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May 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Why Small Businesses Are More Concerned About Tax Policies Than Tariffs

U.S. Capitol with skyscraper overlay, symbolizing tax policy focus.

Tax Policies vs. Tariffs: The Concern of Small Businesses

In the fluctuating landscape of the U.S. economy, small businesses are feeling the weight of both tax policies and tariffs. Recent findings from the WSJ/Vistage Small Business CEO Confidence Index survey indicate that a staggering 72% of small business leaders are bracing for negative effects due to shifting tariff and trade policies. However, a growing worry is surfacing among these businesses regarding tax policies, which previously had promised optimism but are now causing unease.

Understanding the Shifting Landscape of Tax Policies

While 66% of small businesses held positive expectations about the new administration’s tax policies back in December, that confidence has plummeted to just 27% by April. This decline consecutively mirrors the delay in the administration’s approach to reinstating the favorable tax policies birthed under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. Businesses had anticipated swift actions to restore these beneficial provisions to support their growth.

The Critical Benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

The TCJA brought substantial changes, catalyzing economic growth by offering significant tax breaks aimed primarily at enhancing investment opportunities for small enterprises. Among the pivotal tax benefits were:

  • The introduction of a 20% Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction for pass-through entities, easing tax burdens for numerous business owners.
  • A reduction of the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, making incorporation a more attractive option for many entrepreneurs.
  • Expanded Section 179 expensing options and full bonus depreciation for property and equipment, enabling immediate deductions that enhance cash flow.
  • A doubling of the estate tax exemption aimed at supporting family-owned businesses with succession planning.
  • The retention of cash accounting methods for a broader array of small businesses, simplifying their financial reporting.

However, with the impending expiration of TCJA provisions, small businesses are anticipating significant limitations on their ability to reinvest, a crucial factor for driving community growth and sustaining the American economy.

Addressing the Impacts of Tariffs and Trade Policies

As small businesses voice their concerns about the increasing tax burden alongside the pressures of tariffs, Tom Sullivan, senior vice president of small business policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes the importance of addressing these dual challenges. The chamber is spearheading advocacy efforts to underscore the detrimental effects of tariffs and is pressing for relief measures.

“We need to provide immediate relief from the tariffs; they are stifling small businesses,” Sullivan asserts. The chamber’s proposals include exemption processes for small businesses affected by significant employment impacts due to tariffs, fostering a more supportive regulatory environment.

Looking Ahead: Navigating Challenges and Uncertainties

The uncertainty surrounding tax policies and tariffs isn’t just a business issue; it's a community concern. Sullivan urges CEOs to communicate these challenges to congressional representatives, highlighting their potential to impact local economies profoundly.

Making the case for permanent provisions in tax law designed to enhance the operational capabilities of small businesses is more critical than ever. As economic conditions evolve, retaining favorable tax policies is essential for maintaining levels of investment, innovation, and job creation.

In conclusion, small business leaders face a tumultuous journey ahead with intertwined challenges of tax adjustments and tariff implications. To advocate effectively for their interests, they must engage proactively with policymakers. Addressing these issues head-on not only promotes their growth but also secures a robust backbone for local and national economies alike.

Take Action for Future Stability

Now more than ever, small business owners must rally together, conveying their collective experiences and concerns to ensure their voices echo in policy decisions affecting them. Monitoring developments in this arena will empower business leaders to make informed choices.

Economic Trends

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What Business Leaders Must Know About the Future of Work in 2026

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Navigating Economic Trends for 2026: Key Insights for CEOs

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10.24.2025

High Insurance Costs and Economic Uncertainty Sour Small Business Outlook

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