rates: Efforts to solidify the heightened standard deductions introduced by the TCJA are underway. From 2025 to 2028, these figures are projected to increase further, with a perpetual commitment to maintaining the TCJA income tax brackets and inflation-indexed thresholds.

  2. Enhancing the Senior Bonus Deduction: Reform targets a reduction in taxable Social Security benefits for individuals 65 and older, offering augmented standard deductions contingent on adjusted gross income thresholds.

  3. Revisions to Qualified Business Income Deduction (QBI): Transitioning the Sec 199A deduction from 20% to 23% promises enduring benefits, aligning with streamlined phase-in mechanisms.

  4. Adjusting the Estate and Gift Tax Exemption: An inflation-adjusted enhancement of the estate and gift tax exemption is projected to $15 million permanently.

  5. Child Tax Credit Expansion: Temporary increases to the child tax credit from $2,000 up to $2,500 per child are on the docket through 2028, with subsequent alterations to refundability criteria and Social Security number requirements.

  6. Saver's Credit Reform: Modifications aim to broaden savings opportunities for lower- and middle-income demographics, recognizing ABLE account contributions akin to traditional retirement savings.

  7. Tax Relief on Overtime and Tips: Above-the-line deductions for overtime and qualified tips foster taxpayer support, though income limitations apply.

  8. Reinstating Bonus Depreciation: Proposals suggest a return to 100% first-year depreciation for business properties commissioned by 2030.

Image 3

Additional elements include controversies surrounding the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, adjustments to auto loan interest deductions, and the phased termination of various energy credits. Strategic foresight is imperative, as these proposed changes remain in flux pending final reconciliation expected mid-year.

Taxpayers should engage in cautious deliberation and consult with professionals to navigate these prospective amendments effectively. For tailored advice, particularly with an emphasis on tax planning and inheritance for high-value estates, consulting with a tax resolution expert like Steve Shapiro EA is advised.

Share this article...

Want our best tax and accounting tips and insights delivered to your inbox?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .
Have a question? Check out the frequently asked questions below.
Hi there! Welcome to Steve Shapiro, EA website. For any questions not listed here, use the Ask Me A Question form and one of our staff will reach out to you.
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully