It seemed I had more charitable deductions this year than last but they don't show up on my tax form, why is that?

[spicermc]

I just don't understand why this years deductions are not used in my taxes like they were last year, even though this year I have more deductions. Please explain?

[jerry2000 · Accepted solution]

Charitable contributions are an itemized deduction. You get no tax benefit from itemized deductions until all of them together add up to be more than your standard deduction.
2016 Standard Deduction
Taxpayer under 65, not claimed as a dependent
$6,300 for Single
$12,600 for Married Filing Jointly, or Qualifying Widow(er) with dependent child
$9,300 for Head of Household
$6,300 for Married Filing Separately
For over 65 or blind, add $1,250 for each instance or add
$1,550 each instance if single and not a surviving spouse.