Payroll tax implications of new tax breaks on tips and overtime

Before the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), tip income and overtime income were fully taxable for federal income tax purposes. The new law changes that.

Tip income deduction

For 2025–2028, the OBBBA creates a new temporary federal income tax deduction that can offset up to $25,000 of annual qualified tip income. It begins to phase out when modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is more than $150,000 ($300,000 for married joint filers).

Businesses strive for balance in hybrid work models

If your business allows employees to perform their jobs under a hybrid work model, it’s not alone. Ever since the pandemic, many companies have sought to strike a balance between permitting some remote work while also requiring staff to come into the office (or another type of facility).

The QBI deduction and what’s new in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act

The qualified business income (QBI) deduction, which became effective in 2018, is a significant tax benefit for many business owners. It allows eligible taxpayers to deduct up to 20% of QBI, not to exceed 20% of taxable income. It can also be claimed for up to 20% of income from qualified real estate investment trust dividends.

Teachers and others can deduct eligible educator expenses this year — and more next year and beyond

At back-to-school time, much of the focus is on the students returning to the classroom — and on their parents buying them school supplies, backpacks, clothes, etc., for the new school year. But teachers are also buying school supplies for their classrooms. And in many cases, they don’t receive reimbursement. Fortunately, they may be able to deduct some of these expenses on their tax returns. And, beginning next year, eligible educators will have an additional deduction opportunity under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

How businesses can fund a buy-sell agreement

Businesses with more than one owner benefit from having multiple viewpoints and varying skill sets. However, they also face serious risks of uncertainty and conflict if one of the owners suddenly departs or undergoes a major life change. A carefully crafted buy-sell agreement can guard against these risks — if it’s securely funded.

Investing in qualified small business stock now offers expanded tax benefits

By purchasing stock in certain small businesses, you can diversify your investment portfolio. You also may enjoy preferential tax treatment, some of which is getting even better under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) that was signed into law in July: Qualified small business (QSB) stock now offers more tax-saving opportunities.

5 ways businesses can assess health care benefits spending

If your business sponsors health care benefits for its employees, you know the costs of doing so are hardly stable. And unfortunately, the numbers tend to rise much more often than they fall. According to global consultancy Mercer’s Survey on Health & Benefit Strategies for 2026, 51% of large organizations surveyed said they’re likely to make plan design changes to shift more costs to employees next year — presumably in response to price increases.

The next estimated tax payment deadline is coming up soon

If you make quarterly estimated tax payments, the amount you owe may be affected by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The law, which was enacted on July 4, 2025, introduces new deductions, credits and tax provisions that could shift your income tax liability this year.

Is your business ready for digital documents and e-signatures?

Whether signing a vendor agreement, approving a repair estimate or applying for a loan, chances are you’ve signed something digitally in recent months. In 2025, digital documents and e-signatures are no longer just a convenience — they’re fast becoming the standard.