Above-the-Line Tax Deductions vs. Below-the-Line
Deductions are a critical part of minimizing your income tax obligation. But not all deductions are built the same. Tax deductions, in fact, come in two varieties: above-the-line and below-the-line. What does this designation mean? And how does it affect your taxes? Here's what you need to know.
What Is "the Line?"
When referring to items above or below the line, the line refers to your adjusted gross income on Form 1040.