Determine whether you are required to file based on your age, filing status, and gross income
Check whether you had any self-employment income, even if you had no other income
Gather any tax forms you received, such as W-2s, 1099s, or unemployment statements
Report zero income if you had no taxable income for the year
File a return if you had federal income tax withheld and want a refund
File if you qualify for refundable credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
Include any required information for dependents, if applicable
Use tax software, a tax professional, or paper forms to complete the return
Enter all income lines as zero if you had no income to report
Submit the return by the tax deadline
Keep copies of your return and supporting documents for your records