The tax law enacted in July 2025 added a temporary deduction for older Americans. For tax years 2025 through 2028, eligible individuals 65 and older can deduct up to $6,000 each, on top of the existing standard deduction and additional standard deduction for age.
Key Takeaways
- Up to $6,000 per eligible person aged 65 or older; $12,000 for a married couple where both qualify.
- Available whether you itemise or take the standard deduction.
- The deduction phases out by 6% of modified adjusted gross income above $75,000, or $150,000 for joint filers.
- It applies for tax years 2025 through 2028.
Who qualifies
You must be 65 or older by the end of the tax year and have a valid Social Security number. Married couples must file jointly to claim it.
It stacks with existing deductions
Taxpayers 65 and older already receive an additional standard deduction. The new deduction is separate and is available whether you take the standard deduction or itemise.
The phase-out
The deduction is reduced by 6% of modified adjusted gross income over $75,000 for single filers or $150,000 for joint filers. For a single filer:
- At $75,000 MAGI or below: full $6,000
- At $95,000 MAGI: $6,000 minus 6% of $20,000 ($1,200) = $4,800
- At $175,000 MAGI: phased out completely
Social Security benefits
The deduction does not change how Social Security benefits are taxed, but by lowering taxable income, it can reduce or eliminate federal income tax for many retirees.
Example
A married couple, both 70, with $90,000 MAGI, would get the full $12,000 deduction, since they are below $150,000. Combined with their standard deduction and the additional standard deduction for age, a large portion of their income would not be subject to federal income tax.
Planning considerations
- Roth conversions, capital gains and required minimum distributions all affect MAGI, which can reduce the deduction.
- Withholding or estimated tax payments may need adjusting.
- The deduction is temporary unless Congress extends it.
State taxes
State tax treatment varies. Some states follow federal deductions; others do not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to apply? No. You claim it on your federal tax return.
What if only one spouse is 65? Only the eligible spouse’s $6,000 is available, on a joint return.
Is this the same as eliminating tax on Social Security? No. It is a deduction; benefits may still be partly taxable depending on income.
The bottom line
If you are 65 or older, check your MAGI, factor the deduction into withholding and retirement income planning, and remember it is scheduled to run through 2028.
