Med Student · Tax Essentials
The student-loan deduction still exists
1 min read
You may deduct qualifying student-loan interest without itemizing—but filing status, MAGI, and employer-paid interest can change the result.
THE IDEA
For 2026, the above-the-line student-loan interest deduction is the lesser of interest paid or $2,500. You do not need to itemize. Medical-school and residency-program loans can qualify.
$85K–$100Kphaseout · single/HoH/QSS
$175K–$205Kphaseout · MFJ
The deduction is unavailable to MFS filers and to anyone claimed as a dependent.
Your next steps
- Find actual interest paid during 2026.
- Check filing status and MAGI.
- Do not reuse interest excluded under employer assistance.
Check your understanding
Select each question to reveal the answer.
✓ The lesser of interest paid or $2,500.
✓ No. It is an above-the-line deduction.
✓ No.
✓ No. The same interest cannot receive both benefits.
Planning questions
- How much qualifying interest did you personally pay in 2026 after excluding employer assistance?
- What filing status and expected MAGI will determine whether the deduction is available?