First Time Filing Taxes? Here Is Everything You Need to Know

Do You Need to File?

For 2025, you must file a federal tax return if your gross income exceeds:

Single, under 65: $15,000

Single, 65 or older: $16,950

Married Filing Jointly, both under 65: $30,000

Head of Household, under 65: $22,500

Even if your income is below these thresholds, you should file if:

Federal income tax was withheld from your pay (to get a refund)

You qualify for refundable credits like the EITC

You had self-employment income of $400 or more

Documents to Gather

Before you start, collect:

W-2 from your employer(s) (available by January 31)

1099 forms for freelance work, bank interest, investments

Social Security number

Bank account and routing number for direct deposit

Last year's tax return (if applicable, for AGI verification)

Choosing How to File

Free Options

IRS Free File: For AGI under $84,000

Taxation.ai Free Tier: AI-powered filing for simple returns

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Free in-person help for income under $67,000

Paid Software

For more complex situations, paid software guides you through deductions and credits you might miss.

Step by Step

Choose your filing software or method

Enter your personal information

Add your income from W-2s and 1099s

Claim the standard deduction (almost certainly better than itemizing for first-timers)

Check for applicable credits

Review everything carefully

E-file and choose direct deposit for fastest refund

Common First-Timer Mistakes

Forgetting to report all income: Even small gig earnings must be reported

Choosing the wrong filing status: If you have a qualifying child, Head of Household saves more than Single

Not filing because you owe: The penalty for not filing is much worse than the penalty for not paying

Missing the deadline: File on time even if you cannot pay in full

Your refund is typically deposited within 21 days of e-filing. File early to get your money sooner.