Does claiming head of house hold vs single create owing more money on tax returns?

[VolvoGirl]

It shouldn't.  Head of Household has a  higher Standard Deduction than Single so the tax should be less.  

[xmasbaby0]

A higher standard deduction means more of your income is "tax free"---so you pay less tax if you file HOH than if you file Single.    In order to file HOH you must have a qualifying dependent.

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)