With the arrival of the new year, it’s the perfect time to familiarize ourselves with the upcoming tax changes announced by the Internal Revenue Service for 2024. Staying informed about these adjustments is key to smart financial planning. Let’s dive into what these changes entail and decode their impact in an easily understandable manner.

Adjustments in Standard Deductions

One of the most significant changes for the 2024 tax year is the increase in standard deductions. For married couples filing jointly, the standard deduction is now $29,200, up by $1,500. For single taxpayers and those married but filing separately, it’s $14,600 — a $750 rise. Heads of households will see an increase to $21,900.

What This Means for You: A higher standard deduction could mean less of your income is subject to tax, which could potentially lower your tax bill.

Marginal Tax Rates

The tax brackets have also seen some adjustments. While the top rate remains at 37% for incomes over $609,350 for singles (and $731,200 for married couples filing jointly), other brackets have shifted slightly. These changes ensure that inflation doesn’t unfairly push your income into a higher tax bracket.

Key Takeaway: Understand where your income falls within these brackets, as this will affect how much tax you owe.

Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)

The AMT exemption amount for 2024 is up to $85,700 and begins to phase out at $609,350 ($133,300 for married couples filing jointly, phasing out at $1,218,700). The AMT is a parallel tax system ensuring that high-income individuals pay a minimum amount of tax.

Impact on You: If your income is within these ranges, you might need to calculate your taxes both ways – regular tax and AMT – and pay the higher amount.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The maximum EITC amount for 2024 is $7,830 for taxpayers with three or more qualifying children. This is a slight increase and can be a significant benefit for eligible lower-income families.

What to Consider: If you have children and fall within a certain income bracket, check if you qualify for this credit, as it can substantially reduce your tax bill or even result in a refund.

Other Notable Changes

• Qualified Transportation Fringe Benefits: The monthly limit increases to $315, which is important if you use these benefits for commuting costs.
• Health Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSAs): The limit increases to $3,200, with a maximum carryover amount of $640.
• Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs): The minimum annual deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket expenses for high-deductible health plans linked to MSAs have increased.
• Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: For those working abroad, the exclusion is now $126,500.
• Estate and Gift Taxes: The estate exclusion amount is up to $13,610,000, and the annual exclusion for gifts is $18,000.
• Adoption Credit: The maximum credit for adoption-related expenses is now $16,810.

Unchanged Items

• Personal Exemption: Remains at $0, a change initially made by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
• Itemized Deductions: No limitation, as per the same Act.
• Lifetime Learning Credit: The income phase-out thresholds remain unchanged.

Wrapping Up

Understanding these changes can seem daunting, but they’re crucial for planning your taxes efficiently. Keep in mind that everyone’s situation is unique, and what applies broadly may have different implications for you personally.

As always, we are here to help navigate these changes and optimize your tax strategy. Here’s to a financially savvy and well-prepared 2024!