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Filing Simple Form 1040 Tax Returns

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Important Details about Filing Simple Form 1040 Tax Returns

Filing a “simple” Form 1040 is for taxpayers with straightforward tax situations and involves using the basic Form 1040 without many attached schedules. Since 2018, the IRS has replaced the old 1040A and 1040EZ forms with a redesigned Form 1040 that most taxpayers can use. 

What qualifies as a simple 1040 return

While there is no official IRS definition, a simple return typically means you meet these criteria: 

  • You file using only the standard Form 1040.
  • Your income consists solely of wages reported on a W-2.
  • You take the standard deduction instead of itemizing.
  • You may claim common tax breaks like the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, or the student loan interest deduction. 

Your return is considered more complex if you have sources of income such as capital gains, self-employment earnings, or rental property income. In these cases, you would need to file additional schedules. 

Key information for filing a simple 1040

To file your return, you will need the following information and documents: 

  • Personal Information: Your name, address, Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents.
  • Proof of Income: Form W-2(s) from your employer(s).
  • Bank Account Information: Your bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit of your refund or direct debit of any tax you owe.
  • Prior Year Tax Return: A copy of your previous year’s return can be helpful for information such as your prior-year Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). 

Standard deduction amounts

Most simple filers claim the standard deduction, a fixed dollar amount that reduces your taxable income. The amounts depend on your filing status and are adjusted annually for inflation. 

2024 standard deductions (for returns filed in 2025) 

  • Single: $14,600
  • Married Filing Jointly: $29,200
  • Head of Household: $21,900
  • Married Filing Separately: $14,600 

2025 standard deductions (for returns filed in 2026) 

  • Single: $15,000
  • Married Filing Jointly: $30,000
  • Head of Household: $22,500
  • Married Filing Separately: $15,000 

Additional deductions for seniors and the blind

Taxpayers who are 65 or older or are blind qualify for an additional deduction amount. For 2025, this is $1,600 per person for married filers and $2,000 for single or head of household filers. 

How to file a simple Form 1040

  • Free Online Filing: The IRS Free File program provides free tax software for eligible taxpayers. For those comfortable preparing their own return, the IRS also offers free fillable forms.
  • Tax Software: Commercial tax preparation software, like TurboTax or TaxSlayer, will guide you through the process and automatically complete the forms for you.
  • Paper Filing: You can download and print Form 1040 directly from the IRS website. 
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