Question

Which dependent must file a 2022 california income tax return?

A. jackson (5), is an unmarried dependent of another taxpayer. his california gross income is $1,600 and his california adjusted gross income (agi) is $1,600 (all from interest).
B. levi (16), is an unmarried dependent of another taxpayer. his california gross income is $1,300 and his california agi is $1,300 (all from wages).
C. theo (17), is an unmarried dependent of another taxpayer. his california gross income is $1,500 and his california agi is $1,500 ($1,400 wages plus $100 interest).
D. wyatt (18), is an unmarried dependent of another taxpayer. his california gross income is $3,500 and his california agi is $3,500 ($3,250 wages plus $250 ordinary dividends).

Answer 1

Out of the scenarios provided, Wyatt is the only dependent who might be required to file a California income tax return due to his unearned income exceeding the threshold for dependents. The other individuals, Jackson, Levi, and Theo, all have income below the relevant thresholds for the 2022 tax year.

Step-by-step explanation:

In determining which dependent must file a California income tax return, one must look at the guidelines provided by the California Franchise Tax Board. Dependents generally have to file a tax return if their earned income is more than a certain threshold. This threshold changes yearly. As of the 2022 tax year, dependents with earned income, such as wages, above $12,950 are required to file a California state tax return. In the case of unearned income, such as interest and dividends, the threshold may be lower.

Considering the provided scenarios:

• Jackson, with just $1,600 of unearned income from interest, would not need to file a return as his income does not exceed the threshold for unearned income.
• Levi, with $1,300 of earned income from wages, also would not need to file a return as his income is below the earned income threshold.
• Theo, with a total gross income of $1,500 comprised of wages and interest, would not be required to file since his income does not exceed the earned income threshold.
• Wyatt, however, with a gross income of $3,500 which includes both wages and ordinary dividends, may be required to file a tax return as his unearned income portion is over the threshold for dependents.

Note that if any of these dependents had other deductions or credits they could claim, the filing requirements might be different. Always refer to the latest tax guidelines or consult with a tax professional when in doubt.

Answer 2

Wyatt must file a California income tax return for 2022 as his gross income exceeds the threshold for unearned income set at $1,150.

Step-by-step explanation:

The dependent who must file a 2022 California income tax return is Wyatt. Under California tax law, a dependent child must file a tax return if their earned income is more than $12,950 for the year 2022 or if their unearned income, such as interest and dividends, exceeds $1,150.

In the scenarios provided, Jackson, Levi, and Theo's gross income levels do not exceed these thresholds. However, Wyatt's California gross income and adjusted gross income (AGI) are both $3,500, which is above the $1,150 unearned income level. His gross income is made up of wages and ordinary dividends, which require him to file a return.

Understanding the basic concepts of taxation, taxable income is calculated by subtracting deductions and exemptions from adjusted gross income. Different tax rates apply to different income levels and the standard deduction and exemption reduces taxable income, especially for individuals with simple financial situations.