Tax Center 2025 (Filed in 2026)
Your complete guide to the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), including key deadlines, updated brackets, and the most important numbers for DFW taxpayers.
Real talk: The tax code changes every year, and keeping up shouldn't be your job. The 2025 tax year (filed in 2026) brings inflation-adjusted brackets and updated contribution limits—some good, some not so good. Whether you're filing as an individual, running a business, or managing investments, here's what actually matters for DFW taxpayers this year.
2026 Key Numbers
Standard Deduction (Single)
$15,750
Standard Deduction (Married)
$31,500
Standard Deduction (HOH)
$23,625
401(k) Contribution Limit
$23,500
IRA Contribution Limit
$7,000
401(k) Catch-Up (50+)
$7,500
IRA Catch-Up (50+)
$1,000
HSA (Individual)
$4,300
HSA (Family)
$8,550
Social Security Wage Base
$176,100
Gift Tax Exclusion
$18,000
Estate Tax Exemption
$13.99M
2026 Tax Deadlines
Scroll horizontally to see all deadlines →
2025 Tax Brackets (Filed in 2026)
Tax brackets adjusted upward for inflation—you may owe less even if income stayed the same.
| Rate | Single Filer | Married Filing Jointly |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | Up to $11,925 | Up to $23,850 |
| 12% | $11,926 – $48,475 | $23,851 – $96,950 |
| 22% | $48,476 – $103,350 | $96,951 – $206,700 |
| 24% | $103,351 – $197,300 | $206,701 – $394,600 |
| 32% | $197,301 – $250,525 | $394,601 – $501,050 |
| 35% | $250,526 – $626,350 | $501,051 – $751,600 |
| 37% | Over $626,350 | Over $751,600 |
Standard Deduction vs. Itemizing
| Filing Status | 2025 Standard Deduction |
|---|---|
| Single | $15,750 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $31,500 |
| Head of Household | $23,625 |
When to itemize: Your deductions must exceed the standard deduction.
- Mortgage interest
- State & local taxes (SALT) — capped at $40,000 (income limits apply)
- Charitable contributions
- Medical expenses (over 7.5% of AGI)
Tip: Many DFW homeowners take the standard deduction due to SALT limits and the higher deduction amounts.
Retirement Contribution Limits
| Account Type | 2025 Limit | Catch-Up (50+) |
|---|---|---|
| 401(k) / 403(b) / 457 | $23,500 | +$7,500 |
| Traditional / Roth IRA | $7,000 | +$1,000 |
| SEP-IRA | $69,000 or 25% comp | — |
| Solo 401(k) | Up to $69,000 total | +$7,500 |
| HSA (Individual) | $4,300 | +$1,000 (55+) |
| HSA (Family) | $8,550 | +$1,000 (55+) |
Note: IRA deductibility phases out at higher incomes if you have a workplace plan.
Texas-Specific Considerations
- No state income tax — but affects your federal strategy
- No state estate tax — federal applies to estates over $13.99M
- TX Franchise Tax: Businesses with revenue over $2.47M
- Retail/wholesale: 0.375%
- Other businesses: 0.75%
Texas has no state income tax, but federal planning is still essential for high earners.
Year-End Tax Planning Strategies
The best planning happens before December 31st, not April 15th.
For Everyone:
- Max out retirement contributions
- Harvest investment losses
- Bunch charitable donations
- Review withholding (W-4)
- Qualified charitable distributions (70½+)
For Business Owners:
- Section 179 equipment purchases
- Bonus depreciation
- Employee bonus timing
- Defer income / accelerate expenses
- Review entity structure
We recommend a Q3 tax planning review while there's still time to act.
Pro Tips
Don't Wait Until April
The earlier you gather documents and consult with a CPA, the more planning options you have. Last-minute filing often means missed deductions.
Track Estimated Payments
If you make quarterly payments, keep records of each payment date and amount. These credits are sometimes overlooked or misapplied.
Review Withholding
Major life changes (marriage, new job, home purchase) warrant a W-4 review. Proper withholding prevents surprises at tax time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help With Your Taxes?
Our DFW CPAs specialize in helping individuals and businesses minimize their tax burden. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.