Why would I have to pay to do tax return if only income is social security?

[xmasbaby0]

If your only income is Social Security you do not even have to file a tax return unless you had tax withheld and need a refund or if you have a 1095A for marketplace health insurance.

[VolvoGirl]

If you only get SS or SSDI or a SSA-1099 it is not taxable and you don't have to file a return.  Unless you are married and your spouse is filing a return.  You can just leave and abandon this return.  

[Vanessa A · Accepted solution]

Most people with only SS as there income, do not need to file a tax return.  

If you fall into the following, 85% of your social security is taxable income

• Single with income above $34,000
• Married Filing Jointly with income above $44,000
• Married Filing Separate regardless of income

If you fall into the following, 50% of your social security is taxable income

• Single with combined income between $25,000-$34,000
• Married Filing Jointly with combined income between $32,000 and $44,000

Your combined income is calculated by adding your

• AGI plus
• Nontaxable Interest plus
• 1/2 of your social security Benefits

Social Security Benefits Taxes

If you are filing because you had insurance through the marketplace, then you should be able to use the free version.  Simply skip all the questions regarding your home and other deductions so it does not try to push you into using a higher version of TurboTax.  You will only need to answer what is actually relevant to you.  With no other income, you would not benefit by trying to enter itemized expenses such as your mortgage interest or medical expenses.