Who Needs to File a Tax Return?

It may not be necessary for you to file a tax return, but you can’t get any money back if you don’t.

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There are a number of things determine if you have to file a tax return: your filing status (single, married, filing jointly with your spouse), your age (under or above 65) and your gross income for 2019.

Let’s get on to details.

If you’re single and under 65, you have to file if your gross income is at least $9,350. If you’re 65 or older, the threshold goes up to $10,750.

If you’re married and file together with your spouse, there are three different situations. If both you and you’re spouse are under 65, you have to file if your joint gross income is at least $18,700. If one spouse is 65 or older, the threshold goes up to $19,800. If both spouses are older than 65, it goes all the way to $20,900. If you’re married and file on your own, you need to file your federal tax return. Even if you do not have to file a return, you should file one to get a refund of any Federal Income Tax withheld.

If you’re a head of household and under 65, you have to file if your gross income is at least $12,000. If you’re 65 or older, the threshold goes up to $13,450. If you’re qualifying widow(er) with dependent(s), and you’re under 65, you need to file if your gross income is at least $15,050. If you’re 65 or older, you must file if the gross income is more than $16,150.

In any case, even if you are not required to file, consider the fact that you should file in order to get back any federal tax withheld.

Have a look at the tables below to see an overview.

You can find more information on the IRS website

Single

Married Filing Jointly

If are Married filing separately you are required to file if your gross income is at least $3,650

Head of Household

Qualifying Widow