Form 1040
The main US individual income tax return.
Why it matters
Everyone who files a federal return uses Form 1040 (or a variant). Schedules attach for specific situations: Schedule A (itemized deductions), B (interest/dividends over $1,500), C (self-employment), D (capital gains), E (rental/passive income), SE (self-employment tax).
See also
Educational only — not financial, tax, or legal advice.