There are some changes for the 2026 tax filing season that people who are 65 years of age and older should be aware of. The most recent being the enhanced deduction for seniors, which is provided for in recent legislation.
Enhanced deduction for seniors
This is a new deduction that is in addition to the current additional standard deduction for seniors under existing law.
- For tax years 2025-2028, taxpayers who are age 65 or older may be eligible to claim an additional $6,000 deduction per person ($12,000 if married filing jointly and both spouses are eligible)
- To be eligible, you must be 65 on or before the last day of the tax year
- It is available to eligible taxpayers who claim the standard deduction or itemize
- The deduction phases out if you have a modified adjusted gross income over $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers)
Earned Income Tax Credit
- EITC helps low to moderate-income workers and families get a tax break
- The maximum income amount for claiming the credit for the 2025 tax year is $68,675. The amount of the credit may vary based on income, family size and filing status.
Check withholdings
Any earned wages you may have are subject to withholding for income tax, social security tax, and Medicare tax even if you are receiving social security benefits.