Q. so in total i would only have to pay like $90? since i wont technically be taxed on the full 15.5k amount?
A. Yes.
$15, 500 - $14,600 (standard deduction) = $900 taxable income. All in the 10% tax bracket.
If you use the loop hole, $19,500 - 14,600 = $4900 taxable income, $1100 at 10%, the rest at 12%.
