My tax credits & deductions TT page totaled over $18k, but at the end the TT total said it was less than the standard of $13k so the standard ded. would apply. Why?

[Coleen3 · Accepted solution]

There is a 7.5% of AGI floor for medical expenses so much of it may not have counted. There are new limits on mortgage interest and the SALT deductions with the 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)

[neldred]

My medical expenses were way over the 7.5\5 for medical.  And I am way under the limits for SALT and for morgage interest, so this did not answer my question.   However are you saying that the first 7.5% of AGI for medical expense cannot count?

[Zbucklyo]

That is correct.  Only the amount in excess of 7.5% of your AGI counts toward your itemized deductions.

[neldred]

Ok, reconfiguring, I would still have $17k of deductions.  Are charitable deductions (money) still at 100% deductible.  I would be way under any ceiling I am sure!  Thanks so much for your help.

[Zbucklyo]

Charitable contributions of cash are deductible up to 60% of your AGI; the excess can be carried over to next year. Donations of appreciated assets are deductible up to 30% of AGI.

[neldred]

Ok, I looked up every category of deduction and I qualify for all the new limits and ceilings.  I still come up with $17k in deductions, and TT says it is $13k.   How can I talk to someone at TT?

[Zbucklyo]

Just to make sure, you aren't including unreimbursed employee business expenses or business expenses in general in your total?  

[neldred]

I am not including business expenses....these are all personal deductions.

[Zbucklyo]

800-446-8848