I have no income only grants and student loans, do I have to file taxes?

Question

I'm not sure if I have to files taxes this year, no income only grants and student loans. The amount is under 4,000 dollars. I'm a single mom of 1 but the father claims the EIC because I don't have income.

Answer 1

Based on the information that you provided you would not have a requirement to file a Federal Tax return, Scholarships and Grants are not considered Taxable income. Nor are they considered Earned Income for the EIC


Qualified scholarships and fellowships are treated as tax-free amounts if all of the following conditions are met:

You are a candidate for a degree at an educational institution,
Amounts you receive as a scholarship or fellowship are used for tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution, or for books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction, and
The amounts received are not a payment for your services
.
Publication 970

Answer 2

Loans do not count as income when you receive the loans. If you never repay the loan, and it is eventually canceled or forgiven, then the canceled or forgiven loan does count as income, when it is canceled or forgiven. If the Pell Grant is spent on tuition, and other required fees paid to the school, then it does not count as income. If the Pell Grant is spent on non-educational things, such as clothing, or you save the Pell Grant money instead of spending it, then it counts as income.

Answer 3

I have to tell you, that if the father didn' t provide over half the care, provide a home for, it is possible that he shouldn't be able to claim your son.
I would advise you to seek the help of a tax professional

good luck & blessing

Answer 4

go to irs.gov and ask at there 800 number.

Answer 5

I don't think you have, but I'm not really sure.