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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Is It Really Boosting 2026 Tax Refunds?

We are deep in the trenches of the 2026 tax season here in Rocklin, and the early numbers from the IRS are turning heads. The statistics show a favorable trend: the average refund has climbed to $2,476, a 14.2% jump compared to last year. While that $300 increase is welcome news, it hasn’t quite hit the $1,000 bump that some policymakers predicted. However, it is still early in the game.

At Golden State Tax & Business Services, we look beyond the averages. The uptick points to the real-world impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). For our clients in California—especially high-earning professionals and business owners—understanding these provisions is the difference between a standard return and a strategic win.

The OBBBA Provisions Driving Refunds

The OBBBA introduced specific deductions that are finally hitting tax returns this season. Here is what is moving the needle:

  • Increased SALT Limit (Critical for California): This is the big one for our local clients. The state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap has jumped from $10,000 to $40,000 ($20,000 for married filing separately). If you own a home in Placer County or pay significant state income tax, this helps unlock deductions that were previously capped. Note: This phases down for Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) over $500,000.

  • Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: The FLSA-mandated "half" of your time-and-a-half pay is now deductible. It is capped at $12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • Tips Tax Deduction: For those in designated service occupations, up to $25,000 of qualified tips are now deductible. Phase-out: Starts at $150,000 MAGI ($300,000 for joint filers) and disappears at $275,000 ($550,000 joint).

Business professionals reviewing documents

New Deductions for Families and Seniors

The legislation also targets household expenses and vehicle purchases, helping to offset the cost of living.

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: In a rare move, interest on auto loans (up to $10,000) is deductible for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles bought for personal use after 2024. The loan must be secured by the vehicle and not from a relative. Phase-out: Starts at $100,000 MAGI ($200,000 joint).

  • Enhanced Standard & Senior Deductions: The standard deduction is now $31,500 for married couples and $15,750 for singles. Taxpayers 65+ get an extra $6,000 "Senior Bonus," regardless of whether they itemize or take the standard deduction. Senior Bonus Phase-out: Starts at $75,000 MAGI ($150,000 joint).

  • Expanded Child Tax Credit: The credit is now $2,200 per child. While helpful, remember that this benefit, like many others, phases out for higher-income earners (starting at $400,000 for joint filers).

If this made you think, “I should probably ask someone,” that’s us.
A quick conversation can clarify whether this actually applies to you—and whether there’s an opportunity you shouldn’t ignore. General guidance is helpful, but smart decisions come from advice tailored to your numbers. Whether now or later, we’re happy to help you plan ahead.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US

Parent working from home

Other Factors Influencing Your Refund

It isn’t just new laws boosting refunds; structural issues are at play too.

  • Unchanged Withholding Tables: Many tax cuts passed retroactively, meaning the IRS didn’t update withholding tables in time. You likely overpaid throughout the year, resulting in a larger refund now.

  • Inflation Adjustments: Brackets have shifted to account for inflation, helping reduce "bracket creep" and overall liability.

  • Adoption Credit Refundability: Up to $5,000 of the Adoption Tax Credit is now refundable, putting cash back in pockets even if no tax is owed.

Navigating IRS Delays

The 2026 season is a stress test for the IRS. With a workforce reduction of 25% since early 2025 and a lingering backlog, processing times are slower. Returns received and processed are down 2.6% and 3.1%, respectively.

If you haven't filed yet because you are worried about missing OBBBA benefits, don't delay. At Golden State Tax & Business Services, Ryan Shull and our team utilize advanced tax software and standardized workflows to ensure every new credit—from the SALT cap increase to auto loan interest—is correctly applied. We monitor the compliance landscape so you can focus on your business and family. Let’s make sure you aren't leaving money on the table.

If this made you think, “I should probably ask someone,” that’s us.
A quick conversation can clarify whether this actually applies to you—and whether there’s an opportunity you shouldn’t ignore. General guidance is helpful, but smart decisions come from advice tailored to your numbers. Whether now or later, we’re happy to help you plan ahead.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US
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