Good News, Seniors: New $6,000 IRS Deduction Eases Money Worries

Dear seniors, prices for medicines, groceries, and household needs keep going up. But there's welcome relief – a new $6,000 tax deduction just for Americans 65 and older.

Don't miss: IRS Free File Starts January 26, 2026: Who Qualifies and How to Get Your Refund Faster

Do You Qualify for This $6,000 Help?

Simple requirements:

• You turned 65 on or before December 31, 2025

• You file taxes as single, head of household, or married filing together

• You do not file married filing separately

Income guidelines make it fair:

If you're single:

• Full $6,000 up to $75,000 income

• Reduces slowly after that

• Ends completely at $175,000

If married filing together:

• Full $6,000 up to $150,000

• Reduces slowly after that

• Ends completely at $250,000

Special note for couples: If both are 65+, you get $12,000 total!

Adds Right to Your Regular Deduction

This $6,000 bonus stacks on top of your usual standard deduction.

Your 2025 base amounts:

• Single: $15,750

• Married together: $31,500

• Married separately: $15,750

• Head of household: $23,625

Seniors 65+ get extra help already, plus this new $6,000 makes your total deduction much larger.

What you'll see:

• Single senior: $21,750 or more

• Married couple (both 65+): $43,500 or more

Easiest way to get it: When filing, just check the "65 or older" box on Form 1040. Try IRS Free File – it's simple and free for most seniors. File soon to get your money quicker!

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