Changes to 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 introduced significant changes to the U.S. tax code, affecting both individuals and businesses. In 2025, it's crucial to understand the potential changes that may occur if certain provisions are not extended or modified by lawmakers.

Key Provisions Set to Expire in 2025

Many of the TCJA's individual tax benefits are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. If Congress does not act, the following changes could take place:

• Income Tax Rates: The TCJA reduced the seven tax brackets to 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. Without legislative intervention, these rates will revert to the pre-2018 levels of 10%, 15%, 25%, 28%, 33%, 35%, and 39.6%.
• Standard Deduction: The standard deduction was nearly doubled under the TCJA. In 2025, it's set at $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for married couples filing jointly. Absent an extension, these amounts will decrease, leading to higher taxable income for many taxpayers.
• Child Tax Credit: The credit was increased to $2,000 per qualifying child under the TCJA. If the provision expires, the credit could drop to $1,000, reducing the tax benefits for families.
• State and Local Tax (SALT) Deduction Cap: The TCJA introduced a $10,000 cap on the SALT deduction. This cap is set to expire in 2025, potentially allowing taxpayers to deduct higher amounts of state and local taxes.

Potential Legislative Actions

Lawmakers face decisions on whether to extend, modify, or let these provisions expire. Extending the current tax cuts would have significant fiscal implications, potentially adding to the national debt. A Treasury analysis indicates that making the TCJA's tax cuts permanent would disproportionately benefit higher-income individuals, with the top 0.1% of earners receiving substantial tax reductions.

Conversely, allowing the provisions to expire could lead to higher taxes for many Americans and increased complexity in tax planning. The uncertainty surrounding these potential changes underscores the importance of staying informed and consulting with tax professionals to navigate the evolving landscape.

Conclusion

As 2025 develops, both individuals and businesses should monitor legislative developments related to the TCJA. Proactive tax planning and staying informed about potential changes will be essential to mitigate any adverse effects on your financial situation.