I am retired, 74 and only income is social security. Must I file?

If the Social Security benefits are the only income to be reported on the 2022 tax return, there is no need to file a 2022 tax return.  Unless you had federal income taxes withheld from the SS income then you should file for a tax refund.

It is unlikely that you will have to file a return. However, to be sure, take a look and fill in this IRS Interactive Tool: Do I have to File a Tax Return? This will give you an exact answer based on your SS income.

If the Social Security benefits  is your ( and your spouse’s if married) only income then  there is no need for you to file a  tax return UNLESS one or more of these apply :

• You had federal/state taxes withheld that can be refunded
• You received advance premium tax credit for health insurance from the ACA Marketplace (aka "Obamacare") 
• You took money out of Health Savings Account (HSA) or Medical Savings Account (MSA).
• You are married filing a separate return from your spouse and you lived together during the tax year OR   you are filing a joint return and the spouse has income other than SS benefits.