Every number has a source.
Every exclusion has a reason.

Inputs, not assumptions

Every estimate starts with data you provide: income range, filing status, state of residence, equity compensation type, real estate ownership, retirement contribution status, and age range. We never infer a value you did not supply. When a strategy requires data we do not have, we either skip it or flag it with a Verify confidence level so your CPA can confirm.

Upper-bound estimates

Savings figures represent the maximum potential benefit assuming full qualification. Your actual savings will typically be 60 to 85 percent of the estimated amount, depending on your specific circumstances. We display the upper bound so you and your CPA can prioritize which strategies are worth pursuing, then refine the exact number with your complete tax return data.

Marginal rate, not effective rate

All deduction-based savings use your marginal tax rate (federal + state, adjusted for SALT interaction). This is the rate that applies to your next dollar of income or deduction. We do not use effective rates, which would understate the value of each additional strategy. The marginal rate is calculated from the 2026 bracket schedule under IRC §1 as modified by OBBBA.

Confidence levels

Strategy interactions

Some strategies change your AGI, which affects eligibility for other strategies downstream. For example, a large 401(k) contribution reduces AGI, which may pull you below a phase-out threshold for another credit. We model the most common interactions (SALT cap, NIIT threshold, passive activity grouping) but do not perform a full multi-pass AGI simulation. Your CPA handles the final sequencing on your complete return.

State conformity

Not every state conforms to federal tax law. For example, California does not recognize IRC §1202 QSBS exclusions, and several states decouple from bonus depreciation. Where a material state non-conformity exists, we note it in the strategy detail. State savings estimates use your state's top marginal rate for earners above $300K and account for known conformity gaps.

OBBBA impact

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21), signed July 4, 2025, is the most significant tax legislation since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Our engine reflects all material OBBBA provisions: restored 100% bonus depreciation, raised SALT cap ($40,400 MFJ), permanent QBI deduction, enhanced catch-up contributions for ages 60 to 63, updated QSBS tiers, the new car loan interest deduction, EV credit termination, and raised Dependent Care FSA limits. Each affected strategy references the specific OBBBA section in the tax law sources table above.

Unlevered provides educational tax strategy screening based on self-reported inputs and publicly available tax law. All savings figures are upper-bound estimates intended to inform your conversation with a licensed tax professional. Your CPA or Enrolled Agent will adjust exact amounts based on your complete tax return and individual circumstances.

Stayguard LLC, operating as Unlevered, is not a Certified Public Accounting firm, Enrolled Agent practice, or law firm. We do not provide tax advice, legal advice, or investment advice. We do not prepare tax returns. We do not represent clients before the IRS.

IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the IRS, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained herein is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein.

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