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2026 Tax Season Update: Realizing the OBBBA Refund Boost

We are a few weeks into the 2026 tax filing season, and the early data from the IRS is telling an interesting story. Across the country, taxpayers are seeing an average refund of $2,476. That is a solid 14.2% jump over the $2,169 average we saw at this time in 2025. While an extra $300 in your pocket is certainly welcome, it is notably short of the $1,000 boost that many policymakers and experts predicted leading up to this year.

However, it is important to remember that it is still early March. These numbers often fluctuate as more complex returns are processed. The upward trend is undeniable, and much of it stems from the provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). At Tangible Accounting, we are actively working to ensure our clients in Florida, Arizona, and the D.C. metro area fully capture these new benefits.

Accountant reviewing tax documents

Key OBBBA Changes Driving Refunds

The OBBBA introduced specific deductions and credits designed to lower tax liability. Here is what we are focusing on for our individual and business clients this season:

  • Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: The FLSA-mandated "half" of your time-and-a-half pay is now deductible. There are caps—$12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • Tips Tax Deduction: For clients in service industries (specifically roughly 70 designated occupations), up to $25,000 of "qualified tips" can be deducted. Note: Both the overtime and tips deductions begin to phase out at $150,000 MAGI ($300,000 for joint filers) and disappear completely at $275,000 and $550,000, respectively.

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: If you bought a new, U.S.-assembled vehicle for personal use after 2024, the interest is deductible up to $10,000. This is a secured loan deduction available even if you claim the standard deduction. It phases out starting at $100,000 MAGI ($200,000 joint).

  • The SALT Cap Adjustment: This is significant for our clients in higher-tax jurisdictions. The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction limit has moved from $10,000 to $40,000 ($20,000 for married filing separately). However, for high-net-worth individuals with a MAGI over $500,000, this cap begins to phase back down.

  • Enhanced Standard Deduction & Senior Bonus: The standard deduction has risen to $31,500 for married couples and $15,750 for singles. Taxpayers aged 65+ get an additional $6,000 "Senior Bonus," regardless of whether they itemize. This bonus phases out starting at $75,000 ($150,000 joint).

  • Child Tax Credit: Now $2,200 per child, fully available to joint filers with income up to $400,000.

The "Hidden" Factors Boosting Refunds

Beyond the new law, there is a mechanical reason refunds are higher. When many of these tax cuts were enacted, the IRS did not immediately update the income tax withholding tables. Practically speaking, this means many taxpayers had too much tax withheld from their paychecks throughout 2025. Now that we are filing, that overpayment is coming back to you.

Additionally, inflation adjustments to tax brackets have helped mitigate "bracket creep," keeping more of your income taxed at lower rates despite cost-of-living raises. We also saw a portion of the Adoption Tax Credit (up to $5,000) become refundable, meaning it can be paid out even if you owe zero tax.

Consultant signing contract with client

Navigating IRS Challenges

While the refunds are promising, the administrative side of this tax season is proving difficult. Since January 2025, the IRS has lost roughly a quarter of its workforce. This staffing shortage, combined with the complexity of implementing the OBBBA changes, has led to a processing slowdown. We have observed a decrease in returns processed (down 3.1%) compared to prior years.

If you haven't filed yet because you are worried about the complexity of the new law or potential delays, do not let that stop you. At Tangible Accounting, PLLC, navigating legislative changes is central to our role as your trusted advisor. Whether you are in West Palm Beach, Phoenix, or the D.C. area, Jaron J. Fulse, EA, and the team are ready to ensure every eligible deduction—from auto loan interest to the new SALT limits—is accurately applied to your return.

Ready to maximize your 2026 refund strategy? Contact Tangible Accounting today to schedule your consultation.

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