Maximizing Benefits by Filing Taxes Even When Not Required

For many individuals, filing a tax return is an annual requirement determined by income levels surpassing the standard deduction of their filing status. Yet, even those who are not obligated to file should consider doing so. By choosing to file, they may unlock substantial refundable tax credits and enjoy carryovers of financial benefits.

The income thresholds that mandate a tax return filing for the 2025 tax year, to be submitted in 2026, are as follows:

2025 INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RETURN FILING THRESHOLDS
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 (if both spouses are under 65) $33,100 (if one spouse is 65+)
$34,700 (if both are 65+)
Married, Filing Separately $5 (any age) $5 (any age)
Qualifying Surviving Spouse $31,500 $33,100
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Additional Filing Considerations - Even if your income falls below the standard threshold, there are scenarios that could still necessitate a federal tax filing, such as:

  • You earned $400 or more from self-employment.
  • You owe specific taxes, like the Alternative Minimum Tax.
  • You received advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit for insurance obtained through a marketplace.
  • You earned more than $108.28 from a religious institution.
  • There are unremitted Social Security or Medicare taxes.
  • You are responsible for household employment taxes.
  • Distributions were made from your Health Savings Account (HSA).

Filing Requirements for Dependents - Dependents are subject to unique filing rules and must submit a return if they received:

  • Unearned income (such as interest) beyond $1,350.
  • Earned income (like wages) over $15,750.
  • Gross income exceeding the greater of $1,350 or their earned income plus $450, not surpassing the standard deduction.

Potential Benefits of Filing - Neglecting to file could forfeit substantial monetary returns. Key tax benefits include:

  • Tax Withholding – Individuals with wages usually have taxes withheld, which are entirely refundable for those not required to file.
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – A credit for workers with lower income, potentially providing refunds up to $8,046 in 2025, fully refundable even without tax liability.
  • Child Tax Credit (CTC) – A credit meant for taxpayers with children under 17, with a refundable cap of $1,700 per child.
  • American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) – Available for students, offering up to $2,500 annually, with 40% refundable.
  • Premium Tax Credit - Designed to reduce insurance premium costs via the Health Insurance Marketplace.
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Maximizing Carryover Deductions - For those with minimal current-year income, filing is essential for applying deductions eligible for carryover, which may reduce future tax liabilities or boost refunds. Key deductions include:

  1. Net Operating Losses (NOLs): Historical business losses that can be carried forward for up to 20 years.
  2. Charitable Contributions: Charitable donations exceeding annual limits can be carried forward five years.
  3. Passive Activity Losses: Losses from rental or passive activities can offset forthcoming passive income.
  4. Capital Losses: Excess capital losses over gains can be carried forward to limit future taxes.

Additional Considerations

  1. State Program Eligibility: Filing impacts access to state benefits and tax duties.
  2. Future Financial Planning: Consistently filed returns strengthen your financial portfolio for loans, mortgages, or educational aid applications.
  3. Identity Security: Filing helps safeguard against fraudulent activities under your identity.
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Ultimately, even those not mandated to file could secure significant refunds. The IRS notes that around 25% eligible for the EITC neglect to claim it. Don’t leave refundable credits unclaimed; consult this office to explore filing benefits and obtain help in preparing your return. Missed filings for past years could also yield refunds.

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