The 2026 numbers
For 2026 the AMT exemption is $90,100 for unmarried individuals, phasing out from $500,000 of alternative minimum taxable income. For married couples filing jointly it is $140,200, phasing out from $1,000,000.
AMT Exemption and Phase-Out for 2026 | HelloBooks The 2026 AMT exemption is $90,100 single and $140,200 joint, phasing out from $500,000 and $1,000,000. Which clients to model before year end.
Individuals · alternative minimum tax
AMT for 2026: exemptions and where the phase-out starts
The alternative minimum tax exemption and phase-out thresholds for 2026 come from IR-2025-103. With a bigger SALT deduction for many clients, it is worth checking who comes close.
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2026 exemption (single)
$90,100
- 2026 exemption (joint)
- $140,200
- Phase-out starts (single)
- $500,000
- Phase-out starts (joint)
- $1,000,000
Applies: Tax year 2026From IRS.gov · checked October 10, 2026
Clients to model
State and local taxes are not deductible for AMT, so a client who now deducts more SALT under the higher cap may see part of the benefit taken back.
- High-income clients in high-tax states who itemize.
- Clients exercising incentive stock options.
- Clients with large private activity bond interest.
Year-end planning
Run a 2026 projection with and without the AMT before advising on timing of state tax payments or option exercises. A projection built on current-year books, not last year’s return, gives a far better answer in November.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- Where does the AMT exemption start to phase out in 2026?
- At $500,000 for unmarried individuals and $1,000,000 for married couples filing jointly.
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Sources
General information for tax professionals, not advice on a specific return. Figures are from IRS.gov on the date shown; check the current IRS instructions before filing.
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