Bigger Refunds in 2026: How the OBBBA Affects Braintree and Quincy Taxpayers

We are still in the early innings of the 2026 tax season here in the Greater Boston area, but the preliminary numbers are telling an interesting story. The IRS recently released statistics indicating a noticeable uptick in the average refund size. Nationally, the average refund has climbed to $2,476—up from $2,169 at this time in 2025. That is a 14.2% increase, or roughly $300 per filer.

While this is a positive shift for household cash flow, it hasn’t quite hit the $1,000 increase that some policymakers forecasted. However, as experienced tax preparers, we know it is early. These averages often fluctuate as more complex returns are processed. The current trend suggests that the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is indeed moving the needle, and we are working hard to ensure our clients in Braintree and Quincy see the full benefit.

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Key OBBBA Changes Driving Refunds

The OBBBA introduced several targeted deductions that are specifically designed to lower taxable income. Here is what is changing for the 2025 tax year returns we are filing now:

  • Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: If you work overtime, the "half" of your time-and-a-half pay may now be deductible. This is capped at $12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • Tips Tax Deduction: For our clients in the service industry—restaurant workers in Quincy know this well—there is a new deduction for "qualified tips" up to $25,000 annually. Note that this applies to specific designated occupations.

    • Phase-out Rules: Keep in mind that both overtime and tip deductions fade out for higher earners. The phase-out begins at a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers) and disappears entirely at $275,000 ($550,000 joint).

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: You can now deduct interest (up to $10,000) on auto loans for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased after 2024. The loan must be secured by the vehicle and cannot be a personal loan from a relative. Income caps apply here as well, phasing out starting at $100,000 MAGI ($200,000 joint).

  • Higher Standard Deduction & Senior Bonus: The standard deduction has jumped to $31,500 for married joint filers and $15,750 for singles. Additionally, there is a $6,000 "Senior Bonus" for taxpayers aged 65+. This is a significant benefit for retirees, though the bonus does phase out starting at $75,000 MAGI ($150,000 joint).

  • Expanded Child Tax Credit: The credit is now $2,200 per child. This provides relief for families, provided you fall under the income thresholds ($400,000 for joint filers, $200,000 for single/head of household).

  • Increased SALT Limit: This is a major update for Massachusetts residents. The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap has increased from $10,000 to $40,000 ($20,000 for married filing separately). Given local property taxes and state income tax rates, this provides much-needed breathing room for itemizers, though it begins to phase down for those with MAGI over $500,000.

One Accounting Tax® Since 2017
Call/Text: (617) 829-0928 or email service@oneaccountingtax.com to schedule an in-person consultation or video call with our Tax Advisors (IRS Enrolled Agent, EA) today. Serving Braintree, Quincy, and Greater Boston with full-service accounting—tax preparation, payroll, bookkeeping, and year-round tax planning.
Contact Our Local Tax Advisors Today!

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Why Else Are Refunds Higher?

Beyond the new law, there are mechanical reasons for the refund bump:

  • Withholding Gaps: Many tax cuts were passed retroactively or mid-year, but the IRS did not update payroll withholding tables in real-time. This means many employees had too much tax withheld from their paychecks throughout 2025, resulting in a larger refund now.

  • Inflation Adjustments: Tax brackets and standard deductions were adjusted for inflation, which helps prevent "bracket creep" (paying higher rates simply due to cost-of-living raises).

  • Refundable Adoption Credit: A portion of the Adoption Tax Credit (up to $5,000) is now refundable, meaning you can receive it as cash even if your tax liability hits zero.

Challenges at the IRS

While the refunds are promising, the administrative side is facing headwinds. The IRS workforce has shrunk significantly since January 2025, and they are battling a backlog of returns. Consequently, we are seeing a dip in processing speed—returns received and processed are down 2.6% and 3.1%, respectively.

What does this mean for you? Patience is key. However, you should not delay filing.

Your Local Experts Are Ready

If the complexity of the OBBBA or the potential for IRS delays makes you hesitant to file, don't worry. As your local Accountant and IRS Enrolled Agent, we are fully up-to-speed on these legislative changes. whether you are handling small business bookkeeping, managing real estate investments, or simply filing a personal return, we ensure every deduction—from the SALT cap to the new Senior Bonus—is applied correctly.

We are here to navigate the 2026 tax season with you, ensuring you remain compliant while maximizing your refund. Contact our Braintree office today to get started on your return.

One Accounting Tax® Since 2017
Call/Text: (617) 829-0928 or email service@oneaccountingtax.com to schedule an in-person consultation or video call with our Tax Advisors (IRS Enrolled Agent, EA) today. Serving Braintree, Quincy, and Greater Boston with full-service accounting—tax preparation, payroll, bookkeeping, and year-round tax planning.
Contact Our Local Tax Advisors Today!
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