By Hugh Duncan
Special to Independent Newsmedia

Who must file federal income tax returns?

Some seniors do not have to file federal income taxes. This is not because they are too old. Contrary to persistent rumors, there is no age limit when United States citizens can stop paying taxes.

However, generally a married couple, both 65 older, do not have to file an income tax return if their total income, not counting Social Security, is less than $23,200. The threshold for a single person 65 or older is $11,900, not counting Social Security.

However, there are some reasons why seniors might want to file even if it is not required. These reasons include  to get a refund of taxes that were withheld from a job or a pension or if estimated payments were made; to get a refundable credit, such as child tax credit, earned income credit, making work pay credit or adoption credit; and to provide proof of income for an entitlement program, such as the Arizona Low Income Property Tax Refund program.

Those people who choose not to file because they are below the income limits should be aware of the Arizona Excise Tax Credit. This is an annual benefit of $50 per married couple or $25 per single person.

The necessary application forms and help applying for this or other benefits are available at Sun City Community Assistance Network, 10195 W Coggins Drive.

Call 623-933-7530.

Editor’s Note: Mr. Duncan is Sun City CAN board president.