Do I need to file IRS if I have a gross income of $30,000 with approx. one half is
Social security income? Married, filing jointly, both over 65.

Do I need to file irs if I have a gross income of $30,000 with approx. one half is
social security income? Married, filing jointly, both over 65.

What is base amount of income when determining if we need to file?

To determine whether some of your benefits may be taxable:
· First, add one-half of the total Social Security benefits you received to all your other income, including any tax exempt interest and other exclusions from income.

· Then, compare this total to the base amount for your filing status. If the total is more than your base amount, some of your benefits may be taxable.
The 2009 base amounts are:
· $32,000 for married couples filing jointly.
· $25,000 for single, head of household, qualifying widow/widower with a dependent child, or married individuals filing separately who did not live with their spouses at any time during the year.
· $0 for married persons filing separately who lived together during the year.