What is the standard deduction for a 75 yr old widow this year??

If your spouse passed away in 2024 you can file a joint return for 2024.   If you lost your spouse in an earlier year, the reply below applies.

If you do not have a qualifying child that you are claiming as a dependent, you file as Single.

The standard deduction makes some of your income “tax free.”  It is not a refund.  You will see your standard or itemized deduction amount on line 12 of your 2024 Form 1040.

2024 STANDARD DEDUCTION AMOUNTS

SINGLE $14,600    (65 or older/legally blind + $1950)

MARRIED FILING SEPARATELY            $14,600    (65 or older/legally blind + $1550)

MARRIED FILING JOINTLY $29,200    (65 or older/legally blind + $1550)

HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD $21,900    (65 or older/legally blind + $1950)

For 2024 (tax returns typically filed by April 2025), the standard deduction amounts are $14,600 for single and for those who are married, filing separately; $29,200 for those married filing jointly and qualified widowers; and $21,900 for head of household.

For 2024, the additional standard deduction if you are over age 65 is $1,950.

The married filing jointly and qualifying widow(er) statuses have the same applicable tax rates and tax brackets. They also have the same standard deduction, which is higher than that for other tax statuses.

Click here for Publication 554 (2024), Tax Guide for Seniors