ANSWERS: 1
  • Determining when a student must file a federal income tax return relies on factors such as gross income, filing status, age and dependency status. If required, a student must file even if no taxes are owed. It is sometimes advantageous to file even if it is not required.

    Single Students

    A student with single filing status must file a return if annual gross income exceeds $9,350. A student who meets the head of household filing requirements must file a return if her annual gross income exceeds $12,000.

    Married Students

    A married student and his wife that file a joint return can earn $18,700 before a return must be filed. If a married student and his spouse choose married filing separately as their filing status and the spouse itemizes, the student must file if his income is $5 or more.

    Dependent Students

    A student claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer must file taxes if his earned income is greater than $5,700 or his unearned income is greater than $950. Earned income includes wages or taxable scholarships. Unearned income includes interest and dividends.

    Other Requirements

    A student is required to file a tax return if she owes any self-employment tax, if she received advanced earned-income credit payments, or if she had self-employment earnings of $400 or more.

    Tips

    Even students who are not required to should file a tax return if they had any taxes withheld from wages, if they qualify for the earned-income credit, or if they can claim the additional child-care credit.

    Source:

    IRS Publication 501

    IRS Filing Requirements

    More Information:

    IRS Student's Page

Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC

Answerbag | Terms of Service | Privacy Policy