How this number is made
You take the larger of the standard deduction and your allowable itemized deductions. This page compares a total you have already added up with the 2026 standard deduction. It does not know which of your expenses are allowable.
- Add only deductions that would survive Schedule A.
- Married filing separately has a rule that if one spouse itemizes, the other must too. This page does not enforce it.
Formula
Deduction = the greater of the itemized total and the 2026 standard deduction.
Worked example
With the figures already in the form, use the standard deduction is $16,100.
Questions
What are the 2026 standard deductions here?
$16,100 single or married filing separately, $32,200 joint, and $24,150 head of household. Extra amounts for age or blindness are not included.
Does a bigger deduction save tax at my bracket?
The savings are about the extra deduction times your marginal rate, and only if the deduction is usable. This page stops at which deduction is larger.