The standard tax deduction, the amount of income you can exclude from federal taxes without itemizing deductions, increases most years. For 2025 and 2026, these amounts rise further, putting more money back in your pocket.
Single filers claim a $14,600 deduction for 2025, climbing to $15,000 in 2026. Married couples filing jointly receive $29,200 for 2025 and $30,000 in 2026. Heads of household get $21,900 for 2025 and $22,500 in 2026. Married individuals filing separately can deduct $14,600 in 2025 and $15,000 in 2026.
The standard deduction matters because it works like a built-in tax break. If your income falls below your filing threshold (determined by your deduction amount and filing status), you owe nothing in federal income tax. Even above that line, the deduction reduces your taxable income dollar-for-dollar.
These increases follow inflation adjustments the IRS makes annually. The bump reflects cost-of-living changes and means your tax bill won't automatically rise even if your salary stayed flat.
Most filers benefit from taking the standard deduction. You only itemize deductions if your mortgage interest, property taxes, charitable donations, and other deductible expenses exceed your standard deduction. For most Americans, the standard deduction offers a simpler path that saves more money.
Older Americans age 65 and above get an additional standard deduction boost. Single filers 65 and older claim $18,150 for 2025, while married couples where at least one spouse is 65 or older receive $30,750 for 2025.
Young workers just starting out should confirm whether they need to file at all.