A tax return is necessary when their earned income is more than their standard deduction. The standard deduction for single dependents who are under age 65 and not blind is the greater of: $1,100 in 2020.
What is the minimum income to file taxes in 2020?
In 2020, for example, the minimum for single filing status if under age 65 is $12,400. If your income is below that threshold, you generally do not need to file a federal tax return. Review the full list below for other filing statuses and ages.
Can I get a tax refund if my only income is Social Security?
However, if you live on Social Security benefits alone, you don't include this in gross income. If this is the only income you receive, then your gross income equals zero, and you don't have to file a federal income tax return.