Melvin, a full-time student with $6,400 in wages, is living with his parents. Is he required to file a tax return?

Melvin is not required to file a tax return primarily because his income falls below the threshold that necessitates filing. For the tax year in question, a single dependent, such as a full-time student living with parents, must file a return only if their earned income is more than the standard deduction available to them.

For 2023, the standard deduction for a single filer is $13,850, which is greater than Melvin's $6,400 in wages. Since his income is below this amount, he is not required to file a federal tax return, regardless of his dependency status or the income levels of his parents.

The filing requirements vary for different individuals based on their income levels, filing status, and whether they are claimed as a dependent. In Melvin's case, because he is not exceeding the standard deduction, the tax law does not mandate him to file.