Above-the-line breaks and credits can reduce taxes even when using the standard deduction.
Pre-tax 401(k) contributions can cut taxable wages; deductible IRA contributions may lower AGI if you qualify.
With a high-deductible health plan, HSA contributions are deductible; payroll contributions are pre-tax and not income.
Student loan interest and eligible educator expenses are above-the-line deductions that can lower AGI without itemizing.
Low-income retirement savers may claim the nonrefundable Saver's Credit, reducing tax liability dollar for dollar.
5 Legal Ways to Reduce Taxes Without Itemizing
