Editor's Note: This article was updated to reflect the IRS 2026 tax season.
MYTH: Multiple jobs = multiple tax returns.
FACT: You file one federal return with all income sources combined on a single Form 1040.
In most aspects of life, it is widely believed that keeping everything in one place will help keep you organized.
All of your recipes should be in one cookbook; all of your child's toys should be in one toy chest; all of your holiday decorations should be in one box.
The same rule applies to filing tax returns.
The IRS requires taxpayers to file only one federal tax return, even if they worked multiple jobs throughout the tax filing year. However, you may be required to file multiple state returns depending on which states you earned income in.
Filing Deadlines to Keep in Mind
While the federal tax return is typically due by April 15th, state filing deadlines can vary. It's essential to check the specific deadlines for each state in which you're filing, especially if they differ from the federal due date. This information is critical to ensure you file on time and avoid any late filing penalties.
When Do I Need to File a Tax Return?
If you made income within a tax filing year, you need to file a tax return by April 15th. Always declare all of the income you earn from any job.
Even if you worked multiple jobs in various categories (W-2 vs. 1099), you are still obligated to report it all on one tax return.
Complex Income Sources
For individuals who own businesses in multiple states, the filing process can get more complicated. You'll need to file tax returns in every state where your business has a significant presence or nexus. Nexus refers to a sufficient connection between a business and a state that requires the business to comply with that state's tax laws—typically established through having employees, property, or substantial sales in that state.
Each state has its own rules defining what constitutes a nexus, so it's wise to consult with a tax professional to understand your filing responsibilities.
What If I Didn't Work, Do I Still Need to File A Tax Return?
Another common misconception is that if you didn't work, you don't have to file. This notion is not necessarily true.
The following groups may need to file a tax return even without traditional employment income:
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Self-employed individuals who earned $400 or more in net self-employment income
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Spouses who do not work but need to file a joint return based on their spouse's income
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Students who may need to file to record income for financial aid purposes or report grants and stipends
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Unemployed individuals receiving unemployment benefits (these benefits are taxable income)
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Investors with income from dividends, interest, or capital gains above filing thresholds
What is the Minimum Income to File Tax Returns?
To be required to file taxes, you must make above the set minimum income for your age and marital status. For the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), the standard deduction amounts that determine filing thresholds are:
- Single and under the age of 65 – $15,000
- Single and 65 or older – $17,000
- Click here for more specifications
If you are self-employed and earned at least $400 in net self-employment income, the IRS will require that you file a tax return.
How Do Multiple Jobs Affect Filing My Tax Returns?
To reiterate: you will only ever file one federal tax return. State tax returns are a different story – we'll get to that later.
It can feel overwhelming when you have to report multiple sources of income. However, it doesn't have to be. Below is a breakdown of how your jobs can affect your tax filing process.
You Worked Two Jobs, but at Separate Times Within One Year
Let's say you had one job at the beginning of the year and then switched to another halfway through the year. In this scenario, the only thing you need to look out for is a significant income jump between jobs.
To compensate for the income spike, determine how much tax you need to withhold. You can estimate tax withholdings with this IRS resource.
You Worked Multiple Jobs at the Same Time
If you work more than one job during the year and are not the employer, your extra jobs could move you into a higher tax bracket.
To avoid paying higher taxes, try increasing the amount of tax you withhold from your paycheck. In addition, you can calculate the amount of taxes to withhold from your check using this IRS resource.
You Are a Freelancer, Contractor, or Self-Employed
When you don't have an employer taking out income taxes, it's your responsibility to pay estimated taxes.
Estimated taxes are paid quarterly or monthly on Form 1040-ES. Self-employed workers, those who earn money from tips, and contractors must account for estimated taxes.
There are various types of taxable income: side jobs, unemployment compensation, and interest from investments.
Common Tax Forms and Their Purposes
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Form W-2: Reports wages and salaries from employers.
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Form 1099-NEC: Reports independent contractor and freelance income.
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Form 1099-MISC: Reports miscellaneous income such as rent or royalties.
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Form 1040: The single federal return where all income sources are reported.
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Form 1040-ES: Used to pay quarterly estimated taxes for self-employment income.
Additional Tips When Filing Tax Returns
When you work multiple jobs, experts recommend filling out separate withholding forms for each job.
It is also encouraged that you claim allowances correctly to reduce the amount owed after filing your taxes.
Lastly, make sure you file all your tax return forms correctly, particularly W-2s and 1099s, which are notorious for minor mistakes.
When Do You Need to File Multiple State Tax Returns?
When you file a state tax return, you may be required to file multiple tax returns, unlike a federal tax return. The determining factors are income and the state where you earned it.
The table below compares the differences between federal tax returns and state tax returns.
| Factor | Federal Tax Return | State Tax Return |
|---|---|---|
| Number of returns | Always one Form 1040 | May require multiple returns |
| Determining factors | Total income from all sources | Where income was earned, residency status |
| Multi-job impact | All jobs reported on single return | May file in each state where you worked |
| Common multi-state scenarios | N/A | Live in one state, work in another; remote work across state lines; rental property in different state |
Tracking Your Sources of Income
If you earn income in more than one state or are a business owner working in multiple states, you may need to file several returns for each respective state. The same rule applies if you live in one state but work in another, or acquire income from an out-of-state property.
For example, if you live in New Jersey but commute to work in New York, you typically need to file returns in both states. Similarly, if you relocated mid-year from California to Texas, you would file a part-year resident return in California for the income earned while living there.
Furthermore, if you or your spouse works in a different state from the one you both live in, you might have to file another state tax return.
You must check with your local government or employer to see if your situation warrants filing multiple tax returns.
Moving to Another State and Tax Returns
The three critical factors of filing in a new state are:
- Which states are involved
- Which state is considered the source of income
- State income tax reciprocity.
State-by-State Basis
States handle taxes and residency differently. Once you have moved and before you file, make sure to check the residency rules for your new home state. Often, a state may consider you a full-year resident if you're present in that state for at least 183 days.
If you rent out your home in your old state, you will likely have to file an income tax return in your old state of residence. Again, be sure to research the tax return rules for the two states involved with your move.
Sources of Income
After your move, you will most likely file a part-year resident return in both states—a tax return filed when you lived in a state for only a portion of the tax year, reporting only the income earned during your residency period. Keep in mind that income from interest, dividends, and pensions usually derives from your state of residence.
State Income Tax Reciprocity
State income tax reciprocity is an agreement between two states where a taxpayer who lives in one state but works in another is exempt from paying income tax in the nonresident state. Instead, they only pay income tax to their state of residence.
State income tax reciprocity only works if an agreement exists between the two states in question and if your only income is wages. Your employer is obligated to provide you with the withholding exemption request forms for the nonresident state – don't forget to ask for these.
Protect Yourself from Late and Misfiled Taxes
The IRS will not be moving the tax filing deadline this year. Be sure to file your taxes as soon as possible to ensure you get a tax refund.
However, if you have misfiled tax years or missed years entirely, reach out to TaxRise. Our professionals can help protect you from IRS collection tactics and file tax returns for past years.
