Short Answer 
Maria should first understand the difference between standard and itemized deductions, then calculate her total deductible expenses for itemizing. Finally, she should choose the option that offers the higher deduction to maximize her tax savings.
Step 1: Understand Standard and Itemized Deductions
Maria needs to familiarize herself with the two main types of tax deductions: the standard deduction and itemized deductions. The standard deduction is a fixed amount set by the IRS that can be claimed simply without additional paperwork. In contrast, itemized deductions require Maria to detail individual expenses, which can include items like mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and medical expenses.
Step 2: Calculate Total Deductible Expenses
To determine which deduction is more beneficial, Maria should calculate her total deductible expenses if she opts for itemizing. She needs to sum up all eligible expenses, which may include:
- Mortgage interest
- Property taxes
- Medical expenses (if they exceed a certain threshold)
- Charitable donations
Step 3: Choose the Higher Deduction Option
After calculating the totals, Maria should compare her results to see which option yields a higher deduction. If her itemized expenses exceed the standard deduction amount, then she should select the itemized deduction. This strategic choice will ultimately maximize her tax savings and minimize her taxable income.