Iowa House Bill HF293

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/25
• Refer: 2/10/25

Caption

A bill for an act exempting cash tips from the individual income tax, and including applicability provisions.

Impact

By excluding cash tips from taxable income, HF293 intends to provide financial relief to a segment of the workforce that has historically been subject to heavy taxation on tips. As tips can constitute a substantial share of earnings for employees in the restaurant, bar, and service industries, this exemption might increase their disposable income and promote spending within local economies. Additionally, proponents argue that this could lead to enhanced job satisfaction and retention in low-wage sectors.

Summary

House File 293 aims to exempt cash tips from individual income tax in Iowa. Specifically, the bill proposes an amendment to Section 422.7 of the Iowa Code, which will deduct cash tips that were received and reported by employees to their employers in compliance with federal law via Section 6053(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. This legislative change is designed to lessen the tax burden on individuals in the service and hospitality sectors who rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.

Contention

However, the bill is not without its detractors. Opponents have raised concerns about potential tax revenue losses for the state, which could affect funding for essential services. Critics argue that such tax policies may disproportionately benefit higher-income earners who receive larger cash tips. This has sparked a debate over the appropriateness of tax exemptions aimed at individuals in specific occupations and the implications for overall tax equity in the state.