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A New Tax Break Could Save You Thousands! The Bonus Senior Deduction Explained for Retirees 65+

Are you a senior adult looking to save thousands on your taxes? The Big Beautiful Bill has introduced a significant tax change that you need to know about - the "senior bonus deduction" or enhanced senior deduction. With proper planning, there's still time to take full advantage of this opportunity.

Understanding the Enhanced Senior Deduction

Here are the key points you need to know:

  • Eligibility: You must be 65 or older by December 31, 2025.
  • Deduction Amount: Up to $6,000 for individuals and $12,000 for married couples (when both spouses are 65+).
  • Income Limits: The deduction phases out for Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) above $75,000 for singles and $150,000 for married couples filing jointly. It completely phases out at MAGI of $175,000 and $250,000, respectively.

How It Works

For married couples 65+ with qualifying income in the 2025 tax year, you could potentially claim:

$30,000 standard deduction + $3,200 regular senior deduction + $12,000 enhanced senior deduction. That's a total deduction of $45,200!

Watch our YouTube video to see a case study.


Can You Claim the Enhanced Senior Deduction If You Itemize?

Good news! Even if you itemize deductions, you might still benefit from the new senior bonus deduction. Unlike the normal senior standard deduction, this enhanced deduction is available regardless of whether you take the standard deduction or itemize.

Did the Big Beautiful Bill Eliminate Taxes on Social Security?

While the Big Beautiful Bill doesn't eliminate taxes on Social Security, this new deduction might effectively reduce how much of your Social Security income is subject to tax.

Recommendations to Maximize the Enhanced Senior Deduction

  • Do an income tax projection for 2025 and future years.
  • Review and analyze your income to manage your MAGI effectively.
  • Consider adjusting your income sources to stay within the threshold range for the enhanced senior deduction. 

 At Ark Royal Wealth Management, we specialize in helping our clients navigate these complex tax situations. We do all the heavy lifting when it comes to tax planning, ensuring you save as much money as possible.Remember, if you're 65+ and unsure about how to pay less in tax under the Big Beautiful Bill, we offer complimentary consultations. Don't leave money on the table - take advantage of this new tax provision and potentially save thousands on your taxes!