2007 and 2008 Standard Deductions

Standard deduction goes up

The standard deduction is higher and broader this year. The deduction amounts will grow again in 2008.

Every year, the Internal Revenue Service adjusts the standard deduction to account for inflation. This is the basic deduction that all taxpayers get.

But don't just take the standard deduction. Total up all your deductions every year. If the total of your itemized deductions exceeds the standard deduction, then, by all means, itemize. It will save you money.

If your deductions don't exceed the standard deduction, then don't itemize.

2007 standard deductions
Filling statusAmount

Married filing jointly or qualifying widow or widower

$10,700

Head of household

$7,850

Single

$5,350

Married filing separately

$5,350

2008 standard deductions
Filling statusAmount

Married filing jointly or qualifying widow or widower

$10,900

Head of household

$8,000

Single

$5,450

Married filing separately

$5,450

Published Dec. 6, 2007

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