Tax Year 2026
Does my teenager have to file taxes?
Usually not — but often should.
Most teen jobs pay under the $16,100 threshold. Filing anyway gets their withheld tax refunded.
When a Teen Must File (2026)
Wages from a jobOver $16,100
Unearned income (interest, investments)Over $1,350
Self-employment (mowing, reselling, streaming)$400+ net
Their Income, Their Return
A child’s W-2 never goes on the parent’s return — if they file, they file their own, checking the box that someone can claim them. They stay your dependent either way.
The Refund Most Families Miss
A teen who earned $4,000 at a summer job with $300 withheld owes nothing — but only gets the $300 back by filing. It’s also painless practice for their first real tax season.