What constitutes taxable income for children?

Taxable income for children includes both earned and unearned income, but each type of income has different thresholds that determine when it becomes taxable. Earned income refers to income derived from work, such as wages, while unearned income includes earnings from investments, such as dividends, interest, and capital gains.

The thresholds vary; for instance, for the tax year 2023, children can earn a certain amount from wages without owing any federal income tax, while unearned income is generally subject to a threshold of $1,250 before it begins being taxed. If both earned and unearned income exceed specific limits, they may be taxed at the parent's tax rate under the "kiddie tax" rules.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because it helps in tax planning for families with children, ensuring compliance with tax regulations while potentially minimizing tax liabilities. This is why the answer correctly reflects the broader picture of how both types of income can contribute to a child’s overall taxable income.