Filing First Tax Return - Step-by-Step Guide

Most people file their first tax return once their income exceeds IRS thresholds, when they earn self-employment income, or when they want to claim credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. For most first-time filers, you’ll need IRS Form 1040, plus income documents like W-2s or 1099s.

Filing your first tax return can feel like standing in line at the DMV: confusing, overwhelming, and maybe a little scary. But here’s the truth—once you know the steps, it’s totally manageable. Whether you’re a student, starting your first job, or figuring out how old you have to be to file taxes, this guide will walk you through the process from start to finish.

By the end, you’ll know how to:

• Check if you even need to file a return this year.
• Gather all the right tax documents.
• Choose the best filing method for your situation.
• Fill out Form 1040 without panicking.
• Submit your return (and hopefully claim your maximum refund).

Let’s get started.

Step 1 – Do You Need to File a Tax Return?

Before diving into forms and numbers, let’s answer the big question: Do you even need to file a tax return this year?

The IRS sets filing thresholds based on filing status, age, and gross income (income before deductions).

For example, in the 2025 tax season:

• Single filers under 65 must file if their gross income is at least $15,750.
• Married filing jointly: spouses under 65 must file if their gross income is at least $31,500.
• Dependents (like students claimed by parents) have different thresholds—sometimes as low as $1,350 if they have unearned income like investment earnings.

👉 Pro tip: Even if you don’t meet the threshold, filing can still pay off. You may qualify for valuable tax credits or get a refund if your employer withheld too much.

📎 Related Topics:

• Filing Basics Guide
• IRS Publication 501 – Filing Requirements
• IRS, Internal Revenue Bulletin: 2024-40

Step 2 – Gather the Right Tax Documents

Your tax return is only as accurate as the paperwork you provide. Here’s what to collect before you sit down to file:

• W-2s from employers (show wages + taxes withheld).
• 1099s for gig work, freelance jobs, investment income, or bank interest.
• 1098-T if you’re a student (tuition payments).
• 1098-E if you paid student loan interest.
• Records of charitable donations, medical expenses, or business costs, if you plan to claim deductions.
• Bank account details so you can choose direct deposit for your refund.

💡 Pro tip: Create a folder labeled ‘Tax Documents.’ Each time you receive a form, drop it in. Next year, you’ll thank yourself.

Check out the First-Time Filer Checklist.

📑 You can also grab our free First Return Checklist (PDF), so you don’t miss a single form.

Step 3 – Choose the Best Filing Method

Now that you’ve got your income documents, it’s time to decide how you’ll file your taxes. You’ve got options:

1. E-file (includes IRS Free File): The fastest and most secure method. If your income is under $84,000, you may qualify for IRS Free File to file online at no cost. Refunds typically arrive within ~21 days when paired with direct deposit.
2. Tax software: Tax preparation software guides you step by step through filing your federal tax return. It is great for beginners who want extra support.
3. Professional tax preparer: Consult a tax professional if your return is complex—such as self-employment, multiple jobs, or big deductions.
4. Paper filing: The old-fashioned way. You’ll mail Form 1040, but refunds take much longer.

👉 For most first-time filers, E-file with direct deposit is the easiest and fastest choice.

📎 Related Topic: Free Filing Options for First-Time Filers

Step 4 – Fill Out IRS Form 1040

Welcome to the heart of the process: Form 1040—the form almost all taxpayers use to file a federal income tax return.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Income section: Enter wages (W-2), self-employment income (Schedule C), investment income, and other earnings.
• Adjusted gross income (AGI): After factoring in certain deductions (like student loan interest or contributions to retirement accounts).
• Deductions: Take the standard deduction (the easiest route for most first-time filers) or itemize deductions if you’ve got enough expenses (medical, charitable, business).
• Credits: Apply for credits you qualify for, like the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, or education credits. These directly lower your tax bill—or increase your refund.
• Refund or balance due: If your employer withheld more than you owe, you’ll get a refund. If not, you’ll need to pay taxes owed.

👉 Self-employed or gig workers typically must file Schedule C and Schedule SE to pay self-employment tax. If married and filing separately, you likely can’t deduct student loan interest unless you lived apart all year.

📎 Source: IRS Form 1040 Instructions

Step 5 – Review & Submit Your Tax Return

You’re almost there! Before hitting “submit” (or sealing that envelope), double-check these common first-time mistakes:

• Incorrect Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
• Forgetting to include all income documents (especially side hustle or investment income).
• Filing with the wrong filing status (single vs head of household).
• Skipping valuable tax credits you’re eligible for.

Once you’re ready, choose how to file:

• E-file: Fastest, safest, and paired with direct deposit = most refunds in ~21 days.
• Mailing paper forms: Only if absolutely necessary.

Security note: The IRS protects your financial information through encryption and secure submission. If filing through tax preparation software, look for the locked padlock icon.

📎 Related Topic: Filing with Confidence

Step 6 – Track Your Refund and Next Steps

Once you file your tax return, the waiting game begins. Here’s what you should know:

• Refund timing: Most refunds are issued in about 21 days if you e-file with direct deposit. Paper forms take longer.
• Track it: Use the IRS Where’s My Refund? A tool to see the status of your refund.
• If you owe taxes: Don’t panic. The IRS offers payment plans if you can’t pay all at once.
• Keep your tax records: Save your return, W-2s, 1099s, and any receipts in case of IRS issues or to make next year’s filing smoother.

📎 Related Topic: Refund Timing Guide for First-Time Filers

Mistakes First-Time Filers Should Avoid

Even experienced taxpayers trip up, but first-timers tend to make these classic errors:

• Forgetting to include all sources of earned income (gig work, tips, investment income).
• Using the wrong filing status (single vs head of household).
• Missing out on certain tax benefits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Saver’s Credit.
• Not signing the return (yes, the IRS will reject unsigned paper forms).

📎 Related Topic: First-Time Filer Penalties & Compliance

Conclusion

Filing your first tax return doesn’t have to feel like rocket science. With the right documents, a little guidance, and maybe a good cup of coffee, you can file your taxes confidently—and even claim a nice refund.

If you just started school and this is your first return, check out our First-Time Filer Guide for the bigger picture.

Even if you make a mistake, don’t stress—you can always amend your return later. The important thing is to start building your tax filing experience now.

📑 Download your free First Return Checklist to prepare for tax season.