The new law adds a possible senior tax deduction (Ages 65 and Older)
- Latoya J. Jessamy
- 1 day ago
- 1 min read
If you will be age 65 or older on December 31, 2025, you have a new opportunity for tax savings.
A new bonus tax deduction is available for seniors starting this year (2025). You can claim this deduction whether or not you itemize.
How Much Can You Deduct?
If you qualify, you may be eligible for a bonus deduction of up to $6,000 per person. For married couples filing jointly where both spouses are age 65 or older, the total potential deduction is $12,000.
Most importantly, if married, you must file a joint return to benefit even when only one spouse qualifies; filing separately disqualifies you.
This bonus deduction is in addition to
the regular standard deduction, and
the existing age-based additional deduction.
Income Limits Apply
The deduction phases out at higher income levels:
For singles: begins at $75,000 modified adjusted gross income (MAGI); fully phased out at $175,000
For joint filers: begins at $150,000 MAGI; fully phased out at $250,000
MAGI includes AGI plus certain rarely seen tax-free foreign income.
Planning Opportunity
To maximize this deduction, consider strategies to keep MAGI below (or not far above) the phaseout thresholds:
Spread capital gains over multiple years
Break up Roth IRA conversions over time
Create additional business deductions or make retirement plan contributions