Can I File Taxes at 17 Years Old?
- Whether you need to file taxes at 17 years old generally depends on how much earned and unearned income you have.
- As of 2009, dependents had to file taxes if their earned income exceeded $5,450, according to the IRS.
- As of 2009, dependents had to file a return if their unearned income exceeded $900.
- In some cases, you may need to file taxes at 17 years old even if your earned or unearned income doesn't meet the dollar threshold that the IRS sets.
- Income that you receive for labor or service is filed under your Social Security number. This is the case even if your parent is entitled to the income under state law.