The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2025 (returns filed in 2026).
Taxes often get a bad rap, with many people thinking of them as a complicated, unavoidable chore. But the truth is, not everyone needs to file! If you’re wondering, “Do I have to file taxes?”, the answer depends on several factors such as your age, filing status, and income. Even if you think you don’t need to file, or don’t owe any taxes, it’s still worth taking the time to file a federal income tax return because you may be entitled to a tax refund.
What Is the Minimum Income to File Taxes?
Most U.S. citizens and residents need to file a federal income tax return based on their age, income, and filing status. The filing threshold determines when taxpayers are required to file their tax returns based on their income levels. Here’s a breakdown of the key filing requirements for each filing status.
Minimum income to file taxes by filing status and age
Single
- Under 65: $15,750
- 65 or older: $17,750
Married Filing Jointly
- Both spouses under 65: $31,500
- One spouse 65 or older: $33,100
- Both spouses 65 or older: $34,700
Married Filing Separately
- Any age: $5
Head of Household
- Under 65: $23,625
- 65 or older: $25,625
Qualifying Surviving Spouse
- Under 65: $31,500
- 65 or older: $33,100
If your gross income is below these thresholds, you generally don’t need to file a return, but there are exceptions, which we’ll cover later.
Gross income means all forms of income received that are not exempt from tax. This includes money, goods, property, and services, as well as specific considerations for income from outside the United States or from selling a main home.
How Much Can a Dependent Make Before Having to File Taxes?
If someone provides more than half of your financial support, they can claim you as a dependent. Income thresholds determine whether a dependent must file a federal income tax return based on their filing status and gross income. Dependents have their own tax filing requirements based on age, income, and whether they’re blind. Even if you don’t make enough to file taxes on your own, being claimed as a dependent could still mean you need to file a tax return. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum income requiring a dependent to file taxes.
For single dependents:
- Under 65:
- Unearned income: $1,350
- Earned income: Over $15,750
- Gross income: The greater of $1,350 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus $450.
- 65 or Older:
- Unearned income: Over $3,350
- Earned income: Over $17,750
- Gross income: The greater of 3,350 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus 2,450.
- 65 or Older and Blind:
- Unearned income: Over $5,350
- Earned income: Over $19,750
- Gross income: The greater of $5,350 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus $4,450..
For married dependents:
- Under 65:
- Unearned income: Over $1,350
- Earned income: Over $15,750
- Gross income: The greater of $1,350 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus $450.
- 65 or Older:
- Unearned income: Over $2,950
- Earned income: Over $17,350
- Gross income: The greater of $2,950 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus $2,050.
- 65 or Older and Blind:
- Unearned income: Over $4,550
- Earned income: Over $18,950
- Gross income: The greater of $4,550 or earned income (up to $15,300) plus $3,650.
You must also file a tax return if your gross income is at least $5, your spouse files separately and chooses to itemize their deductions.
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Other Situations Where You Must File a Tax Return
Even if your income is below the minimum income to file taxes, there are other reasons why you may still need to file a return. Here are some situations where filing a federal income tax return is required:
- You received distributions from a Health Savings Account (HSA), Medicare Advantage MSA, or Archer Medical Savings Account.
- Advance payments of the premium tax credit were made for you, your spouse, or a dependent enrolled in a Health Insurance Marketplace plan.
- You owe taxes on:
- Alternative minimum tax (AMT)
- Taxes on IRA distributions or other tax-favored accounts
- Social Security or Medicare taxes on unreported tips
- Taxes on household employees or recapture taxes
- You earned $108.28 or more from a church or qualified church organization.
- You need to report your social security benefit.
If any of these apply to you, you’ll need to file a return, even if your earnings are below the minimum income to file taxes for your status. Additionally, social security benefits may need to be reported on your tax return depending on your total income and filing status.
Special Filing Requirement for Self-Employed Individuals
If you are self-employed, the minimum income to file taxes is much lower. Self-employed individuals must file a tax return if their net earnings from self-employment are at least $400. This includes freelancers, independent contractors, and anyone else who works for themselves.
Tax Credits and Deductions
Tax credits and deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income, resulting in a lower tax bill or even a tax refund. Here are some key tax credits and deductions to consider:
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): This refundable tax credit is designed for low-to-moderate-income working individuals and families. It can provide a substantial boost to your tax refund if you qualify.
- Child Tax Credit (CTC): If you have qualifying children, you can claim up to $2,200 per child as a non-refundable tax credit, which directly reduces your federal tax liability.
- Standard Deduction: Depending on your filing status, you can deduct a fixed amount from your taxable income. This deduction simplifies the process and can significantly lower your federal taxes.
- Itemized Deductions: If your deductible expenses exceed the standard deduction, you might benefit from itemizing. This includes deductions for mortgage interest, charitable donations, and medical expenses, which can reduce your taxable income.
- Tax-Exempt Interest: Interest earned on certain investments, such as municipal bonds, is not subject to federal tax. This can be a strategic way to earn income without increasing your federal tax liability.
Understanding and utilizing these tax credits and deductions can make a big difference in your tax return, potentially leading to a larger tax refund. File your federal income tax return with ezTaxReturn and you’ll get the biggest possible refund, guaranteed. Start now!
Choose How You Get Your Tax Refund
If you’re due a tax refund, you can access it quickly and safely through various options:
- Direct Deposit: The fastest and most secure way to receive your refund is by having it deposited directly into your bank account. This method avoids the delays and risks associated with mailing checks.
- Electronic Funds Transfer: Similar to direct deposit, this option allows your refund to be transferred to your bank account or a prepaid debit card, providing quick access to your funds.
- Refund Advance Loan (RAL): If you need access to your refund sooner, a refund advance loan can provide a portion of your expected refund in advance. This can be helpful in covering immediate expenses.
Choosing the right method to access your tax refund can ensure you get your money as quickly and securely as possible.
Protect Yourself From Tax Scams and Security Threats
Tax scams and security threats are common during tax season. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Be Cautious of Communications: Be wary of emails, text messages, or social media messages that claim to be from the IRS. The IRS will never initiate contact through these methods to request personal or financial information.
- Protect Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information to unknown individuals or organizations. Always verify the identity of the requester before sharing sensitive details.
- Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your tax preparation software and computer are protected with strong, unique passwords. Regularly update your software to protect against security vulnerabilities.
- Beware of Phishing Scams: Phishing scams often try to trick you into revealing sensitive information by pretending to be legitimate entities. Always verify the source before clicking on links or downloading attachments.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter any suspicious activity, report it to the IRS or your local authorities immediately. Prompt reporting can help prevent further fraud and protect others.
By staying vigilant and following these security tips, you can protect yourself from tax scams and ensure your personal information remains secure.
Tax Deadlines You Need to Know
Missing tax deadlines can result in penalties and interest. Here are some key tax deadlines to keep in mind:
- April 15th: This is the deadline for filing individual tax returns (Form 1040) and paying any taxes owed. It’s crucial to file on time to avoid late filing penalties.
- October 15th: If you need more time to file, you can request an automatic six-month extension. This is also the deadline for filing an amended tax return (Form 1040X).
- January 31st: Employers must file Form W-2 and Form 1099 with the IRS by this date. Ensure you receive these forms to accurately report your income.
- March 15th: Partnerships and S corporations must file their tax returns (Form 1065 and Form 1120S) by this date. Missing this deadline can result in penalties for late filing.
These deadlines may vary depending on your specific situation and location, so always check with the IRS or your local authorities for the most up-to-date information. Staying on top of these deadlines can help you avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure a smooth tax filing process.
Penalties for Not Filing or Filing a Late Return
Failing to file a tax return or filing a late return can result in significant penalties and interest. The IRS imposes a penalty for late filing, which is 5% of the tax due (up to a maximum of 25%). If your tax return is more than 60 days late, the minimum penalty is $525 or 100% of the underpayment, whichever is less.
Additionally, if you owe taxes and don’t file a return, you may be subject to a penalty for failure to pay. This penalty can be up to 25% of the unpaid taxes. The IRS may also charge interest on the unpaid taxes, starting from the original due date of the return.
It’s essential to file your tax return on time and pay any taxes owed to avoid these penalties and interest. If you’re unable to file on time, you can request an automatic six-month extension using Form 4868. However, this extension only gives you more time to file, not more time to pay.
Record Retention for Tax Purposes
Proper record retention is crucial for tax purposes. The IRS requires taxpayers to keep accurate and complete records to support their tax returns. This includes:
- Income records, such as W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for business expenses
- Expense records, such as receipts, invoices, and bank statements
- Depreciation records, such as asset purchase dates and depreciation schedules
- Charitable donation records, such as receipts and appraisals
- Medical expense records, such as receipts and doctor’s notes
It’s recommended to keep these records for at least three years from the date of filing your tax return. However, if you’re self-employed or have complex tax situations, you may need to keep records for longer.
Should You File a Tax Return if You Are Not Required?
Even if you aren’t required to file a return, there are still good reasons to do so:
- Tax Refunds: If taxes were withheld from your paycheck, you may be eligible for a refund.
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): If you qualify for this credit, filing could result in a refund.
- Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC): Filing could allow you to claim this credit, which could put money back in your pocket.
- Other Tax Credits: You may qualify for credits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit (for education expenses) or the Premium Tax Credit (for health insurance).
- Estimated Tax Payments: If you made estimated tax payments or had last year’s refund applied to this year, filing ensures you get back any overpayment.
Even if you aren’t required to file a federal income tax return, there are still good reasons to do so.
Let Us Make Tax Filing Easy for You
Understanding the minimum income to file taxes is a helpful guideline, but there are other factors—such as receiving tax credits or being self-employed—that can require you to file a tax return. If you’re unsure how to get started, ezTaxReturn is here to help. Just create an account and we’ll asks a series of questions about your income, filing status, and other factors to determine if you’re required to file.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m required to file a tax return?
The IRS sets annual income thresholds based on your filing status, age, and type of income. If your income meets or exceeds those limits, you must file a return.
What is the minimum income to file taxes?
The minimum income varies each year and depends on whether you file as single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household, or qualifying surviving spouse. Check the IRS guidelines for the current year’s thresholds.
Do I have to file taxes if I’m a dependent?
Maybe. Dependents must file if they earn above certain income limits or have unearned income (like interest or dividends) over the IRS threshold.
Do I need to file a return if I’m self‑employed?
Yes. If you earn $400 or more in self‑employment income, you must file a tax return—even if your total income is low.
What if I didn’t make enough money to file?
You may not be required to file, but you should if you’re eligible for refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or if taxes were withheld from your paycheck and you want a refund.
Do retirees have to file a tax return?
It depends on your total income, including Social Security, pensions, retirement withdrawals, and any other taxable income. Some retirees still meet filing requirements.
Do I need to file taxes if I only received Social Security benefits?
Not always. If Social Security is your only income, you may not need to file. If you have additional income, you may be required to.
What happens if I’m required to file but don’t?
You may face IRS penalties, interest on unpaid taxes, and delays in receiving refunds or credits you’re owed.
Can I file a tax return even if I’m not required to?
Yes. Many people file voluntarily to claim refunds, tax credits, or to keep their financial records up to date.
Can I file my taxes online if I’m unsure whether I need to file?
Absolutely. Online tax services like ezTaxReturn guide you through simple questions to determine whether you need to file and help you complete your return quickly.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
