Standard deduction

For 2026, the standard deduction is $16,100 for single filers and married people filing separately, $32,200 for married couples filing jointly, and $24,150 for heads of household. People 65 or older or blind get an additional $2,050 ($1,650 each if married).

You itemize only if your deductible expenses — mortgage interest, state and local taxes up to the SALT cap, and charitable gifts — add up to more than the standard deduction. See the federal tax brackets page for every figure.