How much money do you need to make to file taxes?

Question

The income level at which someone must file a tax return depends on factors such as filing status, age, income type, and dependency status. Some people may also need to file even when their income is below the usual threshold. Which factors should individuals check to determine whether they need to file a federal tax return?

Vicky · Answer

In the United States, the income required to file taxes depends on your age, filing status, and income type. For the 2025 tax year, a single person under 65 generally must file if gross income is at least $15,750. Self-employed individuals generally must file if net earnings are $400 or more.

William Cruz · Answer

For US federal income taxes for the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), most people under 65 must file if their gross income reaches:

Single: $15,750
Head of household: $23,625
Married filing jointly: $31,500 if both spouses are under 65
Married filing separately: $5

These thresholds depend on filing status, age, and other circumstances. Self-employed people generally must file if they have $400 or more in net earnings from self-employment. You may also want to file below the threshold to claim a refund.

Samantha · Answer

It depends on your age and filing status, but for a single person it’s roughly the standard deduction, around $15k. I’d still file if you had tax withheld, since you might get it back.

Answers