While tax experts agree to a point, they'll also tell you that there are many other ways to reduce your taxes without even filing Form 1040 Schedule A for itemized deductions. And, a taxpayer can take nearly all of these deductions even if they use one of the shorter tax forms.
Medical savings accounts.
Few taxpayers have taken advantage of this pilot opportunity, but you can use it if you itemize or not. Now's the time to use it as it expires at the end of this year. The expenses of a job-related move are deductible even if you don't itemize. But to qualify, your new workplace must be at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your previous workplace. In addition, for 1999, you can deduct 60 percent of the health insurance premiums you paid as self-employed.