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Basic Course > Filing Basics

Filing Basics

This lesson will help tax preparers determine which taxpayers must or should file a tax return. It includes information on how to verify a taxpayer's identity, which form to use, and completing the Basic Information section.

Click the Skills Workout button to learn more about Filing Basics.

Skill Check

Check your understanding of filing basics. Indicate whether each of the statements below is true or false by clicking the correct answer. To check your answers, click the Check My Answers button at the bottom of the page.

  1. Bob is 27 years old. No one can claim him as a dependent. His gross income was $17,000 during the tax year. Based only on this information, Bob is required to file a tax return.
  • A.
  • B.
  1. Individuals who are not required to file a tax return should file a return if they can claim the earned income credit.
  • A.
  • B.
  1. A driver's license can be used to verify a taxpayer's Social Security number and correct name spelling.
  • A.
  • B.
  1. Taxpayers age 65 or older must use Form 1040-SR instead of Form 1040 to file their return.
  • A.
  • B.