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Exploring the Benefits of Filing Taxes Even When Not Obligated

For many, the primary reason to file a tax return is the legal obligation when income exceeds a certain threshold. Yet, even without this requirement, filing your tax return can unveil substantial benefits. Often, individuals may overlook the opportunity to leverage refundable tax credits and the advantage of carrying over deductions.

The income thresholds for the 2025 tax year, which subsequently impact tax filings in 2026, are outlined below:

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

Additional Filing Requirements: There are specific scenarios that warrant the need to file, regardless of income thresholds:

  • Net earnings from self-employment totaling $400 or more.

  • Liability for special taxes, such as the Alternative Minimum Tax.

  • Advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit sourced from federal or state market exchanges.

  • Income from a religious organization exceeding $108.28.

  • Unpaid Social Security or Medicare taxes.

  • Household employment tax obligations.

  • Distributions from a Health Savings Account (HSA) by you or your spouse.

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Dependent Filing Requirements: If you are declared as a dependent on another taxpayer's return, different filing stipulations apply, particularly if you have:

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  • Unearned income (such as interest or dividends) over $1,350.

  • Earned income (including wages and tips) over $15,750.

  • Gross income surpassing the greater of $1,350 or the sum of earned income plus $450, up to the standard deduction.

Potential Missed Opportunities from Not Filing: Choosing not to file can result in significant financial opportunities being overlooked. Notably, this includes refunds on tax withholdings and eligibility for refundable tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credit (CTC), and the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC).

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Moreover, the Premium Tax Credit can reduce health insurance costs, providing a vital safety net through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Maximizing Carryover Deductions: Even in years where income is modest and filing isn't mandatory, leveraging carried forward deductions is crucial. Utilization on the current return is essential before any carryover can contribute to reducing future tax liabilities or enhancing potential refunds. Consider deductions related to:

  1. Net Operating Losses (NOLs): Forward gains from business losses for up to 20 years.

  2. Charitable Contributions: Donations exceeding the annual cap can be carried up to five years to counterbalance higher income periods.

  3. Passive Activity Losses: Offset these losses with future passive income streams.

  4. Capital Losses: Use capital loss carryovers to mitigate future earnings or ordinary income.

Strategic Considerations:

  1. State Program Eligibility: Federal filing can bear implications on state taxes and program qualifications.

  2. Financial Planning: Maintain a well-documented history of filed returns, beneficial for loans, mortgages, or financial aid applications.

  3. Fraud Prevention: Secure your tax identity through regular filing, preventing unauthorized claims.

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In conclusion, over 25% of eligible individuals miss claiming the EITC due to non-filing. Whether or not required to file, valuable benefits await. Consulting with our firm, Adkin CPA, could illuminate the way to tangible financial gains not only through present but also past unclaimed years. Assess how we can assist in harnessing your entitlements through expert tax preparation and advice.

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