Wisconsin Tax News Worth Knowing — What Folks in Green Bay & De Pere Should Plan For

If you do your tax preparation in Green Bay, De Pere, or anywhere in northeast Wisconsin, there are several recent state tax changes that could affect your upcoming returns. These updates are especially relevant for retirees, working families, and small business owners. Knowing them now means you can plan better and avoid surprises.

1. Retirement Income Exclusion Expanded for Seniors

Starting with the 2025 tax year, Wisconsin has made a big change for taxpayers aged 67 or older: eligible retirement income can now be excluded from state taxable income up to:

• $24,000 for single filers

• $48,000 for married couples filing jointly (Wegner CPAs)

What counts as “eligible retirement income”? This includes income from qualified retirement plans, IRAs, pensions, etc., so long as it meets Wisconsin and federal definitions. (Wisconsin Department of Revenue)

For tax preparation in Green Bay or De Pere, this means retirees should check whether their retirement income qualifies, because this exclusion has the potential to lower your Wisconsin income tax significantly. It could also affect eligibility for other credits or deductions—so it’s not just “nice to have,” it’s something you want to integrate into your tax planning.

2. Reworked Income Tax Brackets

Wisconsin’s 2025–2027 budget brought changes to the income tax brackets, notably:

• The second lowest bracket (at 4.4%) now applies over a larger range of income. For example, single filers’ threshold jumped from ~$29,370 to ~$50,480. Married couples filing jointly have a higher threshold too. (Wisconsin Department of Revenue)

• The top and middle brackets remain, but the income ranges have shifted upward in many cases, which means more income is taxed at lower rates for many taxpayers. (Wegner CPAs)

If you live in De Pere or Green Bay, this means more of your income might be taxed at a lower marginal rate than before. When doing your tax preparation, double check which bracket your income falls into under the new thresholds—especially if you had changes in income (raises, new sources, etc.).

3. “No Tax on Tips” Proposal

There’s ongoing debate in the Wisconsin legislature about a proposal to exempt tip income from state income tax, both cash and credit-card tips. Under discussion is a cap of $25,000/year in tips per taxpayer. (WPR)

If this passes, workers in restaurants, hospitality, service industries in Green Bay and De Pere will want to pay attention. For most, this could mean less taxable income and simpler tax preparation when it comes to tips. But until it's law, keep good records, and stay tuned for final legislation. (JSON Line)

4. Other Noteworthy Changes & Impacts for Local Tax Prep

• Adoption expense deduction: The maximum deduction for qualified adoption expenses rose from $5,000 to $15,000 per child, effective for tax years after the end of 2024. If you're in Green Bay or De Pere and going through adoption, this can significantly reduce your taxable income. (Wisconsin Department of Revenue)

• Sales tax exemption reliefs: Part of the budget includes eliminating the state’s 5% sales tax on electricity for many residents. This means lower utility costs, which indirectly helps household budgets (important during tax season). (NFIB - NFIB Small Business Association)

What Green Bay & De Pere Residents Should Do for Tax Preparation

• Review your retirement income: If you're 67+, gather details about your pensions, IRAs, or other retirement plan income. Determine whether you can use the new exclusion when doing returns.

• Check bracket impacts: Compare your 2024 vs. 2025 income to estimate how the bracket changes affect your tax bill. Might be worth adjusting withholdings or estimated payments.

• Keep tip records meticulous: Even though the “no tax on tips” law is not yet final, clear documentation matters. It will help whether or not changes are enacted.

• Use updated deduction/credits: If you adopted a child recently, or have applicable adoption expenses, update your records. Also make sure you’re aware of any credits or deductions you may lose if you take certain exclusions.

• Consult a local CPA: Especially for complex situations—multi-income, mixed retirement sources, business income, etc.—local expertise (someone familiar with Green Bay / De Pere tax issues) can save you time, penalties, or missed savings.