How much money do you have to earn to file taxes in the U.S.? These are the income requirements for submitting a tax return

The Internal Revenue Service will be expecting most Americans to file a tax return and pay any outstanding taxes due by the April 15 deadline. If you paid more in taxes last year than you had to, you could be looking forward to a refund.

But what about those people that had no income last year. Do they still have to file a tax return? While it is mandatory for American taxpayers to file who have income above certain thresholds based on their filing status, even those with $0 income should consider taking the time to do so.

That’s because the federal government provides a number of tax credits that people with no income may be eligible to claim that could result in a check from the IRS.

How much money do you have to earn to file taxes in the U.S.?

If you did not earn any income during the previous tax year, you are not required to file a tax return. The minimum income threshold for filing a tax return is adjusted annually by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) based on various factors such as inflation and your individual tax situation.

Below are the thresholds for all filing statuses:

Under 65 at the end of 2025

• Single: $15,750 or more
• Head of household: $23,625 or more
• Married filing separately (any age): $5
• Married filing jointly (both spouses under 65): $31,500
• Married filing jointly (one spouse under 65): $33,100
• Qualifying surviving spouse: $31,500

65 or older at the end of 2025

• Single: $17,550 or more
• Head of household: $25,625 or more
• Married filing separately: $5 or more
• Married filing jointly (both spouses): $34,700
• Married filing jointly (one spouse under 65): $33,100
• Qualifying surviving spouse: $33,100

Source: IRS

The Internal Revenue Service provides an online tool for people that are unsure if they need to file or not that takes approximately 12 minutes to complete.

Benefits of filing a tax return even without an income

Different filing statuses such as “married filing separately,” “married filing jointly,” “no dependents,” and “other” can impact your eligibility for certain benefits and exemptions.

Although filing a tax return is not mandatory if your income is zero, there are some compelling reasons to do so. For instance, there are refundable tax credits available, which means that even if you had no income last year, you may still get a refund. This is particularly relevant for those who are currently unemployed.

Additionally, if you have children, you could qualify for tax breaks like the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. Both of these credits may be refunded if you paid more taxes than you owed.

You may still file even if you had a very low salary last year

If you have worked for a short time in the past calendar year or are a student with a low salary, you might be eligible for a refund of your back taxes. Students should be aware that if they are claimed as dependents on their parent or guardian’s tax return, they may not be eligible to receive certain rebates, credits, or other benefits.

One of these credits is the Earned Income Tax Credit, with amounts varying according to income.

Self-employed individuals and company owners face unique challenges when it comes to taxes. Make sure to check with your accountant or tax advisor for guidance.

If you received any healthcare tax credits or subsidies during the previous year, you must file your taxes. This will allow you to continue receiving them.

Related stories

Politics

Vandals attack Trump and Musk properties

Celebrations

When is the next holiday in the USA?

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.