The standard tax deduction gives eligible taxpayers a fixed dollar amount to subtract from their income before calculating federal income tax. For 2025, the IRS has adjusted these amounts upward to reflect inflation.
Single filers can deduct $14,600 for the 2025 tax year. Married couples filing jointly receive $29,200. Heads of household get $21,900. These figures represent increases from 2024 levels, when single filers could deduct $13,850.
If you are 65 or older, you qualify for an additional standard deduction. Single filers over 65 add $1,950 to their base amount. Married couples filing jointly where at least one spouse is 65 add $2,550. This bonus deduction recognizes the higher expenses many seniors face.
The standard deduction matters because it directly reduces your taxable income. If your total itemized deductions fall below the standard deduction threshold, claiming the standard deduction saves you money. Most American taxpayers use the standard deduction rather than itemizing deductions.
For 2026, expect these figures to rise again. The IRS adjusts the standard deduction annually using inflation data. This means your tax burden may stay stable even if your income increases modestly.
You cannot claim both the standard deduction and itemize deductions on the same return. You must choose one method. Itemizing makes sense only if your qualified expenses, mortgage interest, state and local taxes, and charitable donations exceed your standard deduction amount.
Dependent filers face different rules. If you are claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return, your standard deduction generally cannot exceed your earned income plus $450, or $14,600, whichever is less. This prevents double-benefiting from deductions.
The standard deduction applies to federal taxes only. Many