Why don't I get a refund?

[WJMcCalpin]

My wife and I are on Social Security and make about $35,000. We don't have a pension or other income. We are poor. Why don't we get a refund? We need the money!

[VolvoGirl]

Do you have taxes taken out of your Social Security?  You can only get that back.  If you only get Social Security you do not need to file a return and there is no benefit in claiming deductions or dependents.  If they are taking taxes out of your SS you should changed the withholding to none.

If they did take withholding out you won't be able to efile if you only have SS income.  You will have to print and mail your return.

[DoninGA]

IF you have no taxes withheld from your income then you cannot receive a tax refund for income taxes that you never paid.

[SweetieJean]

and you need earned income (from working) to qualify for some tax credits.