Why does TurboTax not allow me to itemize deductions when I am entitled to do so?

Please read this TurboTax FAQ for additional information on "How do I change from the standard deduction to itemized (or vice-versa)?": How do I change from the standard deduction to itemized (or vice-versa)?

I am having the same issue.

If your itemized deductions are greater than the Standard Deduction, TurboTax will automatically use the itemized deductions on your Schedule A. 

 

Some deductions are subject to limitations, so this could have changed what was the most beneficial deduction in your tax situation. 

 

If you need to review your deductions or force the use of Itemized Deductions, please follow the steps below: 

1. Open your return.
2. Click on Tax Tools on the left hand side.
3. Click on Tools.
4. Click Topic Search. 
5. Search "itemized deductions, choosing"
6. Click on Change my deduction.
7. Choose Itemized Deductions under Which deduction do you want to take this year? 

 

@investtoo

So -- having the same issue -- I've followed the instructions and I've selected Change my Deduction when prompted and it shows me my itemized deduction would result in a higher refund...I select that option but it keeps the standard deduction 

Are you filing Married Filing Separate? If so, the program would have asked if your spouse was Itemizing or taking the Standard Deduction. If you selected Standard, you must take the Standard Deduction as well. 

 

When filing Married Filing Separate both filers must choose the same method. Either both Itemize or both take the Standard Deduction. 

 

Is this the situation you're in? 

I am MFS and want to pick Standard deduction even though it's lower than the Itemized deduction amount. For Federal, upon answering TT the question and I am able to get it pick Standard deduction. But for CA state, its still picking up Itemized deduction. How do I get TT to pick Standard deduction for state?

 

Both me and my wife need to take standard deduction.

A simple way to get the standard deduction for California would be to go back to the Federal return and remove enough itemizable deductions to bring the total below the standard deduction for California MFS (for Single or married/Registered Domestic Partner (RDP) filing separately, it is $5,363 for 2023).

 

Confirm that you didn't indicate anywhere in TurboTax that your spouse itemizes their deductions. If you are married but file taxes separately and your spouse itemizes deductions on their return, then you can't claim the Standard Deduction.