Tax season is here, and every deduction counts when it comes to maximizing your refund or reducing what you owe. While most taxpayers are familiar with standard deductions and common write-offs, some lesser-known deductions could make a significant difference. Let’s explore both the familiar and the hidden gems for 2025.
Common Deductions You Shouldn’t Forget
Student Loan Interest Deduction: If you paid interest on qualifying student loans, you may be able to deduct up to $2,500, even if you don’t itemize.
Medical and Dental Expenses: You can deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. This includes prescriptions, doctor visits, and even some travel expenses for medical care.
Charitable Contributions: Donations to qualified charities, including cash, goods, or mileage for charitable work, may be deductible.
Lesser-Known Deductions You May Be Overlooking
Educator Expenses: Teachers and eligible school staff can deduct up to $300 for classroom supplies. Married educators filing jointly can double this amount.
Job Search Expenses: Costs related to searching for a new job in your current occupation—such as travel, resume services, or employment agency fees—may be deductible.
Self-Employment Deductions: If you’re self-employed, don’t forget to deduct:
Home office expenses.
Business mileage.
Internet and phone costs directly related to your work.
State Sales Tax Deduction: If you live in a state without income tax, you can deduct state sales taxes instead. Big-ticket purchases like cars or furniture can add to the savings.
New Deductions and Updates for 2025
Green Home Improvements: Energy-efficient upgrades like solar panels, heat pumps, and energy-efficient windows may qualify for tax credits or deductions.
Clean Vehicle Credit: If you purchased a qualifying electric or hybrid vehicle, you might be eligible for a credit of up to $7,500.
Dependent Care Expenses: Eligible expenses for childcare or care for a disabled dependent may be deductible, including daycare or after-school programs.
Don’t Forget “Above-the-Line” Deductions
These are deductions you can take without itemizing, which reduce your adjusted gross income:
Contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
Traditional IRA contributions.
Alimony payments for agreements established before 2019.
How to Maximize Your Deductions
Keep Detailed Records: Receipts, invoices, and statements are essential to back up your claims.
Use Tax Software or Work with a Professional: Tax software can flag potential deductions, while a tax professional ensures you don’t miss any opportunities.
Check Eligibility for New Credits: Tax laws change frequently, so make sure you’re up-to-date on what’s available.
By taking advantage of these deductions, you can keep more of your hard-earned money and reduce your tax burden. Remember, every deduction adds up!
If you have questions or want personalized advice, consult a tax professional or use trusted tax preparation tools to guide you through the process.
What deductions have saved you the most on your taxes? Share your tips in the comments!
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The Premise It’s one of the most important questions that every American tax filer has to answer: should I itemize or take the standard deduction instead? With the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 making some fairly significant changes to the way both standard deduction and itemized deduction work, the question…