What form do you recommend for taking the standard deduction and not itemizing my deductions?

[bobcleminson36]

I'm 83 yrs old and understand that I'm entitled to a higher standard deduction!

[Rachel_W · Accepted solution]

Yes, you are correct, taxpayers over the age of 65 can add an additional $1,300 to their Standard Deduction.  

Due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) that Congress signed into law on December 22, 2017, there are no longer any "short" forms. Starting in 2018, everyone uses the same Form 1040, which also includes new Schedules 1 thru 6.  So there is no choice for you to make about which form to use any longer.

In addition, the Standard Deduction has been increased to the following amounts based on your filing status: (add $1,300 for age 65 or older)

• Single/Married File Separate- $12,000
• Head of Household- $18,000
• Married Filing Joint- $24,000