Can I claim any deductions without itemizing my return?

Yes. Some deductions or adjustments (previously known as ‘above-the line’ deductions) allow you to lower your taxable income without having to itemize on your return.  

What are 'above-the-line' adjustments?  

Above-the-line deductions are specific adjustments to your gross income that you subtract to calculate your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).

Due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) there are additional above-the-line adjustments introduced for the 2025 tax year.

They include the following:

1. Senior Bonus Deduction - For tax years 2025-2028 taxpayers age 65 or older can claim a $6,000 bonus deduction regardless of whether you use the standard deduction or itemize. The deduction will start to phase out if modified AGI is over $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for MFJ filers. MFS filers are not eligible claim this deduction.
2. Deduction for Tax on Tips - Beginning with tax year 2025, up to $25,000 worth of tips can be deducted as an above-the-line deduction. This deduction cannot be claimed if income is greater than $150,000 for single filers or $300,000 for MFJ filers.
3. Overtime Pay Deduction - Starting in tax year 2025, up to $12,500 worth of overtime pay can be deducted per individual. If both the taxpayer and spouse receive overtime pay, up to $25,000 can be deducted.
4. Car Loan Interest Deduction - Up to $10,000 worth of interest paid on a personal use vehicle can be deducted as an above-the-line deduction starting in tax year 2025. The interest deduction only applies to car loans for new cars that had their final assembly in the US and must be made after December 31, 2024 for tax years 2025-2028 to qualify.

The following above-the-line deductions are still available from the previous years:

1. Self-employed Health Insurance 
2. 50% self-employment tax deduction 
3. Health Savings Account Contributions 
4. Retirement plan contributions  
5. Penalty on early withdrawal of savings (Certificate of Deposit) 
6. Student Loan Interest 
7. Alimony 
8. Moving Expenses (military personnel only)  
9. Educator Expenses
10. Certain business expenses of reservists, performing artists, and fee-based government officials