2026 Standard Deduction and Tax Brackets: The Numbers Worth Knowing
The IRS adjusted tax brackets and standard deductions for tax year 2026. Here are the headline numbers and why a higher bracket threshold does not mean all income is taxed at that rate.
Last updated: October 7, 2026.
Tax tables change over time, and the number that matters depends on filing status and taxable income. For 2026, the IRS published updated standard deductions and inflation-adjusted tax brackets.
2026 Standard Deduction
- Single: $16,100
- Married filing separately: $16,100
- Married filing jointly: $32,200
- Head of household: $24,150
How Marginal Tax Brackets Work
Moving into a higher bracket does not mean every dollar of income is taxed at the higher percentage. The higher rate applies only to the portion of taxable income that falls inside that bracket.
Why Withholding May Need a Check
A change in income, filing status, major deductions, multiple jobs, or new tax provisions can change whether your paycheck withholding is close to the eventual tax bill. The IRS provides a withholding estimator for people who want to review their current setup.
Related reading: 2026 business mileage rate change · How to compare prices more carefully
The Bottom Line
The useful numbers are the ones that match your filing status and taxable income. Use the IRS tables as a reference, and treat this article as general information rather than individual tax advice.
Source: IRS — Tax Inflation Adjustments for Tax Year 2026.
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