If I am a full-time college student with no income (temporarily disabled/mobility issues) in 2023-- Is it okay to e-file my return with $0 net income as I couldn't work?

Forum|Forum|2 years ago
April 5, 2024
2 replies
0 views

I was temporarily disabled and could not work in 2023. I am currently unemployed, but a full-time college student living with one of my parents. It says I am "ineligible" to e-file my return "but can do it by mail." I want to know if it is legal and perfectly okay to file a return with no income.

TurboTax Free Edition Online

DoninGA

Employee

If you did not receive any taxable income in 2023 there is no reason or need to file a 2023 tax return.

Yes, you can mail the tax return with no income entered, but the IRS will not process the return since it has nothing on the tax return.

Hal_Al

Employee

Q. I want to know if it is legal and okay to file a return with no income.

A. Yes. But, it's not necessary unless you have a purpose.

Why do you think you need to or want to file a tax return?

Is your parent claiming you as a dependent?

Are you trying to claim the refundable education credit*.

*The American Opportunity credit (AOTC) is worth up to $2500. But, only $1000 is refundable (the other $1500 can only be used against an actual tax liability). The AOTC can only be claimed 4 times, in your undergrad career. You may not want to use one for $1000 if it will later be worth $2500 (you are allowed to amend if you change your mind).