Tax Read Time: 3 min

Does Your Child Need to File an Income Tax Return?

As parents, we encourage our children to work, so they can learn important values about work and independence. At what point, if at all, do children need to file an income tax return for the money they earn?

The IRS does not exempt anyone from the requirement to file a tax return based on age, even if your child is declared as a dependent on your tax return.1

Your dependent children must file a tax return when they earn above a certain amount of income.

Dependent children with earned income in excess of $13,850 must file an income tax return (for the 2023 tax year). Dependent children with unearned income of more than $1,250 must also file a return. And if the dependent child's earned and unearned income together total more than the larger of $1,250, or a total earned income up to $13,450 plus $400.2

These thresholds are subject to change, so please consult a professional with tax expertise regarding your individual situation.

Here's an example. Kyle is a 20-year-old college student who's claimed as a dependent by his parents. He received $400 in unearned income and $5,500 for a part-time job on campus. He does not have to file a tax return because both his unearned and earned income fall below the thresholds. Kyle's total income of $5,900 is less than his total earned income plus $400.

Even if your child earns less than the threshold amount, filing a tax return may be worthwhile if your child is eligible for a tax refund.

If you decide to prepare a separate return for your child, the same reduced standard deduction rules detailed above will apply.

1. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties.
2. Kiplinger.com, March 2, 2023

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

Timing Your Retirement

Timing Your Retirement

This short video illustrates why knowing when to retire can be a crucial part of your strategy.

You Would Rather Be...

You Would Rather Be...

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

AI Tools Changing Retiree Entrepreneurship

The impact that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can have on retirees with a consulting or small business venture.

Red Flags for Tax Auditors

Here are six flags that may make your tax return prime for an IRS audit.

Social Media: #NewestBusinessLiabilityRisk

Social media may be a modern imperative for businesses looking to grow and build their brand, but it also introduces risk.

View all articles

What's My Potential Estate Tax?

This calculator helps estimate your federal estate tax liability.

Saving for Retirement

This calculator can help you estimate how much you may need to save for retirement.

What Is the Dividend Yield?

This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.

View all calculators

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

Long-Term-Care Protection Strategies

The chances of needing long-term care, its cost, and strategies for covering that cost.

View all presentations

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup

It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall Street, the stock market has a long and storied history.

View all videos