The biggest tax rewrite in a decade is now fully in effect — and a good part of it expires after 2028.
For Wisconsin retirees, 2026 is the year the new law finally shows up on the return. A new $6,000 senior deduction stacks on top of a higher standard deduction, but it phases out faster than most people expect. Charitable giving now comes with a floor for itemizers and a new deduction for everyone else. Wisconsin’s $24,000 retirement income subtraction carries a catch that almost nobody hears about: claim it, and you give up every credit on your state return.
The session will walk through what changed, what it means for your 2026 return, and how November’s elections could reshape the picture — along with the moves that make sense inside a three-year window we can actually see clearly.
James Tarp specializes in holistic financial planning for individuals, families, and business owners, giving them confidence needed to meet their financial goals. He believes good planning starts with listening — understanding where a client stands today and building a strategy prioritizing what matters most them. As an Enrolled Agent (EA), James brings a deep tax perspective to every plan, helping clients keep more of what they earn and structure their finances in a tax-efficient way.
James holds an MBA in Finance and has worked in the tax and financial industry since 2015. In 2024, he founded his own tax and financial planning practice, where he focused on everything from tax strategy to long-term investment planning with his clients. He joined forces with Dorn Wealth Management to bring that same personalized service to a broader team — one that shares his belief in comprehensive, tax-aware planning.
Megan Dorn has guided hundreds of individuals and families toward a brighter financial future. She takes a thoughtful, personalized approach to working with clients, understanding their situation, priorities, and goals before developing a strategic financial plan. Not only is Megan an accomplished financial planner — she’s also an Enrolled Agent (EA), which means she helps clients optimize their tax returns and uncover tax-efficient methods to achieve their financial goals.
Prior to founding Dorn Wealth Management, Megan spent 10+ years as a Financial Manager at another firm. As a leader at the firm, she designed strategic plans for clients, trained and mentored colleagues, and also worked closely with the Board of Directors.
Join us for the annual tax update discussion about all things of interest to seniors!
If you have preliminary questions for the speaker, please send to Program Coordinators Tom Eggert at tleggert@wisc.edu and Sandi Haase at sandi.haase@wisc.edu, by Monday, November 2.
NOTE: This in-person seminar will be recorded and posted on the UWRA website.
Parking:
Click here for a printable map of Oakwood Community Grounds for Parking and Room location.
Food Pantry Contributions:
Checks payable to UW-Foundation, with "Open Seat" on the memo line may be mailed to UWRA, 21 North Park Street, Room 7205, Madison, WI 53715-1218.
Registration Deadline:
Thursday, November 5
Registration:
Advance registration is required. You are encouraged to register online. To register by phone or email, call the Association office. If you or your guest registered for this seminar but cannot attend, please cancel your registration online, or email/call the UWRA office.
UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu
