Is Lucy required to file a tax return given her gross income?

Lucy is required to file a tax return because her gross income exceeds the minimum income thresholds set by the IRS. Each year, the IRS establishes specific income limits that determine when an individual is obligated to file a tax return based on filing status and age. These thresholds account for factors such as whether the individual is single, married, or a dependent.

In this case, if Lucy's gross income is higher than the applicable limit for her situation, it necessitates filing a return to report her income and determine any tax liability or refunds. This requirement is in place regardless of other conditions, such as whether she has additional income or if she is being claimed as a dependent, which are often sources of confusion. Those scenarios might change the applicability of certain deductions or credits, but the fundamental requirement to file remains directly linked to her gross income level exceeding the established thresholds.