The S-Corp $80k Threshold Is a Lie
The popular rule of thumb says elect S-Corp once net SE income hits $80k. Count the income tax a salary adds by shrinking the QBI deduction, and the salary you pay yourself decides the answer far more than that number does.
The SALT Cap Is Now $40,400 — Who Still Needs the PTET Workaround
OBBBA raised the SALT deduction cap to $40,400 for 2026, so most households under ~$505,000 MAGI are no longer squeezed. Here's who still needs the Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET) workaround: high earners in the phase-down zone above $505,000.
Real Estate Professional Status (REPS): What It Actually Takes to Qualify
REPS unlocks unlimited rental loss offset against W-2 income — but the IRS denies it more than any other deduction. Here's the real two-test math, the time-log requirements, and the spousal workaround.
The QBI Deduction Phaseout: Why Your Marginal Rate Can Quietly Hit 50%
The 20% QBI deduction phases out for specified service businesses (consultants, lawyers, doctors) starting at ~$201,750 single / ~$403,500 married for 2026. Inside the phase-out band your effective marginal rate can quietly hit 50%+. Here's the math and how to plan around it.