For 2025, the IRS has ruled that, as every year, 2024 tax returns must be filed by April 15 as the deadline, although those who obtain a valid tax extension will have until October 15, 2025 to get their returns in order.
However, if you miss the deadline and owe taxes, the longer you wait to file and pay, the greater the penalties and interest may be. If you miss the deadline and are due a refund, you may not face a penalty, but be sure to file if required by law.
There are some people who earn less than a certain income, which means they can avoid the paperwork, but it is important to know that income is not the only factor at play.
For example, people who received distributions from things like a health savings account may have an obligation to file a return, even if their income was below the filing threshold
Some people who earn less than the minimum income requirements to file a return may be eligible for tax credits or other benefits that could result in a refund. Not filing means potentially missing out on that money.
How much do you have to earn to file taxes in 2025?
You will likely need to file a tax return in 2025 if your gross income in 2024 was at least $14,600 for the year as a single filer, $29,200 if married and filing jointly or $21,900 if head of household.
If you were 65 or older at the end of 2024, those minimum income limits are higher.
If someone else can claim you as a dependent, the rules change. You must file a tax return if any of the following conditions apply.
If your unearned income was more than $1,300 for a person under age 65; $3,250 for persons 65 or older, and $5,200 for those over 65 and visually impaired.
Their earned income was more than $14,600 for a person under age 65; $16,550 for persons age 65 or older, and $18,500 for those over age 65 and visually impaired.
Your gross income was greater than the larger of $1,300 or your earned income (up to $14,150) for those under 65; plus $450; $3,250 or your earned income (up to $14,150), plus $2,400, for those 65 and older, and $5,200 or your earned income (up to $14,150), plus $4,350 for those 65 and older and visually impaired.