The Stacking Benjamins Show: How to Turn 2025's New Tax Rules Into Big Savings (SB1714)
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Hosts: Joe Saul-Sehy, OG
Podcast: StackingBenjamins.com | Cumulus Podcast Network
Introduction to the Episode
In this episode, Joe Saul-Sehy and OG tackle the newly introduced SB1714 legislation, a comprehensive 900-page bill that reshapes various aspects of the U.S. tax code. The hosts aim to break down the complexities of the new tax rules, providing listeners with actionable strategies to maximize their tax savings for the year 2025.
1. Understanding the New Tax Legislation (SB1714)
Tax Deductions vs. Tax Credits
OG begins by clarifying the fundamental differences between tax deductions and tax credits. He emphasizes that while deductions reduce your taxable income, credits directly reduce the amount of tax owed.
"If you flipped over a Monopoly card and it said you could have $10,000 of credits or $10,000 in deductions, you want the credits."
— OG [10:39]
Charitable Contributions
The new legislation introduces above-the-line deductions for charitable contributions, allowing individuals who do not itemize their deductions to claim up to $1,000 per person or $2,000 per couple.
"Even people that don't itemize might want to make sure that they're tracking their charitable deductions."
— Nikki [13:12]
Personal Auto Loan Interest Deduction
For the first time since 1986, SB1714 allows the deductibility of personal auto loan interest for non-itemizers, provided the vehicle is a new U.S.-assembled car. This change aims to incentivize car purchases, though it comes with specific requirements and income limitations.
"Americans could deduct up to $10,000 of interest on your car... sunsets in 2028."
— Nikki [16:54]
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
The annual maximum contribution to Dependent Care FSAs has been increased to $7,500 per individual and $3,750 per couple, up from $5,000. This enhancement allows families to allocate more pre-tax income towards child care or care for dependents.
"Funds for these get withdrawn before taxes are deducted... you have to be okay from a cash flow standpoint."
— OG [20:08]
Child and Dependent Care Credit Enhancement
Starting in 2026, the credit rate for child and dependent care expenses increases from 35% to 50%, making it more accessible for lower-income families. Additionally, the income thresholds for eligibility have been significantly raised.
"These changes result in nearly 4 million families seeing an increased tax credit."
— Nikki [23:20]
2. Tax Planning Strategies
Joe and OG stress the importance of proactive tax planning to fully leverage the benefits introduced by SB1714. They recommend using tax software like TurboTax to simulate different tax scenarios and adjust contributions accordingly.
"You need to be sitting down in October, downloading TurboTax or whatever and just kind of putting in a sample tax plan."
— Nikki [25:58]
3. Listener Call-in: 401k Contributions for Age 50+
A listener, F, calls in with questions about the increased 401k contribution limits for individuals turning 50. The hosts provide a detailed explanation:
Contribution Increase
Individuals turning 50 can increase their 401k contributions by $7,500, beyond the standard limit of $23,500.
"You don’t have to tell your employer, you don’t have to tell the 401 people... you are responsible for putting in the higher number."
— OG [35:46]
Adjusting Contribution Rates
Listeners are advised to manually adjust their contribution percentages via their 401k provider’s website to take full advantage of the increased limits.
"You just keep putting money in. Now you are responsible."
— OG [35:46]
4. Trivia Segment
The hosts engage listeners with a trivia question about the most popular beer brands on college campuses. Contrary to popular belief, CR Research reports Corona as the top choice over traditional favorites like Budweiser. OG expresses skepticism about this finding, prompting humorous back-and-forth.
"It's going to make the guide, which is already pretty easy to use, but it's going to make them even, even more easy to use."
— Nikki [43:24]
5. Listener Reviews and Feedback
Nikki and JJ share and read positive listener reviews, highlighting appreciation for Doug’s contributions. One humorous review suggests renaming the show to "Doug and Friends," which the hosts playfully respond to.
"I especially love the way he delivers the results of the trivia on Friday. Suck it, OG."
— JJ [45:11]
6. Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The episode wraps up with a summary of the key points discussed:
-
Stay Informed on Tax Changes:
"Stackers, stay on top of tax changes."
— JJ [46:55] -
Embrace Proactive Planning:
Utilize tools and resources to navigate new tax laws effectively. -
Engage with the Show’s Resources:
Invest in their updated tax guide for comprehensive advice.
"It's a key example of why it's key to get a guide like ours."
— JJ [42:36]
The hosts reiterate the importance of maintaining an emergency fund to manage cash flow disruptions resulting from new tax strategies. They encourage listeners to take immediate action to optimize their financial planning under the new legislation.
"If you don't have a planner or an advisor... download TurboTax or whatever and just kind of put in a sample tax plan."
— Nikki [25:58]
Additional Segments
TikTok Minute:
Marjorie, a 92-year-old TikTok creator, shares her wisdom on finding joy in the present moment, aligning with the episode’s theme on finding meaning in life.
Back Porch Conversations:
A humorous exchange among the hosts about managing financial strategies and personal anecdotes adds a light-hearted touch to the episode.
Final Thoughts
This episode of "The Stacking Benjamins Show" provides a comprehensive and engaging breakdown of the 2025 SB1714 tax legislation. Through clear explanations, practical advice, and interactive segments, Joe Saul-Sehy and OG equip listeners with the knowledge and tools needed to maximize their tax savings and enhance their financial well-being.
"Find out about our awesome team@stackingbenjamins.com along with the show notes and how you can find us on YouTube and all the usual social media spots."
— Nikki [47:15]
For more detailed insights and personalized advice, listeners are encouraged to visit StackingBenjamins.com and explore the resources offered.
Notable Quotes:
- "If you flipped over a Monopoly card and it said you could have $10,000 of credits or $10,000 in deductions, you want the credits." — OG [10:39]
- "Even people that don't itemize might want to make sure that they're tracking their charitable deductions." — Nikki [13:12]
- "You don’t have to tell your employer, you don’t have to tell the 401 people... you are responsible for putting in the higher number." — OG [35:46]
- "Stackers, stay on top of tax changes." — JJ [46:55]
Resources Mentioned:
- StackingBenjamins.com
- TurboTax and other tax planning software
- SB1714 Tax Legislation Guide
For further information and to access the episode’s show notes, visit StackingBenjamins.com.