Savvy senior - Jan. 14, 2010

Tax Help for Lower Income Seniors

Dear Savvy Senior

What are the 2009 IRS minimum filing requirements for seniors? My income was very low last year and I’m thinking I may not have to file tax returns this year. What can you tell me?

Exempted Eddie

Dear Eddie,

There are millions of seniors in your same situation. In fact, according to the Tax Policy Center, around 55 percent of Americans over age 65 won’t have to file income tax returns this year mainly because their incomes are under the IRS filing requirements. Here’s what you should know.

2009 Filing Requirements

If your “gross income” is be...