How to File Taxes for the First Time in the U.S. (Beginner's Guide)

Your first tax return can feel intimidating: forms full of numbers, acronyms and the fear that any mistake will get you in trouble. But for most people with a regular job, it’s simpler than it looks — and it often ends with a refund.

Do I have to file?

It depends on how much you earned, your filing status and your age. The IRS publishes the income thresholds every year. Some situations require filing even on low income — for example, if you were self-employed and had net earnings of $400 or more.

Tip: even if you’re not required to file, it’s worth filing if your employer withheld taxes. It’s the only way to get that money back as a refund.

Step 1: Collect your documents

• Form W-2: each employer gives you one; it shows how much you earned and how much tax was withheld. Employers must send it by the end of January.
• Forms 1099: for other income — for example, 1099-NEC for freelance work, 1099-K for payments from some platforms, or 1099-INT for bank interest.
• Your SSN or ITIN (and those of your spouse and dependents). No SSN? See how to get an ITIN.
• Your bank account details to receive your refund by direct deposit.

Step 2: Choose your filing status

It determines your tax rates and deductions. The main ones are:

• Single
• Married filing jointly
• Married filing separately
• Head of household: if you’re unmarried and maintain a home for a qualifying dependent. It’s usually more favorable than “single.”

Step 3: Standard or itemized deduction

Most people take the standard deduction: a fixed amount subtracted from your income with no need to document expenses. Itemizing only makes sense if your deductible expenses (such as mortgage interest or large donations) add up to more than that amount.

Step 4: File for free (if you qualify)

You don’t need to pay anyone for a simple return:

• IRS Free File: free software for people whose income is below a limit the IRS sets each year. Always start from IRS.gov to make sure you get the free version.
• VITA: IRS-certified volunteers prepare your return for free if you have low to moderate income, a disability or limited English. Many sites offer help in Spanish.
• TCE: free help focused on people 60 and older.

If you hire a preparer, make sure they have a PTIN (IRS preparer number), and never sign a blank return.

Step 5: File by the deadline

• The deadline is usually April 15 (if it falls on a weekend or holiday, it moves to the next business day).
• Need more time? File Form 4868 for an extension, which gives you until October to file. Note: it doesn’t give you more time to pay. If you owe money, pay by April to avoid interest and penalties.
• Most states also have an income tax and their own return; a few don’t.

Step 6: Track your refund

If you e-file and choose direct deposit, most refunds arrive in under 21 days. You can check the status with the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov.

What to do with your refund: it’s a great chance to start your emergency fund or pay down expensive debt.

Watch out for scams

• The IRS won’t call, text or message you on social media demanding immediate payment, and it never asks for payment by gift card or cryptocurrency.
• Be wary of preparers who promise huge refunds or charge a percentage of your refund.

What about Canada or the UK?

• Canada: you file with the CRA. The general deadline is April 30 (June 15 if you’re self-employed, though any balance owed is still due April 30). Free tax clinics are available for people with modest incomes.
• United Kingdom: most employees pay tax automatically through PAYE and don’t need to file. If you’re self-employed, you file a Self Assessment with HMRC; the online filing deadline is 31 January.

FAQ

What if I make a mistake on my return? You can fix it by filing an amended return (Form 1040-X). The IRS corrects many simple math errors itself and notifies you by letter.

Can I file without a Social Security Number? Yes, with an ITIN. In fact, an ITIN is usually requested together with your tax return.

What if I can’t pay what I owe? File on time anyway (the penalty for not filing is usually bigger than the penalty for not paying) and request a payment plan on IRS.gov.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not tax advice. Rules, thresholds and dates change every year; check IRS.gov or consult an authorized professional. Read our Disclaimer.