DEAR SAVVY SENIOR: What are the IRS filing requirements for seniors this year? I had to file income tax returns last year, but my income dropped a bit and I’m wondering if I may be off the hook this year. What can you tell me? — Tired of Taxes 

DEAR TIRED: According to the Tax Policy Center, more than half of all seniors in the United States age 65 and older won’t have to file income tax returns this year mainly because their incomes are under Internal Revenue Service filing limits. Here’s a breakdown of the 2010 filing requirements along with a few other tax tips you should know:

If your gross income is below the IRS filing limits, you probably don’t have to file a federal tax return. Gross income includes all the income you receive that is not exempt from tax, not including Social Security benefits, unless you are married and filing separately. You probably don’t have to file this year if:

• You are single and your 2010 gross income was less than $9,350 ($10,750 if you’re 65 or older).

• You are married filing jointly and your gross income was under $18,700. If you or your spouse is 65 or older, the limit increases to $19,800. And if you’re both over 65, your income must be under $20,900 to not file.

• You are the head of household and your gross income was below $12,050 ($13,450 if age 65 or older).

• You are married filing separately and your income was less than $3,650.

• You are a qualifying widow or widower with a dependent child and your gross income was less than $15,050 ($16,150 if age 65 or older).

You also need to be aware that there are some special financial situations that require you to file a tax return, even if your gross income falls below the IRS filing requirement. For example, if you had net earnings from self-employment in 2010 of $400 or more, or if you owe any special taxes to the IRS such as the alternative minimum tax or IRA tax penalties, you’ll probably need to file.

To figure this out, the IRS offers a page on its website called “Do You Need to File a Federal Income Tax Return?” that includes a list of financial situations and a series of questions that will help you determine if you’re required to file, or if you should file (if you’re due a refund). You can access this page at www.doyouneedtofile.info, or you can get help over the phone by calling the IRS help line at 800-829-1040.

Even if you’re not required to file a federal tax return this year, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re also excused from filing state income taxes. Check on that with your state tax agency before concluding you’re in the clear. For links to state and local tax agencies, see taxadmin.org and click on “Links.”

If you do need to file a tax return, you can get help through the IRS-sponsored Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE). This program provides free tax preparation and counseling to middle- and low-income taxpayers age 60 and older. Call 800-829-1040 to locate a service near you. Also check with AARP, a participant in the TCE program that provides free tax preparation at more than 7,000 sites nationwide. To locate an AARP Tax-Aide site, call 888-227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org/money/taxaide. 

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC “Today” show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

 

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