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Learn if Itemizing Deductions Is Right for You

Learn how standard and itemized deductions work, what expenses qualify, and when itemizing might help you lower your tax bill.
Updated 10/22/2025
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When filing your taxes, you can choose between taking the standard deduction or itemizing deductions, but not both. Most people opt for the standard deduction because it’s simpler, does not require tracking expenses, and usually results in a greater benefit. However, itemizing could lower your tax bill more if your eligible expenses exceed the standard amount, especially if you had high out-of-pocket costs like medical bills, charitable donations, or state and local taxes.

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The standard deduction is a flat dollar amount that reduces your taxable income. It is adjusted each year for inflation and depends on several factors, including:

  • Your filing status (e.g., single, married filing jointly, etc.)
  • Your age
  • Whether you’re age 65 or older, or legally blind (If you are both age 65 or older and legally blind, you can claim double the additional standard deduction.)
  • Whether someone else can claim you as a dependent

Use this IRS tool to determine your standard deduction amount: How much is my standard deduction?

Itemizing deductions means listing out all your eligible expenses you paid during the year. Here are some expenses that can be itemized:

To itemize, you’ll need to use Schedule A on Form 1040 (or 1040-SR for seniors). Need help getting organized? Use our itemization worksheet.

Most people can choose whether to itemize, but some people are required to do so. You must itemize if:

  • You’re married filing separately, and your spouse is itemizing
  • You were a nonresident or dual-status alien during the year (some exceptions apply)
  • You’re filing a return for less than 12 months due to a change in your accounting year
  • You’re filing on behalf of an estate, trust, common trust fund, or partnership

Some expenses are called “above-the-line” deductions, and you can claim them whether or not you itemize. These include: