07/22/2025
đ¨ New Overtime Tax Break: What Employers Need to Know
Starting January 1, 2025, workers who earn federalâmandated overtime pay can deduct the premium portion of that pay from their taxable incomeâpotentially keeping more of their extra hours worked.
Hereâs what employers need to communicate and prepare for:
Who Qualifies for the Overtime Deduction
- FLSA non-exempt employees â those entitled to time-and-a-half pay once they exceed 40 hours/week.
- Only the overtime premium (the âhalfâ in time-and-a-half), not total wages, qualifies.
- Employees must have a valid Social Security number (and spouses if filing jointly) to claim the break.
Deduction Limits & Phase-Out
Maximum deduction per taxpayer:
- $12,500 for single filers
- $25,000 for married filing jointly
- Phase-out begins when modified AGI exceeds $150,000 (single) or $300,000 (joint).
- For every $1,000 over the threshold, the deduction is reduced by $100.
- Temporary provision: applies to tax years 2025â2028 unless extended by Congress.
Reporting Requirements for Employers
- Track and aggregate qualified overtime compensation separately in payroll systems.
- Report total overtime premium on employeesâ Forms W-2 in a new line or designated box.
- Furnish year-end statements showing total overtime pay so employees can claim the deduction on their 2025 returns.
Action Items
- Review payroll software for overtime tracking and separate reporting fields.
- Update W-2 templates to include an overtime premium line.
- Communicate with staff: explain who qualifies, how much they can deduct, and when to expect updates on their W-2.