How to get the new $6,000 senior bonus deduction this tax season — it’s simpler than you think

Vishesh Raisinghani

Fri, February 13, 2026 at 10:30 PM GMT+9 3 min read

If you were aged 65 and up before the end of 2025, you can take advantage of a new U.S. tax deduction up to $6,000.

However, this provision is temporary, and to qualify you must claim it correctly when you file your taxes.

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Here’s how the new special senior tax deduction works and how you can leverage it this tax season.

What is the new senior deduction?

President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act created a new tax provision to add an extra $6,000 deduction for seniors on top of the standard deduction.

Simply put, if you were 65-plus by the end of last year, you can claim the deduction, regardless of whether or not you itemize your return. That means you can claim this new deduction on top of the pre-existing standard deduction for seniors and the visually impaired. This is applicable per person, so you and your spouse could potentially qualify for $12,000 in combined special deductions.

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Of note, married couples must file jointly to access the new deduction, not separately.

In addition, there are also income-related caps. The new deduction is gradually phased out for individuals with modified adjusted gross incomes starting at $75,000. For couples filing jointly, it starts at $150,000.

It’s also worth noting that this benefit is temporary and is slated to expire in 2028.

How to claim the new deduction

The senior bonus deduction is claimed directly on your regular tax return, using either Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR. A Schedule 1-A form must also be filled out.

Be sure to input your personal information correctly, including your date of birth and Social Security number. You don’t want any simple mistakes to cost you.

In short, the process is simple, but it depends on careful data entry. Taking a few extra minutes to review these details can help ensure you receive the full tax benefit you are entitled to.

The April 15 tax deadline is closer than you think, so don’t procrastinate. If your age and income matches many of the eligibility criteria, try to get your ducks in order as early as possible so that you’re not leaving any money on the table.

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