The IRS requires you to file a tax return when your gross income exceeds the sum of the standard deduction for your filing status plus one exemption amount. If Social Security is your sole source of income, then you don’t need to file a tax return.

How do I file my taxes as a first time filer?

5 Tips for How to File Taxes for the First Time

  1. Gather all of your tax documents.
  2. Decide whether your parents can claim you as a dependent.
  3. Consider relevant tax deductions and credits.
  4. Don’t forget about your gig economy income.
  5. File electronically.

Can you get a tax refund if you are on social security?

Tax Filing and Refund on Social Security Disability If your only income is social security disability benefits, it’s unlikely that you will owe the IRS anything at the end of the year or need to file a return. Clearly, if you don’t file, you also won’t earn a refund check.

Can first time tax filers file electronically?

Yes! The CRA allows first-time filers to submit their returns online using NETFILE.

When do you have to file a Social Security tax return?

If you are married but file a separate tax return and live with your spouse at any time during the year, then all of your Social Security benefits are considered gross income which may require you to file a tax return.

What kind of tax return do I need for first time Filer?

Dependents cannot claim exemptions. Form 1040: The income tax return that you file. Depending on your circumstances, you may file Form 1040-EZ, the Form 1040-A (the “short form”) or Form 1040 (the “long form”) Most first-time tax filers will be eligible to file either Form 1040-EZ or 1040-A, both of which are simpler than Form 1040.

Can you file a federal tax return without a Social Security number?

Be sure to submit it with your federal income tax return along with original or certified copies of documents to prove your identity and foreign status. You will not be able to electronically file your return without the ITIN, so you’d have to file a paper return and mail it to: With an in-person agent.

How to file your child’s first income tax return?

By filing Form W-4 in advance, children who do not expect to owe any income tax can request an exemption. If the employer has already withheld taxes, the child should file a return to receive a refund from the IRS. The simplest way to file is to use the one-page IRS Form 1040EZ, which can be found on the IRS website.