In this series:
How to file your taxes: step by step
Check if you need to file
Gather your documents
Get credits and deductions
File your return
Get your refund
Pay taxes on time
Be ready to file taxes next year
Who must file
Most U.S. citizens or permanent residents who work in the U.S. have to file a tax return.
Generally, you need to file if:
- Your gross income is over the filing requirement
- You have over $400 in net earnings from self-employment (side jobs or other independent work)
- You had other situations that require you to file
See if you need to file: answer questions to find out
If you don’t usually file
Even if you make less than the income required to file, consider filing anyway. You may get money back:
- If you qualify for a refundable tax credit
- If your paycheck had federal income tax withheld
- If you made estimated tax payments
Check your filing requirement
Your requirement to file a tax return depends on your:
- Age
- Filing status
- Income
Check if you need to file:
If your filing status is: | File a tax return if your gross income was at least: |
---|---|
Single | $13,850 |
Head of household |
$20,800 |
Married filing jointly | $27,700 (both spouses under 65) $29,200 (one spouse under 65) |
Married filing separately | $5 |
Qualifying surviving spouse | $27,700 |
If your filing status is: | File a tax return if your gross income was at least: |
---|---|
Single | $15,700 |
Head of household |
$22,650 |
Married filing jointly |
$30,700 (both spouses 65 or older) |
Married filing separately | $5 |
Qualifying surviving spouse | $29,200 |
How to file your taxes: step by step Gather your documents
Related
Publication 501 (2023), Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information