If your only income is Social Security, you generally dont have to file a federal tax return, as benefits arent usually taxable in that case, but if you have other income (like a pension, interest, or part-time job), you might need to file if your combined income (half your benefits + other income) exceeds IRS thresholds like $25,000 for single filers. Even if not required to file, you might want to if taxes were withheld from other sources to get a refund. When You Likely Dont Need to File (Only SS Income) Your only income is Social Security: You usually dont need to file a return if you dont have other money coming in. When You Might Need to File (SS + Other Income) Your benefits become taxable (and you might need to file) if your combined income exceeds certain limits, based on your tax filing status: Single, Head of Household, or Qualifying Widow(er): Combined income over $25,000. Married Filing Jointly: Combined income over $32,000. Married Filing Separately: If you lived with your spouse at any time during the year, you generally have to pay taxes on benefits. How to Calculate Combined Income Add up all your income, including wages, self-employment, interest, dividends, and half of your Social Security benefits. Compare that total to the IRS thresholds above to see if any of your benefits are taxable. Key Takeaway Only SS? Probably no filing needed. SS + Other Income? Check the combined income thresholds; you may need to file and pay taxes on a portion of your benefits. For financial advice, consult a professional. Taxability of Social Security Benefits - IRSPage 1. IRS TAX TIP 2001-8. TAXABILITY OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS. WASHINGTON -- Whether your Social Security benefits are taxablIRS (.gov)My only income is Social Security. Do I have to pay any taxes on my Jul 7, 2025 It depends. The IRS looks at your total income to determine if your Social Security benefits are taxable. It also Iowa Legal Aid