2026 Tax Season Update: Realizing the Impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

As we navigate the opening weeks of the 2026 tax season, the initial data from the IRS paints an interesting picture. Taxpayers across the country are seeing an uptick in their average refunds, currently sitting at $2,476—a 14.2% increase over the same period in 2025. While this rise of roughly $300 falls short of the ambitious $1,000 increase some policymakers forecasted, it signals a positive trend toward tax relief.

However, it is important to remember that we are still in the preliminary phase of the filing season. As more complex returns are processed—particularly for business owners and high-net-worth families—these averages will likely evolve. The driving force behind these changes is the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which has introduced specific provisions that are reshaping 2025 tax liabilities.

Key OBBBA Provisions Driving Refunds

At Veritas Planning Advisors, we are closely monitoring how these new rules interact with your specific financial picture. Several deductions are contributing to the higher refund numbers, though high-income earners must be mindful of phase-outs.

  • Overtime and Tips Deductions: The new law allows for a deduction of overtime premium pay (capped at $12,500 for singles, $25,000 for joint filers) and qualified tips (up to $25,000).
    Strategic Note: These benefits are subject to income limits. The phase-out begins at a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $150,000 ($300,000 for married couples) and disappears completely at $275,000 ($550,000 joint). For our medical and legal practice clients, verifying your MAGI is critical before banking on these deductions.

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: Interest on loans for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased after 2024 is now deductible, up to $10,000. This applies whether you itemize or take the standard deduction. However, eligibility begins to phase out at $100,000 MAGI ($200,000 joint).

Clock and tax forms representing the 2026 filing season

Major Impacts for NJ Taxpayers: SALT and Standard Deductions

For our clients here in Somerville and the greater New Jersey area, two changes are particularly impactful:

  • Increased SALT Limit: In a significant shift, the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap has moved from $10,000 to $40,000 ($20,000 for married filing separately). This is a game-changer for homeowners in our region. However, note that for taxpayers with MAGI over $500,000, this cap begins to phase back down.

  • Enhanced Standard Deduction: The standard deduction has jumped to $31,500 for married couples filing jointly and $15,750 for singles. Additionally, a new $6,000 “Senior Bonus” is available for those over 65, providing extra relief for retirees. Like other provisions, the senior bonus has income caps starting at $75,000 ($150,000 joint).

  • Expanded Child Tax Credit: The credit has increased to $2,200 per child, with full availability for joint filers earning up to $400,000.

Operational Realities at the IRS

While the refunds look promising, the operational side of the tax season presents challenges. The IRS is currently managing a staffing deficit and a backlog of returns, resulting in a slight decrease in processing speed compared to prior years.

We are also seeing that withholding tables were not universally updated to match mid-year tax cuts. This means many professionals may have had more tax withheld from their paychecks than necessary, effectively treating the IRS as a savings account and resulting in larger refunds now.

Relaxed professional working from home with a dog

Clarity and Strategy for Your Return

The 2026 tax landscape is complex, with new opportunities that are heavily dependent on your income level and filing status. If you are hesitant to file because of the new OBBBA rules, there is no need for concern.

Our team at Veritas Planning Advisors is fully educated on these legislative changes. We integrate this knowledge into our planning to ensure every eligible credit—from the SALT cap increase to auto loan interest—is accurately applied to your return. We are here to help you navigate these changes with confidence and maximize your financial outcomes.

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