IRS Releases 2026 Tax Brackets and Standard Deductions, Seniors Get Extra $6,000

IRS releases 2026 tax brackets and standard deductions; seniors can claim an extra $6,000 deduction to reduce taxable income.

iShook Opinion

Oct 9, 2025 - 11:49

IRS Releases 2026 Tax Brackets and Standard Deductions

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released the federal income tax brackets and standard deductions for the 2026 tax year, reflecting adjustments for inflation. These changes are part of the government's efforts to prevent "bracket creep," where inflation pushes taxpayers into higher tax brackets, potentially increasing their tax liabilities.

Updated Tax Brackets for 2026

The IRS has adjusted the income thresholds for the seven federal tax brackets to account for inflation. For the 2026 tax year, the brackets are as follows:

IRS 2026 Tax Brackets & Standard Deductions

Filing Status	Standard Deduction	10%	12%	22%	24%	32%	35%	37%
Single	$16,100	up to $12,400	$12,401–$50,400	$50,401–$100,800	$100,801–$200,000	$200,001–$400,000	$400,001–$600,000	over $600,000
Married Filing Jointly	$32,200	up to $24,800	$24,801–$100,800	$100,801–$201,600	$201,601–$400,000	$400,001–$800,000	$800,001–$1,200,000	over $1,200,000
Head of Household	$24,150	up to $18,700	$18,701–$75,300	$75,301–$151,500	$151,501–$200,000	$200,001–$500,000	$500,001–$500,000	over $500,000

Seniors 65+ may claim an additional deduction up to $6,000 depending on income limits.

These adjustments ensure that taxpayers' incomes are taxed at the same rates as in previous years, despite inflation.

Standard Deductions for 2026

The standard deduction amounts for 2026 are:

Single filers: $16,100
Married couples filing jointly: $32,200
Heads of household: $24,150

These increases from the 2025 figures (single: $15,750; married filing jointly: $31,500; head of household: $23,625) are designed to reduce taxable income and, consequently, tax liabilities for many taxpayers.

Senior Tax Relief Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

A notable provision in the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides additional tax relief for seniors. Individuals aged 65 and older can claim an extra $6,000 deduction, available from 2025 through 2028. This deduction is in addition to the standard deduction and phases out for single filers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) over $75,000 and for married couples filing jointly with an AGI over $150,000. The deduction is available whether taxpayers choose the standard or itemized deductions.

Impact of the Government Shutdown on IRS Operations

Despite the ongoing government shutdown, the IRS has continued to release these updates. However, the shutdown has led to an agency-wide furlough beginning October 8. Taxpayers with an October 15 extension deadline are advised to submit their returns as planned, as the lapse in appropriations does not change federal income tax responsibilities.

How the 2026 IRS Changes Affect Taxpayers

The updated 2026 tax brackets and higher standard deductions mean many Americans will reach higher income thresholds before moving into a higher tax rate. Married couples filing jointly can claim $32,200, heads of household $24,150, and single filers $16,100. Seniors aged 65 and older may qualify for an extra deduction of up to $6,000 if their income meets the eligibility limits.

These adjustments can reduce taxable income for families and individuals, helping to manage tax payments more efficiently. Taxpayers should review their 2026 income and deductions in advance and adjust withholding or estimated payments accordingly. Consulting a tax professional can help optimize deductions and plan for any additional tax benefits.

Also Read: New 401(k) Rule 2026: High Earners Face Roth-Only Catch-Up