In this episode of More Than Commas, SFG President Cory Shepherd sits down with CEO of Trail CPA, Trent Trailov, to break down the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction and how business owners can strategically use it to reduce taxes.

If you earn non-W2 income, own a business, or operate as a consultant, financial professional, or service-based business owner, this conversation walks through who qualifies, income thresholds to watch, and real strategies to maximize tax savings. You'll also hear practical examples showing how the right planning decisions, like business expenses, charitable giving, and retirement contributions, can unlock tens of thousands of dollars in tax savings.

Timestamps:

03:10 – What Is the Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction?

06:15 – QBI Income Phaseouts Explained (Single vs. Married Filers)

08:20 – Real Example: Using Business Expenses to Qualify for QBI

10:55 – Which Businesses Need to Be Careful? (SSTB Rules)

14:05 – Business Expenses vs. Charitable Contributions

16:45 – Additional Strategies to Get Below the QBI Threshold

20:40 – Final Takeaways & What to Watch Going Into 2026

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