Core Insights - The article discusses the misconception that taxes will decrease in retirement, highlighting various factors that can lead to higher tax rates during retirement years compared to earning years [11] Group 1: Tax Implications of Retirement Income - Inherited IRAs must be fully distributed within 10 years, potentially increasing a beneficiary's taxable income significantly [1] - The RMD age will increase to 75 in 2033, allowing for more time for investments to grow, which may result in larger distributions and higher tax brackets [2] - Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) starting at age 73 can lead to increased tax liabilities due to larger annual distributions from pre-tax accounts [2][3] Group 2: Specific Tax Scenarios - The "widow(er) tax" affects surviving spouses, who may face higher tax rates due to being taxed as single filers instead of married couples [4] - Large one-time expenses can lead to higher taxes in retirement if significant pre-tax distributions are taken to cover these costs [5] - Changes in tax codes, such as the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2026, are expected to increase tax rates, impacting retirees [6][7] Group 3: Legacy and Tax Planning - Inherited pre-tax money can lead to increased taxes for beneficiaries, especially if received during their peak earning years [9] - Tax planning strategies should consider the timing of income and potential future tax rate changes to avoid unexpected tax burdens [10] - Proactive tax planning is essential to manage retirement tax liabilities effectively, as the assumption that taxes will decrease can lead to inaction [11]

Core Points - The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) increased the state and local tax (SALT) cap deduction to $40,000 from $10,000, benefiting homeowners in high property tax states [1] - The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 made many itemized deductions permanent, but there are still opportunities for middle-class Americans to reduce tax bills starting with their 2025 returns [3] Mortgage Interest - Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest paid on up to $750,000 of mortgage debt starting in 2025, as per IRS guidelines [4] - Taxpayers should obtain their 1098 form from lending institutions to report mortgage interest [4][5] Medical Expenses - Medical expenses can be deducted if combined with SALT payments exceed the standard deduction, but only expenses exceeding 7.5% of adjusted gross income (AGI) are eligible [6] - Qualified medical expenses include co-pays, medical bills, insurance premiums, and transportation costs to medical appointments [7]