Filing requirements and thresholds depends on your age, type, level of your income, as well as your marital status.

If you have gross income* which goes over the filing status threshold amount below, then you are legally obligated to file your annual US tax return.

Single:

  • $12,550 (under age 65)
  • $14,250 (65 and over)

Married filing jointly:

  • $25,100 (both spouses under age 65)
  • $26,450 (one spouse 65 or over)
  • $27,800 (both spouses over 65)

Married Filing Separately:

  • Married filing separately — $5 for all ages: Yes, if you are married to a non U.S. citizen, who does not want to sign-up with the IRS so that you can file as “married filing jointly,” then you probably need to file if you have income. And yes, $5 is a very low threshold.

Head of Household:

  • $18,650 (under age 65)
  • $20,500 (65 oe over)

Self-Employed:

  • If you had net earnings from self-employment of at least $400.

*Gross income includes everything from salary, unemployment compensation, investment income, pension income, etc.

Learn more about expat tax filing requirements on our expat tax guide.

Was this Article helpful?

Log In to get in touch with our Support Team

Help Center Topics

Related Articles

Search FAQs