Does my dependent/minor child need to file their own return?

[ABNeedsHelp]

I admittedly can't figure this out through TurboTax (desktop version) or via the internet.

I have a minor dependent child who earned money at an after school job in 2020 via a 1099-NEC (about $2000), and via a 1099-DIV (very small amount). Do we need to file a separate return? 

Unearned income (interest) has to exceed $350, so we are well under that. For earned income, the minimum is usually equal to the standard deduction (~$12K), but not sure how it works with a 1099-NEC, though I think you have to file if over $1100. Do they need their own return? Do I just add to mine? 

Any guidance or advice is welcome.

Thanks!

[VolvoGirl]

Yes they need to file their own return for 1099NEC self employment income over $400.  So they need to include all their income.

To file a separate return for a dependent you need to set up a new account separate from the parents.  Online is only good for one return per account.  You can use the same email address for 5 accounts. 

Https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1894512-how-do-i-start-another-return-in-turbotax-online 

Be sure on the dependent return you check the box that says you can be claimed on someone else’s return.  

Filing requirements for a dependent

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/children-dependents/help/do-i-need-to-file-my-own-taxes-if-i-m-a-d...

1099NEC is self employment income.  You can enter Self Employment Income into Online Deluxe or Premier but if you have any expenses you will have to upgrade to the Self Employed version.  Or use any of the Desktop CD/Download programs.

How to enter income from Self Employment

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/self-employed/help/how-do-i-report-income-from-self-employment/00/...

[VolvoGirl]

Oh you have the Desktop program?  Yes, start a new return.....go up to File-New Tax Return.  All Desktop version can handle self employment income.

Does your daughter or son have the same name initial as you or your spouse?  There is a problem saving returns if 2 returns use the same initials, one will overwrite the other.  So you have to be sure to save the returns with names completely different to keep them apart.  Don't use the default name given by the program. Go up to File-Save As and give it a unique name.