Tax Changes to Expect in 2025: What You Need to Know

Tax Changes to Expect in 2025: What You Need to Know

Stay ahead of IRS tax changes in 2025! Learn about updated tax brackets, deductions, credits, and key strategies to maximize savings. Find FAQs, examples, and expert tax tips to prepare for the upcoming tax season.

Tax Changes to Expect in 2025: What You Need to Know

As we step into 2025, staying informed about the latest tax changes can help you maximize deductions, avoid penalties, and optimize your financial planning. The IRS has introduced various adjustments to tax brackets, deductions, and credits, impacting individuals and businesses alike.

This guide will break down the key tax changes, provide useful examples, offer tax planning tips, and answer frequently asked questions.

1. Adjustments to Tax Brackets and Rates

To account for inflation, the IRS has adjusted the tax brackets for 2025. While the top tax rate remains 37%, income thresholds have shifted slightly:

  • 35%: Over $250,525 for single filers ($501,050 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 32%: Over $197,300 for single filers ($394,600 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 24%: Over $103,350 for single filers ($206,700 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 22%: Over $48,475 for single filers ($96,950 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 12%: Over $11,925 for single filers ($23,850 for married couples filing jointly)
  • 10%: Up to $11,925 for single filers ($23,850 for married couples filing jointly)

Example: If you earned $60,000 as a single filer in 2024, you fell in the 22% bracket. Due to the adjustments, your taxable income may now fall lower in the 12% bracket, reducing your tax burden.

💡Tip: If you're near the threshold for a higher bracket, consider tax-saving strategies like increasing retirement contributions to keep more income in a lower tax bracket.

2. Increased Standard Deduction

To further combat inflation, the IRS has increased the standard deduction for 2025:

  • Single Filers: $15,000 (up from $14,600)
  • Married Filing Jointly: $30,000 (up from $29,200)
  • Head of Household: $22,500 (up from $21,900)

Example: If you're a single filer who normally itemizes deductions but your total deductions fall below $15,000, the increased standard deduction may make it more beneficial to take the standard deduction instead.

💡 Tip: Keep track of all eligible deductions and compare them to the standard deduction to determine the best option for you.

3. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Adjustments

The AMT exemption amounts for 2025 have increased to prevent more middle-income taxpayers from being affected:

  • Single Filers: Exemption rises to $88,100 (phase-out begins at $626,350)
  • Married Filing Jointly: Exemption rises to $137,000 (phase-out begins at $1,252,700)

💡 Tip: If you're unsure whether the AMT applies to you, use IRS Form 6251 to calculate whether you're affected.

4. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Enhancements

For those with lower incomes, the EITC has increased:

  • Families with three or more qualifying children: Maximum credit rises to $8,046 (up from $7,830).

Example: If you earned $25,000 with three children, you may now qualify for an additional $216 in tax credits compared to last year.

💡 Tip: Check eligibility yearly, as slight income changes can affect EITC qualification.

5. Fringe Benefits and FSAs Updates

💡 Tip: If you have an FSA, be sure to use the funds before the carryover expires, or consider increasing contributions if you frequently reach the limit.

6. Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs) Adjustments

  • Self-Only Coverage: Deductible ranges from $2,850 to $4,300
  • Family Coverage: Deductible ranges from $5,700 to $8,550

💡 Tip: Consider pairing a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with an MSA for tax-free medical savings.

7. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion Increase

For expatriates, the foreign earned income exclusion has increased to $130,000, up from $126,500.

💡 Tip: If you work abroad, ensure you meet the Physical Presence Test or Bona Fide Residence Test to qualify.

8. Standard Mileage Rate Adjustment

For business use of a vehicle, the IRS has increased the standard mileage rate to 70 cents per mile (up from 67 cents).

💡 Tip: Use a mileage-tracking app to log business miles for accurate deductions.9. Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

The Clean Vehicle Tax Credit remains in place:

  • Up to $7,500 for new electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen-powered vehicles
  • Up to $4,000 for qualifying used vehicles

💡 Tip: Confirm that the car manufacturer meets the latest eligibility requirements before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When do these tax changes take effect?

A: These changes apply to income earned in 2025 and will impact tax returns filed in 2026.

Q: How do I know if I qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit?

A: You must meet income limits and have qualifying children or meet certain criteria if filing without children. Check the IRS EITC Assistant tool.

Q: Can I still deduct state and local taxes (SALT)?

A: The $10,000 SALT deduction cap remains in place for 2025.

Helpful Resources

Final Thoughts

With these tax changes for 2025, proactive planning can save you money. Whether adjusting withholdings, contributing to retirement accounts, or maximizing deductions, staying informed is key. For personalized tax advice, consult a tax professional or use IRS Free File for easy filing.

Need help with tax filing?

Consult one of our tax experts to ensure accuracy and maximize your deductions.

I hope this information was helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us here. I’d be happy to chat with you. 

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This post is just for informational purposes and is not meant to be legal, business, or tax advice. Regarding the matters discussed in this post, each individual should consult his or her own attorney, business advisor, or tax advisor. Vincere accepts no responsibility for actions taken in reliance on the information contained in this document.

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