07b – Standard Deduction

🧾 Standard Deduction: –

✅ What is the Standard Deduction?

A fixed dollar amount that reduces from your taxable income
No need to provide receipts or itemize expenses
Automatically applied unless you choose to itemize deductions

📌 2024 Standard Deduction Amounts (for 2025 Tax Return filing):
*Single / Married Filing Separately: $14,600
*Married Filing Jointly / Qualifying Widow(er): $29,200
*Head of Household: $21,900

➕ Additional Standard Deduction (if applicable):
Add $1,550 (per person) if age 65 or older OR blind
For unmarried taxpayers, the additional amount is $1,950

🟩 Who Should Take It?
Most taxpayers — especially if they don’t have high deductible expenses
Ideal for simpler returns with no mortgage, large donations, or major medical expenses

📝 No Documentation Required, but keep records in case your filing status or age-based eligibility is questioned

💡 Tip: Always compare your itemized deductions (Schedule A) against the standard deduction — use whichever is higher to reduce your tax