For a worker making $40,000 or less, standard deductions often already wipe out federal tax obligations. But for someone in the $50,000 to $100,000 range, shielding $12,500 in overtime or $25,000 in tips could move them into a lower tax bracket.

The "no tax on tips" provision within the Senate version of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act allows tipped workers to deduct tip income from their federal taxable income, up to $25,000 annually. The deduction phases out for individuals earning more than $150,000 and couples earning over $300,000.

Congress passed the tax cut and spending megabill with President Trump's legislative priorities which includes new tax exemptions for tipped hourly workers. But how will it work?