01/16/2026
The standard deduction has increased, which is a good thing. The standard deduction is subtracted from your income before you look up the tax. You want to get your income as low as possible before you look up the tax.
There is a new deduction for 65 and older taxpayers. That deduction is in addition to the one that we have had for years for 65 and older.
The child tax credit for children under 17 has increased by $200 for each child. The year your child turns 17 they no longer qualify for the credit.
The change that is being called no tax on overtime is a little more complicated than that. If you work overtime but you do not make time and a half, you do not qualify. If you do make time and a half it's only the 'half' part of the amount you are paid that is used to possibly calculate that deduction.
I have also had several people ask about the car loan interest deduction. In order to be eligible it must be a new (and not just new to you) vehicle, must have final assembly in the United States and you must include the VIN number on your tax return so they can verify. The loan must be taken out during the year that you were choosing the deduction. And of course interest must be paid during the year.
There are a few more changes that are more complicated and if anyone has any questions about the ones I have listed or any of the other ones, let me know and I will get you the information.
Thanks