In this episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and “tax tiger” Chris Wittich sits down with Boyum Barenscheer HR Director Marie Prewett to unpack Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave law, set to take effect in 2026. They discuss who’s covered, key compliance deadlines, and how to choose between the state program and private plan options. Marie also shares practical advice for employers who want to get ahead of the rollout, along with resources to help navigate this major change.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and tax tiger Chris Wittich covers the IRS announcement and executive order aimed at reducing paper checks. Paper refund checks and paper payments will largely be phased out after September 30, 2025, with some exceptions. Chris explains why this change matters, how electronic payments and direct deposit refunds are faster and more secure, and why setting up an online IRS account can make tax management easier for both taxpayers and their CPAs.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with a Tiger, host and tax tiger Chris Wittich dives into one of the most overlooked but critical issues in tax planning, state conformity. While the One Big Beautiful Bill introduced sweeping federal tax changes, states like Minnesota do not automatically follow suit. Chris explains how static conformity works, why it creates uncertainty, and what taxpayers and businesses should be watching for in 2025. From bonus depreciation to tip deductions, learn why your federal benefit may not carry over to your state return and why patience, planning, and sometimes extending your return may be your best strategy.

This episode of Traction with the Tiger delivers a headline update on Qualified Small Business Stock, also known as Section 1202. The One Big Beautiful Bill has extended and expanded QSBS, introducing new holding period tiers and raising eligibility thresholds. Whether you’re setting up a new business or advising clients on entity structure, this quick breakdown highlights what’s changed and what to consider moving forward.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich is joined by Isabel Wollermann from the tax team to break down recent changes to 529 plans included in the One Big Beautiful Bill. From doubling the K–12 spending limit to $20,000, to allowing funds to cover professional credentials like the CPA exam, these updates significantly expand how families can use 529 savings. Tune in to hear how these changes might impact your education planning, whether you're saving for a kindergartener or a future grad student.

In this emergency headline edition of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich cuts through the noise surrounding the much-hyped "no tax on Social Security" provision. Spoiler alert: that’s not actually what the law does. Chris breaks down the new $6,000 senior deduction, who qualifies, how it phases out based on income, and why it has nothing to do with whether you’re actually receiving Social Security benefits. If you’re 65 or older, or advising someone who is, this episode is essential listening.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich breaks down the surprising new rules around charitable deductions under the One Big Beautiful Bill. There’s a new above-the-line deduction of up to $1,000 (or $2,000 for joint filers) for cash donations, even if you don’t itemize. But for those who do itemize, a 0.5% AGI floor has been introduced, meaning the first portion of your donations may not be deductible at all. Chris walks through what these changes mean in practice and who is most affected. Whether you give a little or a lot, this episode helps you plan your giving strategy under the new rules.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich unpacks a brand-new and unexpected benefit from the One Big Beautiful Bill: the ability for some individuals to deduct up to $10,000 of interest on a new car loan. But, as always, the details matter. Chris breaks down who qualifies, how the deduction works (hint: it’s not itemized), the phaseout thresholds, and what this means when deciding whether to lease, buy, or finance your next vehicle. It’s a helpful new option, but it won’t make high interest rates disappear. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at how to factor this into your car-buying math.

In this emergency headline episode of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich explains a brand-new feature of the One Big Beautiful Bill: The “Trump Accounts.” Designed for children born between 2025 and 2028, these government-seeded investment accounts start with a $1,000 contribution and allow for up to $5,000 in additional contributions annually. Chris explores how they work, what makes them different (or not) from existing savings vehicles like 529s or Roth IRAs, and whether they’re truly worth considering. With restrictions on withdrawals, limited clarity, and political uncertainty surrounding their longevity, Chris gives a thoughtful first look at what could be a useful, but possibly short-lived, tool.

In this emergency headline edition of Traction with the Tiger, host and Tax Tiger Chris Wittich breaks down the surprising and sweeping elimination of energy-related tax incentives under the One Big Beautiful Bill. From the repeal of Section 179D deductions to the disappearance of residential solar, geothermal, EV, and home improvement credits, most of these benefits are slated to end after 2025, with some (like 179D) lasting until mid-2026 depending on construction start dates. Chris explains what’s going away, why it matters, and what clients should consider as the window rapidly closes on these incentives. It’s a tough update, but one with critical planning opportunities for those who act fast.