TCJA Sunset Comparative Rate Schedule (2025 vs. 2027 Projected)
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 enacted substantial reductions in individual statutory rates while expanding the standard deduction. On December 31, 2025, these individual provisions expire by statute. The table below details the projected bracket revisions for Single filers.
| Bracket Tier | 2025 TCJA Statutory Rate | 2027 Projected Sunset Rate | Projected 2027 Threshold (Single) | Statutory Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 10.0% | 10.0% | $0 to $12,200 | Unchanged |
| Tier 2 | 12.0% | 15.0% | $12,200 to $49,600 | +3.0% Increase |
| Tier 3 | 22.0% | 25.0% | $49,600 to $120,200 | +3.0% Increase |
| Tier 4 | 24.0% | 28.0% | $120,200 to $250,800 | +4.0% Increase |
| Tier 5 | 32.0% | 33.0% | $250,800 to $447,900 | +1.0% Increase |
| Tier 6 | 35.0% | 35.0% | $447,900 to $506,200 | Unchanged |
| Tier 7 | 37.0% | 39.6% | $506,200 and above | +2.6% Increase |
Methodology & Legislative Precedents
Statutory projections are computed pursuant to 26 U.S. Code section 1 baseline rules, indexing bracket thresholds using the Chained Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (C-CPI-U) mandated under 26 U.S. Code section 1(f)(3). Unless Congress introduces and enacts reconciliatory tax legislation, individual taxpayers will automatically migrate to the 10/15/25/28/33/35/39.6% structure for tax year 2026 filings processed in early 2027.
Strategic Tax Planning Considerations
- Accelerating Ordinary Income: High-bracket earners may consider recognizing bonuses, stock options, or deferred compensation prior to December 31, 2025, to benefit from the top 37% rate rather than the returning 39.6% tier.
- Roth Conversions: Converting traditional pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth IRAs at current 22% and 24% marginal rates can shield assets from anticipated 25% and 28% brackets post-sunset.
- Itemized vs. Standard Deductions: With standard deductions decreasing by nearly 50%, mortgage interest, state and local taxes, and charitable contributions will once again make itemizing advantageous for middle-class filers.