Core Insights - Tax rules are set to change in 2026, impacting take-home pay due to adjustments in tax brackets and deductions [1][2] - The IRS has increased tax brackets by approximately 2.3% for 2026, aimed at keeping pace with inflation [3][9] Tax Brackets - The new tax brackets for 2026 are as follows: - 37% for income of $640,601 or more (single) and $768,701 or more (married filing jointly) - 35% for income between $256,226 and $640,600 (single) and $512,451 to $768,700 (married filing jointly) - 32% for income between $201,776 and $256,225 (single) and $403,551 to $512,450 (married filing jointly) - 24% for income between $105,701 and $201,775 (single) and $211,401 to $403,550 (married filing jointly) - 22% for income between $50,401 and $105,700 (single) and $100,801 to $211,400 (married filing jointly) - 12% for income between $12,400 and $50,400 (single) and $24,801 to $100,800 (married filing jointly) - 10% for income of $12,400 or less (single) and $24,800 or less (married filing jointly) [4] Deductions and Credits - The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) has expanded tax credits and deductions, potentially lowering tax bills for many Americans [5][11] - The standard deduction for 2026 is expected to be approximately 2.2% higher than the retroactively increased standard deduction for 2025, which was raised from $750 to $1,500 [6] - The standard deduction amounts for 2026 are: - $16,100 for single or married filing separately - $32,200 for married filing jointly - $24,150 for heads of households [7] Impact on Taxpayers - The average middle-income household's taxes in 2026 are projected to decrease by about $1,800, while the lowest-income households may see a reduction of around $150 [7] - Taxpayers may benefit from adjusting their withholding amounts to keep more of their paycheck throughout the year, rather than waiting for refunds [8][11]

Core Points - The IRS has announced the long-term capital gains tax rate thresholds for the 2026 tax year, adjusting for inflation [1] - The income threshold for single filers to qualify for a 0% long-term capital gains tax rate is set at $49,450 [1] - For married couples filing jointly, the 0% tax rate applies to those with an income of $98,900 or below [1] Tax Adjustments - The standard deduction for single filers will increase to $16,100 for the 2026 tax year [1] - For married couples filing jointly, the standard deduction will be $32,200 [1] - The IRS has also adjusted various regulations, including federal income tax brackets and estate and gift tax exemptions, which will take effect when filing for the 2026 tax year in 2027 [1]