You generally do not need to report income to the IRS by filing a federal income tax return if your gross income falls below specific thresholds, which vary based on your filing status, age, and whether you are claimed as a dependent.
When Can You Not Report Income?
Not needing to "report income" in the context of U.S. federal taxes typically means you are not required to file an income tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This situation primarily occurs when your gross income is less than the IRS-mandated standard deduction amount for your specific filing status and age.
Income Thresholds for Not Filing
For the 2023 and 2024 tax years, the general gross income thresholds below which many taxpayers are not required to file a federal income tax return are:
| Filing Status | Age (Both Under 65) | 2023 Gross Income Threshold | 2024 Gross Income Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | Under 65 | $13,850 | $14,600 |
| Married Filing Jointly | Both Under 65 | $27,700 | $29,200 |
These thresholds primarily apply to individuals who are not claimed as dependents on someone else's tax return. If you are 65 or older, or blind, the thresholds are typically higher.
Other Factors Influencing Filing Requirements
While income thresholds are a primary determinant, several other factors can still require you to file a tax return, even if your gross income is below the stated amounts:
- Self-Employment Income: If you had net earnings from self-employment of $400 or more, you generally must file a return to pay self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare taxes), regardless of your total gross income.
- Dependents: If you are claimed as a dependent on someone else's return, your filing requirements are different and generally much lower. For instance, a dependent often needs to file if their unearned income exceeds a certain amount, or if their earned income is above the standard deduction for dependents.
- Special Taxes: You must file if you owe certain special taxes, such as alternative minimum tax, household employment taxes, or uncollected Social Security and Medicare tax on tips or group term life insurance.
- Advance Payments of Premium Tax Credit: If you received advance payments of the premium tax credit through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you must file a return to reconcile those payments.
- Refunds: Even if you aren't required to file, you might want to file if you had federal income tax withheld from your pay or if you qualify for refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Child Tax Credit. Filing would allow you to receive a refund of any overpaid taxes or the refundable portion of the credits.
- Foreign Income: Specific rules apply to U.S. citizens or resident aliens who live abroad or have foreign income, which may require filing even with low income.
It's always recommended to consult the official IRS guidelines or a tax professional if you are unsure about your specific filing obligations. You can find detailed information on filing requirements directly from the Internal Revenue Service at IRS.gov.
