Why did Turbotax select standard deduction when itemized deductions are much higher?

[davidocavan]

My itemized deductions listed on Trubotax software are significantly higher than the standard $22700 standard deduction.  Why were the itemized deductions not used in calculating taxes due?

[CarolynM]

If this was not helpful, please let me know what information I can provide that will be. I also noticed that you believe the standard deduction is $22,700. The standard deduction for married filers is $24,000

[davidocavan]

Sorry, the standard deduction I received is $26600.  Note that on the page that lists deductions and credits that contributions, medical/dental, mortgage interest, state and local taxes and real estate taxes ALL show $0 when all of these categories in 2017 included deductions.  Why the difference?  What were these allocate $0 for 2018?

[CarolynM]

Then it appears your entries were not saved. You may need to re-enter to ensure the program can determine which is the best option for you.

[davidocavan]

On my 2018 "your 2018 deductions and credits" page, the total deductions and credits add to $51,630

[davidocavan]

Hello Carolyn ..... Just want to know if you're seen my additional content?

[CarolynM]

Again, I refer to the limits on certain itemized deductions. I don't have access to your tax return to know if the $51,620 includes your total of state/local taxes paid. I don't know if your medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your AGI, which is required for the deduction to count.

[SweetieJean]

1.  Medical does not count at 100%.
2.  Charitable is limited to a percent of your income.
3.  State/Local/Sales/Property taxes are capped at $10,000 total.
4.  If claiming Mortgage Interest, be sure to indicate that the mortgage is secured by the property.

[CarolynM]

If your itemized deductions include state/local/property taxes, the standard deduction is likely higher.

Under the new tax laws, state/local/property taxes are capped at a $10,000 deduction, regardless of how much you actually paid.

The itemized deduction for job related expenses has also been eliminated at the federal level.

These are the likely reasons the program chose the standard deduction for you.

For more information, follow this link: Should You Itemize