This topic has introduced the following changes affecting deductions:

• The amount taxpayers can deduct for each exemption has increased from $3,400 to $3,500

• The standard deduction is higher in 2008 than in 2007

• The standard mileage rate for use of a personal vehicle to get medical care is 19 cents a mile from 1/1/08 - 6/30/08 and 27 cents a mile from 7/1/08 - 12/31/08