Q&A: I am an American living abroad. I am considered a dependent, and all taxes have been paid by my family so far. Do I need to file?
Q: I am an American living abroad. My family has supported me for years, and have paid all of the taxes on the money they have given me. It is my understanding that due to this, I am their dependent, and do not owe additional taxes on that money. In 2009 I earned the equivalent of $3,200 US. Do I need to file a return on this amount? Or is it too small? How does it work with the money I have received from my family? Do I actually owe taxes on that as well, or is the fact that they have paid all taxes on it to date sufficient?
A: When your income is below the minimum filing amount you are not required to file a tax return. And, you are correct – you don’t have to declare gifts from your family. The minimum filing amount for 2009 is $5,700. However, if you have unearned income, interests, or dividends totalling more than $950 you would need to file.
The IRS has a page with further information.