Qualifying Surviving Spouse in Chicago, IL 2026
Calculate your qualifying surviving spouse tax savings in Chicago, Illinois. With Illinois's 4.95% state tax rate, your combined savings are higher.
Illinois Tax Context
Very high combined sales tax (10.25%); high property taxes; flat 4.95% state income tax
Qualifying Surviving Spouse Savings Calculator for Chicago
Federal Savings
$1,100
22% bracket
Illinois State
$248
4.95% rate
Local Tax
$0
0% rate
Total Savings
$1,348
26.9% combined
At a 26.9% combined tax rate in Chicago, every $1,000 in deductions saves you $270 in taxes.
Savings by Tax Bracket in Chicago
Includes 4.95% Illinois state tax on top of federal savings.
Eligibility Requirements
Widowed taxpayers with dependent children
- 1Spouse died within last 2 years
- 2Dependent child
- 3Not remarried
Illinois residents should verify that this deduction is also recognized on their state tax return for additional savings of up to 4.95%.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- !Claiming after 2 years
- !Not having dependent child
- !Forgetting to claim the deduction on your Illinois state return (missing 4.95% additional savings)
Required Tax Forms
File these forms with your federal tax return to claim the qualifying surviving spouse. Illinois may require additional state-specific forms.
Other Tax Deductions in Chicago, IL
Child Tax Credit
Family
Child & Dependent Care Credit
Family
Dependent Care FSA
Family
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Family
Adoption Tax Credit
Family
Alimony Deduction (Pre-2019)
Family
Head of Household Filing Status
Family
Kiddie Tax Planning
Family
Qualifying Surviving Spouse in Other Illinois Cities
Aurora, IL
4.95% state tax
Joliet, IL
4.95% state tax
Naperville, IL
4.95% state tax
Rockford, IL
4.95% state tax
Elgin, IL
4.95% state tax
Springfield, IL
4.95% state tax
Peoria, IL
4.95% state tax
Waukegan, IL
4.95% state tax
Calculate Your Full Tax Savings in Chicago
Use our free tax calculators to optimize your entire tax return for Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I save with the Qualifying Surviving Spouse in Chicago, IL?
In Chicago, Illinois, the qualifying surviving spouse can save you an estimated $1,348 per year. This includes $1,100 in federal tax savings and $248 in Illinois state tax savings. The national average savings is $3,000/year.
What is the Illinois state income tax rate for Chicago residents?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax rate. Chicago residents have no additional local income tax. Very high combined sales tax (10.25%); high property taxes; flat 4.95% state income tax
Who qualifies for the Qualifying Surviving Spouse in Chicago?
Widowed taxpayers with dependent children. The eligibility requirements are the same whether you live in Chicago or elsewhere in the U.S., as this is a federal tax deduction. However, your savings amount will vary based on Illinois's 4.95% state tax rate.
What tax forms do I need to claim the Qualifying Surviving Spouse in Illinois?
To claim the qualifying surviving spouse, you need to file Form 1040 with your federal return. Illinois residents should also check if the state allows this deduction on their state return, which could provide an additional 4.95% savings. Filing status affects your deduction limits and tax bracket.
Is the Qualifying Surviving Spouse better in Chicago than in states without income tax?
Yes, Chicago residents benefit more because Illinois's 4.95% state income tax means the deduction reduces both your federal AND state tax liability. In states with no income tax (like Texas, Florida, or Nevada), this deduction only reduces federal taxes. Your combined rate of 26.9% means more savings per dollar deducted.
Related Calculators
Child Tax Credit in Chicago
Avg savings: $2,000/year
Child & Dependent Care Credit in Chicago
Avg savings: $1,200/year
Dependent Care FSA in Chicago
Avg savings: $1,100/year
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in Chicago
Avg savings: $3,500/year
Adoption Tax Credit in Chicago
Avg savings: $10,000/year
Alimony Deduction (Pre-2019) in Chicago
Avg savings: $5,000/year