Laylabird / iStock.com
Commitment to our readers
The GOBankingRates editorial team is committed to providing you with unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methods to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our review methodology for products and services.
20 years
Helping you become richer
trusted by
millions of readers
according to irSSenior citizens (ages 65 and older) who are either U.S. citizens or permanent residents must file a tax return if their gross income is at least $17,550 (single filers) or $26,625 (head of household). Married and seniors filing jointly must file if their total earnings are at least $33,100 (one spouse is under 65) or $34,700 (both spouses are at least 65).
Even if you earned less than these amounts, you may still get a refund by filing. You may also be eligible for some tax breaks. GOBankingRates asked ChatGPT to find out which tax cuts seniors typically miss out on to find out how much more money they could save — here’s how.
The biggest overlooked tax cut for senior citizens
According to artificial intelligence (AI) tools, there is one major deduction that senior citizens miss out on – the New and Enhanced Deduction. This deduction is available for tax years 2025 through 2028.
For the 2026 tax filing season, people who are 65 (or older) by the end of the tax year can claim an additional $6,000 (single filers) or up to $12,000 (joint filers). ir. These taxpayers can itemize or take the standard deduction and still qualify.
ChatGPT notes that some seniors miss out on this deduction because they are using outdated tax software. Others miss out because they don’t file taxes. This may be because they don’t feel they need it or because their income is below the minimum threshold. But that extra $6,000 could be huge.
Note that taxpayers also qualify for the standard deduction, which reduces taxable income by a specific amount. In 2026, irThe standard deduction for taxpayers under age 65 is:
- $32,200 for married couples filing jointly
- $16,100 for single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately
- $24,150 for head of household
For the 2025 tax year, those age 65 and older receive the additional standard deduction ir. This deductible ranges from $1,600 to $2,000 (depending on filing status and blindness).
Other Deductions Seniors Often Miss Out On
Chhattisgarh offers some other commonly missed tax benefits for senior citizens. Using the latest numbers from the IRS, these include:
- Credit for the elderly or disabled (refundable): This is for people who are at least 65 years old or retired on permanent and total disability. They must also be receiving taxable disability income for the relevant tax year. Income limits apply, but the credit ranges from $3,750 to $7,500 ir.
- Earned Income Tax Credit (Refundable): : It is available to taxpayers regardless of age. Eligibility and credit amount depend on income. According to the , the credit ranges from $649 (no qualifying children) to $8,046 (three or more qualifying children). ir.
- Charitable contribution deduction: Qualified contributions are deductible up to 100% of the taxpayer’s AGI (if they itemize). ir. Other charitable contributions are limited to about 60%.
The AI tool also noted that certain medical and dental expenses may be tax deductible for those itemizing.
“Seniors often miss out on deductions related to medical expenses,” said Camiche Golden, Enrolled Agent (EA). wiggam law and former IRS revenue officer. “Medicare premiums, supplemental insurance, prescription costs, hearing aids and transportation to medical appointments can all be counted if total medical expenses exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.”
These expenses do not have to be reimbursed to qualify. Long-term care insurance premiums for senior citizens, their spouse or a dependent may also be deductible. according to irMedically necessary home improvements, such as ramps, may also be deducted.