I added up all of my itemized deduction items and got a total of $17,620 but Turbo Tax recommended to use the standard deduction of $12,000 on the tax return. Why?

[yvonnehuynhle]

Choosing the standard deduction for 2018 tax return filing per TurboTax lead to a tax payment due IRS.  The itemized deduction amount is similar to 2017 tax return.  Why is the difference?

[SweetieJean · Accepted solution]

Not all deductions (such as Medical) count at 100%. 

State/Local/Sales/Property taxes are capped at $10,000 combined.

Mortgage interest now has limits, but be sure you indicated that the mortgage is secured by the property.

Charitable is limited to a percent of your income.