I don’t make (a lot of) money; do I still need to report to the USA?
Yes. Even if you have no earnings, it does not always dismiss you from filing taxes in the US; it will most likely result in you not paying any tax.
Basically, you have to file an IRS Form 1040 for the previous year if your income was above a certain threshold. These thresholds are the same as for US residents. For tax year 2023 (filing in 2024) the thresholds – total yearly income thresholds are:
| Status | Under 65 | 65 or older |
|---|---|---|
| You are single (unmarried) | $13,850 | $15,700 |
| You are married filing jointly | $27,700 | $29,200 |
| You are married filing separately | $5 | $5 |
| You are filing as “Head of household” | $20,800 | $22,650 |
| You are a widow or widower with dependent child | $27,700 | $29,200 |
For tax year 2022 thresholds: please see the IRS Website.
ATTENTION:
- Are you married and are you filing a joint tax return, but you no longer live(d) at the same address at the end of tax year 2023 (or on the date your spouse died)? Then, a threshold of $ 5 applies.
- Are you married and filing a joint tax return, and is one of the partners age 65 or older? Then the declaration threshold is $29,200. Are you both 65 years or older? Then the declaration threshold is $30,700.
Self-employed: If your net earnings from self-employment are $400 or more, you must file a return even if your gross income is below the amount listed for your filing status in the table shown above.
Important note: Certain government subsidies such as child benefits, unemployment benefits, and subsidies are regarded by the US as reportable income that might make you reach the filing threshold.
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