
Tax season might not be your favorite time of year, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. With some know-how, you can turn it into an opportunity to keep more of your hard-earned money. These 10 deductions let you save without the need for itemization.
Claim The Educator Expense Deduction

Eligible educators can deduct up to $300 annually for out-of-pocket classroom expenses such as supplies, technology, and professional development. This benefit applies even if you use the standard deduction. Retain receipts and detailed records to substantiate these expenses during a potential audit.
Deduct Contributions To Retirement Accounts

Contributing to a traditional IRA can reduce taxable income by thousands annually. For 2025, contribution limits are $7,000 (or $8,000 if you’re over 50). These pre-tax savings lower your tax liability while building long-term wealth for retirement and potentially qualifying you for other tax credits.
Use The Student Loan Interest Deduction

Paying off student loans? In 2024 and 2025, you may deduct up to $2,500 in annual interest payments, reducing your adjusted gross income. Even borrowers in repayment or deferment might qualify. Check Form 1098-E from your loan servicer to confirm the amount of interest paid during the year.
Benefit From The Earned Income Tax Credit

Low- to moderate-income individuals may qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), offering a helpful financial boost. The credit amount is determined by income and the number of qualifying children. To check your eligibility, use the IRS EITC Assistant online, which considers income and filing status.
Take The Recovery Rebate Credit

You can deduct cash donations up to $300 or $600 for joint filers without itemizing. Even small contributions can add up. Be sure to keep receipts or bank statements as proof, and verify that the charity is IRS-approved by checking its status on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.
Claim The Charitable Giving Deduction

You can deduct cash donations up to $300 or $600 for joint filers without itemizing. Even small contributions can add up. Be sure to keep receipts or bank statements as proof, and verify that the charity is IRS-approved by checking its status on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.
Use The Deduction For Self-Employment Tax

If you’re self-employed, claim half of your self-employment tax as a deduction. This reduces taxable income and offsets the extra burden of paying employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Review Schedule SE (Form 1040) to calculate this deduction accurately.
Apply For The Child Tax Credit

Parents with qualifying children under 17 can claim up to $2,000 per child, with up to $1,700 refundable in 2025. This credit directly reduces tax liability and increases refunds for eligible families. However, ensure your income falls within the thresholds, and each child has a valid Social Security number.
Claim The Saver’s Credit

The Saver’s Credit rewards eligible low-to-moderate-income taxpayers for contributing to retirement accounts like 401(k), 403(b), or IRA. Depending on the status of your income and filing, you can receive a credit of up to $1,000 ($2,000 for joint filers). This incentive encourages building long-term financial security.
Include The Standard Deduction For Dependents

Dependents who work can benefit from this overlooked deduction. In 2025, it allows dependents to claim either more than $1,350 or the sum of their earned income plus $450, whichever is lower than the standard deduction amount for the year. To ensure they claim the correct deduction, it’s important to keep thorough records of earned income.