Taxpayers aged 65+ may qualify for a temporary “senior bonus” deduction from 2025 to 2028, but experts say guidance is key.
Cathedral City, Calif., 21 January 2026 – Tax season can feel confusing for many Americans, but for seniors, it often feels even more stressful. This year, taxpayers aged 65 and older have something new to pay attention to: a temporary $6,000 “senior bonus” deduction. For married couples, that amount can increase to $12,000.
According to reports from Cathedral City, California, the new deduction will be available for tax years 2025 through 2028. While the benefit could help many older adults lower their taxable income, experts say it’s important to stay informed because tax rules change almost every year.
Why this new senior deduction matters
For many retirees and older adults living on fixed incomes, any tax relief can make a real difference. A deduction like this could reduce how much income is taxed, which may lead to a smaller tax bill or a larger refund, depending on each person’s financial situation.
But understanding how to claim it and whether you qualify can be tricky, especially for seniors who may not file taxes regularly or who rely on basic tax software without extra support.
Seniors say tax changes can be stressful.
The Cathedral City Senior Center says that many older taxpayers struggle to keep up with new rules and updates.
Geoff Corbin, CEO of the Cathedral City Senior Center, shared that seniors often feel nervous because tax laws keep changing, and they may not know what benefits they can claim. For some, the fear of making a mistake is enough to delay filing or avoid asking questions, leading them to miss out on money-saving opportunities.
Experts advise: get professional help.
Independent financial advisor Simon Hobbs recommends working with a certified public accountant (CPA). A professional can help seniors understand new deductions, avoid errors, and ensure they don’t miss out on valuable tax benefits.
This advice is especially important because the IRS has previously reported that millions of people qualify for tax benefits but never claim them. In fact, the IRS says that in 2021, around nine million people were eligible for tax benefits but didn’t take advantage of them.
A simple reminder for seniors and families
If you or a family member is 65 or older, this filing season is a smart time to review your deductions carefully. The new “senior bonus” deduction could be helpful, but only if it’s correctly claimed.
Whether you file on your own or with assistance, staying updated on tax changes can help you save money, reduce stress, and feel more confident during tax season.
