Learning Center

We keep you up-to-date on the latest tax changes and news in the industry.

Discover Benefits Even If You're Not Required to File Taxes

In most cases, the obligation to file a tax return is determined by whether your earnings surpass the standard deduction applicable to your filing status for that year. However, choosing to file a tax return even when not mandated can unlock a range of benefits. This includes access to significant refundable tax credits and opportunities to carry over tax benefits.

2025 Income Thresholds for Filing

The following table outlines the income thresholds for filing a return for the 2025 tax year, which you will address in 2026:

FILING STATUS UNDER AGE 65 AGE 65 OR OLDER
Single $15,750 $17,750
Head of Household $23,625 $25,625
Married, Filing Jointly $31,500 (both under 65) $33,100 (one spouse 65+)
$34,700 (both 65+)
Married, Filing Separately $5 (any age) $5 (any age)
Qualifying Surviving Spouse $31,500 $33,100
Image 1

Additional Filing Considerations

You may still be required to file a federal return, even with income below the standard threshold, in situations such as:

  • Net earnings from self-employment of $400 or more.
  • Liability for special taxes, such as the Alternative Minimum Tax.
  • Receiving advance Premium Tax Credit payments for health insurance.
  • Income from a church or religious organization exceeding $108.28.
  • Uncollected Social Security or Medicare taxes.
  • Household employment tax obligations.
  • Distributions from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

Dependent Filing Requirements

If another taxpayer claims you as a dependent, your filing requirements differ. You must file if you have:

  • Unearned income over $1,350 (such as dividends or interest).
  • Earned income exceeding $15,750.
  • Gross income over the larger of $1,350 or earned income plus $450.
Image 2

Potential Rewards of Voluntarily Filing

Falling below the required filing threshold doesn’t automatically preclude you from valuable opportunities, such as:

  • Tax Withholding Refunds – Taxes withheld from wages are fully refundable when a return is filed, even if you owe no tax.
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – For low- to moderate-income workers, the EITC can result in significant refunds, potentially over $8,046 in 2025.
  • Child Tax Credit (CTC) – Offers up to $2,200 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable, irrespective of filing requirements.
  • American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) – Provides up to $2,500 per student, with up to 40% refundable, for qualified education expenses.
  • Premium Tax Credit – Assists in reducing insurance premium costs for those purchasing through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Current Deductions Carryover

Even minimal income can impact deductions potentially carried forward, like:

  1. Net Operating Losses (NOLs): From previous business losses.
  2. Charitable Contributions: Exceeding limits can be carried forward up to five years.
  3. Passive Activity Losses: From rentals or passive endeavors.
  4. Capital Losses: Carryover excess losses to offset future gains or income.
Image 3

Further Considerations

  1. Eligibility for State Programs: Filing can influence state tax and benefit eligibility.
  2. Future Financial Planning: Filed returns support loan applications and financial aid.
  3. Identity Protection: Secures your tax identity by thwarting unauthorized claims.

While not filing might seem intuitive if you aren't required, it could mean missing out on potentially thousands in tax benefits. Shockingly, roughly 25% of EITC-eligible individuals don't claim it. Our team at Ethan and Associates, based in Maitland, Florida, is ready to assist you in determining if voluntary filing is beneficial. Missing prior year filings? Let us help secure those refunds too!

Share this article...

Want our best tax and accounting tips and insights delivered to your inbox?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .
Questions? We have answers.
FAQ
Please fill out the form and our team will get back to you shortly The form was sent successfully