MAGI guide for the senior deduction
This page is deliberately practical. The IRS phase-out is based on MAGI, but many simple returns start from the same place: Form 1040 line 11 for AGI.
A safe way to think about it
- Start with AGI on Form 1040 line 11.
- Ask whether your return has special exclusions or adjustments that make MAGI different from AGI.
- Use tax software or the Schedule 1-A instructions to confirm the final MAGI before relying on the deduction amount.
For many straightforward returns, MAGI may be close to AGI. The risk is assuming that is always true. If your return includes special exclusions, foreign-income issues, or other non-routine adjustments, verify the IRS worksheet rather than guessing.
This page is meant to keep users from over-trusting a rough estimate.
Why MAGI matters here
- Single and head-of-household filers begin phasing out above $75,000.
- Married filing jointly begins phasing out above $150,000.
- The deduction shrinks by 6 cents for each dollar above the threshold until it reaches zero.
Two simple examples
Single filer, MAGI $100,000: that is $25,000 above the threshold. At 6%, the deduction is reduced by $1,500, leaving an estimated $4,500 deduction.
Married filing jointly, one eligible spouse, MAGI $180,000: that is $30,000 above the joint threshold. A $6,000 base deduction is reduced by $1,800, leaving an estimated $4,200 deduction.
Do not confuse the deduction amount with tax savings. A $6,000 deduction does not mean a $6,000 refund. The tax effect depends on your return, bracket, credits, and withholding.