With 2026 just around the corner, retirees are facing a wave of new tax changes that could dramatically shift how they manage their finances. From higher state and local tax deductions to strategic Roth conversion opportunities, the landscape is about to change — but not without its challenges. So, what’s really on the horizon?
The SALT Deduction Boost: A Double-Edged Sword
The most significant shift comes with the increase in the SALT (state and local tax) deduction cap. Under the new rules, this cap will jump from $10,000 to a hefty $40,000. Sounds like a win, right? Well, it’s not so simple. This change primarily affects those who itemize deductions rather than taking the standard deduction, and it requires a bit of finesse. The expert Bob Keebler suggests to Yahoo Finance that retirees should plan carefully, making sure not to overestimate their deductions in one year and end up with too few the next.
But here’s where it gets tricky for high earners. Once your income exceeds $500,000, the SALT cap starts to phase out — ultimately returning to $10,000 once income hits $600,000. This can have a big impact on retirees’ tax bills. For instance, a $130,000 income jump due to the loss of the SALT deduction can significantly affect your tax bracket, making planning even more important. Keebler’s advice? If you’re near this threshold, it’s crucial to lower your income to keep the deduction. It’s a matter of timing and strategy, like trying to outsmart the system.
Tax Planning for Retirees: The Power of Bunching Deductions
Another key point Keebler highlights is the idea of “bunching” deductions. In simple terms, this means grouping your deductible expenses into one year to maximize the benefits of itemizing. Why? Because the standard deduction is expected to rise over the next few years, hitting a projected $32,200 for married couples in 2026. Bunching can help you surpass that amount and reduce your overall taxable income. Again, careful planning with a tax pro is essential — you don’t want to get caught in a year where your deductions fall just short.
Roth Conversions: Timing is Everything
Roth conversions also play a big role in the 2025 tax landscape. The rules surrounding Roth IRAs are complex, but Keebler suggests that retirees should consider converting traditional IRA funds to Roth IRAs strategically, as it could save on future taxes. The timing here is key, and taking advantage of lower income years or making conversions during years with lower tax rates can be a powerful tool for reducing long-term tax liabilities.
Why Planning Ahead Is More Important Than Ever
It’s clear that 2025 brings more than just minor tweaks to the tax system. With changes to deductions, phaseouts, and conversion strategies, retirees need to be proactive about their planning. Keebler’s final piece of advice? Don’t wait until December to meet with your CPA — by then, everyone will be swamped with tax returns, and you might miss the chance to fine-tune your strategy.
In the end, while the new tax rules offer opportunities, they also demand a level of sophistication and foresight that can be hard to navigate alone. The right financial advice now can help retirees stay ahead of the curve — and hopefully avoid some costly missteps down the road.
