NEST Act

The NEST Act creates a new tax-advantaged savings account specifically for first-time homebuyers, allowing them to deduct contributions from their taxable income. Contributions would be limited to 20% of a state's median home price, with tax-free distributions available for qualified home ownership expenses like down payments and closing costs. Employer contributions to these accounts would be excluded from both income tax and employment taxes. The bill includes safeguards such as a 20% additional tax on funds withdrawn for non-homebuying purposes and rules preventing misuse of the accounts. It would take effect for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.