Do I need to file a tax return?

It depends mainly on your income, filing status, age, and the type of income you earn. The IRS sets minimum income thresholds - generally tied to the standard deduction - below which most people are not required to file, but these change each year. Even if you are not required to file, you often should: you may be owed a refund of withheld tax or qualify for refundable credits like the EITC. Self-employment income has a much lower filing threshold. Check the current-year rules or ask a tax professional if you are unsure.