One of the most important decisions you’ll make when filing your taxes is whether to take the standard deduction or itemize. The right choice can mean the difference between overpaying and keeping more of your hard-earned money.
For individuals in Rockwall, Sachse, Lavon, and Heath, this decision is highly dependent on your income, expenses, and filing status. At Brozewicz CPA, we help clients assess both options and choose the one that results in the lowest tax bill. View the next post.
What Is the Standard Deduction?
The IRS offers a flat reduction in taxable income called the standard deduction. For 2025 returns filed in 2026, the standard deduction amounts are:
- $14,000 for single filers
- $28,000 for married filing jointly
- $20,800 for heads of household
If your itemized expenses don’t exceed these amounts, the standard deduction is the better choice.
When Should You Itemize?
You should consider itemizing if your deductible expenses exceed the standard deduction. Common itemizable deductions include:
- Mortgage interest
- State and local property taxes (up to $10,000 SALT cap)
- Charitable donations
- Significant medical expenses (exceeding 7.5% of AGI)
- Casualty and theft losses in federally declared disaster areas
In cities like Sachse or Lavon where property taxes can be higher, homeowners may benefit from itemizing.
Common Scenarios in Rockwall County
- New Homeowners in Heath – If you purchased a home in 2025 and paid mortgage interest and property taxes, you may cross the itemization threshold.
- High Charitable Givers in Rowlett – If you made substantial donations, including non-cash items, itemizing may provide greater savings.
- Medical Events – A surgery, dental work, or major healthcare costs can tip the scale toward itemization, especially for retirees on a fixed income.
CPA Strategy: Run Both Scenarios
At Brozewicz CPA, we run both the itemized and standard scenarios to determine which benefits you most. We also ensure your documentation is ready in case of an IRS review—especially important if you’re near the threshold or your deductions may vary next year. Discover this article.
Local Expertise Matters
Texas does not have a state income tax, but Rockwall County property taxes can significantly affect your federal return. A local CPA understands the local tax landscape and how it interacts with federal guidelines.
To learn more about how we help Rockwall County residents file with confidence, explore our guide on individual tax filing guidance in Rockwall TX.
Final Advice
If you’re not sure which deduction path is best, don’t guess. Let a CPA walk you through both sides of the equation and make sure your tax filing is as financially efficient as possible.
