Does being over 65 change my filing from single?

[vagabond_bill]

Does my filing status change from single if I am over 65?

[DoninGA]

No, your status does not change just because your are age 65 or older.  The amount you receive as a Standard Deduction for your filing status increases.

Standard deductions for 2024

Single - $14,600 add $1,850 if age 65 or older
Married Filing Separately - $14,600 add $1,550 if age 65 or older
Married Filing Jointly - $29,200 add $1,550 for each spouse age 65 or older
Head of Household - $21,900 add $1,950 if age 65 or older

[xmasbaby0]

No.   But if you are 65 or older you get a higher standard deduction.

The standard deduction makes some of your income “tax free.”  It is not a refund.  You will see your standard or itemized deduction amount on line 12 of your 2024 Form 1040.

2024 STANDARD DEDUCTION AMOUNTS

SINGLE $14,600    (65 or older/legally blind + $1950)

MARRIED FILING SEPARATELY            $14,600    (65 or older/legally blind + $1550)

MARRIED FILING JOINTLY $29,200    (65 or older/legally blind + $1550)

HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD $21,900    (65 or older/legally blind + $1950)

And...if you print your return it will print out on Form 1040SR.   Form 1040SR and Form 1040 are identical, but the 1040SR has bigger print.   The calculations and lines on the forms are exactly the same.