Seniors 65+
Taxes for seniors 65 and older
Retired or still working? New rules give many seniors a bigger deduction for 2025 to 2028. We make sure you get every dollar — and we treat you like family.
New: an extra $6,000 deduction
For tax years 2025 through 2028, each person 65 or older can take an extra deduction of up to $6,000 ($12,000 for a married couple when both are 65+). You don't need to itemize. It goes down above $75,000 of income ($150,000 for couples filing jointly). A valid Social Security number is needed, and married couples must file jointly.
Social Security, pensions and IRAs
- Up to 85% of Social Security can be taxed federally, depending on your other income. New York State does not tax Social Security.
- New York lets people 59½ and older exclude up to $20,000 of private pension, annuity and IRA income. Government pensions (New York and federal) are not taxed by New York.
- From age 73, most people must take a yearly required minimum distribution from IRAs and 401(k)s. Missing it can cost a penalty — we help you plan it.
Credits seniors often miss
- New York real property tax credit (IT-214) — for lower-income renters and homeowners. You may be able to claim it even if you don't have to file.
- Credit for the elderly or disabled, for some lower-income seniors
- Medical expenses, if you itemize
Do I still need to file?
Many seniors with only Social Security don't have to file — but filing can still get you money back from withholding or New York credits. Bring your SSA-1099 and 1099-R: we check for free.
The TEMA Pass for seniors and veterans
Seniors 65+ & Veterans — 10% off + the TEMA Pass
File your personal return with us and choose one free perk: up to 5 faxes · up to 10 copies or prints · up to 3 bill payments with no service fee · up to 20 pages scanned and emailed.
How you earn it — the 10% discount applies to personal returns completed between January 2 and March 31, 2027.
How you use it — choose your perk any time through December 31, 2027.
One pass per person each tax season. Show ID: age 65 or over, or a DD-214, VA card or military ID. One discount per return, individual returns only. Not transferable, no cash value. Not connected to buying any insurance or other product. We may change or end this offer at any time. The price on your signed Estimate of All Fees is the price you pay. Senior guide →
What to bring
- SSA-1099 (Social Security) and 1099-R (pensions, IRAs)
- Last year's tax return
- Rent or property tax amounts paid, for New York credits
- Any letters from the IRS or New York State
Questions
Is Social Security taxable?
Federally, up to 85% may be taxable depending on your total income. New York State does not tax Social Security.
Who gets the new $6,000 senior deduction?
Each person 65 or older by the end of the tax year, with a valid Social Security number, for 2025 through 2028. It phases out above $75,000 of income ($150,000 joint), and married couples must file jointly.
What is the TEMA Pass?
When you are 65+ (or a veteran) and file your personal return with us, you get 10% off returns completed between January 2 and March 31, 2027, and you choose one free perk to use any time through December 31, 2027: up to 5 faxes, up to 10 copies, up to 3 bill payments with no service fee, or up to 20 pages scanned and emailed.
Can my children come with me?
Yes. Family members are welcome to sit with you. We explain everything in English, French or some African languages.
I can't come to the office. Can you still help?
Yes. A family member can drop off your papers, or use our secure client portal, and we review your return with you by phone.
Questions? Talk to us — the first conversation is free
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General information, not tax advice for your situation. Rules and limits apply.