Your Complete Guide to Filing Taxes for the First Time

Filing taxes does not have to be intimidating. Follow this step-by-step guide to file correctly, claim your refund, and start your tax journey right.

Filing your first tax return can feel overwhelming, but it is much simpler than most people expect. The majority of first-time filers have straightforward tax situations: W-2 income from a job, possibly some interest income, and a standard deduction that covers most scenarios. Understanding the basics puts you in control.

The first step is gathering your documents. You will need your W-2 from each employer, any 1099 forms for other income, your Social Security number, and your bank account information for direct deposit. Most first-time filers take the standard deduction rather than itemizing, which simplifies the process significantly.

Many first-time filers qualify for free filing options. The IRS Free File program offers free tax software for taxpayers under certain income thresholds. Cash App Taxes provides completely free filing for all income levels. And if your tax situation is simple, the IRS Direct File program lets you file directly with the IRS at no cost. Taking advantage of these free options means you keep your entire refund.

Key Deductions & Credits

Standard Deduction

$1,500 - $3,500

For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers. Most first-time filers use this instead of itemizing, which automatically reduces taxable income.

Earned Income Tax Credit

$100 - $632

Low-to-moderate income workers may qualify for the EITC. Single filers without children can receive up to $632 with income under $18,591.

Student Loan Interest Deduction

$200 - $625

If you are already making student loan payments, deduct up to $2,500 in interest paid, even if you take the standard deduction.

Saver's Credit

$200 - $1,000

If you contributed to a retirement account like a 401(k) or IRA, you may qualify for a credit of up to $1,000 (single) based on your income level.

Forms You May Need

Form W-2 — Wage and Tax Statement

Form 1040 — U.S. Individual Income Tax Return

Form 1099-INT — Interest Income

Form 1099-NEC — Nonemployee Compensation (if applicable)

Filing Tips

Gather all your tax documents before starting. Employers must send W-2 forms by January 31, and other 1099 forms are usually available by mid-February.
Choose direct deposit for your refund. It is the fastest way to receive your money, typically within 21 days of e-filing.
Use free filing options. IRS Free File, Cash App Taxes, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs are all free for qualifying taxpayers.
File electronically rather than mailing a paper return. E-filing is faster, more accurate, and confirms receipt by the IRS.
Do not forget to sign your return. An unsigned return is one of the most common reasons for processing delays.
Keep a copy of your filed return and all supporting documents for at least three years in case of an IRS inquiry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not filing at all because you think you do not earn enough. Even if not required, filing gets you a refund of any taxes withheld from your paycheck.
Entering incorrect Social Security numbers or misspelling your name, which delays processing and refunds.
Missing the April 15 filing deadline without requesting an extension, which results in late-filing penalties if you owe taxes.
Paying for tax preparation software when free options are available for most first-time filers.
Not claiming the standard deduction because you thought you needed to have itemized deductions to file.

Recommended Software

Cash App Taxes is 100% free for all tax situations with no upsells or hidden fees, making it the perfect choice for first-time filers who want a simple, no-cost filing experience.

Review Cash App Taxes

FAQ

Do I need to file taxes if I only made a small amount?

For 2025, single filers under 65 must file if their gross income exceeds $15,000. Even if you earned less, you should file if federal taxes were withheld from your paycheck, as you will likely receive a refund.

What do I need to file my taxes?

At minimum you need your Social Security number, W-2 forms from employers, any 1099 forms, and your bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit. If someone can claim you as a dependent, you will need to indicate that on your return.

How long does it take to get my refund?

If you e-file and choose direct deposit, most refunds arrive within 21 days. Paper returns take 6-8 weeks. You can check your refund status at irs.gov/refunds or with the IRS2Go mobile app.

Can my parents still claim me as a dependent if I file my own return?

Yes. You can file your own return and your parents can still claim you as a dependent, as long as you meet the qualifying child or qualifying relative tests. You will check a box on your return indicating that someone else can claim you as a dependent.

What happens if I make a mistake on my return?

You can file an amended return using Form 1040-X to correct errors. For simple math errors, the IRS often corrects these automatically and sends you a notice. You generally have three years from the filing deadline to amend a return.