Do I Need to File a Tax Return?Factors such as age, disability, filing status, and income will determine whether or not the U.S. federal government requires you to file a tax return. The charts below will assist you in determining this. Show However, just because you are not required to file a tax return does not necessarily mean you shouldn't. Later in this article, we will discuss the reasons to file a tax return even when it is not required. Minimum Income Requirements Based on Age and StatusThere is no set minimum income for filing a return. The amount varies according to both filing status and age. The minimum taxable income level for each group is listed in the following chart. If your income falls below what is listed for your age group and marital status, you are not required to file a return.
Age and Status Requirements for DependentsBeing claimed as a dependent on someone else’s taxes changes the rules a bit, and it does not rule out the possibility that you will still be required to file. If you are an adult, working dependent, you will likely be required to file your own return.
Special CircumstancesEven if your income bracket is below the minimum listed for your age group and status, you usually must file a Federal Tax Return if you fall into any of the following “special circumstances” categories.
Why You May Want to File AnywayNot being required to file may be a bad reason not to do so, especially if you could use a little extra money following the holiday season. Refunds cannot be claimed without filing a return. Here are some reasons why a refund might be due to you:
What is the minimum amount you can make without paying taxes?The minimum income amount depends on your filing status and age. In 2021, for example, the minimum for single filing status if under age 65 is $12,550. If your income is below that threshold, you generally do not need to file a federal tax return.
What is the minimum taxable income for 2022?$12,950 for single filers. $12,950 for married couples filing separately. $19,400 for heads of households. $25,900 for married couples filing jointly.
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