Standard vs Itemized Deduction
Find out whether to take the standard deduction or itemize for 2025 or 2024. Enter your state taxes, mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses to see which option saves you more in federal tax.
Recommendation
Take the Standard Deduction
Only amount above 7.5% of AGI qualifies
| Standard | Itemized | |
|---|---|---|
| Deduction Amount | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Federal Tax | $13,614 | $13,614 |
| Difference | No difference | |
| State & Local Taxes (SALT) | $8,000 |
| Mortgage Interest | $5,000 |
| Charitable Donations | $2,000 |
| Qualified Medical Expenses | $0 |
| Total Itemized Deduction | $15,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard deduction for 2025?
For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, and $22,500 for head of household. These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation. An additional deduction of $1,600 (married) or $2,000 (single/HoH) is available for taxpayers who are age 65 or older or blind.
What expenses can I itemize?
Common itemized deductions include state and local taxes (SALT), mortgage interest on up to $750,000 of acquisition debt, charitable contributions to qualified organizations, and medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. You report these on Schedule A of your federal return, and they replace the standard deduction only if their total exceeds it.
What is the SALT deduction cap?
The state and local tax (SALT) deduction is capped at $10,000 per return ($5,000 if married filing separately). This cap, introduced by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, limits the total deduction for state income taxes, local income taxes, and property taxes combined. The cap remains in effect through at least 2025 and particularly impacts taxpayers in high-tax states.
When should I itemize instead of taking the standard deduction?
You should itemize when your total allowable itemized deductions exceed the standard deduction for your filing status. This is most common for homeowners with large mortgage interest payments, taxpayers who make significant charitable contributions, or those with substantial unreimbursed medical expenses. Use this calculator to compare both options and see which one saves you more in taxes.