Turning 18 comes with new responsibilities—voting, managing your finances, and yes, potentially filing taxes. If you’re wondering whether you need to file a tax return, you’re not alone. Many young adults are unsure about the process, especially if they’ve never filed before.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide if you should file your taxes this year.
1. Do You Have to File Taxes at 18?
You are required to file taxes if:
- You earned more than $13,850 from a job in 2023 (single filers).
- You had more than $1,250 in unearned income (from investments, dividends, or savings interest).
- You made more than $400 from freelancing or gig work (self-employment tax applies).
- You received a 1099-NEC or 1099-K from gig work (Uber, DoorDash, Etsy, etc.).
If none of these apply, you might not be required to file—but you still should. Here’s why.
2. You Might Get a Tax Refund
If you had taxes withheld from your paycheck, you may be owed money back. Employers automatically take out federal and state taxes, and the only way to get a refund is by filing a tax return. Even if you only made a few thousand dollars, you could be leaving money on the table!
3. Can Your Parents Still Claim You?
If you’re under 19 (or under 24 and a full-time student), your parents might still claim you as a dependent on their taxes. This means:
- They get tax benefits for supporting you.
- You can still file your own tax return—but you can’t claim certain credits like the American Opportunity Credit(for college students) if they already did.
Talk to your parents before filing to avoid confusion.
4. How to File Your Taxes
If you decide to file, here’s what you need to do:
- Gather Your Forms – Get your W-2 (if employed) or 1099 (if self-employed/gig work). If you’re in college, look for a 1098-T (tuition form).
- Choose How to File – You can use IRS Free File, tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block), or a tax professional.
- File Before April 15, 2024 – This is the deadline for 2023 taxes.
Final Thoughts
At 18, filing taxes might seem overwhelming, but it can actually be simple—and might put cash back in your pocket! Even if you’re not required to file, checking if you’re eligible for a refund is always a good idea.
If you’re unsure, take a few minutes to run your numbers through a tax calculator or ask a professional for help. It’s better to file and get your money back than to miss out!