If you\’re preparing to file your taxes, understanding tax deductions in 2025 could mean the difference between a big refund—or a painful bill. With updated IRS rules and cost-of-living adjustments, now’s the time to brush up on the latest changes.
Let’s explore 9 essential tax deductions for 2025 that U.S. taxpayers should know.

1. 🏡 Home Office Deduction
Work remotely or run a small business from home? You may be eligible for a home office deduction if a portion of your home is used exclusively for work.
The IRS simplified method allows $5 per square foot, up to 300 square feet.
🔗 Internal Link: See our remote work tax checklist
2. 📚 Student Loan Interest
You can deduct up to $2,500 in student loan interest—even if you don’t itemize. Just make sure your modified AGI is under $90,000 ($180,000 for joint filers).
Always double-check with IRS Pub 970 for updates.
3. 🚗 Mileage and Vehicle Use
Drive for business, charity, or medical appointments? You can deduct mileage:
- Business: 67 cents/mile
- Medical/Moving: 21 cents/mile
- Charity: 14 cents/mile
Track your miles with apps like Stride or MileIQ.
4. 💳 Charitable Contributions
Even if you don’t itemize, you may be able to claim up to $300 in cash donations to IRS-approved charities.
Always keep donation receipts and make sure the organization is listed on IRS Tax Exempt Search.
5. 🏥 Medical Expenses
If unreimbursed medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your AGI, you can deduct them. This includes surgeries, prescriptions, and even some dental and vision costs.
6. 🧾 State and Local Taxes (SALT Deduction)
You can deduct up to $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately) in state income, property, and sales taxes. This deduction can be powerful for those in high-tax states like California or New York.
7. 🧠 Educator Expenses
Teachers can deduct up to $300 in classroom-related expenses. Married educators filing jointly? That doubles to $600 if both spouses qualify.
🧠 Tip: Don’t forget supplies, books, software, and even PPE.
8. 🏢 Self-Employment Deductions
If you\’re a freelancer or gig worker, don’t miss these deductions:
- Business supplies
- Internet and phone
- Advertising
- Self-employment tax deduction (you can deduct 50%)
🔗 Internal Link: Read our full freelancer tax deduction guide
9. 🧑⚕️ Health Savings Account (HSA) Contributions
HSA contributions are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and can be withdrawn for medical expenses without tax. For 2025:
- Individuals: $4,150
- Families: $8,300
- Age 55+: Add $1,000
Use providers like Lively or Fidelity HSA to manage your account.
🔗 Internal Links:
🌐 External DoFollow Links:
- IRS Publication 970 – Student Loan Interest
- IRS Charitable Organizations Search
- Stride Mileage App
- MileIQ
- Fidelity HSA
📌 Conclusion
Don’t leave money on the table in 2025. By knowing these essential tax deductions, you can reduce your taxable income, boost your refund, or simply keep more of what you earn. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice—and start planning now.