Every taxpayer can reduce taxable income by claiming either the standard deduction or itemizing deductions—but knowing which approach works best depends on your financial situation.
The standard deduction offers a flat reduction based on your filing status, while itemizing allows you to list eligible expenses that exceed that standard amount.
For many people, homeownership is the tipping point. Mortgage interest and property taxes often push total deductions high enough to justify itemizing.
🏡 Common Itemized Deductions
If you choose to itemize, these are typically the most valuable deductions:
- Mortgage interest
- Property taxes
- Charitable contributions
- Significant medical or dental expenses
However, even if you take the standard deduction, there are still several ways to reduce your taxable income through other adjustments and credits.
💰 Deductions and Credits Available with the Standard Deduction
You don’t have to itemize to take advantage of these tax-saving opportunities:
Retirement & Savings
- IRA Contributions — Up to $7,000 per year ($8,000 if age 50 or older)
- Health Savings Account (HSA) Contributions — If eligible, you can deduct contributions while saving for future medical costs
Education Incentives
- Student Loan Interest Deduction — Up to $2,500 of interest may be deductible
- Education Credits — Including the American Opportunity (Hope) Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit
- Savings Bond Interest or Coverdell Education Accounts — Potential tax benefits for qualified educational expenses
Self-Employment Adjustments
- Self-Employed Health Insurance Premiums — Deduct the full cost of coverage for yourself and your family
- One-Half of Self-Employment Tax — A valuable deduction to offset your income
- Retirement Contributions for the Self-Employed — SEP IRAs or Solo 401(k)s may also provide tax benefits
Additional Tax Breaks
- Donating Appreciated Stock — Give long-term appreciated assets to charity to avoid capital gains and still receive a deduction
- Alimony Paid — Deductible if your divorce or separation agreement took effect before January 1, 2019
- Family and Individual Credits — Such as the Earned Income Credit, Child & Dependent Care Credit, and Credit for the Elderly or Disabled
✳️ The Takeaway
Tax savings aren’t just for someone else—they may be waiting for you. A thorough review of your unique circumstances can uncover credits and deductions you might otherwise overlook.
Let Gleason Tax Advisory, your trusted Enrolled Agent and tax professional in Jamestown, NY, help you make the most of every opportunity available.
📅 Schedule your tax review today to start planning for smarter savings and a smoother filing season.
