Hey everyone,
I’m under the legal age in the U.S. and just got a job at the end of 2024. I made under $600 for the year. Do I have to file taxes, or can my mom handle it for me? I’m not sure how this works and would appreciate any advice. Thanks…
Hey everyone,
I’m under the legal age in the U.S. and just got a job at the end of 2024. I made under $600 for the year. Do I have to file taxes, or can my mom handle it for me? I’m not sure how this works and would appreciate any advice. Thanks…
You should try filling out your own tax return, even if just for practice. Grab the paper forms and do it by hand—it’s a great way to learn how taxes work.
When my kids started working, I had them do this, and then we went over it together. If it shows you’re getting a refund, you can decide whether or not to file. If you owe anything, you’ll need to file and pay.
@Willoughby
That’s a good idea. I actually want to be an accountant, so learning how to do taxes seems useful.
Shane said:
@Willoughby
That’s a good idea. I actually want to be an accountant, so learning how to do taxes seems useful.
My mom was an accountant too. She didn’t deal with taxes much at work but made sure we knew how to do ours. Filling out the forms by hand is great for understanding the process instead of just relying on software.
This will be my first time filing too. Besides the W-2, do I need any other documents? I work at my university, and there’s no help with tax filing. Should I file online or by mail?
Ezra said:
This will be my first time filing too. Besides the W-2, do I need any other documents? I work at my university, and there’s no help with tax filing. Should I file online or by mail?
Try freetaxusa.com—it’s free for federal filing, and state costs $14.99. You can also find free tax prep help through VITA. Check this out: Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers | Internal Revenue Service
Luca said:
@Remington
[deleted]
I volunteered with VITA and helped people in remote Alaskan villages prepare their taxes. It was an incredible experience. Most folks don’t even know VITA exists, but it’s a great free resource.
@Remington
That sounds amazing! How did you get involved with a program like that? I’ve only done local tax help at my library.
Sully said:
@Remington
That sounds amazing! How did you get involved with a program like that? I’ve only done local tax help at my library.
I connected through my university. They covered my flight to Anchorage, and then the program flew me out to rural areas. It was rough at times—no plumbing in some places—but it was totally worth it.
@Remington
That’s incredible. I’d love to try something like that someday, but for now, I’ll stick to helping locally.
Ezra said:
This will be my first time filing too. Besides the W-2, do I need any other documents? I work at my university, and there’s no help with tax filing. Should I file online or by mail?
You could just go to a tax service and have them do it for you.
@Keats
Unless your situation is complicated, filing online is quick and free. No need to pay for help unless you’re really stuck.
Shai said:
@Keats
Unless your situation is complicated, filing online is quick and free. No need to pay for help unless you’re really stuck.
They mentioned needing to file for multiple years, which can be tricky. A service might help in this case.
Shai said:
@Keats
Unless your situation is complicated, filing online is quick and free. No need to pay for help unless you’re really stuck.
There are free services at universities or libraries where volunteers can help you file. Check those out first.
Did your W-2 show any federal or state tax withholdings?
Finch said:
Did your W-2 show any federal or state tax withholdings?
Yes.
Actually, I just checked, and there weren’t any withholdings.