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2026 Refund Update: How the OBBBA is Impacting Montana Tax Returns

We are deep into the early weeks of the 2026 tax season here in Billings, and the initial numbers coming out of the IRS are catching everyone's attention. The statistics show a positive shift: the average refund has climbed to $2,476, up from $2,169 at this time last year. While that $300 increase (about 14.2%) is welcome news for household budgets, it is arguably lower than the $1,000 boost many policymakers predicted.

However, we always remind our clients that tax season is a marathon, not a sprint. These early figures often fluctuate as more complex returns—especially those for business owners and investors—are processed. The upward trend is a good sign that the provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) are starting to take effect.

Looking out the window contemplating financial future

New Deductions Rewarding Hard Work

For the service-based businesses, subcontractors, and employees we serve across Montana, the OBBBA introduced specific changes designed to keep more money in your pocket. Here is how the new legislation is shaking out:

  • Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: If you are putting in the long hours, the tax code now recognizes it. The "half" of your time-and-a-half pay is now deductible. This is capped at $12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • Tips Tax Deduction: For those in tipped occupations, you can deduct up to $25,000 of "qualified tips" annually. Note that married taxpayers must file jointly to use this.

    • Planning Note: Be aware of the income ceilings. These deductions start phasing out at a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers) and disappear completely at $275,000 and $550,000, respectively.

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: With the cost of vehicles these days, this is a significant change. You can deduct interest (up to $10,000) on loans for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased after 2024. The loan cannot be from a relative and must be secured by the vehicle. This benefit begins to phase out at $100,000 MAGI ($200,000 for joint filers).

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Support for Families and Seniors

The OBBBA also adjusted the foundational numbers of the tax return:

  • Standard Deduction Boost: The standard deduction has jumped to $31,500 for married couples and $15,750 for singles. Plus, there is a new $6,000 "Senior Bonus" for taxpayers 65 and older, regardless of whether they itemize or take the standard deduction (subject to phase-outs starting at $75,000 for singles).

  • Child Tax Credit: This credit increased to $2,200 per child. Full availability is capped at income levels of $400,000 for married couples and $200,000 for heads of household.

  • SALT Cap Relief: The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction limit was raised significantly from $10,000 to $40,000, which is helpful for clients with higher property tax bills.

Why Are Refunds Higher?

Beyond the new laws, a few structural issues are driving the refund increase:

  • Withholding Gaps: Because tax cuts often pass mid-year, IRS withholding tables didn't update instantly. This means many employees had more tax withheld from their paychecks than necessary, resulting in a larger refund now.

  • Inflation Adjustments: Tax brackets were adjusted for cost-of-living increases, which helps prevent "bracket creep" where inflation pushes you into a higher tax rate despite no increase in real buying power.

A Note on IRS Operations

It is important to set expectations regarding processing times. The IRS is currently facing staffing shortages and a backlog of returns. We are seeing a slight decrease in processing speed compared to previous years.

If you haven't filed yet because you are worried about navigating these new OBBBA rules, don't worry. Our firm is built on the "three-legged stool" of business stability: accurate books, optimized taxes, and timely payroll. We are fully up-to-speed on these changes and ready to ensure you claim every deduction you earned. Contact us today to schedule your review.

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