Tag: standard deduction

Posts Tagged ‘standard deduction’

Itemized vs. Standard Tax Deduction calculator

Posted by admin on February 29, 2024
Last modified: March 4, 2024

Explore our tool that contrasts the Standard Tax Deduction and Itemized Tax Deductions. In just a short amount of time, you can grasp the differences between these tax deduction types and receive an estimated calculation of your tax deductions by providing key information.

Should you be wondering about whether to opt for the standard or itemized tax deduction, this tool can guide you and even suggest strategic end-of-year tax strategies to boost your itemized tax deductions. Feel free to reach out to our dedicated Tax Professional for a personalized assessment of how you can maximize your tax refund.

Standard Tax Deduction

Pros and Cons of Choosing Itemized Tax Deductions?

Exploring tax deductions on your tax return has the potential to make a significant impact on individuals by lowering their tax liability. However, grasping the concept of itemized tax deductions is essential to determine if you qualify for the standard deduction or itemized tax deductions. It’s crucial to accurately discern which tax deduction method is most beneficial for you.

Consider this scenario: with minimal itemized deductions such as personal property taxes on your vehicle and without significant expenses like home mortgage interest, it becomes evident that opting for the standard deduction is the probable choice.

Pros of Choosing the Itemized Tax Deduction

Choosing to itemize tax deductions rather than opting for the standard tax deduction can prove advantageous from a tax perspective. By itemizing, you have the opportunity to include detailed expenses such as mortgage interest, medical bills, or substantial charitable contributions, among others. This approach has the potential to lower your taxable income even more if your itemized expenses exceed the standard deduction for the applicable tax year.

Additionally, should you find yourself nearing the standard tax deduction threshold, you have the opportunity to enhance your tax deductions by ensuring you collect receipts for extra itemized deductions that could potentially push you beyond the standard deduction limit.

Explore the benefits of leveraging our advanced tax deduction calculator to gain clarity on the potential tax deductions tailored to your specific situation. This tool empowers you to make an informed decision on whether the standard tax deduction suffices or if itemizing your tax deductions would be more advantageous for you.

By utilizing the calculator before the year-end, you can strategically plan out tax-saving maneuvers to maximize your itemized tax deductions before the year concludes.

Cons of Choosing the Itemized Tax Deduction

In terms of potential downsides, there are no significant issues to be concerned with. Individuals who opt for itemized tax deductions simply need to ensure they have all the necessary paperwork ready come tax season to avoid any oversights. For example, those who own a home should have their Form 1098 detailing mortgage interest payments, records of property tax payments, documentation of state income or sales taxes paid, as well as receipts for any charitable contributions made.

Rest assured that you don’t need to stress about understanding the nuances of itemized tax deductions. PriorTax is designed to guide you through the process by asking straightforward questions about your tax deductions, regardless of your knowledge of their classification. For further clarity on which expenses qualify as itemized tax deductions, utilize our standard versus itemized tax deduction calculator to gain insight.

You may need to collect additional paperwork when it comes to itemizing. Some may be attracted to a more straightforward method involving standard tax deductions. However, if your itemized tax deductions exceed the standard amount, putting in a bit more effort to gather the necessary documents can lead to cost savings. Utilize our comprehensive tax document checklist to streamline the process of compiling your documents for itemizing tax deductions.

What are the Pros and Cons of Taking the Standard Tax Deduction?

Pros of Choosing the Standard Tax Deduction

In considering your tax planning, it’s crucial to grasp the impact of each tax deduction on your overall tax picture. Many individuals choose the standard tax deduction when filing their taxes for several reasons.

To begin with, the efficiency of the process is notable. Furthermore, the annual adjustment of the standard tax deduction results from inflation and the decisions made by Congress. This adjustment helps lower taxpayers’ taxable income.

Different filing statuses, such as single, married, filing tax jointly, or head of household, determine the standard deduction amount, which is increased for individuals aged 65 or older and those who are visually impaired.

Please be aware that if married couples decide to file separately, they won’t be able to claim the standard deduction if one spouse chooses to itemized deductions. It is necessary for both spouses to agree on either itemizing tax deductions or taking the standard tax deduction.

Cons in Choosing the Standard Deduction

Opting for the standard tax deduction simply for convenience might lead to overlooking opportunities to deduct expenses and potentially lower taxable income. The decision between standard and itemized tax deductions ultimately comes down to crunching the numbers.

When faced with the decision between standard and itemized tax deductions, it ultimately comes down to the numbers at hand. Opt for itemized deductions if they exceed the standard tax deduction amount, and choose the standard deduction if it provides greater benefits. In cases where your standard deduction aligns closely with your itemized deductions, ensure to review and consider any additional itemized deductions that could potentially tip the scale in favor of itemizing.

Rest assured that deciphering between standard and itemized tax deductions is not a concern you need to dwell on. Rest easy knowing that PriorTax can maximize your tax benefits, regardless of your financial decisions made the previous year. Whether you prefer to handle your taxes independently or seek the expertise of a PriorTax Tax Professional, rest assured that we are committed to securing every dollar you are entitled to and aiming for your most substantial tax refund possible.

Standard vs Itemized Tax Deduction

Posted by admin on February 29, 2024
Last modified: March 4, 2024

If you have ever carefully listed out your itemized tax deductions before, especially if you own a home, consider a different approach now. With the updated standard tax deduction amount for your specific filing status, you might find it more advantageous to take the standard deduction instead of itemizing your tax deductions.

The latest data from the IRS reveals that approximately 90% of individuals filing taxes are now opting for the standard deduction, a shift largely attributed to changes implemented through the Tax Reform legislation in 2017. If you find yourself uncertain about the most advantageous choice for this tax year, consider utilizing our convenient tax deduction calculator or reaching out to our specialized tax experts for personalized guidance throughout the entire process.

In just a short amount of time, grasp the modifications in the standard deduction and itemized deductions, and receive an approximate calculation of your deductions depending on the information provided. Additionally, this tool advises you on whether to opt for standard or itemized deductions and offers suggestions on year-end tax strategies to enhance your itemized deductions.

In general, when your standard deduction outweighs your itemized deductions, opting for the standard deduction is usually the more advantageous choice.

Should I take the standard vs. itemized tax deduction

Contemplating whether to opt for the standard deduction or dive into the itemized deduction realm? The decision of which one will yield a greater tax benefit for you is contingent upon your specific situation. Let’s delve into different scenarios where either the standard or itemized deduction would be most advantageous.

Itemized Tax Deduction

When you should take the standard deduction

Understanding the complexities of tax preparation may appear overwhelming at first, yet rest assured, assistance is within reach. The choice between opting for the standard deduction or itemizing largely hinges on your eligibility for various deductions. The standard deduction represents a fixed sum determined by your tax filing status, offering supplementary advantages for individuals aged 65 and above or with visual impairments.

The current standard tax deduction is:

  • $13,850 for single filers
  • $13,850 for married, filing separately
  • $20,800 for heads of households
  • $27,700 for married, filing jointly

Each year, the IRS updates the standard deduction figures to account for inflation. As a result, it is important for you to review your expenditures annually in order to determine the best strategy for your situation if you have itemized deductions such as mortgage interest and property taxes.

In the upcoming tax year of 2023, significant inflation adjustments have been implemented, marking one of the largest increases in decades at 7.1%. This adjustment may lead to the standard deduction surpassing your itemized deductions for the year, making it more advantageous to opt for the standard deduction.

In plain terms, choosing the standard deduction is the best decision when the total of eligible itemized expenses falls short of the standard deduction threshold. When contemplating whether to go with the standard deduction, it is crucial to evaluate itemized deductions like mortgage interest, medical costs, and charitable contributions to inform your tax-filing decision-making process.

When you should take the itemized deduction

Wondering about the right time to consider itemizing deductions? It becomes beneficial when your qualifying expenditures, such as medical expenses, mortgage interest, or donations to charity, exceed the standard deduction threshold. By itemizing deductions, you could potentially reduce your tax liability if these eligible expenses surpass the standard deduction amount.

In certain scenarios, it is possible for taxpayers to find themselves in a situation where their itemized deductions match the standard deduction amounts set at $13,850 for single filers and $27,700 for married couples filing jointly. To overcome this, individuals could consider strategies such as increasing their charitable donations towards the end of the tax year or ensuring they include all eligible charitable contributions when filing their taxes, thereby elevating their total itemized deductions above the standard deduction threshold.

Exploring potential qualifying expenses can be made easier by consulting our article on often-overlooked deductions. Utilize our calculator that compares standard and itemized deductions for a clearer picture. Additionally, our team of dedicated tax professionals at PriorTax will tailor their guidance to your specific circumstances without requiring you to distinguish between standard and itemized deductions.

What’s New for the 2020 Tax Year?

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on January 15, 2021
Last modified: January 18, 2021
2020 tax year

Here’s the breakdown of all the changes.

Standard deduction

For the 2020 tax year, the standard deduction amounts have increased. Here are the amounts below.

  • Single or Married filing separately – $12,400
  • Married filing jointly and Qualifying widow(er) – $24,800
  • Head of Household – $18,650

For taxpayers who are blind or at least 65 years old, they can claim an additional standard deduction. The standard deduction is $1,300 and $1,650 for the single or head of household filing status.

Taxpayers who are both blind and of eligible age receive a doubled additional standard deduction.

Recovery Rebate Credit (Stimulus Payment)

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Understanding Joe Biden’s Tax Plan

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on December 18, 2020
Last modified: December 18, 2020
joe biden's tax plan

Many Americans want to know how our future president’s tax plan will affect them.

Biden’s tax plan will affect wealthier Americans, corporations, and everyday individual taxpayers. He also plans on making significant tax revisions on Trump’s previous tax plan which took place in 2017.

Skip the tax jargon by taking a look at this quick breakdown.

Key Changes

Here are the major findings in Biden’s tax plan.

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Prepare for Tax Year 2020

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on September 11, 2020
Last modified: September 11, 2020
2020 tax bracket

The IRS already announced the inflation adjustments for next year.

Although the e-file and extension deadline is in a month, the year is almost gone. 2020 has been more than a roller coaster ride, and the next tax season is only a few months away.

Many taxpayers may wonder how their stimulus payments affect your 2020 taxes, if they’re in the same tax bracket, and changes for the 2021 tax season. Keep on reading to find out.

How stimulus payments will affect your tax return

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Tax Deductions: Choosing to Itemize or Claiming the Standard Deduction

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on January 3, 2020
Last modified: January 3, 2020

Trying to understand anything tax related makes you feel like you’re back in grade school.

However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s some sure-fire information that may help you out if you’re a first time filer, or if you have some general questions about claiming tax deductions.

What’s the difference between claiming the standard deduction and itemizing deductions?

In general terms, a tax deduction is a certain amount you are allowed to exclude from your income. This means that you are taxed on a lower amount of income, and thus pay less in taxes.

While not as valuable as tax credits – which directly decrease your tax liability – deductions can still reduce your tax burden significantly.

There are two ways to claim deductions.

  1. Itemize deductions. Add up all of your allowable expenses and subtract them from your income.
  2. Claim the standard deduction. Deduct the basic amount available to everyone.

While preparing your taxes you need to figure out whether you get a bigger tax break from itemizing your deductions or claiming the standard deduction. Most people end up claiming the standard deduction, but some people have enough allowable expenses to make it worth their while to itemize deductions.

The Standard Deduction

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Can I Deduct My W-2 Job Expenses?

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on March 28, 2019
Last modified: March 28, 2019

w-2 job expenses

The new tax season brought in a lot of changes, and your job expenses are one of them.

If you’ve noticed on your tax returns that you can’t deduct your W-2 job expenses for 2018, you’re partially correct. Unfortunately, not everyone can claim their out-of-pocket job expenses.

Here’s the breakdown.

Eligibility

The new tax laws have narrowed down on who claims their W-2 job expenses, mainly by their occupation.

You can only deduct your job expenses if you’re one of the following: (more…)

How are Charitable Deductions Affected by the TCJA?

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on November 27, 2018
Last modified: November 27, 2018

Generosity has its perks, or rather its tax benefits.

Keep in mind, taxpayers are able to easily itemize once they exceed their standard deduction. This typically happens by taxpayers claiming charitable donations along with any expenses they have. It then becomes greater than their standard deduction. However, the standard deduction is twice the amount for 2017.

Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), taxpayers who itemize may face some difficulties next year.

Read on to find out what you can do to be prepared for next year!

“Bunching,” a word that people can’t stop talking about.

If you’re surfing the web for information on charitable donations, you might run into the term, “bunching.” It may be confusing, so we’re here to clear it up for you. (more…)

Prepare for the 2019 Tax Season!

Posted by Manisha Hansraj on November 5, 2018
Last modified: March 19, 2019

tax cuts and jobs act

2018 is coming to an end.

It seems like the year went by so quickly. Now, are you ready for the new tax season? The 2019 tax season brings in a variety of changes that will ultimately affect how you file and Form 1040.

Read below to find out what you need to know before filing your 2018 tax return.

Check your withholding

Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), taxpayers may receive a lesser refund or a tax bill because of their decreased withholding. We advise that you should definitely check your withholding if you have a two-income family, work multiple jobs or part of the year, have children to claim the Child Tax Credit or older dependents, you itemize your deductions on prior year returns, receive high tax refunds or tax bills for the prior year or high-income taxpayers in general. Be advised that if you don’t have enough income tax withheld from your employer, you can be subject to a high tax due at the end of the year.

If you did not fill out an updated W-4 for 2018, click here to find out if you should adjust your withholding with the IRS Withholding Calculator.

The standard deduction increases

The TCJA doubles all filing status’ standard deduction. Below you will find out how next year will be different. (more…)

Student Loan Interest Deduction Income Limit

Posted by admin on December 15, 2016
Last modified: December 16, 2016

Strapped for cash as a recent grad? See if you qualify for a student loan interest deduction.

College is over and you’ve been blasted with a taste of reality…or should I say adulthood? It’s tough but you’ll get through it. Even the IRS is on your side with certain deductions available to those of us who used our after-high school lives to pick up a college education. College is expensive. The student loan interest deduction can help you out a bit. Let’s see if you’re eligible.

Are there income limits?

Here are the income limits that apply to the student loan interest deduction. Note that prior tax years have slightly different income limits:

Single filers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) below $80,000 and married couples filing jointly with incomes below $160,000 can take the full deduction.

Taxpayers whose MAGIs are above these limits can only take a reduced deduction or no deduction at all. The deduction phases out between MAGIs of $65,000 and $80,000 for single filers. For married couples filing jointly, the deduction phases out between MAGIs of $130,000 and $160,000. (more…)