What is the tax deduction for a couple?
Emma Jordan
Published Mar 26, 2026
Standard deduction amounts Married couples filing jointly can claim an amount that’s twice as large, $24,800, and taxpayers filing as “head of household” (single individuals with dependents) can claim a standard deduction of $18,650.
What is the standard deduction for a couple filing jointly?
$24,800
For 2020, the standard deduction is $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for married couples filing jointly. For 2021, it is $12,550 for singles and $25,100 for married couples.
Is the standard deduction good for a married couple?
1. Understand the Standard Deduction The standard deduction depends on which filing status you use. Choosing the married filing jointly status might be a good choice — even if one spouse is not working — because the IRS extends some tax benefits to joint filers that aren’t available to those who file individually.
Can a separated couple file taxes as a married couple?
Even if you’re married for the full tax year, the IRS might consider separated couples “unmarried” for tax purposes if you are not divorced but have a legally binding separation agreement, or if you and your spouse have lived apart for the last six months or more of the tax year.
Can a spouse claim a tax deduction on a joint expense?
However, if only one of you is eligible for a deduction for an expense (for example, real estate taxes on a property owned only by the eligible spouse), only the spouse who is eligible for the deduction is allowed to claim it, even if the expense is paid from joint funds.
Can a tax deduction be taken in more than one name?
Additionally, the local taxing authority may also only provide a receipt in one taxpayer’s name. If you’re each eligible to deduct the expense, you can both take a deduction for your portion of the expenses. Determine the proportionate share of the deductions based upon all facts and circumstances.