Lotus Li

Scholarships and grants are tax-free if used for tuition and required expenses by degree candidates, but amounts used for room, board, or compensation for services are taxable.

Gambling winnings are fully taxable and must be reported; losses can be deducted only if you itemize and cannot exceed your reported winnings.

Unemployment benefits remain taxable in 2025 under current IRS rules—recipients should report them as income and consider tax withholding.

Social Security benefits may be taxable depending on your income—up to 85% could be taxed if your combined income exceeds IRS thresholds

Selling items online? Report all income—business sales go on Schedule C, personal gains may be taxable, and losses generally aren’t deductible.

Report side hustle income on Schedule C if it’s a business, or Schedule 1 if it’s a hobby—track all income, even without a 1099 form.

Gig workers don’t file Form 1099-NEC themselves; it’s issued by payers. Still, all income must be reported, even without receiving the form.

Yes, income from freelance or gig work like Uber or Etsy must be reported and may require paying self-employment tax if earnings exceed $400.