Most savings come from decisions you make at open enrollment and in your payroll settings, not at filing time.
Pre-tax deferrals cut taxable income now, while Roth deferrals grow tax-free. High earners at 50+ must make catch-ups as Roth if their prior-year FICA wages topped $150,000. In every case, capture the full employer match first.
Pay current medical bills out of pocket, keep receipts, invest the HSA, and reimburse yourself years later. From 2026, bronze and catastrophic plans are HSA-compatible, whether or not you buy them through the marketplace.
The deductions cover up to $12,500 of overtime premium ($25,000 joint), $25,000 of qualified tips per return, and $10,000 of interest on a new U.S.-assembled car loan, subject to income phase-outs. Married couples must file jointly to claim the overtime or tip deduction.
Benefit elections are pre-tax for income and FICA, which makes them worth more per dollar than most itemized deductions.
Increase W-4 withholding or make estimated payments when large vests occur, and track ESPP basis so you aren't taxed twice.
Watch the pro-rata rule if you hold pre-tax IRA balances. If your plan allows after-tax contributions with in-plan conversion, you can contribute up to the $72,000 total limit.
Add up state income tax, property tax, mortgage interest, and charitable gifts. If the total exceeds the $32,200 joint standard deduction, consider bunching gifts into one year.
Track your New York workdays, remember that normal workdays at home usually count as New York days under the convenience rule, and check Connecticut withholding if your employer withholds only for New York. Also use the CHET subtraction of up to $5,000 ($10,000 joint).
In a consultation, we look at your pay stub, benefit elections, and equity awards, estimate your federal, Connecticut, and any New York tax for the year, and tell you whether your withholding or deferrals should change.