How To Know the Minimum Income to File Taxes

The process to determine if you need to file taxes is fairly simple. The IRS website sets specific guidelines. The following is a brief summary of the IRS rules in simpler language.

It's really confusing sometimes, trying to decide if you should even bother filing taxes. It can be easy for very low income persons but a little more difficult for those with higher incomes.  The requirements also differ depending on your filing status.

Basically, a single person under age 65 must file a return if his income is at least $8,950. If he is 65 years of age or older then he must file a return if the income is at least $10,300.  If your income is less than either of these amounts but you had taxes withheld, then the only way you can get a refund of the Federal Income Tax is to file a return.

In the states that require citizens to file state taxes, you may also be required to file for a state refund.

For a married couple filing jointly, where both spouses are under 65 years old, a return must be filed if the income was at least $17,900. If only one spouse is over 65, then the minimum increases to $18,950. If both spouses are over 65 years of age, then the minimum income is $20,000.

Anyone who is married but chooses to file a separate return must file if the income is at least $3,500.

If you must file as head of  household and you are under 65 years of age, then the income minimum is $11,500. Over age 65, it increases to $12,850.

If you qualify as a widow or widower and you have a dependent child, the minimum income for someone under 65 years old is $14,400. The minimum income increases to $15,450 if you are over 65.

There are specific rules for special circumstances and many situations that may have an effect on the limits. There are also special rules for single and married persons who file as dependents of someone else.

If you received advance earned income credit, or Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) payments on your paychecks, you must file a return regardless of the amount of income.

Self-employed persons are also required to file if the net earnings were at least $400.

Church employees may be responsible for Federal or State Income Taxes.

These requirements and dollar amounts may change with each new tax year, so be sure to check the 1040 Tax instruction booklet for the year in which you are filing or attempting to file. There are several pages of requirements listed in the front pages of the booklet.

 The IRS guidelines will help you determine whether or not you're filing correctly.