How to File Income Tax Deductions

You must use form 1040 to itemize your deductions.

The Internal Revenue Service allows you to use income tax deductions to reduce your taxable income when you file your taxes. Income tax deductions fall into two categories: itemized deductions and adjustments to income. Adjustments to income can be claimed on top of your standard deduction. Itemized deductions are claimed instead of your standard deduction. To file the deductions, you will need to make sure you use the right tax form.

Things You'll Need

• Form 1040 or 1040A

Instructions

1. File your taxes using form 1040 if you are claiming itemized deductions such as mortgage interest, gifts to charity, or medical expenses. You can find a complete list of itemized deductions on the IRS website (see Resources).

2. Choose to use form 1040A for your taxes only if you are claiming deductions for traditional IRA contributions, student loan interest, educator expenses, or tuition and fees. If you are claiming any other adjustments to income, you must file form 1040.

3. Report your adjustments to income on your taxes in the "Adjusted Gross Income" section of your tax return on the appropriate line. Report your itemized deductions on Schedule A on the appropriate line. These will be totaled and subtracted from your taxable income.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep records that support all of your deductions. You do not need to send this in with your tax return. However, if your return is audited, you may be required to document all of your deductions.

References

• IRS: Topic 352 - Which Form -- 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ?
• IRS: Topic 500 - Itemized Deductions
• IRS: Topic 450 - Adjustments to Income

Resources

• IRS: Form 1040
• IRS: Form 1040A
• IRS: Schedule A