What does it mean to itemize deductions?

Everyone takes one of these deductions on their federal return:

• The Standard Deduction or
• Itemized Deductions

The Standard Deduction is a set amount for each filing status.

Itemized Deductions are specific expenses you had during the year such as: homeowner expenses, donations, and medical expenses.

If you had any expenses that qualify as Itemized Deductions, you can enter them and we'll help you choose which deduction is best for you! Usually you'll just take whichever deduction is larger because that benefits you the most.

Please note that if you file as Married Filing Separately, you're required to use the same deduction that your spouse uses if they file a return, regardless of which deduction is higher.

What is a deduction?