How AGI is calculated
- Start with total income: wages, interest, dividends, business income, capital gains, retirement distributions, unemployment, taxable Social Security and other income.
- Subtract adjustments to income (“above-the-line deductions”), such as student loan interest, HSA contributions, half of self-employment tax, educator expenses and contributions to a traditional IRA (within limits).
- The result is your AGI.
AGI is not the same as taxable income. From AGI you subtract the standard or itemized deduction and certain other deductions to find taxable income, which is what the tax brackets apply to.
Where to find your AGI
- Form 1040: on the first two pages, AGI appears on line 11 of recent versions. Look at the label rather than the number, since lines move.
- Your IRS Online Account or a tax return transcript: shows AGI from past returns. See how to get a transcript.
- Your tax software account: usually stores last year’s return.
Why AGI matters
- Credits and deductions phase out based on AGI or a modified version of it (MAGI). Examples include the child tax credit, student loan interest deduction and saver’s credit.
- Free File eligibility: the IRS income limit for guided software is based on AGI (see Free File eligibility).
- Medical expense deduction: only expenses above a percentage of AGI count.
- Student aid and health insurance subsidies often use AGI or MAGI.
AGI vs. MAGI
Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is AGI with certain items added back; the add-backs differ by credit or deduction. Always check the form instructions for the definition that applies.
Using AGI to e-file
When you e-file, you may be asked for last year’s AGI to verify your identity. Use the original AGI from your last return as filed, not an amended amount. If you can’t find it, get a transcript. If you used an IRS Identity Protection PIN, enter that as required.
How to lower your AGI legitimately
Common ways include contributing to a traditional IRA or HSA (if eligible), claiming above-the-line adjustments you qualify for, and, for the self-employed, retirement plan contributions and health insurance premiums. Avoid anything that sounds like a loophole; stick to documented IRS rules.
Frequently asked questions
Where is AGI on Form 1040?
On recent forms AGI appears near the bottom of page 1 or top of page 2, on line 11. Check the line label for your tax year.
Is AGI the same as taxable income?
No. Taxable income is AGI minus the standard or itemized deduction and certain other deductions.
What if I don’t have last year’s AGI to e-file?
Get a tax return transcript from your IRS Online Account or use the Get Transcript tool.
Official sources
General information only — not tax, legal or financial advice. Tax figures change every year; verify the current numbers at IRS.gov or with a qualified professional. Read the full disclaimer.