How to force Turbo Tax to use itemized deductions--instructions not applicable

[Zeynep]

TurboTax is using standard deductions when the itemized deductions are greater.  The instructions for how to choose to use itemized (at https://ttlc.intuit.com/turbotax-support/en-us/help-article/tax-credits-deductions/change-standard-d...) do not apply once you have gone through the step by step process.

Can someone describe how to do it after you have gone through the step-by-step process and TurboTax has decided already to use the standard deduction?

Thanks!

[JohnB5677]

That is unusual.  It is uncommon that TurboTax will make the wrong calculation on the Standard vs. Itemized Deduction issue.

The link that you gave is correct, and does provide the opportunity to change your deduction status. 

If you have the desktop version:

Log into TurboTax

1. Under PERSONAL
2. Select Deductions and credits
3. I'll chose what I work on
4. Scroll to the bottom of the Deduction list
5. Click Done with Deductions
6. Continue through the interview to Change my Deduction
7. Change if you wish.

If you're Online

1. Log into TurboTax
2. Under Federal
3. Select Deductions & Credits
4. Scroll to the bottom of the Deduction list
5. Click Done with Deductions
6. Continue through the interview to Change my Deduction
7. Change if you wish.

To explain why TurboTax did select the current option.

There have been many changes to the Itemized deduction limitations.  

So, it my look like you should be getting Itemized deductions based on the raw numbers,  but after crunching the numbers it may not be the best choice for you.

Here are some of the limitations to Itemized deductions

• Medical expenses: You can only deduct the amount of your medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your AGI.
• Mortgage Interest:  You can deduct the interest you paid during the tax year on the first $750,000 of your mortgage debt for your primary home or a second home. If you are married filing separately, the limit drops to $375,000.
• Local Taxes: Your deduction of state and local income tax, general sales, and property taxes is limited to a combined total deduction of $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately).
• Business expenses for employees is no longer allowed.
• There may be other limitations that are not listed.
• Finally, the total of all deductions must be greater than the Standard deduction.

The standard deduction amounts for 2023 are:

• $27,700 – Married Filing Jointly or Qualifying Surviving Spouse 
• $20,800 – Head of Household
• $13,850 – Single or Married Filing Separately

For 2023, the additional standard deduction amounts for taxpayers who are 65 and older or blind are:

• $1,850 for Single or Head of Household
• $1,500 for married taxpayers or Qualifying Surviving Spouse

You can also see: How do I change from the standard deduction to itemized (or vice-versa)?

Please contact us again with any additional questions.

Edited 03/25/2024 [1.:50 AM PST]

@Zeynep