Key Insights from CBIZ's 2026 Tax Planning Guide for Businesses

The CBIZ 2026 Tax Planning Guide: Your Roadmap Amidst Change

CBIZ, a leading tax services firm, has recently released its 2026 Tax Planning Guide, designed to assist businesses and individuals in navigating the complexities introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). Set to significantly reform the tax landscape, the OBBBA marks one of the most substantial changes to tax policy in recent years, as emphasized by Joseph Perry, the national leader of tax services at CBIZ.

Understanding the Implications of the OBBBA

The OBBBA, enacted in July 2025, encompasses various tax reform measures that aim to simplify and enhance tax planning strategies. For the upcoming tax year, the planning guide provides insights into a spectrum of new provisions, including:

• Immediate Deductibility of Expenses: Businesses can now deduct domestic research and experimental expenses immediately, bolstering innovation and development.
• Expanded 179 Expensing: The guide highlights the permanent expansion of Section 179, allowing businesses to deduct the full cost of up to $1.12 million in qualifying property purchases.
• Estate & Gift Tax Exemptions: With significant increases in estate and gift tax exemptions, the guide encourages individuals to reassess their estate planning strategies.

The CBIZ guide also emphasizes the importance of understanding which provisions apply to various industry sectors, noting that the new regulations affect tax strategy and compliance priorities.

New Incentives and Tax-Advantaged Provisions

Another notable aspect of the guide is the introduction of new tax incentives benefiting both individuals and businesses. For instance:

• Qualified Opportunity Zones: Updated regulations allow investors to defer and potentially reduce taxes on capital gains.
• Qualified Production Property: Businesses constructing new facilities or purchasing equipment may qualify for a 100% deduction, presenting an attractive opportunity for expansion in the manufacturing sector.

These provisions highlight the need for proactive tax planning, ensuring that stakeholders take advantage of the perks while complying with the new regulations.

Strategic Recommendations for Navigating OBBBA

The depth of change requires strategic foresight. Advisors are encouraged to take an individualized approach to planning under the OBBBA. The guide suggests actions such as:

• Reassessing Entity Structure: Businesses might want to reconsider their choice of organizational structure to maximize available tax benefits.
• Year-End Tax Projections: Engage in predictive modeling to determine the impact of the new state and local tax (SALT) caps and whether itemizing deductions will be more advantageous.

By considering these factors, individuals and businesses can strategically align their financial planning with the nuanced changes brought about by the OBBBA.

Webinar Insights and Expert Perspectives

To delve deeper into these insights, CBIZ will host a webinar featuring leading experts, including former IRS commissioner Chuck Rettig. The discussion aims to unpack the significant aspects of the tax guide, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to apply these changes effectively.

The webinar, scheduled for November 13, 2025, is a vital resource for anyone impacted by these tax reforms. For those looking to obtain a copy of the complete 2026 Tax Planning Guide, it is available online.

Embrace Tax Planning as a Growth Opportunity

Joseph Perry's assertion that tax planning should be viewed as a growth driver rather than just a checklist resonates profoundly this year. As businesses and individuals prepare for the potential surprises that come with new laws, having a clear roadmap can facilitate better decision-making and foster financial optimism.

With insights and strategies at hand, stakeholders are encouraged to act decisively. The evolving regulatory environment demands adaptability and proactive engagement, particularly in how businesses navigate their tax obligations.

In conclusion, as the landscape of tax planning shifts with the new guidelines, it is crucial for individuals and businesses alike to stay informed and prepared. Explore CBIZ’s tax planning guide and participate in targeted discussions, such as the upcoming webinar, to unlock valuable strategies that could lead to significant savings and compliance readiness for 2026.