Key takeaways:
- If you make above a certain amount, you must file federal taxes each year through the IRS.
- Filing as an independent could result in a larger tax return and additional tax credits.
- You can complete your taxes with paper forms, with tax preparation software, or a professional
If you’re filing your taxes for the first time as an independent, it’s okay to be anxious – but you don’t need to be. In most situations, they’re easier and more straightforward than people think. Below, we’ve highlighted some facts and tips for completing your taxes, explained what information you need on hand, and how you can file stress-free.
8 must-know facts for filing your taxes for the first time
Before you start filling out your tax forms, here are a few things you need to know to prepare for tax season, avoid fines, scams, and other issues.
1. You must file a tax return if your annual income is above a certain level
In general, you’ll file federal income tax return if you’re single and your gross income is $15,750 or more last year. Your gross income accounts for all sources, such as your job, part-time gigs, rental property, and investments.
If you work a single job with no other sources of income, you can find the “year to date” income on your final pay stub of the following year. If you have more than one job or source, you need to check each individually and add them together.
College students can earn money all sorts of ways, including work-study, and some scholarships are taxable, too.
2. You may qualify for tax credits and deductions
The amount of income tax you owe is based on your total income, minus any allowable deductions. Deductions are specific expenses that the IRS allows taxpayers to subtract from their total income for the year. Once all deductions are taken off, the remaining income—also known as “taxable income”—is taxed at a determined rate. Almost all taxpayers are eligible to take a standard deduction. If you are filing as single, your standard deduction is $15,750, as of 2025.
Additional credits and deductions you’re eligible for depend on your financial situation and income sources. For example, you can deduct up to $2,500 in interest payments on your student loans. If you’re self-employed or freelancing, you may be able to claim deductions for work-related expenses, such as office supplies and software subscriptions. You can also deduct charitable deductions.
3. If you don’t file an income tax return you won’t qualify for a possible tax refund
You technically don’t have to file your federal income taxes if you’re single and earn less than $15,750. However, if you have a job and money is withheld each paycheck for federal income taxes, you won’t receive a tax refund if you don’t file. Note, you may or may not qualify for a refund. You could owe taxes based on your situation.
4. You can’t claim education tax credits if you are a dependent
The American Opportunity Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit are two tax credits offered exclusively to qualifying college students. If your parents claim you as a dependent on their taxes, they could receive the tax credit rather than you.
You could be considered and named as a dependent if you are 24 years old and younger, enrolled in school full-time, and/or someone else provides more than half of your financial support.
5. There is a deadline for filing taxes
April 15 is the annual deadline for filing taxes, unless it falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or federal holiday. In that case, it’s the following business day. You can request an extension to October 15.
Filing late could result in fines owing money on your taxes. Additionally, you could owe additional interest on that money.
Don’t wait until April 14 to start on your taxes. It takes time to gather documents and submit the information. You’ll also receive your potential tax return sooner if you file earlier. The IRS begins processing taxes in late January for the following year.
6. Your state may require you to file taxes
Many states have their own income taxes, separate from the federal government. You will need to complete their tax forms as well each year. Resources and how to file varies by state.
7. Consider e-filing
When you e-file your taxes, your return is submitted instantly. When you go to complete your taxes again next year, it’ll be faster – your information is generally saved if you use the same tax preparer or service.
8. Be aware of scams
If the IRS needs to contact you, they will send a letter through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) and/or through your IRS online account. They will not email, text, or reach out to you on social media. They will not request payment in gift cards.
Do not give out any details if anyone contacts you by phone, email or social media and asks for any personal or financial information. Tax-related scams are very common, especially around the tax filing deadline. You can always contact the IRS directly to confirm any messages or requests.
What do you need to file taxes as an independent?
When you file your federal taxes, you need to submit information and forms specific to your situation, such as (but not limited to):
- Personal information: The IRS will request your details, contact information, Social Security number, and more.
- Form W-2: If you work as an employee, you should receive a Form W-2 from your employer(s) in January. You need all of them before you can file your taxes.
- Form 1099: If you’re freelancing, sell over a certain amount online, or are paid as a contractor, you will receive a Form 1099, similar to a W-2. You may receive several. Even if your client doesn’t give you a Form 1099, you still need to claim the income.
- Form 1098-E: If you have student loans, your financial institution will send you a Form 1098-E.
- Form 1098-T: If you make payments to your school, the Form 1098-T will list expenses related to your coursework. The information can help you determine if you’re eligible for education tax credits.
You may also need to submit additional forms and documents related to medical bills, work-related expenses, charitable donations, investments, and financial aid.
How to file your federal taxes as an independent
There are a few different ways to file your tax returns:
- Complete paper forms. Free, you have to fill out and mail the paper forms to the IRS yourself.
- Use tax preparation software. Specialized software, such as TaxSlayer or TurboTax, walks you through each part of your taxes, income, and deductions step by step. Some programs are free if you earn under a certain amount or have simple taxes, while others require a small fee or percentage of your tax return.
- Work with a tax professional. If you need 1-on-1 help with your taxes, you can work with an IRS-approved professional. Prices start at a few hundred dollars.
The Free File option through the IRS is no longer available.
Review your taxes before you sign and submit them, whether you opt to do it yourself, through software, or with a tax professional. If you have questions on your taxes, seek help from an accountant or other tax expert.
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This article is for general information purposes only and is not tax or legal advice. Consult a professional tax or legal advisor for guidance on your situation.
