Do I have to file a file a tax return? There’s no cookie cutter answer for who needs to file a federal tax return. Even if you think you don’t need to file, or don’t owe any tax, it’s still worth taking the time to file because you may be entitled to a refundable credit. Here are six tax tips to help with your decision.
Basic filing requirements
Most U.S. citizens or residents will be required to file based on their age, income and filing status. If you meet the following criteria, you’ll need to file a tax return.
| Filing status | Age at the end of 2022 |
Income |
| Single | Under 65 | $12,950 |
| 65 or older | $14,700 | |
| Married filing jointly | Both spouses under 65 | $25,900 |
| One spouse 65 or older | $27,300 | |
| Both spouses 65 or older | $28,700 | |
| Married filing separately | Any age | $5 |
| Head of household | Under 65 | $19,400 |
| 65 or older | $21,150 | |
| Qualifying surviving spouse | Under 65 | $25,900 |
| 65 or older | $27,300 |
If someone provides more than half of your financial support, they can claim you as a dependent on their tax return. However, you’ll still need to file a tax return if you’re under 65 and earned more than $12,950.
Taxes withheld
Were taxes withheld from your paycheck? If the answer is yes, you may be due a refund but you’ll have to file a tax return to find out. ezTaxReturn is the fastest and ez-iest way to do your taxes. Most people can e-file in just 30 minutes.
Premium Tax Credit
If you purchased coverage from the Health Insurance Marketplace and received advance payments of the premium tax credit, you must file a tax return to reconcile any payments made on your behalf. By early February, you’ll receive a Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement in the mail to help file your return.
American Opportunity Credit
College students who spent money on tuition, books and other related expenses during their first four years of post-secondary education may be eligible for the American Opportunity Credit. This credit is worth up to $2,500 per student. The best part is that if you don’t owe any taxes, you may receive a refundable credit of up to $1,000 as a tax refund.
Additional Child Tax Credit
If you have at least one child and don’t qualify for the full Child Tax Credit you may be eligible for the refundable Additional Child Tax Credit.
Earned Income Credit
Workers with low to moderate incomes may qualify for the Earned Income Credit. The credit amount varies based on income, filing status and eligible children but is potentially worth up to $6,935. Even if you don’t have any kids, you may still qualify for a reduced credit.
