Where Do I Find AGI on 1040? Tax Planning Tips

When clients bring in their tax documents, one of the most important numbers you’ll need is Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Advisors often ask: what line is AGI on 1040? The answer matters because AGI drives tax eligibility, planning strategies, and compliance checks.

AGI is the backbone of effective planning. It determines whether your clients qualify for Roth IRA contributions, how much they can deduct for charitable giving, and what they’ll pay in healthcare premiums. For advisors, being able to quickly identify AGI on a client’s return ensures smoother planning conversations and reduces the risk of missed opportunities.

What Line Is AGI on 1040?

On the current IRS Form 1040, AGI is located on Line 11.

That’s the official figure advisors should reference when reviewing client returns. It’s consistent across both paper and electronic filings, so clients can easily find it no matter how they filed.

• Form 1040, Line 11: This is the AGI value.
  
  

• Form 1040-SR: For senior taxpayers, AGI also appears on Line 11.
  
  

• IRS Transcripts: If clients don’t have a copy of their 1040, AGI can also be found on tax transcripts ordered through the IRS.
  
  

By confirming this line item, you ensure that both your records and your client’s numbers align with what the IRS has on file.

How Is AGI Different From Taxable Income?

Many clients confuse AGI with taxable income, which appears further down the 1040. Helping them understand the distinction is part of your role as an advisor.

• AGI (Line 11): Gross income minus specific adjustments like retirement contributions or student loan interest.
  
  

• Taxable Income (Line 15): AGI minus standard or itemized deductions.
  
  

Explaining this difference not only educates clients but also highlights the value you bring in turning raw data into actionable strategies.

Why Should Advisors Pay Attention to AGI?

AGI isn’t just another tax number—it’s a driver of planning opportunities. Here’s how it comes into play for financial advisors:

• Retirement Planning: Determines eligibility for Roth IRA contributions and conversions.
  
  

• Charitable Planning: Sets deduction limits for charitable contributions.
  
  

• Healthcare: Impacts ACA premium tax credits and Medicare premium surcharges.
  
  

• Education: Influences eligibility for education-related tax credits.
  
  

• Investment Strategy: Guides tax-loss harvesting and capital gain management.
  
  

By making AGI part of your regular review process, you keep clients prepared and compliant.

How Can Clients Retrieve AGI If They Don’t Have Their 1040?

Sometimes clients don’t have a copy of their return. Here’s how you can guide them:

• IRS Online Account: Log in to view transcripts with AGI included.
  
  

• Get Transcript Tool: Order by mail or online for Line 11 data.
  
  

• CPA or Preparer: Request a copy directly from their tax professional.
  
  

• Prior Returns: Encourage clients to securely store tax returns each year.
  
  

Advisors don’t retrieve AGI for clients, but walking them through the process builds trust and efficiency.

Best Practices for Advisors Using AGI in Planning

When referencing AGI in client conversations, follow these best practices:

• Confirm Accuracy: Always match AGI to the IRS-reported number.
  
  

• Use Secure Systems: Store AGI data in compliance-approved platforms.
  
  

• Integrate in Reviews: Add AGI checks to annual or quarterly financial reviews.
  
  

• Educate Simply: Frame AGI as “the income number the IRS uses for eligibility.”
  
  

These steps make AGI less intimidating and more actionable for clients.

Simplify Your Tax Planning Today

So, what line is AGI on 1040? It’s Line 11, and for financial advisors, that simple detail is a powerful planning tool. By quickly locating AGI, you can tie it into retirement strategies, charitable giving, education planning, and more.

Helping clients understand and use this number doesn’t just check a compliance box—it strengthens your role as their year-round guide.

Let’s talk about how Jalada supports financial advisors with accounting services that make tax-smart planning seamless.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Attorneys should consult their state bar or legal ethics counsel for guidance on IOLTA compliance.