Learning Center

We keep you up to date on the latest tax changes and news in the industry.

Navigate Tax Season Efficiently: Essential Updates and Tips for 2025

As tax season looms just around the corner, many individuals find themselves diving into the daunting task of compiling records for their tax appointment, whether that's in person, via videoconference, or by phone. The ease of this process greatly depends on how meticulously you've maintained your tax records throughout the year. Regardless of your record-keeping finesse, being thoroughly prepared for tax return preparation ensures more time to:

  • Identify every potential legal deduction,

  • Assess which income reporting methods and deductions align best with your financial situation,

  • Examine current legislative changes affecting your tax obligations, and

  • Discuss tax planning strategies to potentially lower your future tax liabilities.

Anticipated Changes for 2025 – This year brings several notable changes due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), including:

  • No Tax on Tips: A deduction up to $25,000 is permitted for qualified cash tips in customary tipping jobs, phasing out for AGI over $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for joint filers. This applies per return and is available to all filers. Employers must report qualified tips on the W-2 or a separate statement for 2025.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Deduction up to $12,500 ($25,000 for married couples) for overtime pay exceeding the standard rate, phasing out for MAGI above $150,000 (singles) and $300,000 (joint filers). This benefit is available to all filers.

  • Image 2
  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Claim up to a $10,000 deduction on interest for loans on new personal-use vehicles under 14,000 pounds. The deduction decreases for incomes between $100,000-$150,000 (single) and $200,000-$250,000 (joint filers).

  • SALT Deduction Limit: The state and local taxes (SALT) deduction cap has risen to $40,000 from $10,000, with adjustments for higher incomes.

  • Super Retirement Catch Up: Beginning in 2025, catch-up contributions for individuals aged 60-63 have significantly increased.

  • Child Tax Credit: The credit is now $2,200, with refundable portions, phasing out above certain income levels.

  • Adoption Credit: A refundable component was added, with adjusted amounts for inflation.

  • Section 179 Expensing: Enhanced limits allow for greater upfront savings by expensing qualifying business assets immediately within specific limits.

  • Bonus Depreciation: Full 100% bonus depreciation applies under new regulations, encouraging business investments with immediate tax benefits.

Optimizing Your Tax Strategy – Navigating income and deduction options on your return impacts both your current and future financials. Considerations include:

  • Property Sales: Decide if reporting gains over time or in bulk suits your circumstances best.

  • Depreciation Choices: Assess whether spreading depreciation or a one-time deduction of your business property is more advantageous.

Preparation Steps – Start your tax prep now, whether you plan a face-to-face meeting, video call, or mail-in documentation. Early organizational habits ensure ease during spring appointments:

  • Keep electronic versions of source documents, or print them as needed.

  • Organize records into categories like income, medical expenses, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions.

  • Flaunt any involvement in foreign financial dealings that may require distinct reporting to avoid penalties.

  • Stay alert to IRS scrutiny on digital currencies by properly reporting gains or losses from crypto transactions.

  • Include all insurance and annual income documents, marked separately from other records.

  • Note your questions during preparation and revisit previous returns to ensure consistency and completeness.

  • Image 3
  • Verify accurate Social Security details for all dependents, which is critical for deductions and credits.

  • Ensure you’re capturing and including all potential dependent information on your tax forms.

Special Transaction Reporting – Some transactions require unique documentation and handling. Be vigilant in recording relevant information, especially in sales of stock or high-value assets.

  • Property Transaction Records: Keep documents detailing purchase and sale activities.

  • Gifts and Inheritances: Accurate value histories on inherited assets reduce potential tax liabilities.

  • Energy Credits: Compile records on eco-friendly home improvements or electric vehicle purchases for applicable tax incentives.

  • Include detailed car use logs if claiming business vehicle expenses.

  • Substantiate charitable donations through written confirmations from the recipient charity.

For any unusual financial activity that might affect your return, consult us for advice on proper documentation or further clarification. If you have any questions, please contact our office for guidance.

Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

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 .

Get Started Today

Book a free discovery call and let us show you how our expertise can save you money in the long run.

Let's Get Started