On page 3-7(Textbook info: South-Western, Federal Taxation 2018: Comprehensive,

Question

On page 3-7(Textbook info: South-Western, Federal Taxation 2018: Comprehensive, you do not have to cite the text), the text notes that individuals are allowed “additional standard deductions” if they are age 65 or older or if they are blind. On page 3-9, the text notes that the amount of a taxpayer’s basic standard deduction may be reduced if the taxpayer may be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s return.

What are the rules for determining if an individual is 65 or older for purposes of claiming an additional standard deduction on his or her calendar 2017 return?

What are the rules for determining whether an individual is blind for purposes of claiming an additional standard deduction on his or her calendar 2017 return?

If an individual can be claimed as a dependent on another person’s return, what reductions must be made to the amounts of his or her additional standard deductions for being age 65 or older or for being blind?

Please answer each question in complete sentences, and cite the title and number of the IRS publication or form or instruction where you found each answer, and the page number on which the answer is found. Use your own words in the answer – do not copy the IRS’ language. Spelling and grammar count.

Unfortunately, references from IRS publications need to be found on our own!

Explanation / Answer

1. Rules for determining if an individual is 65 or older

Tax Payers who are 65 or above get an additional deduction to their standard deduction.

You don't itemize your deductions

An individual can have two standard deductions for : above 65 years of age and Blindness

Two individuals filing jointly can thus have 4 standard deductions

You are considered of 65 year old a day before your 65th Burthdat

2. Rules for determining if an individual is blind

If you are blind on the last day of the year and don't itemize the deductions

If not totally blind then a certified statement from doctor stating :

a. Claimant can't see better than 20/200 with lenses or glasses , or

b. Field vision is 20 degrees or less

If claimant's eye condition cannot be improved this fact has to be included in the statement by doctor.

If vision can be improved by the above limits by use of contacts but can wear only briefly then claim for a standard deduction is allowed

3. If an Individual can be claimed as an dependent on other person return, what amount reduction to be made for being 65 or older/blind

The greater of

a. $1050 or

b. income plus $350

If the spouse is lower than 65 years of age and individual is dependent and above 65 years/blind

They cannot file a joint return with their spouse

The spouse cannot file for itemize deductions

Criteria : YOU ; Born Before January 2, 1953 O Blind O

Criteria YOUR SPOUSE: Born Before January 2, 1953 O Blind O

If married : multiply 1250 by the number of circles checked

If unmarried : Multiply $1550 by the number of circles checked

Reference : Publication 17(2017) , Your Federal Income Tax

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