Do I need to file? wizard

Step 1 captures your tax year, filing status, age, and dependency status. Filing thresholds vary based on these inputs, so the wizard starts there before evaluating income. If you are claimed as a dependent, the tool treats your threshold differently than a primary filer.

Step 2 collects income by type. The wizard separates wages, self-employment income, interest or dividends, and other income to mirror common filing triggers. This separation matters because some income types, such as self-employment, can require filing even when wages are low.

Step 3 checks for withholding or estimated payments. Even if you are below filing thresholds, having federal withholding or estimated payments may create a refund if you file. The tool uses this input to flag optional filing opportunities so you can reclaim taxes already paid.

Step 4 summarizes a likely filing requirement and the reasons behind it. The wizard lists whether you are likely required to file, likely not required, or in a gray area where additional facts are needed. It also highlights missing inputs that could change the conclusion, encouraging you to confirm your income categories.

Step 5 saves a short explanation you can reference later. Filing requirements are easy to revisit when your income changes, so the tool keeps a record of your inputs and the triggers that mattered most. This makes it easier to double-check the result before you decide to skip filing.