From Webinar to Wallet: 10 Quick Moves to Prep for the 2025 Filing Season

September 10, 2025•2 min read

The new tax bill is packed with changes—some temporary, some permanent, and all of them potentially affecting your bottom line. Instead of waiting until January, you can take a few simple steps right now to get ahead of the curve.

Here are ten smart moves to make before the 2025 filing season.

Want the big picture first? Watch our YouTube breakdown of the 2025 tax bill where Misty and Tanya explain the changes in plain language.

1. Check Your Pay Stubs for Overtime Tracking

The new overtime exclusion applies only if your employer separates overtime on your W-2.

2. Ask About Tip Reporting

Only properly reported tips qualify for the new temporary deduction. If you’re in service or hospitality, ask HR now. For more context, read our post on tips, overtime, and car-loan interest changes.

3. Keep Your VIN Handy

Planning to claim the new auto loan interest deduction? Your VIN must be reported on your tax return.

4. Confirm 529 Usage Rules

New rules expand 529 funds to cover tutoring, homeschool curriculum, and certification fees. (See our Taxes for College Students guide for related education tax strategies.)

5. Revisit Dependent Care Elections

The dependent care FSA limit is now $7,500, and credits were expanded.

6. Estimate Child Tax Credit and Senior Deduction Changes

Both were adjusted in the new law. Run a quick projection now to see how they’ll lower your taxable income.

7. Plan Major Purchases for Bonus Depreciation

100% bonus depreciation is back. Make sure assets are placed in service by year-end.

8. Update Your Charitable Giving Strategy

Non-itemizers can deduct up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married filing jointly), but itemizers face a new 0.5% AGI floor. If you live in a high-tax state, our post on the SALT cap increase is worth a read.

9. Check Your 1099 Expectations

1099-K threshold returns to $20,000.
1099-NEC moves to $2,000.
See our IRS deadlines and payment tips guide to stay on top of reporting.

10. Explore HSA Options

Bronze and catastrophic plans are now HSA-eligible. S Corp owners should review our HSA rules for S Corps before setting one up.

Why Acting Now Pays Off

Less stress when tax season arrives.
Maximized deductions because paperwork is ready.
Better cash flow since you anticipate credits and savings.

Final Thoughts

Tax law doesn’t stand still—and neither should your planning.

Book a 30-minute call so we can tailor these strategies to your family or business.

Misty Newsome

Owner of Misty Newsome CPA LLC

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Misty Newsome CPA LLC

24200 Via Mazzini Way, Suite 301, Richmond, TX 77406

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(281) 249-9375

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