If I claim both of my elderly parents as dependents on my taxes, do they still need to file non-joint returns?
Dad’s income:
$12,168 in Social Security benefits
$554.28 in pension income
Mom’s income:
$6,924 in Social Security benefits
$2,604 in IRA withdrawal
From my understanding, Social Security benefits are not counted as part of gross income for tax purposes. Given that the gross income limit for 2024 to require filing a return is $5,050, I believe my dad’s $554.28 pension income and my mom’s $2,604 IRA withdrawal would be included in their total gross income. Based on this, I assume neither of them would need to file a return, and I should be able to claim them as dependents. They live with me and I pay the whole rent and every house hold bill.
