Filing Requirements

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Do I need to file a tax return?

Filing Requirements

Not everyone needs to fill an income tax return. Certain tests and income thresholds must be met. These income thresholds are based upon your gross income, and other tests.

Gross income is defined as all the income you received in 2006 (except, of course, those specifically stated as tax exempt). In general, items which are included in gross income include: wages, tips, self-employment income, interest and dividends, capital gains, rental income, pensions and annuities, and trust distributions.

For the gross income filing threshold test, your filing status and gross income come into play in determining whether you need to file a 2006 income tax return. Age requirements are as ‘on or before January 1, 2007'. The breakdown is as follows:

Single:

Taxpayers need to file if their gross income is under $8,450 and they are under age 65.

If over age 65 (on or before January 1, 2007), their gross income must be at least $9,700.

Married and living apart at 2006 year end:

Taxpayers need to file a joint or separate return if their 2006 gross income is at least $3,300.

Married, living together at 2006 year end:

If spouses are both under 65, you need to file a joint income tax return if your gross income is at least $16,900.

If one spouse is 65 or older, you must file jointly if gross income is at least $17,900.

If both spouses are 65 or older, file jointly if gross income is at least $18,900.

If both spouses are filing a separate income tax return, gross income must be at least $3,3300 (any age).

Head of Household:

Taxpayers under the age of 65 must file a tax return if gross income is at least $10,850 in 2006.

If 65 or older, taxpayers must file a tax return if their gross income is at least $12,100 in 2006.

Widow(er) in 2004 or 2005, plus have a dependent child If under 65, gross income must be at least $13,600 in 2006.

For those taxpayers 65 or older, gross income must be at least $14,600.

   

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