TAMPA, Fla. —Seniors across Florida could see meaningful tax savings this filing season thanks to a new deduction aimed at residents age 65 and older.
Officials say the change could translate into hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars back in taxpayers’ pockets, but many eligible residents may not yet be aware of the benefit.
Under the new provision, taxpayers 65 and older can claim an additional $6,000 deduction when filing their federal returns with the Internal Revenue Service.
Depending on income and tax bracket, seniors who claim the deduction could see their refunds increase by roughly $700 to $1,500.
Older adults make up more than 20%t of the state’s population, meaning the combined value of additional deductions claimed by seniors statewide could exceed $29 billion, according to estimates shared by officials.
To help residents understand how to claim the benefit, U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis is hosting a series of senior outreach fairs across the Tampa Bay region.
Spring Hill – February 18, 2026 – 10:00 am – Elks Lodge – 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill, FL 34609
Citrus Springs -February 18, 2026 – 1:00 pm – Citrus Springs Community Springs – 1570 W. Citrus Springs Blvd. Citrus Springs, FL 34434
New Port Richey – February 19, 2026 – 9:00 am – Kontos Event Center – 9426 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654
Events scheduled this week take place in Pasco County, Citrus County, and Hernando County, where attendees can receive guidance on filing requirements, eligibility, and available assistance programs.
Organizers say the events will also connect seniors with free tax-preparation services, offering an option for those who do not work with a private accountant or tax professional. Proper filing is essential to receiving the deduction, officials emphasize, as eligible taxpayers must claim the benefit when submitting their returns.
Bilirakis said the effort is part of a broader push to increase financial relief for older Americans.
“This deduction will be up until 2028. I think we should make it permanent,” Bilirakis said. “Matter of fact I believe that no one should pay taxes on social security.”
There are no income or employment requirements tied to the new deduction; the primary eligibility condition is age.
Any taxpayer who is 65 or older and files a return can claim the additional deduction. Current provisions keep the benefit in place through 2028, giving seniors multiple filing years to take advantage of the savings.
Local officials and community groups are encouraging eligible residents to verify the new deduction when preparing their taxes to ensure they do not miss the added benefit.
For more information on the Senior Fairs happening this week in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties, visit here.
Jason Lanning
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