Standard vs Itemized Deduction: Side-by-Side Comparison
Most taxpayers take the standard deduction — but the OBBBA changed the math. With the SALT deduction cap raised to $40,400 for 2026, DFW homeowners with significant property taxes are finding that itemizing beats the standard deduction more often than it has in years. Here is the side-by-side.
Standard vs Itemized Deduction
Which deduction method saves you more in 2026?
| Feature | Standard Deduction | Itemized Deduction |
|---|---|---|
| Single filer amount (2026) | $16,100 | Varies by expenses |
| Married filing jointly (2026) | $32,200 | Varies by expenses |
| Head of household (2026) | $24,150 | Varies by expenses |
| Requires documentation | ||
| Mortgage interest | Included in flat amount | Deductible (up to $750K loan) |
| State & local taxes (SALT) | Included in flat amount | Deductible (capped at $40,400 for 2026) |
| Charitable contributions | Included in flat amount | Deductible (up to 60% AGI) |
| Medical expenses | Included in flat amount | Over 7.5% of AGI |
| SALT cap impact | Not affected | Capped at $40,400 (phases down above ~$505K income) |
| Audit risk | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Best for | Most filers (simpler, often larger) | High mortgage/charity/medical expenses |
The Bottom Line
Rule of thumb: add your SALT (up to $40,400), mortgage interest, and charitable giving. If the total beats $16,100 (single) or $32,200 (married), itemize. High earners: the SALT cap phases back down above ~$505,000 of income.
Related Reading
5 Tax Deductions DFW Small Business Owners Miss Every Year
Running a small business in Plano, Richardson, or Frisco? You're probably missing these tax deductions. A DFW CPA breaks down the ones that save thousands.
2026 Tax Changes: What DFW Taxpayers Need to Know
Key 2026 tax law changes affecting DFW taxpayers. Learn about new brackets, deduction limits, and credits. Garland CPA breaks down what matters for your taxes.