Tax guide

Types of Income

What are Types of Income?

There are two kinds of income: Earned income and unearned income. Earned income is money you make while actively working, like being employed or running your own business. Unearned income typically includes investment, retirement, and passive income. Investment income includes interest and dividends earned on bank or investment accounts, and also capital gains from the sale of stock or other assets. Retirement income includes distributions from 401Ks, pensions, annuities, and social security payments. Passive income includes some income from rental properties and other assets that generate income without a lot of maintenance. Unemployment income and gambling winnings are also considered unearned income.

Sign Up

Still have questions?

You got it. We’re always here to help.

Here's what we found in our blog for file online with 1040.com:

Best Savings Accounts for Your Tax Refund

If you don't want to spend your tax refund, consider tucking your money away in a savings account.

Read

What if I can't pay my taxes?

Owe more taxes than you can afford to pay by April 18 this year? We've got 3 options to help you stay on top.

Read

Giving Disabled Veterans an Even Break

A brief look at some of the tax breaks specifically for disabled American veterans.

Read

Freelancers, Meet the New Form 1099-NEC

Here's the new income form for freelancers, independent contractors or self-employed persons who are used to getting Form 1099-MISC every year-heads up!

Read

How to Pay Taxes When You Just Can't

Here's how to pay your tax bill, even if you can't afford the full amount right now.

Read

5 Life Events That Affect Your Taxes

Had any big life changes or events in 2017? Let's see if they affect your taxes!

Read

Time-Saving IRS Tax Tools

Some tools available on the Internal Revenue Service website that can make life a lot more pleasant when you're doing your taxes.

Read

Ten Tips for Taxpayers Who Owe Money to the IRS

During these difficult economic times, with massive layoffs and high unemployment rates, there will be many taxpayers who will find it difficult to pay their taxes. The Internal Revenue Service offers numerous ways for people to settle their tax debt.

Read

Students and Faculty Beware-Stimulus Scam on the Rise

Many who have an ".edu" email address have been targeted by fraudsters posing as the IRS-here's how to dodge the scam.

Read

It’s not too good to be true. See what others are saying about filing taxes online with 1040.com