What is Standard deduction?
In short
The standard deduction is a fixed amount, based on filing status, that individuals can deduct instead of itemizing. For 2026 it is $16,100 for single filers, $32,200 for married couples filing jointly and $24,150 for heads of household.
Key takeaways
- Additional amounts apply to taxpayers who are 65 or older or blind.
- If one spouse filing separately itemizes, the other must also itemize.
- The One Big Beautiful Bill Act made the higher standard deduction permanent and added a separate deduction for people aged 65 and over for 2025–2028.
Where it's tested
REG: Individual Taxation: Adjustments & Deductions — study notes, a five-minute revision sheet and practice questions.
Practise: 3 questions
Question 1 of 3 · 0 answered
Under OBBBA, beginning in 2026, how can individuals who take the standard deduction benefit from cash gifts to charity?