Do I get any of my taxes back?

I’m 16 and made about $1,500 from my job in 2024. I started working in late November. My W-2 shows $92.27 withheld for Social Security and $21.58 for Medicare. Do I get that money back or not?

You don’t get back Social Security or Medicare taxes—they’re fixed and stay where they are.

If you had federal income tax withheld, you’d get all of that back since your total income is so low. You can file your tax return using free tools like FreeTaxUSA, IRS Direct File, or even Cash App—it’s a good idea to file anyway. It helps prevent identity fraud by stopping someone else from filing a fake return with your SSN.

Also, since you’re 16, you’re likely listed as a dependent, so make sure to set that option correctly if you file.

Nope, FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare) don’t get refunded. Those funds go toward retirement and disability benefits.

Briar said:
Nope, FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare) don’t get refunded. Those funds go toward retirement and disability benefits.

Yep, and there’s also a small survivor benefit if someone passes away.

No, you don’t get it back.

Social Security and Medicare aren’t refunded. But if your W-2 shows any federal or state income tax withholding, you can get all of that back since your income was so low.

Nope. That money is used to help retired people.

Welcome to working life, kid. That’s how it goes.

No, you’re never getting that back.

No.

Nope.

You won’t get much, but check if you qualify for any credits like EITC. Most people think it’s just for parents, but it isn’t. Your income is low, so the amount will probably be small.

Fifer said:
You won’t get much, but check if you qualify for any credits like EITC. Most people think it’s just for parents, but it isn’t. Your income is low, so the amount will probably be small.

For someone without kids, the person claiming EITC has to be between 25 and 65 years old.

@Kelly
Oh, I didn’t realize the age rule. Thanks for the correction.

You’ll only get back federal withholding, not the Social Security or Medicare taxes.

You can put your W-2 info into any free tax tool online, and it’ll tell you exactly what refund you can expect. It’s easier than asking here.