Minimum Income to Claim

[aacitrin]

What is the least amount you can earn in order to not claim it in taxes?

[ColeenD3 · Accepted solution]

There is a filing requirement, based on filing status and age.

Tax filing requirement (for dependents)

The minimum income requiring a dependent to file a federal tax return. 2020 filing requirements for dependents under 65: Earned income of at least $12,400, unearned income (like from investments or trusts) of at least $1,100, or self-employment income over $400.

For everyone else:

[aacitrin]

Does the minimum for the married filing jointly apply as joint income or can it be assessed against the individual incomes?

[Jim432]

Is there a requirement for me to file a federal return for my 93-year-old, non-dependent, disabled cousin for whom I have general and financial power of attorney and who had a total income of $11,639?

[PattiF]

No, there is no requirement to file a return for your disabled cousin with an income of $11,639. The standard deduction is higher than their income and there would be no taxable income. If the income is from Social Security, there is also no need to file a return.