Q. I don't have a job so I don't need to file a return but I do have gambling winnings to claim. How does this work?
A, The requirement to file a tax return is based on total income, from all sources, not just a job. So if your gambling winnings (plus any other income) is more than $13,850 (for single filers), you are required to file a tax return.
That assumes that you cannot be claimed as a dependent, by someone else. Someone who can be claimed as a dependent has a $1250* income filing threshold, whether or not they are actually claimed as a dependent.
*The actual rule is $1250 or your earned income plus $400, whichever is more. Gambling winnings are not earned incomes, so the $1250 would apply.
