Standard Deduction
A fixed dollar amount that reduces taxable income, available to taxpayers who do not itemize deductions on Schedule A.
Detailed Explanation
For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, and $22,500 for head of household, with additional amounts for taxpayers 65 or older and blind. Most taxpayers take the standard deduction since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act significantly increased it. Itemizing on Schedule A may be beneficial when total qualifying itemized deductions (state and local tax up to the SALT cap, mortgage interest, charitable contributions, medical expenses above 7.5% of AGI) exceed the standard amount.
Related TS CPA Service
Tailored and accurate tax preparation, because your financial situation deserves more than a template.
Learn about Individual Tax PreparationRelated Terms
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
Adjusted Gross Income is your total gross income reduced by specific above-the-line deductions, used as the starting point for calculating your federal taxable income.
Form 1040 (US Individual Income Tax Return)
The annual federal income tax return filed by US citizens and resident aliens to report income, deductions, credits, and tax liability.
Tax Deduction
An amount subtracted from gross income to reduce taxable income, lowering tax liability by the deduction amount multiplied by the marginal tax rate.
Have a Question About Standard Deduction?
Get a free, no-obligation answer from a licensed CPA. We respond the same day.
Get Your Free Quote