Should I itemize to deduct gambling losses?

You can deduct gambling losses only if you itemize on Schedule A (IRS Topic 419). Itemizing only helps if your itemized deductions, including your deductible losses, add up to more than your standard deduction.

For 2026 the standard deduction is $16,100 if single or married filing separately, $32,200 if married filing jointly, and $24,150 for head of household (Rev. Proc. 2025-32).

Remember that from 2026 only 90% of your losses count, and never more than your winnings (26 U.S.C. 165(d)). Add that amount to your other itemized deductions, such as state and local taxes, mortgage interest and charity, and compare the total with your standard deduction.

A calculator, not tax advice. Show this to your CPA. Compare both counting methods with your own totals.

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