You can reduce your gross income by taking "above-the-line" deductions. These are available even if you don't itemize.
Gross Income - Above-the-Line Deductions = Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) ⚖️ Step 3: Choose Your Standard or Itemized Deduction calculate your income tax
Start by adding up every dollar you earned throughout the year. This is your "raw" income before any reductions. You can reduce your gross income by taking
You must decide between taking a fixed "standard" deduction or listing specific "itemized" expenses. Choose whichever is higher to lower your taxable income the most. Filing Status Deduction Amount Single / Married Filing Separately Married Filing Jointly Head of Household calculate your income tax