For 2025, the BBB increases the standard deduction to $15,750. If you are finding that you are not able to itemize even with the carryover and other deductions such as State and Local taxes, you would be able to qualify for the $1,000 charitable contribution above the line. The above-the-line charitable contribution deduction applies to contributions made in the current year first and then any carryover amounts from the prior years.
Since you carryover is close to the itemized deduction amount, you may have other deductions such as State and Local taxes, State income taxes, real estate taxes and taxes on personal property plus mortgage interest which may exceed the standard deduction and allow you to itemized.
When using TurboTax, the software will always evaluate which is the better option for you to maximize your deduction.
How Does Your Charitable Giving Measure Up?
