11/18/2025
New Tax Breaks for Car Loan Interest, Tips & Overtime — What You Need to Know
Big changes are here for the upcoming tax seasons: under the new tax law (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) you’ll have two brand new deductions:
• Car Loan Interest Deduction: If you take out a loan after December 31, 2024 to buy a new personal vehicle that meets the eligibility rules (e.g., final assembly in the U.S.), you may now deduct up to $10,000 per year in interest for tax years 2025 2028.
• Tips & Overtime Deductions: Starting for tax year 2025 you may deduct:
o Up to $25,000 of qualified tipped income (for eligible occupations)
o Up to $12,500 (single) or $25,000 (married filing jointly) of “qualified overtime compensation” (the extra half time portion above regular pay)
Effective Dates: These deductions apply for tax years 2025 through 2028.
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Important Details to Know:
• For the car interest deduction: the vehicle must be new (original use starts with you), for personal use (not business), and assembled in the U.S.
• For tips/overtime: Your occupation must be one that “customarily and regularly” receives tips; reporting rules apply.
• Phase outs apply based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI).
• These are deductions, not tax credits — they reduce taxable income, not just your tax liability.
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At NorthWest CPA, we’re ready to help you understand how these changes could affect you or your business, and to ensure you’re prepared when Filing season arrives.
Send a message to learn more