What’s Changing in 2026: Five Key Financial and Tax Updates for Optometrists

Questions? Thoughts? Send a Text to The Optometry Money Podcast! We'll answer your question on the show.2026 brings several important financial and tax changes that can directly impact optometrists - especially practice owners and those with student loans.In this episode, Evon walks through five key updates to be aware of as you plan for the year ahead, including changes to retirement contributions, student loans, health insurance, and tax planning opportunities.To make this easier, we’ve also created a free, 2-page 2026 Financial & Tax Planning Guide for Optometrists, which you can download using the link below.What We Cover in This Episode1. Annual Tax & Retirement Updates for 2026Adjustments to tax brackets and the standard deduction2026 retirement plan contribution limitsSpecial catch-up contribution rules for ages 60–63HSA and IRA contribution updatesSocial Security wage base increaseHow to adjust payroll contributions early in the year2. OBBBA Changes Taking Effect in 2026Expanded phase-out thresholds for the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deductionWhy this matters for optometry practice owners and 1099 ODsHow this creates a longer planning runway for higher-income householdsAn overview of new “Trump Accounts” expected to launch mid-year3. Student Loan Rule Changes and Key July 1 DeadlinesOngoing changes to income-driven repayment plansIntroduction of the new RAP planWhat currently practicing optometrists need to knowWhy July 1, 2026 is a critical date for consolidation decisionsDifferences between planning for current borrowers vs. future optometrists4. Health Insurance Changes: ACA & HSA UpdatesACA premium tax credits reverting to pre-COVID rulesThe return of the 400% federal poverty line “cliff”Why income planning matters more again in 2026Expanded HSA eligibility for Bronze and catastrophic ACA plansUsing HSAs as a long-term planning tool5. Roth-Only Catch-Up Contributions for High EarnersMandatory Roth catch-up contributions for certain high-income earnersWho this applies to and how it’s determinedWhy catch-up contributions may no longer reduce taxable incomeWhat to check with your 401(k) plan administrator📥 Download the Free 2026 Financial & Tax Planning GuideWe distilled everything discussed in this episode—and more—into a simple, two-page reference covering the key 2026 numbers and rule changes optometrists should know.👉 Download the guide here📅 Want Help Applying This to Your Situation?If you’d like to get a head start on your 2026 planning, you can schedule a no-pressure introductory call to talk through what’s on your mind financially and learn how we work with optometrists nationwide.👉 Schedule an introductory call📬 Stay ConnectedWhen you download the guide, you’ll also receive the Eyes On The Money weekly newsletter - practical financial planning insights designed specifically for optometrists.The Optometry Money Podcast is dedicated to helping optometrists make better decisions around their money, careers, and practices. The show is hosted by Evon Mendrin, CFP®, CSLP®, owner of Optometry Wealth Advisors, a financial planning firm just for optometrists nationwide.