Strategize Your Taxes: Preparing for the Upcoming Season

As tax season approaches, many taxpayers find themselves grappling with the overwhelming task of organizing financial records for their tax consultations. Whether you opt for an in-person meeting, video conference, or telephone appointment, the ease with which you execute this depends on your prior record-keeping diligence. Regardless of past efforts, preparing thoroughly ensures more time for:

  • Maximizing eligible deductions,

  • Determining the most favorable income reporting methods and deductions for your unique situation,

  • Reviewing tax law changes impacting your filings, and

  • Exploring tax planning strategies to potentially reduce future liabilities.

New for 2025 – The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has introduced several significant changes, including:

  • No Tax on Tips: A deduction of up to $25,000 is available for qualified cash tips in common tip-receiving jobs, with phase-out beginning at $150,000 AGI for singles and $300,000 for married filers. This deduction is applicable to both itemizers and those taking the standard deduction. Employers must report qualifying tips on W-2s or a separate statement for 2025.

  • No Tax on Qualified Overtime: Up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) can be deducted on overtime pay above regular rates. The deduction phases out beyond certain MAGI thresholds, and is available regardless of deduction method.

  • Image 2
  • Vehicle Loan Interest Deduction: Individuals can deduct up to $10,000 in interest on qualified vehicle loans, with phase-outs applicable at certain income levels. Lenders will furnish relevant interest documentation.

  • SALT Deduction Limit: The limit for state and local taxes is now $40,000. For higher-income taxpayers, this amount decreases starting at $500,000 MAGI but will not fall below $10,000.

  • Super Retirement Catch-Up: The catch-up contribution limits rise markedly for those aged 60-63, allowing for increased contributions to certain retirement plans, but notably excluding IRAs.

Where to Start – Begin organizing for your tax return in January, whether through a face-to-face meeting, virtual conference, or by mailing information. Establish a secure filing system for ongoing receipts and documentation to streamline the preparation process. Electronic documents should generally be printed unless advised otherwise.

Have Questions?
Let's talk. We are here to help!
Contact Us

  • Sort documents by income and expense types, ensuring a distinct file for each category. Complete any questionnaires or organizers in advance of meetings to avoid oversight of deductible transactions.

  • Report foreign financial interests, including bank accounts and investments, as non-disclosure could result in hefty penalties. The IRS’s scrutiny of cryptocurrency transactions, which are treated akin to stock trades, necessitates precise reporting, especially under the new Form 1099-DA requirement for brokers.

  • Insurance purchased through the government marketplace will result in a Form 1095-A being issued—necessary for determining your premium tax credit. Other insurance forms, 1095-B or 1095-C, should be included if received from employers.

  • Image 3
  • Maintain separation of annual income statements—like W-2s, 1099s—from other documentation to ensure nothing vital is overlooked during filing.

Attention to Details – Review last year's return for consistency and accuracy. Monitor any changes in personal information and marital status, assembling all relevant documentation like prenuptial agreements or trust paperwork accordingly.

Noteworthy Transactions – Significant transactions made this year might merit extra attention:

  • Sales of Stocks/Properties: Full documentation for all asset sales is essential, including purchase and sale dates and prices for accurate gain/loss reporting.

  • Properties acquired through gifts or inheritance require careful valuation based on original owner data or estate documents.

Should you have any unusual activities or need specific guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to our firm. At Haley Claypool & Associates, we're here to assist you in navigating this tax season effectively.

Have Questions?
Let's talk. We are here to help!
Contact Us
Share this article...

Sign up for our newsletter.

Each month, we will send you a roundup of our latest blog content covering the tax and accounting tips & insights you need to know.

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 .

We care about the protection of your data.

Welcome! We're here to help.
How can I assist you?
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully