topic Re: Filing returns if you only collect Social Security in Retirement tax questions

Filing returns if you only collect Social Security

Xalintsonny — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:15:54 GMT

do I have to file a tax return if I only receive Social Security income? Also, my son receive survivor benefits how does that work as far as including that in my income tax return or do I have to do a separate return for him or not at all

Re: Filing returns if you only collect Social Security

xmasbaby0 — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:18:54 GMT

Do not enter the SSA1099 for your child on your own tax return. Someday if the child has other income (after school job, etc.) and is filing a tax return, for that tax year he will need to include the SSA1099 on his own return. Until then, it does not get entered anywhere.

If your only income is Social Security you do not have to file a tax return unless you have a 1095A for marketplace health insurance.

Re: Filing returns if you only collect Social Security

SharonD007 — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:23:46 GMT

It depends on your total income. If you are single and made between $25,000 and $34,000 last year, up to 50% of your Social Security is taxable. If you made more than $34,000, you'll pay taxes on up to 85% of your Social Security. When you enter all of your income, TurboTax will calculate the taxable portion of your Social Security.

Refer to the TurboTax articles Is my Social Security income taxable?, How does receiving Social Security affect my taxes? and

When Does a Senior Citizen on Social Security Stop Filing Taxes?

Your son's Social Security Survivors benefits is taxable if he has other income and it's over the base amount ($25,000 if the child is single). If that's the case, he must file his own tax returns. His Social Security payments aren't included on your tax return.

Refer to the IRS FAQ Are Social Security survivor benefits for children considered taxable income? for more information.