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How Much Do You Have to Make to File Taxes?

According to the IRS, here's how much you have to have made in 2025 to be required to file taxes in 2026 and the general rules for whether you need to file a federal tax return this year.

Sabrina Parys's profile picture
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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Head of Household Tax Filing Status: Rules, Who Qualifies

Using the head of household tax filing status could save you money if you qualify.

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Tina Orem, Bella Avila

Freelancer Taxes: A Guide for Filing With a Side Hustle

You'll get more tax paperwork, and you'll likely need to file more forms at tax time. Here's how to stay on top of it all.

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Tina Orem

25 Popular Tax Deductions and Tax Breaks for 2025-2026

A deduction cuts the income you're taxed on, which can mean a lower bill. A credit cuts your tax bill directly. Learn more about common tax breaks and write-offs — and how to claim them.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Taxes?

Not paying your taxes or paying them late can result in hefty penalties and other consequences.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

4 Good Ways to Put Your Tax Refund to Work

That check from the IRS can be a windfall. Don't let it go to waste.

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Liz Weston, CFP®

Where’s My Refund? Track Your Tax Return in 2026

Learn about which tools can help you track your federal and state refunds, typical processing times, and common reasons your refund might get delayed.

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Bella Avila, Sabrina Parys

Sales Tax Deduction: How It Works, How to Calculate

Compare what you paid in sales tax to your state and local taxes. Deduct the larger of the two. But there's a catch.

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Tina Orem

How to File Taxes: A 2026 Tax Filing Guide

Whether you're a first-time filer or just need help learning how to file taxes on your own, here's a quick guide that covers how, when and where to file your return.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

How Federal Tax Brackets and Rates Work

Contrary to popular belief, your income isn't taxed at just one rate. The U.S. has a progressive tax system, meaning different portions of your income get taxed at different rates.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): What It Is, Who Qualifies

The earned income tax credit is for low- and moderate-income workers. See the requirements and credit amounts for 2025 and 2026.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Filing Status: What It Is, How to Choose in 2025-2026

Your status can have a big effect on your tax bill, which tax forms are required, and which tax deductions and credits you can claim.

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Tina Orem

Popular Tax Credits for 2026: How They Work

Tax credits can come in handy when it's time to file your return. Here's a breakdown of common ones, including the earned income credit, child tax credit and clean energy credits.

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Sabrina Parys, Tina Orem

Tax Credit vs. Tax Deduction

Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, but tax credits reduce your bill dollar for dollar.

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Tina Orem

12 Tips for Lowering Your Tax Bill

Here are a dozen simple maneuvers that could slash what you owe to the IRS.

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Tina Orem

What Does It Mean to Be Tax-Exempt? Definition, How Tax Exemptions Work

Tax exemptions, exempt workers and tax-exempt status mean different things. They can also affect your tax bill.

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Tina Orem

Property Tax Deduction: Rules, How It Works

Property taxes can be deductible. To take advantage, you'll need to find your tax records and itemize using Schedule A.

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Tina Orem

Tax Breaks for Parents of Children With Functional Needs

The medical expense deduction, 529A accounts and the child and dependent care tax credit could lower your tax bill.

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Tina Orem

Medical Expense Tax Deduction: How to Claim in 2026

You might be able to deduct qualified medical expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income. Some states offer lower thresholds.

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Tina Orem, Sabrina Parys

How to Fill Out Your W-4 Form and When to Adjust It

Most people only fill out a W-4 when they start a new job, but there are times when it may be worth revisiting.

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Bella Avila, Tina Orem