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2026 Refund Update: How the OBBBA Is Impacting Your Bottom Line

We are a few weeks into the 2026 tax filing season, and the initial data from the IRS tells an interesting story. Across the country, we are seeing a distinct upward trend in refund amounts. The average refund has climbed to $2,476, up from $2,169 at this time last year. While a 14.2% increase is welcome news for household cash flow, it is worth noting that this $300 bump is modest compared to the $1,000 increase some policymakers had projected.

However, it is still early days. As we process more returns here at PM Enterprises Inc, specifically for our clients across Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, we expect these numbers to fluctuate. The driving force behind these changes is the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Understanding how these new provisions interact with your specific financial situation—whether you are a business owner or an individual filer—is key to ensuring you aren't leaving money on the table.

Key Provisions Driving Refunds Higher

The OBBBA has introduced a mix of credits and deductions designed to lower tax liability. Here is what is moving the needle this season:

  • The Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: For our hardworking clients putting in long hours, this is a significant change. Generally, the "half" portion of "time-and-a-half" pay mandated by the FLSA is now deductible. This is capped at $12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • The Tips Tax Deduction: If you work in a service industry customarily receiving tips, you can now deduct up to $25,000 of qualified tips annually. Note that this benefit—like the overtime deduction—phases out for higher earners, starting at a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: In a move to support domestic manufacturing, interest on auto loans for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles (purchased after 2024) is deductible up to $10,000. Crucially, this applies even if you take the standard deduction. The loan must be secured by the vehicle and cannot be a personal loan from a relative.

  • Expanded Child Tax Credit: Raising a family continues to be expensive, but the Child Tax Credit has increased to $2,200 per child. This credit remains subject to income thresholds, phasing out for single filers earning over $200,000 and joint filers over $400,000.

Couple reviewing financial documents and tax deductions

A Major Shift for DMV Taxpayers: The SALT Cap

For our clients in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction limit has long been a point of contention. The OBBBA has raised the cap from $10,000 to $40,000 ($20,000 for married filing separately). This is a substantial relief for homeowners and residents in our region with higher state income and property taxes.

However, there is a catch for high-net-worth individuals: once your MAGI exceeds $500,000, that $40,000 cap begins to phase back down, potentially reverting to the previous $10,000 limit. Proper planning is essential here to manage your liability effectively.

Why Withholding Rates Matter

Beyond the new law, there is a mechanical reason refunds are higher. Many of these tax cuts were enacted without the IRS updating their withholding tables immediately. Consequently, your employer may have withheld taxes based on older, higher rates throughout the year. While this feels like a bonus now, it essentially means you gave the government an interest-free loan. We can help you adjust your W-4s for the coming year to keep more cash in your pocket paycheck-to-paycheck if you prefer.

Navigating IRS Challenges

It is no secret that the IRS is facing operational headwinds. With a reduced workforce and a lingering backlog from 2025, processing times are slower. We are seeing a dip in processed returns compared to previous years. This makes accuracy on your initial filing more critical than ever; an error that flags your return for manual review could result in significant delays.

If you are hesitant to file because the laws seem complex, do not worry. Whether you are managing a business infrastructure or sorting out personal property investments, PM Enterprises Inc is fully up-to-speed on the OBBBA regulations. We are here to help minimize your tax liability and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.

We serve clients in Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and nationwide (excluding New York, Oregon, and California). Contact Lloyd Mallory and the team today to ensure your 2026 strategy is sound.

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