New Tax Deduction for Tipped Workers Unveiled

On September 2, 2025, the Treasury Department unveiled a comprehensive draft list encompassing 68 occupations eligible for the innovative "no tax on tips" deduction. Forming a key component of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act"—a legislative endeavor ratified on July 4, 2025—this deduction extends its applicability to federal income taxes from tax years 2025 to 2028, promising substantial fiscal relief for eligible occupations.

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The deduction, capped at $25,000 annually per individual, is categorized as a "below-the-line" deduction, making it accessible to taxpayers utilizing the standard deduction while remaining independent of adjusted gross income (AGI) computations.

Eligibility Overview: Key Occupational Categories

Here's a look at the Treasury's draft list of occupations eligible for this deduction across various sectors:

  • Beverage & Food Service: Bartenders, waitstaff, chefs, bakers, among others playing vital roles in dining settings.
  • Entertainment and Events: Including gambling dealers, musicians, digital content creators, offering unique venue experiences.
  • Hospitality and Guest Services: From concierges to housekeeping staff, crucial to enhancing guest experiences.
  • Home Services: Professionals like electricians and plumbers essential for household maintenance.
  • Personal Services: Encompassing event planners and pet caretakers enhancing personal lifestyles.
  • Transportation and Delivery: Involving taxi drivers, goods delivery personnel ensuring efficient people and product movement.

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Qualifying for the OBBB Tip Exclusion

To leverage the OBBB tip deduction, workers must adhere to specific criteria:

  • Designation as a qualified tipped worker in a customary tipping role pre-2025.
  • Possession of eligible tips, distinctly separate from service charges.
  • Strict adherence to IRS reporting guidelines via Form W-2 or Form 1099.
  • Joint tax filing requirement for married couples intending to claim the deduction.
  • Mandatory inclusion of a Social Security Number (SSN) within tax submissions.

Additional Parameters and Limitations

The deduction's benefits are finite, phasing out for high-income earners:

  • Annual limit: $25,000 maximum deduction.
  • Income phase-out: Begins above $150,000 for single filers, $300,000 for joint filings.
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Critical Considerations

Despite income tax deductions, tips remain subject to payroll taxes, including Social Security and Medicare or self-employment tax. Note this is a temporary relief measure expiring post-2028.

As stakeholders navigate the complexities of tip-related income and deductions, continuous education and professional advisory can optimize tax strategies, ensuring compliance amidst evolving tax legislation.

For inquiries or detailed assistance, feel free to contact our office today.

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