10 Quick Tax Tips!
Studying in the US? You’re required by US taxation law to file a tax return so here are 10 tips to help your taxes go smoothly!
1.You should submit your tax documents to the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) by 15 April for any income earned in the previous year (the 15 April deadline may be extended to accommodate holidays or weather conditions).
2. You may be able to take advantage of a ‘tax treaty’ between the US and your home country, so make sure you check this as it could mean you pay less tax! Sprintax can also check for this when you apply.
3. As a non-resident alien, even if you don’t need to file a US income tax return, you still must file a Form 8843.
4. Students in F-1 and J-1 status are generally considered Non Resident Aliens (NRAs) for the first 5 years in student status, including the tax year (January 1 – December 3). In the 6th year, they become a resident for tax purposes. Scholars in J-1 status are typically considered NRAs for the first 2 years (for example, scholars who arrived in 2015 or later are non-residents for the 2016 tax year).
5. If you have any source of US income, you must declare it on your US tax return.
Sources of income include:
- On-campus/off-campus employment
- Scholarship/fellowship grants/stipends
- Graduate or teaching assistantships
- Salary for a teaching or research appointment
6. Documents you’ll need for your US tax return:
- Passport
- Visa info (Form DS-2019 or Form I-20)
- Your Tax Identification Number or Social Security Number (not required if you’re just filling Form 8843)
- All U.S. entry and exit dates
7. You’ll also need certain tax forms:
- Your W-2: This form reports your income earned from your employer
- 1042-S: This reports scholarships, fellowships, grants paid to you.
8. You can still file your tax return after the April deadline and don’t worry about penalties and fines if you have no tax liability. However if you own money to the IRS, you may incur late filing fees and/or penalties.
9. You cannot file your non-resident tax return online, but Sprintax can help you fill in all the information online and will give you instructions on where to mail it.
10. Need to file a US tax return? To get started with your U.S. tax return, click here to create an account!
Download our International Student Guide to Studying in USA
