Comparison
Standard Deduction vs Itemising in 2026
Add your SALT (capped), mortgage interest, donations and qualifying medical costs. Itemise only if the total clears your standard deduction — and remember the four new deductions apply either way.
Option A
Standard deduction
In favour
- No records or receipts required
- Higher than it has ever been
- The four new Schedule 1-A deductions apply anyway
- Far faster to file
Against
- Ignores large real deductible expenses
- Homeowners in high-tax states often lose out
vs
Option B
Itemising
In favour
- SALT cap rose to $40,000
- Captures mortgage interest, property tax and donations
- PMI is deductible again
Against
- Only the amount above the standard deduction is worth anything
- Requires documentation for every line
- SALT cap phases down above $500,000 of income
Settle it
SALT Deduction Cap Calculator
SALT allowed = min(state tax + property tax, $40,000 cap) · cap reduces by 30% of MAGI above $500,000
Estimates, not advice. Every figure here is produced from the inputs you enter and the formula printed on the page. Rules differ by state, carrier, lender and contract, so use these numbers to prepare for a conversation with a qualified professional rather than to replace one. See our full disclaimer.