The standard deduction vs. itemized deductions: what's the difference?
Taxes 101 By National Tax Block · Nov 4, 2026
The standard deduction is a flat amount that reduces your taxable income. Itemizing adds up specific expenses — mortgage interest, state and local taxes, charitable gifts, medical costs — and uses that total instead.
Which should you choose?
Take whichever is larger. For 2025 the standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers and $30,000 for married couples filing jointly, so most people are better off with the standard deduction unless they own a home in a high-tax area or give generously.
A tax pro will run both ways and pick the one that saves you more.