Standard vs. Itemized Deduction Worksheet

A one-page worksheet that runs the standard vs. itemized comparison for tax year 2026. Fill in your property tax, state income tax, mortgage interest, charitable gifts, and medical costs, and you'll know which method gives you the bigger deduction.

It takes about 10 minutes. Have your last pay stubs, your Form 1098 mortgage statement, and your giving records handy. The worksheet also covers the Virginia rule that makes you match your federal method, and the new 2026 charity deduction for people who take the standard deduction.

Within a few thousand dollars of the line? Bring it to your tax pro before December 31.