In order for your church donations and tithes to benefit you on your 2025 tax return, you would have to itemize your deductions. This would mean that your qualified mortgage interest, medical expenses more than 7.5% of your AGI, state income tax / property taxes would have to add up to more than your standard deduction.
Standard deductions for 2025:
Married Filing Jointly / Qualifying Surviving Spouse: $31,500
Head of Household: $23,625
Single / Married Filing Separately: $15,750
Seniors/Blind Taxpayers: Individuals who are 65 or older or blind can claim an additional standard deduction amount, which is added to the base amount listed above.
Enhanced Senior Deduction: A new, enhanced deduction for seniors aged 65+ may apply, offering an additional $6,000 ($12,000 MFJ) deduction effective 2025–2028.
However, beginning in 2026, a new non-itemizer deduction is available. Individuals taking the standard deduction can deduct up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (married filing jointly) for cash contributions to qualified charities.
