Whether you need to file federal and state taxes depends on several factors, such as your income level, filing status, and type of income. In general, if your income exceeds certain thresholds, you are required to file taxes.
In 2023, here is the summary of whom should file federal tax returns.
IF your filing status is . . .
| AND at the end of 2023 you were. . .
| THEN file a return if your gross income was at least . . .
|
Single
| under 65 65 or older
| $13,850 $15,700
|
Married filing jointly
| under 65 (both spouses) under 65 (one spouse) 65 or older (both spouses)
| $27,700 $29,200 $30,700
|
Married filing separately
| any age
| $5
|
Head of household
| under 65 65 or older
| $20,800 $22,650
|
Qualifying surviving spouse
| under 65 65 or older
| $27,700 $29,200
|
State tax return filing requirements vary by state and are determined based on factors such as income, residency, and the source of income. In general, if you are a resident of a state and your income exceeds a certain threshold, you may be required to file a state tax return. Additionally, if you earned income in a state where you are not a resident, you may also be required to file a state tax return in that state.
Here are the state tax return filing requirements for a few states:
- California: Individuals must file a state tax return if their income exceeds $21,561 for single filers and $43,127 for married filing jointly.
- New York: Individuals must file a state tax return if their income exceeds $4,000 for single filers and $8,000 for married filing jointly.
- Texas: There is no state income tax in Texas, so there is no requirement to file a state tax return.
- Florida: There is no state income tax in Florida, so there is no requirement to file a state tax return.
- Illinois: Individuals must file a state tax return if their income exceeds $2,350 for single filers and $4,700 for married filing jointly.