Question: how much can you earn before you have to pay federal taxes?
Answer: If you would file as single, you don't have to submit a tax return unless your gross annual income is at least $12,200, or $13,850 if you're 65 and up. If you would file as married filing jointly or qualified widow(er), you only have to file if your gross income is at least $24,400 if both spouses are under 65.