Exploring Benefits of Filing Taxes Voluntarily

In the realm of tax preparation, individuals may be surprised to learn that filing a tax return isn't always mandated by their income level. Generally, one must file if their income surpasses the standard deduction for their filing status. However, even if filing isn't required, doing so might offer substantial benefits, particularly if one could capitalize on refundable tax credits or tax benefit carryovers.

The following provides a breakdown of income thresholds for filing a return for the 2025 tax year, set to be filed in 2026:

2025 INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RETURN FILING THRESHOLDS

FILING STATUS

UNDER AGE 65

AGE 65 OR OLDER

Single

$15,750

$17,750

Head of Household

$23,625

$25,625

Married, Filing Jointly

$31,500 (both spouses under 65)

$33,100 (one spouse 65+)
$34,700 (both 65+)

Married, Filing Separately

$5 (any age)

$5 (any age)

Qualifying Surviving Spouse

$31,500

$33,100

Additional Filing Necessities - Filing a return might be required even when income falls below the standard threshold, such as when:

  • Your net earnings from self-employment reached $400 or more.

  • Special taxes, such as the Alternative Minimum Tax, are owed.

  • Advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit were received for health insurance purchased via a marketplace.

  • Income from religious organizations of $108.28 or more was received.

  • Uncollected Social Security or Medicare taxes are present.

  • Household employment taxes are owed.

  • Distributions from a Health Savings Account (HSA) were taken.

Dependents' Filing Criteria - For those claimed as dependents by other taxpayers, different standards apply, requiring filing if they had:

  • Unearned income (e.g., interest, dividends) exceeding $1,350.

  • Earned income (e.g., wages, tips) above $15,750.

  • Gross income more significant than $1,350 or earned income plus $450 (up to the standard deduction).

Gain Year-Round Financial Clarity and Confidence
Partner with Lizza & Carullo CPAs & Advisors for ongoing guidance, proactive tax planning, and strategic financial support. Whether you’re growing a business or navigating personal taxes, our year-round advisory approach helps you stay organized, tax-efficient, and in control — with a team that’s here when you need us, not just at tax time.
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Maximizing Refunds by Filing - Those not obligated to file might still gain notable refunds. Consider these potential benefits:

  • Tax Withholding Returns – Withholding can lead to a complete refund if tax liability is null, as is often in cases where filing is not essential. Some credits reduce tax liability to zero and provide refundable surpluses.

  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – Benefits workers with lower incomes, potentially offering up to $8,046 in 2025. Fully refundable, the EITC can lead to refunds even with zero tax debts.

  • Child Tax Credit (CTC) - Grants $2,200 per child, with up to $1,700 refundable per qualifying child. Includes the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) for eligible students, partially refundable.

  • Premium Tax Credit - Aids in lowering insurance costs, offering notable financial relief.

Capitalizing on Carryover Deductions - Minimal income and no filing requisites might still afford advantages via carryover deductions, vital for curtailing future taxes or boosting refunds, such as:

  1. Net Operating Losses (NOLs): Past business losses yielding NOL carryforwards potentially applicable for 20 years.

  2. Charitable Contributions: Over-limit contributions carrying forward five years.

  3. Passive Activity Losses: Offsetting future passive income through past losses.

  4. Capital Losses: Excess loss carryovers reducing future capital gains or income.

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Further Considerations

  1. State Program Eligibility: Federal filings can affect state taxes and associated benefits eligibility.

  2. Financial Planning: Documenting returns facilitates future financial activities, including loans and mortgages.

  3. Identity Security: Filing prevents fraudulent activities, safeguarding your tax identity.

Ultimately, while not mandated for everyone, filing tax returns voluntarily can secure thousands in refunds. According to the IRS, about 25% of those eligible for the EITC don't claim it. Don't let potential refunds pass you by due to eligibility assumptions. Contact us to ascertain if filing might benefit you, and for assistance with your returns. Past unfiled returns might also hold eligible refunds.

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Gain Year-Round Financial Clarity and Confidence
Partner with Lizza & Carullo CPAs & Advisors for ongoing guidance, proactive tax planning, and strategic financial support. Whether you’re growing a business or navigating personal taxes, our year-round advisory approach helps you stay organized, tax-efficient, and in control — with a team that’s here when you need us, not just at tax time.
Schedule Your Discovery Call
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