Can a 15 Year Old File Taxes? How and When to File

Tax filing in the United States is a yearly obligation for many individuals. While often associated with adults, the requirement to file a tax return depends on an individual’s income, type of income, and filing status. Minors, including a 15-year-old, may need to file if they meet specific income thresholds or if filing offers a financial benefit, such as a refund of withheld taxes.

Income and Filing Requirements for Minors

A 15-year-old is considered a dependent for tax purposes, which influences their filing requirements. The IRS sets specific income thresholds for dependents. For the 2024 tax year, a dependent with only earned income, such as wages from a job, needs to file if their income exceeds $14,600. Earned income includes wages, salaries, and tips.

Unearned income, which includes investment earnings like interest and dividends, has a lower filing threshold. For 2024, a dependent must file if their unearned income is more than $1,300. If a dependent has both earned and unearned income, they must file if their gross income exceeds the greater of $1,300 or their earned income plus $450.

Even if a 15-year-old’s income falls below these filing thresholds, there are compelling reasons to file. If federal income tax was withheld from their paychecks, filing a return allows the minor to claim a refund for any overpaid taxes. This returns money to the minor that would otherwise be forfeited.

Filing a return might also be necessary to claim certain refundable tax credits, even if they are less common for this age group. A dependent’s standard deduction is limited to the greater of $1,300 or their earned income plus $450, up to the basic standard deduction for a single taxpayer ($14,600 for 2024).

Common income types for a 15-year-old include wages reported on a Form W-2 from an employer. For savings accounts or investments, they might receive Form 1099-INT for interest income or Form 1099-DIV for dividends. If net earnings from self-employment are $400 or more, a tax return is required, and self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare) will apply.

Preparing to File a Tax Return

Gathering all necessary information and documentation is an important step before filing. The 15-year-old will need their full legal name, current address, date of birth, and Social Security Number (SSN). An SSN is required on the tax return. Since the minor is a dependent, information about their parent or guardian, including names and SSNs, may also be necessary.

Income documentation is key. If the 15-year-old worked a job, they should receive a Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, from their employer. This form details their total wages, tips, compensation, and any federal, state, or local taxes withheld. Employers send W-2s by January 31st each year.

For unearned income, such as interest or dividends, the minor might receive Form 1099-INT or Form 1099-DIV. These forms report the total amount paid during the year. If the minor engaged in self-employment, maintaining detailed records of income and expenses is important, even if no formal tax form like a 1099-NEC is issued. These records help calculate net earnings from self-employment.

Once all personal and income information is collected, it will be used to complete the appropriate tax forms. The main form for individual income tax returns is Form 1040. If the minor has interest or dividend income exceeding certain thresholds, or foreign accounts, Schedule B (Form 1040) might be required. For self-employment income, Schedule C (Form 1040) is used to report profit or loss from a business. These schedules attach to Form 1040, providing a comprehensive view of the minor’s financial activities.

Methods for Submitting a Tax Return

Once the tax return is complete, several submission methods are available. Electronic filing, or e-file, is a widely used method due to its speed and convenience. Taxpayers can use commercial tax software programs to prepare and electronically submit their returns. Many programs guide users through inputting information and completing forms.

The IRS also offers the Free File program, which allows eligible taxpayers to prepare and e-file their federal income tax returns online at no cost. This program is a partnership between the IRS and several tax preparation software companies, often based on income thresholds. When using tax software, the system performs calculations and checks for errors, then transmits the return directly to the IRS. Following the software’s prompts ensures accurate submission.

Alternatively, a tax return can be filed by mail. This involves printing all completed tax forms, including Form 1040 and any accompanying schedules. The return must be signed by the taxpayer. If a minor cannot sign their own return, a parent or guardian can sign on their behalf by writing “By (signature), parent (or guardian) for minor child.” Any supporting documents, such as Copy B of Form W-2, should be attached.

The completed paper return is mailed to the appropriate IRS address, which varies depending on whether a payment is enclosed or a refund is expected. It is advisable to use certified mail with a return receipt requested for proof of mailing and delivery. The IRS considers a return filed on time if it is correctly addressed, has sufficient postage, and is postmarked by the filing deadline.

For complex situations, engaging a tax professional can be beneficial. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or Enrolled Agents (EAs) can prepare and file returns, offering expertise and ensuring compliance. After submission, taxpayers can track their refund status on the IRS website. Electronic filers receive confirmation of receipt quickly, while paper returns may take longer to process.