Itemized Deductions

Full explanation

Instead of taking the standard deduction, you can itemize (list individually) certain expenses on Schedule A. Common itemized deductions include: state and local taxes (SALT, capped at $10,000), mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and medical expenses exceeding 7.5% of AGI. Since the 2018 tax reform raised the standard deduction significantly, only about 11% of taxpayers itemize. It only makes sense if your itemizable expenses exceed the standard deduction ($16,100 single, $32,200 married filing jointly for 2026).

Source: IRS Publication 17 — Itemized Deductions