Form 1040-SR, U.S. Tax Return for Seniors
File your federal income tax return using a version designed for older taxpayers with larger print.
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About Form 1040-SR
Form 1040-SR is a version of the standard Form 1040 designed for taxpayers age 65 and older. It uses larger print and includes a helpful chart for the standard deduction, making it easier to read and complete while offering the same tax calculation as Form 1040.
You can use Form 1040-SR to report common types of retirement income such as Social Security benefits, pensions, annuities, and distributions from retirement accounts, along with wages, interest, and other income. It supports the same schedules and credits as the regular 1040.
Using Form 1040-SR is optional. Eligible seniors can choose it for readability, but the tax results are identical to filing Form 1040. Follow the same instructions that apply to Form 1040 when completing it.
Who needs to complete it
- Taxpayers who are age 65 or older at the end of the tax year.
- Seniors reporting Social Security, pension, or annuity income.
- Older filers who prefer a return with larger, easier to read print.
- Retirees who want a standard deduction chart printed on the form.
How to fill out Form 1040-SR
- 1Enter your personal information, filing status, and any dependents.
- 2Report your income, including wages, interest, retirement income, and Social Security benefits.
- 3Use the standard deduction chart on the form or itemize if that benefits you more.
- 4Calculate your taxable income and the tax due using the tables or instructions.
- 5Claim any tax credits and report additional taxes on the appropriate lines.
- 6Enter your payments and withholding to determine your refund or balance due.
- 7Follow the line-by-line instructions on the official form and attach required schedules.
- 8Sign, date, and file the return by the filing deadline.
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Frequently asked questions
Who can use Form 1040-SR?
Taxpayers who are age 65 or older by the end of the tax year can choose to use Form 1040-SR. Its use is optional.
Is the tax calculation different from Form 1040?
No. Form 1040-SR uses the same tax rules and produces the same result as Form 1040. The main differences are larger print and a printed standard deduction chart.
Can I still itemize deductions on Form 1040-SR?
Yes. You can itemize using Schedule A or take the standard deduction, just like on Form 1040.
Do both spouses need to be 65 to file jointly on 1040-SR?
Generally only one spouse needs to meet the age requirement to use the form when filing jointly. Check the instructions for the exact rule.