Tax Changes in the Republican Bill to Replace Obamacare

Most of the attention on the bill relates to coverage and subsidy changes. However, the bill does have some significant tax relief included. While the bill still faces changes to get through both houses of Congress and the existential question whether the Senate will pass it, it is not too early to take a look at these changes.

One key change is to eliminate the 0.9% Medicare surtax on wages. Currently, earners pay a 1.45% payroll tax on wages up to $200,000 ($250,000) if married. Earnings above that level are subject to an additional 0.9% payroll tax. This 0.9% payroll tax will go away under the bill (but not until 2023).

Another is the elimination . . .