Current research indicates that individuals are likely to make errors when preparing their tax returns. The following tax tips were developed to help you avoid some of the common errors dealing with the standard deduction for seniors, the taxable amount of Social Security benefits, and the Credit for the Elderly and Disabled. In addition, you'll find links below to helpful publications as well as information on how to obtain free tax assistance. Standard Deduction for Seniors – If you do not itemize your deductions, you can get a higher standard deduction amount if you and/or your spouse are 65 years old or older. You can get an even higher standard deduction amount if either you or your spouse is blind. (See Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR instructions PDF.) Taxable Amount of Social Security Benefits – When preparing your return, be especially careful when you calculate the taxable amount of your Social Security. Use the Social Security benefits worksheet found in the Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR instructions PDF, and then double-check it before you fill out your tax return. See Publication 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits PDF. Credit for the Elderly or Disabled – You must file using Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR to receive the Credit for the Elderly or Disabled. Be sure to apply for the Credit if you qualify; please read below for details. Who Can Take the Credit: The Credit is based on your age, filing status and income. You may be able to take the Credit if: Age: You and/or your spouse are either 65 years or older; or under age 65 years old and are permanently and totally disabled. AND Filing Status: Your income on Form 1040 line 38 is less than $17,500, $20,000 (married filing jointly and only one spouse qualifies), $25,000 (married filing jointly and both qualify), or $12,500 (married filing separately and lived apart from your spouse for the entire year). And, the non-taxable part of your Social Security or other nontaxable pensions, annuities or disability income is less than $5,000 (single, head of household, or qualifying widow/er with dependent child); $5,000 (married filing jointly and only one spouse qualifies); $7,500 (married filing jointly and both qualify); or $3,750 (married filing separately and lived apart from your spouse the entire year). Calculating the Credit: Use Schedule R (Form 1040 or 1040-SR), Credit for the Elderly or Disabled PDF, to figure the amount of the credit. See the instructions for Schedule R (Forms 1040 or 1040-SR) PDF if you want the IRS to figure this credit for you. Also see Publication 524, Credit for the Elderly or Disabled PDF or Publication 554, Tax Guide for Seniors PDF. Free IRS Tax Return Preparation – IRS-sponsored volunteer tax assistance programs offer free tax help to seniors and to low- to moderate-income people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Other helpful publications Publication 907, Tax Highlights for Persons with Disabilities PDF Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax PDF Publication 3966, Living and Working with Disabilities PDF
