Do I need to file my own taxes if I'm a dependent?

Even if you're a dependent, you'll generally need to file your own 2024 tax return if:

• Your earned income (money you made by working) exceeds $14,600
• Your unearned income (interest, dividends, capital gains, etc.) exceeds $1,300
• Your business or self-employment net income (gross minus expenses) is at least $400
• Your gross income (earned plus unearned) exceeds the larger of $1,300 or your earned income (up to $14,200) plus $400

But even if your income falls below these filing requirements, you'll want to file your own tax return to get a refund of any federal or state taxes withheld from your paychecks.