The standard deduction: what it is and how much it is
The standard deduction is a fixed amount subtracted from your income before federal tax is figured. Most people take it because it doesn't require keeping receipts or records.
How it works
If you earned $50,000 and your deduction is $15,750, federal tax is figured on $34,250. That's why a larger deduction usually means less tax — and, with the same withholding, a bigger refund.
How much it is on 2025 returns
For tax year 2025 (filed in 2026), the standard deduction is:
- Single or married filing separately: $15,750.
- Married filing jointly: $31,500.
- Head of household: $23,625.
- People 65 or older, or blind, get an additional amount; for 2025 there's also an extra deduction for those 65 and older, with income limits. See the details on IRS.gov.
- Starting in 2025 there are also new deductions for tips and overtime, claimed separately even if you take the standard deduction. The PlainRefund calculator doesn't include them yet.
How much will you get back?
Federal and state in one estimate — no account, nothing saved.
Estimate my refund →Standard or itemized deductions
Instead of the standard deduction, you can itemize: mortgage interest, charitable donations, certain medical expenses and state and local taxes, among others. It only helps if the total is more than your standard deduction. You can't use both.
If a tax preparer helped you, use the total they gave you.
Where to see the one you used last year
On last year's return (Form 1040), line 12 shows the deduction you used, standard or itemized. It's a good reference, although the amounts change every year.
Official sources
IRS — Topic no. 551, Standard deduction ↗IRS — Credits and deductions for individuals ↗Figures checked on IRS.gov (reviewed October 2026). Always check the official source: amounts can change every year.