Have you ever wondered what the minimum amount of money you need to earn in order to file income taxes this year?

$4000? 8000? $15000?

Here’s a chart for Federal filing requirements:

Filing Status Age at December 31, 2017 Gross Income
Single Under 65 $10,400
65 or older $11,950
Married Filing Jointly Under 65 (both) $20,800
65 or older (both) $23,300
Married Filing Separately $4,050
Head of Household Under 65 $13,400
65 or older $14,950
Qualifying Widow(er) Under 65 $16,750
65 or older $18,000

Now before you ask I know what you’re wondering. You’re wondering if this means if you’re a freelancer and single does that mean you don’t have to file if you make below $10,400 and the answer is no.

As a freelancer the minimum amount of money you have to make to file a tax return is $400. Yes you read correctly, $400.

This is not true for freelancers and who are paid on W-2’s; however, it’s true for freelancers that get paid for the whole amount they earn and do not have any taxes withheld, and have or should have their income declared on a 1099.

What are your thoughts on freelance taxes? Leave your comments below. 


SA
Stephanie Alston
Founder & CEO, BGG Enterprises · Career Expert · Diversity Advocate