Filing my own tax return?

Poofyspikes
Sat, 09 Feb 2008 16:21:48 +0000

Hello all. This question has probably been asked before, but I couldn’t find mention of it anywhere. So, here goes, and I apologize in advance if it indeed has been asked multiple times before.

In 2007, I made $1001.96 in work-study money (probably not relevant, but I’m including it anyways). Over the summer, I earned $6676.54, not including the $548.40 that was deducted for taxes.

I’m fairly sure I’m not required to file a tax return (the limit this year is $8950, right?), but I’d like to know which would most likely maximize my financial aid - filing my own return, or put it on my parent’s tax return - they list me as a dependent.

If it helps, I’m at a LAC in California, so I’ll need to fill out the CSS/Profile as well.A preemptive thank you to all who respond!