Read the full January 2026 Insights publication here.

Insights is the Northwest Montana Business Journal from the Daily Inter Lake published the first Sunday of each month.

From Anton Kaufer, Regional Publisher of Hagadone Media Montana

Happy 2026! The new year brings fresh calendars, good intentions, and inevitably, a new set of tax changes. This January edition of Insights focuses on provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that will affect many businesses and households across Northwest Montana. With new federal and state tax provisions taking shape, understanding what is changing and how to prepare has never been more important.

In this month’s feature, reporter Taylor Inman walks readers through the key elements of recently passed tax legislation and what it means for the 2026 filing season and beyond. Yes, some of these changes affect 2025 taxes. From changes impacting tips and overtime pay to new deductions tied to vehicle loans, health savings accounts and education savings plans, the scope is wide, and the details matter.

What comes through clearly is the value of preparation. Local tax professionals emphasize that while many of these changes are designed to benefit taxpayers, they also introduce new complexities. Early conversations with trusted advisors can help individuals and business owners avoid surprises and make informed decisions before deadlines arrive.

This edition reflects a core goal of Insights: providing practical, locally relevant information that helps readers navigate an evolving economic and regulatory landscape. Whether you are an employer, an employee or planning for the future, understanding these changes is an important step in starting the year with confidence.

Thank you to our readers and advertisers who support this journalism and make Insights possible. Your support allows us to continue delivering clear, locally focused reporting that helps businesses and households make informed decisions. Here’s to a year of smart planning, thoughtful conversations and a strong Northwest Montana economy – for all of us.