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Uncover Tax Savings: Filing Your Return When Not Required

For most individuals, filing a tax return each year is standard practice when their income exceeds the standard deduction for their filing status. However, choosing to file even when not required can unlock unexpected benefits. Potential rewards include accessing refundable tax credits and capitalizing on deferred tax advantages.

The 2025 tax year brings specific income thresholds for considering when to file your return in 2026. Understanding these benchmarks is critical:

2025 INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RETURN FILING THRESHOLDS

FILING STATUS

UNDER AGE 65

AGE 65 OR OLDER

Single

$15,750

$17,750

Additional Filing Criteria - There are situations where you might need to file regardless of your income level. Consider filing if:

  • Net earnings from self-employment exceed $400.

  • You owe special taxes, such as the Alternative Minimum Tax.

  • You received advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit.

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Filing for Dependents - If you are a dependent, distinct filing rules exist. You must file if your unearned income exceeds $1,350, your earned income goes beyond $15,750, or your gross income is more than the larger of $1,350 or your earned income plus $450.

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Missed Opportunities - Not filing might leave you without substantial financial gains such as:

  • Tax Withholding – For many, withheld taxes from wages are fully refundable if no return is owed.

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – A benefit up to $8,046 for low-to-moderate income earners, accessible even without owed taxes.

  • Child Tax Credit (CTC) - With a refundable portion up to $1,700 per child, it's vital for eligible non-filers.

Consider carryover deductions like Net Operating Losses or Capital Losses which must be used in current returns to maximize their future benefit. Ensure these deductions are effectively applied to mitigate taxable income in profitable years.

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Evaluate your eligibility for state programs and take advantage of the financial insights filing provides for future planning. Filing taxes not only opens doors to refunds but safeguards your financial identity, builds financial history essential for loans, and secures refunds due from previous years.

The IRS notes that approximately 25% of eligible EITC recipients do not claim the credit. Avoid missing out on potential financial advantages by consulting with our team at TaxxGuy LLC to ensure you're maximizing your benefits. If you didn’t file previously, recover your entitled refunds from those years too.

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