{"id":59899,"date":"2022-02-03T13:10:14","date_gmt":"2022-02-03T19:10:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hrblock.com\/tax-center\/?p=59899"},"modified":"2025-03-24T14:02:10","modified_gmt":"2025-03-24T19:02:10","slug":"not-required-to-file-taxes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hrblock.com\/tax-center\/filing\/not-required-to-file-taxes\/","title":{"rendered":"Not required to file taxes? 7 ways you may be leaving money on the table"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

While not every taxpayer is required to file a tax return, there are several potential benefits to doing so. Yes, getting a refund back is one. But, in addition to not leaving money on the table, there are a few other reasons why you may want to file this tax season.<\/p>\n\n\n

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If you\u2019ve ever asked, \u201cdo I have to file a tax return every year,\u201d you might be simply thinking about making sure you\u2019re in line with IRS rules. But with that approach, you miss out on why you may want<\/strong> to file. So, let\u2019s change the question from \u201cam I required to file taxes?\u201d to \u201cwhat are the potential benefits of filing taxes?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reasons to file, so you\u2019re not leaving money on the table by not claiming available credits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

 Generally, you\u2019ll have a filing requirement if your income is above a certain amount, or you owe taxes. To lower your tax bill, you can claim various tax deductions and credits. But some credits are \u201crefundable\u201d which means you could get that money back as a tax refund if you file an income tax return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below, we outline some of these refundable credits and other reasons you could get refund dollars back when you file. Plus, there are a few potential benefits of filing taxes that have indirect advantages too. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sound complex?<\/strong> Get help with claiming any credits and deductions you deserve. No matter if you file taxes online<\/a>, with an H&R Block tax pro<\/a>, or with a Block Advisors tax pro<\/a>. we\u2019re here for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Refundable credits that may get you money back<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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  1. Child Tax Credit.<\/strong> The Child Tax Credit<\/a> has a value of up to $2,000 per child.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Recovery Rebate Credit<\/strong>. The Recovery Rebate Credit<\/a> lets you claim stimulus payments<\/a>, up to $1,400.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Earned Income Tax Credit.<\/strong> The Earned Income Tax Credit<\/a>, valued at up to $7,830 (up to $632 if you have no children), often goes unclaimed due to complex rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. American Opportunity Credit.<\/strong> If you have a student with qualified higher education expenses, the American Opportunity Credit<\/a> could mean getting up to $1,000 back as a refundable credit.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Be sure to read the related posts above to learn more about these credits and whether you may be eligible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    File with H&R Block to get your max refund<\/h3>
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    File online<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
    File with a tax pro<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

    Refunds for overpaid taxes and deductions to lower your tax bill.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n