Can I deduct the standard deduction on my tax return?

The standard deduction is a fixed dollar amount that reduces the amount of income on which you pay tax on your tax return. The amount of the basic standard deduction depends upon your tax return filing status. However, if you can be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax return, your standard deduction amount may be different. In some cases, the standard deduction on your tax return can consist of two parts, the basic standard deduction, and an additional standard deduction amount for age, blindness, or both.

If a person is born or dies before the end of his or her tax year, the tax year is considered to cover a 12-month period.

How much is my standard tax deduction?

If your filing status is:

Your standard tax deduction is:

If 65 or over AND/OR blind add for EACH
Single

$5,150

$1,250
Married filing a joint tax return or Qualifying widow(er) with dependent child

$10,300

$1,000
Married filing a separate tax return

$5,150

$1,000
Head of Household

$7,550

$1,250
Dependent Children The greater of $850 OR the amount of earned income, plus $300. Not to exceed $5,150 unless the dependent is blind. If blind add $1,250.
 
Related tax information about the standard deduction
Tax Directory Topics:
Itemized Tax Deductions
IRS publications about the standard deduction:
For more information refer to IRS Publication 501, Exemptions and Standard Deduction and IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax. Please read this IMPORTANT Editor's Note regarding navigating IRS publications with Adobe Acrobat Reader.
IRS publications can also be ordered by calling 1-800-829-3676.
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