IRS Standard Deduction Amounts for 2026

The IRS standard deduction is a fixed amount that taxpayers can subtract from their income before calculating federal tax.

Most taxpayers take the standard deduction instead of itemizing deductions because it simplifies filing and often provides a larger reduction in taxable income.

For the 2026 tax year (returns filed in 2027), the IRS increased the standard deduction amounts to account for inflation.

2026 Standard Deduction Table

These amounts reduce taxable income before applying federal tax brackets.

Additional Standard Deduction for Age 65 or Older

Taxpayers age 65 or older receive an additional standard deduction.

If both spouses are age 65 or older and filing jointly, the additional deduction doubles.

Example:
A married couple filing jointly where both spouses are over 65 would receive the $32,200 standard deduction plus $3,300 in additional age-based deductions.

Temporary Senior Bonus Deduction

A temporary additional deduction is available for seniors.

• $6,000 for taxpayers age 65 or older

• $12,000 for married couples if both spouses qualify

This deduction is currently available from 2025 through 2028 and may phase out at higher income levels. (IRS)

Maximum Possible 2026 Standard Deduction for Seniors

These totals combine the base deduction, additional age-based deduction, and the temporary senior bonus deduction.

Why the Standard Deduction Matters

The standard deduction reduces taxable income, which may:

• Lower your tax bracket

• Reduce the taxable portion of Social Security

• Increase eligibility for tax credits

• Simplify tax filing compared to itemizing deductions

Many taxpayers, especially retirees, find that the standard deduction provides the greatest tax benefit.

💻 Electronic Filing Recommendation

E-filing your tax return is recommended because it:

• Automatically applies the correct standard deduction

• Adds age-based deductions accurately

• Calculates tax brackets automatically

• Reduces math errors

• Speeds refund processing

Most tax software calculates the full deduction automatically once filing status and age are entered.

Final Thoughts

For the 2026 tax year, the standard deduction increases to $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married couples filing jointly, with additional deductions available for taxpayers age 65 or older.

These higher deductions help reduce taxable income and simplify the tax filing process for millions of taxpayers.