Since it is a government retirement and only 19500, do I need to file?I was told I don't need to file since it is under20000?

[barbgries2014]

It is only my husband and myself. My goverment pension only amounts to 19500. I was told we did not have to pay taxes

[SharonD007]

If your total income is under the filing requirement, you don't have to file a tax return.  The federal filing requirement depends on your filing status, your age, and your income.  

Refer to the TurboTax Help article Do I need to file a federal return this year?

 Review the IRS Publication 501 Who needs to file a tax return to determine if you need to file a federal tax return.