If 2025 felt busy for tax and compliance teams, 2026 is shaping up to be even more complex.

In this episode of Beyond Death & Taxes, Matt and Clay kick off the new year with highlights from 10th annual Avalara Tax Changes webinar — the flagship event tax professionals rely on to understand what’s coming next. Featuring insights from industry experts Gail Cole, Scott Peterson, Argi O’Leary, and Craig Reed, the conversation breaks down the most impactful tax developments from 2025 and what finance teams should be preparing for in 2026.

From expanding sales tax bases and new digital services taxes to shifting nexus rules, retail delivery fees, and aggressive enforcement trends, this episode explores how states are responding to economic pressure and revenue needs. The discussion also dives into the rapidly evolving world of trade and tariffs, including the end of de minimis, rising global tariffs, and why cross-border compliance now affects far more businesses than ever before.

Key Takeaways

• Why 2026 is poised to bring major tax changes as states face budget pressure and shifting federal policies.
• How and why states are expanding their tax base, especially into digital services and B2B transactions.
• What retail delivery fees signal about new revenue strategies — and why they remain controversial.
• How nexus rules continue to evolve, including changes to transaction thresholds and physical presence standards.
• Why trade and tariff compliance now affects more businesses, driven by rising tariffs and the end of de minimis.
• What finance teams should focus on next to reduce risk amid growing enforcement and reporting complexity.

Related Links

1. Read the full Avalara Tax Changes 2026 report
2. Explore more articles, reports, and up-to-date insights on all things compliance Avalara Resource Center