'“Dow Incorporated employees may benefit from reviewing how the new tip deduction rules fit into their broader household planning, as thoughtful preparation can make a meaningful difference,” – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'“Dow Incorporated employees can use the new tip deduction rules as a reminder to review their overall income strategy and stay informed as guidance evolves,” – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
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How the new “No Tax on Tips” law works for eligible employees.
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Income limits, qualifying occupations, and deduction rules.
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How Dow Incorporated households may evaluate these provisions for planning purposes.
Some Employees May Retain a Greater Share of Their Wages
Eligible employees may deduct up to $25,000 in qualified, voluntary tips from their federal taxable income under a new federal tax rule that took effect on July 4, 2025. 1 Dow Incorporated workers in eligible service-related roles may want to stay informed about these changes.
- The deduction applies to tax years 2025 through 2028.
- Income earned as tips is not taxable up to $25,000, however the deduction phass out for joint filers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) above $300,000 and single filers above $150,000. 2
What Does “No Tax on Tips” Mean?
A new provision under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act called “No Tax on Tips” permits eligible employees to deduct as much as $25,000 in voluntary tips from federal taxable income, provided that IRS qualifications are met. Voluntary tips do not include mandatory service charges.
To qualify, an employee must work in a profession the IRS and Treasury Department define as “customarily and regularly receiving tips.” A preliminary list includes roughly 70 job types, including:
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- Food and beverage service
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- Events and entertainment
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- Guest services and hospitality
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- Home repair and maintenance services
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- Personal services
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- Personal well-being and appearance
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- Recreation and education
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- Delivery and transportation
Health care, sports, and performing arts positions are excluded because these roles are not considered to receive tips regularly.
Did No Tip Tax Pass?
Yes. This provision became law on July 4, 2025 as part of broader federal tax reform, which may interest Dow Incorporated employees with members in eligible occupations.
How Does No Tip Tax Work?
Employees in qualifying roles may deduct up to $25,000 in voluntary tips from gross income. Key points:
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- The deduction phases out for single filers at $150,000 MAGI.
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- It begins phasing out for joint filers at $300,000 MAGI.
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- It applies whether the taxpayer uses the standard deduction or itemizes.
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- It is available from 2025 through 2028.
For example, a restaurant server in the 22% tax bracket who receives $20,000 in qualified voluntary tips may reduce their federal income tax by up to $4,400 if IRS requirements are met. This may be meaningful for households that include Dow Incorporated employees.
When Does Tipping Become Tax-Free?
The deduction begins with the 2025 tax year, meaning eligible employees can claim it when filing their 2025 federal return in early 2026. This timing may matter for Dow Incorporated employees managing household tax considerations.
Does This New Law Make Tips Entirely Tax-Free?
Qualified voluntary tips (up to $25,000) may be deducted from federal taxable income if the employee meets the occupation and MAGI rules. However, employees—including those in Dow Incorporated households—may still owe:
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- State income taxes
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- Local income taxes
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- Social Security and Medicare taxes
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- Taxes on tips in excess of $25,000
Is the No Tax on Tips Rule Limited to Cash Tips?
No. Voluntary tips received by cash, credit card, or tip pool may qualify. Required service charges do not. This distinction is important for Dow Incorporated households with individuals in service-based roles.
How to Make a Deduction Claim
Eligible employees can claim the deduction by referring to IRS instructions:
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1. Report all earnings, including tips, on Form 1040, line 1a.
2. Complete Schedule 1-A, for deductions such as qualified tips and overtime.
3. Report total additional deductions on Form 1040, line 13b.
Employees may deduct only the qualified voluntary tips actually received, up to the $25,000 limit. Dow Incorporated employees should remember that eligible tips must still be properly reported for payroll tax purposes.
More Guidance Is Expected
The IRS and Treasury Department will release additional information. Because each household's situation differs, individuals—including those working at Dow Incorporated—may want to speak with a qualified tax professional for personalized questions.
What Is No Tax on Overtime?
Another provision within the 2025 law allows eligible employees to deduct qualifying overtime pay from federal taxable income—up to $12,500 for single filers or $25,000 for joint filers. 1 The MAGI phase-out thresholds are the same as the tip deduction. This rule also covers 2025 through 2028, which may influence planning for Dow Incorporated households evaluating income timing.
Do You Need Assistance Navigating These New Tax Laws?
The Retirement Group can help Dow Incorporated employees understand how these deductions may influence their retirement planning approach. You can speak with a representative by calling (800) 900-5867 .
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Sources:
1. Internal Revenue Service. “One, Big, Beautiful Bill Provisions.” IRS , 2025, www.irs.gov/newsroom/one-big-beautiful-bill-provisions .
2. Fidelity Investments. “No Tax on Tips: A New Deduction Explained.” Fidelity Learn , 19 Nov. 2025, www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/no-tax-on-tips .
3. Lautz, Andrew. “How Does ‘No Tax on Tips’ Work in the One Big Beautiful Bill?” Bipartisan Policy Center , 30 July 2025, bipartisanpolicy.org/explainer/how-does-no-tax-on-tips-work-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
4. “‘No Tax on Tips’ Explained.” TaxSlayer Support , TaxSlayer, 2025, support.taxslayer.com/hc/en-us/articles/40291875700749--No-Tax-on-Tips-Explained. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
5. Mahoney, Michael K., and Stephen Kenney. “New IRS Guidance Pinpoints How Individuals May Take Tax Breaks for Tips and Overtime.” Ogletree Deakins , 21 Nov. 2025, ogletree.com/insights-resources/blog-posts/new-irs-guidance-pinpoints-how-individuals-may-take-tax-breaks-for-tips-and-overtime. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.
How does The Dow Chemical Company’s pension plan structure impact an employee's retirement benefits when considering different retirement ages? The Dow Chemical Company offers various options in its pension plan, and understanding these can significantly affect financial planning for retirement. An employee must weigh the benefits of retiring earlier with potentially lower monthly payments against the advantages of working longer and how this aligns with personal retirement goals and expectations.
The Dow Chemical Company’s pension plan and retirement ages: The Dow Chemical Company’s pension plan structure impacts employees' retirement benefits based on their retirement age. Retiring earlier results in lower monthly payments due to reduced service time and potential early commencement penalties, while working longer allows for more service accrual and higher monthly benefits. Employees must evaluate how these factors align with personal retirement goals, as choosing to retire early might not provide as much financial security as delaying retirement(The Dow Chemical Compan…).
What are the implications of the 20% mandatory withholding tax on lump-sum distributions from The Dow Chemical Company's pension plan, and how does the option to roll over affect an employee’s tax situation? Employees taking lump-sum distributions need to be cautious about this withholding rule as it can impact their immediate financial needs. Additionally, the rollover option provides a strategy to defer taxes, which can be crucial for long-term financial health. Employees should consider how to best utilize these rules in their personal financial planning.
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How does The Dow Chemical Company ensure that employees understand their eligibility for retirement benefits based on various service and age criteria? Eligibility considerations based on service years and age can significantly influence the retirement timeline for employees. Moreover, it’s essential for employees to be well-informed about these factors to make educated decisions pertaining to their retirement and whether adjustments to their career plans are needed for maximizing benefits.
Eligibility for retirement benefits: The Dow Chemical Company outlines eligibility for pension benefits based on a combination of service years and age. Typically, employees become vested after three years of service or upon reaching age 65 while still employed. The company ensures that employees are informed about these eligibility criteria through various resources, such as the Dow Benefits Service Center, enabling them to make informed retirement decisions(The Dow Chemical Compan…).
In what ways can employees of The Dow Chemical Company appeal decisions regarding their pension benefits, and what processes are in place to facilitate these appeals? The appeal process is critical for employees who might feel that their benefits have not been administered correctly. Understanding the correct procedures and having access to the right resources can empower employees to effectively advocate for themselves in the face of administrative decisions.
Appealing pension benefit decisions: If employees believe there has been an error in the administration of their pension benefits, The Dow Chemical Company provides a formal appeal process. Employees can file a claim, and if denied, they have the right to appeal the decision. The Retirement Board oversees these appeals, and employees must follow the outlined procedures for their appeal to be considered(The Dow Chemical Compan…).
What strategies can employees of The Dow Chemical Company employ to maximize their pension benefits while transitioning to retirement? Employees must navigate complexities such as contribution limits, benefit formulas, and personal retirement savings. A strategic approach, which includes understanding the timing of retirement and how it interacts with pension claims, can lead to more favorable financial outcomes in their retirement years.
Maximizing pension benefits: Employees at The Dow Chemical Company can maximize their pension benefits by carefully planning their retirement timing. Key strategies include working longer to accrue more service years, reviewing contribution limits, and understanding the benefit formula used. Aligning personal savings and pension claims with the optimal retirement age can result in more favorable financial outcomes(The Dow Chemical Compan…).
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Comparing defined benefit pension plan: The Dow Chemical Company offers a defined benefit pension plan, which differs from defined contribution plans like 401(k)s. In a defined benefit plan, the company guarantees a specific monthly benefit upon retirement, typically based on years of service and salary, whereas defined contribution plans depend on employee contributions and investment performance(The Dow Chemical Compan…).
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