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Maximizing SALT Deductions: Strategic Approaches for Passthrough Entities Post-TCJA

The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction historically served to alleviate the burden of double taxation by allowing taxpayers to deduct their state and local taxes from federal income taxes, provided they itemized these deductions. Previously, this was an attractive option for residents in high-tax locales.

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Evolving Tax Landscapes

Prior to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, there was no ceiling on the SALT deduction, beneficially impacting taxpayers, particularly in states like New York, California, and Illinois. However, post-TCJA, this deduction has been capped at $10,000, limiting its effectiveness for many high-income residents in these states.

Implications of OBBBA

With the introduction of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA), starting in 2025, the SALT deduction cap is set to increase significantly. The cap will rise to $40,000 with a gradual increase of 1% each year until 2029, aimed at easing the tax burdens of residents in high-tax states. Post-2029, unless further legislative action is taken, the cap will revert to the original $10,000. This change offers a window of opportunity to strategize effectively around tax planning.

High-Income Taxpayer Constraints

While OBBBA introduces a higher SALT cap, it also incorporates limitations for high earners, phasing out the deduction based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). For instance, in 2025, a taxpayer with a MAGI over $500,000 will experience a reduction in their deduction, scaled by 30% of their surplus income, decreasing the advantage of the heightened SALT cap.

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This amendment strives to distribute tax benefits more equitably across income brackets while maintaining fiscal balance.

Workaround with Passthrough Entities

To navigate the SALT deduction cap, certain states have authorized the use of passthrough entity tax (PTET) mechanisms, primarily benefiting S corporations and partnerships. These allow state taxes to be paid at the entity level, thus circumventing individual limitations. Consequently, businesses can claim these state taxes as exemptions at the federal level. The strategy is increasingly leveraged by high-earning individuals in service-centric businesses, presenting significant tax planning advantages and adherence to IRS regulations.

Conclusion and Moving Forward

The constantly evolving tax regulations necessitate proactive planning and strategic adoption of available mechanisms to optimize tax liabilities efficiently. The higher SALT cap under OBBBA, although temporary, and the PTET strategy offer invaluable benefits to those in high-tax regions. At GeneralCents Accounting, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, we specialize in offering strategic, tech-forward tax planning and bookkeeping solutions to keep you ahead in this dynamic landscape.

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Feel free to reach out to our office if the SALT deduction cap affects your financial strategy due to your MAGI, and explore if your state offers a PTET option beneficial to your financial circumstances.

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