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Is Your Refund Growing? Navigating the OBBBA Impacts on 2026 Returns

Here at Apex Tax & Financial Solutions in Kent, WA, we have been closely monitoring the pulse of the 2026 tax season. The early statistics released by the IRS confirm what many in the industry suspected: refunds are trending upward. Currently, the average refund sits at $2,476—a 14.2% jump from this time last year. While this is a welcome increase of over $300, it hasn’t quite hit the $1,000 surge some policymakers predicted.

However, it is still early days. As we process more returns for our community—from service-based entrepreneurs to retirees—we expect these numbers to shift. The primary driver behind these changes is the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). This legislation has introduced specific provisions designed to improve tax efficiency for millions of Americans.

The OBBBA Provisions Boosting Your Bottom Line

The OBBBA isn't just a blanket tax cut; it offers targeted relief through specific deductions and credits. Here is how these changes might impact your financial picture:

  • The Overtime Premium Pay Deduction: For our clients putting in long hours, this is significant. The "half" of your "time-and-a-half" pay is now deductible, capped at $12,500 for singles and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly. This is a direct benefit for hard work.
  • The Tips Tax Deduction: If you work in one of the 70+ industries where tipping is customary, you can now deduct up to $25,000 of qualified tips annually (joint filing required for married taxpayers).

Advisor Note: High-income earners should be aware of phase-outs for both provisions. Benefits begin to decrease at a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers) and vanish completely at $275,000 ($550,000 for joint filers).

Firefighters representing overtime work

Strategic Deductions for Families and Seniors

At Apex, we often assist clients with cash flow planning for major life purchases and retirement. The OBBBA addresses these areas specifically:

  • Auto Loan Interest Deduction: To encourage domestic production, interest on loans for new, U.S.-assembled vehicles (originated after 2024) is deductible up to $10,000. This applies whether you itemize or take the standard deduction. (Phase-out begins at $100k MAGI for singles/$200k for joint filers).
  • Enhanced Standard & Senior Deductions: The standard deduction has risen to $31,500 for married couples and $15,750 for singles. Crucially for our clients in or near retirement, there is an additional $6,000 "Senior Bonus" for those aged 65+. (Senior bonus phase-out begins at $75k single/$150k joint).
  • Expanded Child Tax Credit: The credit is now $2,200 per child. This is a vital component for families, though it phases out for single filers earning over $200,000 and couples earning over $400,000.
  • SALT Cap Relief: For residents in states with higher tax burdens, the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap has quadrupled to $40,000 (phasing down for those with MAGI over $500,000).

Woman reviewing finances on tablet

Why Else Are Refunds Up?

Beyond the new law, a few logistical factors are padding refunds:

  • Withholding Gaps: Many tax cuts were passed without the IRS updating withholding tables in real-time. This means you may have inadvertently overpaid taxes from your paycheck throughout the year, resulting in a larger refund now.
  • Inflation Adjustments: Brackets and provisions have been adjusted for cost-of-living increases, helping prevent "bracket creep."
  • Refundable Adoption Credit: Up to $5,000 of the Adoption Tax Credit is now refundable, putting cash back in pockets even if no tax is owed.

A Note on Processing Times

While the refund news is positive, we must manage expectations regarding timelines. The IRS is currently operating with a reduced workforce and a lingering backlog. Returns received and processed are down slightly (2.6% and 3.1% respectively) compared to previous years.

If you are hesitant to file because you are unsure about these new OBBBA rules, let us guide you. Alvin Wolcott and the team here at Apex Tax & Financial Solutions are fully up-to-speed on every phase-out, credit, and deduction. Our hybrid approach combines the convenience of technology with the personal care of a local firm to ensure you don't leave money on the table.

Ready to optimize your 2026 return? Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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