6 Tax Breaks Seniors Can't Afford to Miss: Keep More of Your Money in 2025

Essential tax-saving strategies for seniors on Social Security or food stamps—maximize your income, minimize your tax bill.

1. The New $6,000 Senior Tax Deduction

What's new: Seniors age 65 and older can claim an extra $6,000 deduction on their federal taxes for tax years 2025–2028. Married couples where both are 65+ can claim up to $12,000.
Who qualifies: Single filers with income under $75,000 and joint filers under $150,000 get the full deduction. The deduction phases out for incomes up to $175,000 (single) or $250,000 (joint).
How to use it: You can claim this deduction whether you itemize or take the standard deduction.

2. Standard Deduction for Seniors

Extra savings: On top of the new $6,000 deduction, seniors can still claim the regular additional standard deduction: $2,000 for single filers or $1,600 per qualifying spouse when filing jointly.
Stack your deductions: These deductions combine to significantly reduce taxable income for most seniors.

3. Credit for the Elderly or Disabled

Who's eligible: If you're 65+ (or retired on permanent disability), you may qualify for a tax credit between $3,750 and $7,500, depending on your income and filing status.
Income limits: For singles, adjusted gross income (AGI) must be below $17,500; for couples, below $25,000. Nontaxable Social Security and pension income can affect eligibility.

4. Medical and Long-Term Care Deductions

Deductible expenses: You can deduct unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed 7.5% of your AGI. This includes hospital bills, prescriptions, and qualified long-term care insurance premiums.
Tip: Keep good records of all your out-of-pocket health costs.

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Recent change: Nearly 90% of Social Security beneficiaries will no longer pay federal income tax on their benefits, thanks to the new law. However, those with higher incomes may still owe some tax.
State taxes: Some states still tax Social Security benefits—check your state's rules.

6. Other Tax Breaks to Remember

Charitable giving: If you take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts, you can make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) directly to charity, which counts toward your RMD and isn't taxed as income.
Property tax relief: Many states offer property tax reductions or credits for seniors—ask your local tax office about programs in your area.

Real Life Example

Martha, 68, receives Social Security and a small pension. By claiming the new $6,000 deduction, the extra standard deduction, and deducting her medical expenses, she reduced her tax bill to nearly zero this year.

What Should You Do Next?

Review your income and deductions: Make sure you're claiming every tax break you qualify for.
Keep documentation: Save records of medical expenses, charitable donations, and retirement account withdrawals.
Ask for help: If you're unsure, reach out to a tax preparer, benefits counselor, or local agency for free or low-cost tax assistance.

You've earned these benefits—make sure you keep as much of your money as possible! Stay tuned for more tips in the next issue of The Insider from Benefits Insider.

_{This newsletter is for information only. Always double-check your options with a professional before making big decisions.}

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