New $6,000 IRS Senior Deduction Helps Seniors Beat Rising Costs (2026)

Seniors keep getting hit with steeper prices for meds, groceries, and everyday items.

A brand-new $6,000 federal deduction for those 65+ hands millions of older Americans extra cash back through bigger tax refunds. 

AARP estimates ~$670 average savings per eligible senior, with 22% bracket filers ($44K–$75K income) pocketing up to $1,320 each.

Don't miss: Best Free Tax Filing Options for 2026: Great Choices If Your Income Is Above $84,000

Who Gets the $6,000 Senior Deduction?

Quick eligibility check:

• Turned 65 by Dec 31, 2025

• Filing single, head of household, OR married jointly

• Cannot file married filing separately

Income phase-outs (MAGI)

Single taxpayers:

• Full $6K up to $75K

• Gradually reduced

• Zero at $175K

Married filing jointly:

• Full $6K up to $150K

• Gradually reduced

• Zero at $250K

Max benefit: $6K per qualifying person ($12K total if both spouses 65+)

Stacks on Top of Regular Deductions

This $6K bonus is ON TOP of your standard deduction.

2025 tax year base amounts:

• Single: $15,750

• Married jointly: $31,500

• Married separately: $15,750

• Head of household: $23,625

Seniors 65+ get even more:

• Already had age-based increases

• Plus this new $6K = much bigger total deduction

New senior totals:

• Single 65+: $21,750+

• Both spouses 65+: $43,500+

Zero extra paperwork – just check "65 or older" on Form 1040. Use IRS Free File and cash in early!

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