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What is the standard deduction for 2022?

The standard deduction is a specific dollar amount that reduces the amount of income you’re taxed on.

The standard deduction amount for the 2022 tax year is $12,950 for single filers, $25,900 for joint filers and $19,400 for heads of household.

You can use this IRS tool to calculate your standard deduction for 2022 by filling in a bit of information yourself and your income.

With inflation on the rise, the standard deduction amount has risen too. For single filers it is up $400 from the previous year and for joint filers it is up by $800. An increase is expected to be seen for the 2023 tax year as well.

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When should you claim the standard deduction?

When it comes to lowering your taxable income, you have the choice of either standard or itemized deduction.

While the standard deduction lowers your adjusted gross income (AGI) by a fixed amount, the itemized deduction lowers your AGI based on individual, eligible expenses such as charitable donations, mortgage interest on up to two homes, property taxes and medical expenses.

If your standard deduction is larger than your itemized deduction, you should claim it. But sometimes it's better to itemize, especially if you've had a lot of expenses or are self-employed.

A tax software provider like TaxSlayer can help you run the numbers, to see which option is better for you.

When you answer some questions about itemized deductions that might apply to you, TaxSlayer can help you determine if claiming a standard deduction or itemized deductions will give you a lower tax bill.

From there, you can utilize TaxSlayer’s software to file in the way that works best for you — whether that be a standard or itemized deduction.

Ready to file?

Once you’ve weighed your options and decided if standard or itemized deduction is the best way to optimize your tax year, you can get to filing.

TaxSlayer’s software offers dynamic pricing depending on the support you want during the filing process.

They have four different sign up options at varying fees:

Each of these options boast great features at an affordable price and span a variety of needs.

For instance, the free version is great for simple tax situations — like if you don’t claim dependents, have rental income or a business. On the other hand, the Premium option covers all forms, deductions and credits.

Filing your taxes with TaxSlayer is easy. You can file online and they promise fast returns via direct deposit. Plus, if you have any questions or concerns, you have access to unlimited phone and email support.

Get started

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About the Author

Em Norton

Em Norton

Staff Writer

Em Norton is a Staff Writer for Moneywise. Em holds a B.A. in Professional Writing from York University and has been writing professionally since 2019. Em's work has previously been published by Room Magazine, IN Magazine, Our Canada and more.

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Disclaimer

The content provided on Moneywise is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.