Most people have heard about the standard deduction, a key tax benefit that reduces the amount of income subject to federal income tax. However, fewer are aware that there is an additional benefit specifically for individuals aged 65 and older. This extra standard deduction is one of the simplest and most valuable ways for older Americans to reduce their taxable income and keep more of what they have earned or saved.
At Scout Tax, we help every taxpayer understand and claim every legal benefit available, especially those living on retirement income or preparing for it.
Understanding the Standard Deduction
Before exploring the additional deduction available to seniors, it is helpful to understand the standard deduction itself.
The standard deduction is a flat-dollar reduction in your taxable income. It is automatically available to most taxpayers and is the alternative to itemizing deductions such as medical expenses, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions. Most individuals choose the standard deduction because it simplifies the tax filing process and often provides a larger reduction than itemizing.
For tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026), the standard deduction amounts are:
- $15,000 for single filers and married individuals filing separately
- $22,500 for heads of household
- $30,000 for married couples filing jointly and qualifying surviving spouses
These amounts are adjusted annually for inflation.
What Is the Extra Standard Deduction for Seniors?
Taxpayers who turn 65 or older by the end of the tax year can claim an additional standard deduction on top of the base amount. The government offers this additional deduction to provide financial relief to older adults, many of whom live on fixed incomes.
For the 2025 tax year, the additional deduction amounts are:
- $1,950 for single filers or heads of household who are age 65 or older
- $1,550 per person for married couples, if one or both spouses are age 65 or older
This means a married couple where both individuals are 65 or older could receive an extra $3,100 in deductions on top of the regular $30,000 standard deduction, bringing their total standard deduction to $33,100.
Who Qualifies for the Extra Deduction?
To be eligible for the additional standard deduction due to age, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be 65 years of age or older as of December 31 of the tax year. If your 65th birthday falls on January 1, you are considered to have reached age 65 in the previous year for tax purposes.
- You must not be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.
- You must file using a standard deduction–eligible filing status.
In addition to the age-based deduction, if you are legally blind, you may also qualify for a separate extra standard deduction.
Why the Extra Standard Deduction Matters
The additional standard deduction for seniors is more than just a tax break. It serves a larger purpose in supporting financial stability during retirement. Here is why it is important:
- Reduces your taxable income. Lowering your taxable income can reduce your tax liability or even move you into a lower tax bracket.
- Helps protect your Social Security income. For some retirees, reducing taxable income means a smaller portion of Social Security benefits will be taxed.
- Increases your refund or reduces how much you owe. Especially important for those on a fixed budget or limited retirement savings.
- Simplifies your return. Seniors who no longer have deductible mortgage interest or large out-of-pocket expenses may benefit more from the standard deduction plus the age-based increase than from itemizing.
How Scout Tax Can Support You
At Scout Tax, we specialize in helping older adults, retirees, and small business owners understand and apply the most beneficial tax strategies available. Our team provides more than just tax filing services. We take the time to review your financial situation, identify potential deductions or credits, and make sure you are not paying more than necessary.
Whether you are preparing for retirement, already retired, or simply want to better manage your income and tax exposure, Scout Tax offers clear, accurate, and personalized service to support your financial well-being.
We stay current on tax code changes so you do not have to, and we are ready to help you file with confidence.
Take the Next Step
If you are 65 or older, or approaching retirement, now is the time to plan wisely for tax season. Understanding the extra standard deduction and how it affects your taxable income could lead to meaningful savings.
Contact Scout Tax today to speak with a tax expert who understands your needs and can guide you through every step of the process. Let us help you make the most of your retirement income and secure your financial future with peace of mind.
