Although it seems like something for adults to deal with, if you have a job, the government may expect a check from you, too. According to Suzon Burrows, an accountant with Padawer and Associates, teenagers with a part-time job are likely to fall into the lowest tax bracket, owing 15 percent of their earned income. Students must also claim any savings or checking accounts in their name that earn interest. While the process may seem difficult, filing your taxes doesn t have to be a total headache if you have everything you need. After receiving a W-2 form from your employer, you can file your federal income tax through the mail or by phone.
Tax forms are available at public libraries, the post office and online.
Burrows suggests using the 1040EZ form to report earned income, but the 1040 or the 1040A can also be used to file. To report any income obtained through interest, use the 1090. Tax day is April 15, but this year you have an extra day. That April 16 deadline is quickly approaching, though, so if you need help filing your forms, you need to get it soon. The Teen Appeal is a newspaper published monthly and distributed to all Memphis City High Schools free of charge through The University of Memphis Department of Journalism , The Commercial Appeal , The Scripps Howard Foundation and Memphis City Schools .