The 2026 tax year brings several new deductions that most Americans can claim even if they take the standard deduction rather than itemizing. The IRS has published the details, and the amounts below come from its guidance.

First, the standard deduction itself rises for 2026: $16,100 for single filers, $32,200 for married couples filing jointly, and $24,150 for heads of household.

On top of that, four new deductions are available:

Seniors aged 65 and older can claim an additional deduction of up to $6,000 per person. It phases out above $75,000 of income for single filers and $150,000 for joint filers, and it is scheduled to end after 2028.

Tipped workers can deduct up to $25,000 in qualified tips, with the same $150,000/$300,000 phaseout thresholds.

Workers can deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers) for qualified overtime pay — specifically the “half” portion of time-and-a-half pay required by federal law.

Borrowers can deduct up to $10,000 in interest on a loan for a new, U.S.-assembled passenger vehicle, phasing out above $100,000 single / $200,000 joint.

Tax brackets are also adjusted upward for inflation for 2026, while the tax rates themselves (10 percent to 37 percent) stay the same. The Social Security wage base rises to $184,500, up from $176,100.

What this means in practice: if you are a senior, a tipped worker, or someone who regularly earns overtime, keep records now — tip logs, pay stubs showing overtime, and loan statements — so you can claim the right amount when you file in early 2027. Because these deductions phase out with income, check your adjusted gross income before assuming you qualify for the full amount.

Source: Internal Revenue Service, “New and enhanced deductions for individuals” — https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/new-and-enhanced-deductions-for-individuals

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