All posts tagged Tax refund

  • How to Get a Full Tax Refund as an International Student in US

    full tax refund international students

    (Updated for 2024)

    Many international students on F-1, J-1, M-1 and Q engage in practical training and earn income through one of the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) approved programs or participate in on-campus and off-campus employment during or post-study.
    Continue reading “How to Get a Full Tax Refund as an International Student in US” »

  • Everything nonresidents need to know about the W-2 and 1099 forms

    Forms W-2 and 1099 for nonresidents

    Have you just received a W-2 form from your employer for the 2023 tax season?

    If so, you may be asking yourself what it is and what you need to do with it.

    Every year, nonresidents and international students who have earned an income in the US will receive a W-2 form from their employer – outlining wage and salary information. In addition, you may also receive a form 1099 detailing different types of income received during the year e.g., self-employed income, interest on bank accounts, stocks bonds or dividends.

    In this guide, we will outline how to use these forms when filing your tax return.

    Continue reading “Everything nonresidents need to know about the W-2 and 1099 forms” »

  • J-1 visa taxes explained – the ultimate US tax return guide for J-1 visa holders

    J1 visa tax return guide 2022

    Tens of thousands of people flock to the US on J-1 student visas each year.

    Every J-1 participant has a tax filing requirement, it’s the law!

    Many J-1 visa holders are confused by the often tricky US tax jargon. However, it’s not as bad as it seems, and knowing even a little about your filing requirements can go a long way!

    With this in mind, we’ve created a blog post that will answer some common queries from J-1 participants in the US! Continue reading “J-1 visa taxes explained – the ultimate US tax return guide for J-1 visa holders” »

  • 23 tax tips for nonresidents to maximize their US tax refund in 2023

    U.S. nonresident tax-refund tips for 2023

    Taxation in the United States is unique and complicated, especially if you are a nonresident. Maybe you have a lot of questions when you complete your tax return and don’t want to pay a cent more than you have to.

    This is where this blog may help you.

    Here are 23 tax tips that can answer your questions and help you trim your tax bill and maximize your US tax refund in 2023.

     

    1. Remember! You have to file a nonresident tax return in the US

    If you are a nonresident alien living and working in the United States, you must file an income tax return. This applies to all nonresident aliens studying there on an F Visa, J Visa, M Visa, or Q Visa.

    The easiest way to file your US nonresident income tax return is online with Sprintax or by mailing a paper return (Form 1040-NR) to the Internal Revenue Service.

    Sprintax is now approved by the IRS to submit Federal tax returns online (E-Filing). In short, you no longer have to download, print, and mail a physical copy of your tax return to the IRS.

     

    2. Even if you did not earn US-sourced income, you may still have a filing requirement

    If you earned income, you have to file a non-resident income tax return on Form 1040-NR. If you did not earn any income you may need to file a Tax Form – 8843.

    Each individual who is a nonresident alien and is present in the United States under an F, J, M, or Q immigration status (both “-1” and “-2”) is required to file Form 8843, regardless of age or income received.

     

    3. You must file if you were self-employed or earned income from investments or cryptocurrency

     If you have made a profit from trading cryptocurrency on a US exchange or broker while living in the US, you are required to declare that income.

    The IRS treats cryptocurrency as property, and any profit made from it will be subject to Capital Gains Tax at 30% and must be reported on your 1040-NR tax return.

    However, if you dispose of your investment for a loss, you will not need to pay tax, but as a nonresident, you will not be able to use the losses to offset any future tax liabilities.

    The same applies to investment profit. Dividends received from your investments will also be subject to a 30% tax. Keep in mind that you may be eligible for a reduced tax rate or tax exemption if you are able to claim tax treaty benefits

     

    4. Correctly determine your tax residency status

    As an international student, if you work in the United States you will be taxed, but the extent to which you are taxed will depend on your residency status and where your income, whether from employment or capital gains, was earned or sourced from.

    Not all nonresident aliens will meet the residency requirements for filing a US income tax return.

    You are only considered a US Resident if you:

    1. Have been issued a Green Card, or
    2. Meet the Substantial Presence Test guidelines, which state that you have been in the US for at least 31 days in the current year and 183 days in the previous two years.

    If you struggle with determining your residency status, don’t forget that Sprintax allows you to complete the substantial presence test and determine your tax residency status for free!

    Determine my residency status

     

    US nonresident alien tax refund tips

    5. Figure out your tax obligations

     Nonresident students are generally taxed on their US source income, such as wages or salaries earned in the United States which includes money earned while in the country.

    The IRS, on the other hand, has no authority to levy taxes on income earned by nonresidents in their home countries or any other foreign country.

    You may also be required to file a nonresident tax return if you receive certain types of income, such as wages, scholarships, fellowships, rental income, interest, dividends, and grants. However, certain types of income may be exempt from income tax, such as gifts, bequests, and inheritances.

    Read more: US tax season survival guide for international students on F-1 visas

     

    6. You must also file if you received a gift or inheritance

    Gifts and inheritances may be taxable to the donor or tax-free, depending on the amount of the gift or inheritance and the relationship between the donor and the recipient.

     

    7. Consider the tax implications of receiving a scholarship or fellowship

    Scholarships and fellowships may be taxable or tax-free, depending on the terms of the award and how the funds are used. It’s the same with grants.

     

    8. Be aware of the tax implications of on-campus employment

    While studying, international students may be allowed to work on campus, but they must report their earnings on their tax returns.

     

     

    9. Know the rules for off-campus employment

    International students may also be able to work off campus, but there are strict rules governing this type of employment.

     For instance, in order to work off campus, students must have permission from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and they might have to pay social security and Medicare taxes.

     

    10. Understand the tax implications of self-employment

    Self-employed international students might also be required to pay regular income tax in addition to self-employment tax.

     

    11. Organize your tax records. Having a clean tax record counts

    The most difficult part of the tax season for many people is gathering all the necessary documentation. This includes last year’s tax return, W-2s, 1099s for this year, receipts, other income documents, and canceled checks.

    It’s important to keep good records of your income, deductions, and other tax-related information. This will make it easier to file your 1040-NR tax return and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.

    Good organization may have financial rewards. Find out what forms you need and print out a tax checklist.

    tax tips 

    12. You may be required to file a federal and state tax return

    International students may need to file a federal income tax return using Form 1040NR if they have US-source income, or Form 1040 if they are considered resident aliens.

    Whether or not international students should file a state tax return depends on the state they live in and the amount of their income.

    Those who reside in states which do not collect income taxes may not be required to file a state tax return. However, even if they are exempt from filing a federal tax return, they may still need to file a state tax return in some states if their income exceeds certain thresholds.

    It’s crucial to confirm the requirements for the state in which you currently reside because they can differ from one state to another. Sprintax can help you determine your state filing requirements.

     

    13. Understand your tax treaty entitlements

    Understand the tax treaty between your home country and the United States.

    Many countries have a tax treaty with the United States that can affect your tax obligations.

    For instance, the treaty may provide a lower tax rate on certain types of income or allow you to claim certain credits or deductions.

     

    14. Understand the difference between tax deductions and tax credits

    You need to understand the distinction between tax credits and tax deductions and figure out which are applicable for nonresidents. Both can reduce what you owe on your tax bill but in different ways.

    Tax credits directly reduce the amount owed on taxes by providing a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your tax bill. Tax credits are more valuable than tax deductions in general because they lower the amount you must pay, whereas a tax deduction reduces your taxable income.

    Changes in the taxation of nonresidents under the Tax Cut and Jobs Act practically waived most of the deductions that they can claim. The following are not available anymore: personal exemption and itemized deductions except the state tax deduction.

    You can only use as a deduction the state and local taxes you pay in the state you worked in.

    You still can claim qualified educational expenses you pay out of your pocket if you are a student at a US educational institution but only to the amount of your grant/scholarship.

    In general, tax credits are not granted to nonresident aliens except in some very rare cases. Nationals of Canada, Mexico, and South Korea, students, and apprentices from India may be eligible to claim either child tax credit for children that are US residents or credit for other dependents if the child is a nonresident alien.

    Sprintax can review your details and circumstances for your applicable allowances, deductions, and credits. The software will finalize the calculations and prepare your tax return.

     

    15. Make sure you have your SSN / ITIN

    You are required to have a government-issued Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) before you can file a US income tax return. Make sure you’ve arranged that.

    To be eligible for any tax treaty benefits, foreign nationals are required by IRS regulations to possess either a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

     

    US tax deadline

    16. File early to avoid tax deadline stress

    Most taxpayers claim that tax season is stressful. When you have a daunting task ahead of you, it’s best to tackle it immediately rather than procrastinate.

    Worrying over something often causes more anxiety than actually taking action. The same holds true for income taxes.

    Filing taxes before the deadline can provide several advantages. Not only does it allow you to avoid the stress of meeting the deadline, but it also ensures that your return is processed as quickly as possible.

    By filing early, you can also get a head start on any tax planning or adjustments that need to be made. Furthermore, those expecting a refund will receive it much sooner if they file early.

    So, don’t wait until the last minute to file your taxes, get a head start and file early to avoid any unnecessary stress or delays.

     

    17. Or at least file before the deadline to avoid fines and penalties

    The deadline for nonresidents to file their tax return is generally 15 June if they are outside the US, but if you are in the US, self-employed, or have taxes withheld, you may need to file by 15 April. If you need more time to file, you can request an extension, but you will still need to pay any taxes owed by the original deadline.

    Penalties and interest will be assessed if you fail to pay your taxes on time. You can also jeopardize any future visa applications.

     

    18. If you miss the deadline it is still important to file

    Nobody wants to get into trouble with the IRS. Don’t panic if you missed this year’s filing deadline but act quickly.

    Missing the filing deadline or not submitting your return by the tax extension deadline can result in penalties imposed by the IRS. They charge 5% of the taxes due for each month or part of the month that the tax return is not filed.

     

    International student tax refund USA

    19. Plus, you may be due a tax refund!

    International students may be entitled to a tax refund if they had taxes withheld from their income but their tax liability was lower than the amount withheld. To claim a refund, you’ll need to file a tax return and attach any required documentation.

    Claim your international student tax refund with Sprintax

     

    20. Even if you have already left the US you should still file and you can still collect your tax refund

     As a nonresident, it’s important to know that you may be eligible for a tax refund even after you have left the United States. To get your refund you simply need to file a tax return online.

    So why leave your money in the US?

     

    21. Register with Sprintax, here’s why

    If you are unsure about your tax obligations as a nonresident, Sprintax can help you!

     It is a tax preparation software designed specifically for non-US residents who are required to file US taxes.

    The software is designed to make it easier for non-residents to prepare and file their US taxes, and claim their US tax refunds.

    It will provide step-by-step guidance and assistance with calculating and claiming credits and deductions based on your personal situation.

    Sprintax also provides support for filing state and local taxes in addition to federal taxes.

    The software is available in a variety of subscription plans and is intended for use by individuals as well as businesses and organizations.

     

    22. No, if you are a non-resident, you can’t file with TurboTax (Don’t file as a resident if you are a non-resident)

    You cannot file your taxes with TurboTax if you are a nonresident.

     TurboTax doesn’t support IRS Form 1040-NR (U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return) while Sprintax offers both federal and state tax preparation for international students, scholars, and nonresident foreign professionals.

    What’s more – Sprintax is TurboTax’s partner of choice and the only online solution to offer federal tax e-filing and state tax return preparation for nonresidents!

    File Form 1040-NR online with Sprintax

     

    23. Plus – you can E-file with Sprintax which will save you a lot of tax stress at the deadline

    Say goodbye to paper tax returns! You no longer need to download, print and mail a physical copy of your tax return to the US tax office.

    Sprintax is now approved by the IRS for E-filing, which means you can file your taxes from the comfort of your own home.

    Plus, E-Filing your tax return guarantees faster processing by the IRS compared to mailing a paper tax return.

    Still have questions?

    You can contact Sprintax Live chat to help you with the tax preparation process.

    Remember, you must file your tax documents before 15 July.

    With Sprintax you can:

    • Save time and stress!
    • Determine your residency status
    • Prepare a fully compliant US tax return
    • Maximize your State tax refund
    • Avail of our 24/7 Vita Qualified Live Chat facility

    Prepare your US nonresident tax return today!

     

  • Did you leave the US due to Covid-19? You could be due a tax refund!

    due a tax refund

    Covid-19 called a halt to countless peoples plans in 2020!

    Many nonresidents had to leave their adventures in foreign lands and travel home.

    If you were one of the people who had to leave the US due to the pandemic…we feel your pain!

    However, you should know that you still have tax filing obligations in the US!

    Lucky for you, you could be due a big tax refund! Continue reading “Did you leave the US due to Covid-19? You could be due a tax refund!” »

  • 3 Amazing things you didn’t know about last year’s tax season

    last year tax season

    Look, we get it.

    Tax can be booooring!

    But hear us out.

    It’s not just all endless paperwork and deadlines, you know!

    In fact, last year a LOT of Sprintax customers were entitled to big tax refunds.

    How big?

    Well, our average federal refund was well over $1,000.

    Doesn’t sound so boring now, does it?

    So, with that in mind, we put together this list of 3 amazing things you didn’t know about last year’s tax season.
    Continue reading “3 Amazing things you didn’t know about last year’s tax season” »

  • Keep your tax records when Tax season is over. Here’s why

    Keeping tax records after tax season

    (Last updated: 25 Mar 2022)

    Here are the tax records you need to keep and how long you should keep them

    When tax season ends it can feel like a big weight has been lifted off your shoulders – an opportunity to exhale and relax (until it all starts again next year that is!) But before you expel all tax topics completely from your mind, there is one final task you must complete.
    Continue reading “Keep your tax records when Tax season is over. Here’s why” »

  • Which nationality claimed the largest US tax refund with Sprintax in 2019? The results are in!

    claim biggest tax refund Sprintax

    At Sprintax we specialize in US tax prep and securing tax refunds for international students and J-1 program participants.

    But just how many tax returns do we prepare each year? And how much money can our customers claim in tax refunds?

    With tax season 2018 firmly behind us, we thought this would be a good time to crunch some numbers and find out!

    Here’s what we found…
    Continue reading “Which nationality claimed the largest US tax refund with Sprintax in 2019? The results are in!” »

  • Where’s My Tax Refund?

    USA flag and American dollars. American flag blowing in the wind and 100 dollars banknotes in the background. USA flag and American dollars. American flag blowing in the wind and 100 dollars banknotes in the background

    Filed your tax return and wondering where your refund is? Here’s how you can keep up to speed with your refund

    With your tax return safely filed, you’re probably wondering ‘how long will it be before I receive my tax refund?’

    Fortunately you can now get information about your tax refund online.

    Here’s what you need to know…
    Continue reading “Where’s My Tax Refund?” »

  • Can the college I choose to enroll in affect my US tax bill?

    State tax refunds Sprintax

    Want to work while studying in the US? It’s important to be aware that tax rates differ greatly from State to State.

    Continue reading “Can the college I choose to enroll in affect my US tax bill?” »

  • When can I expect my tax refund?

    Sprintax US tax

    How long does it take the IRS to process an international student tax return?

    Continue reading “When can I expect my tax refund?” »

  • How the ‘Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’ affects every nonresident student in the US

    What you need to know about the GOP tax reform

    We examine how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) affects the tax obligations of US nonresidents

    In November 2017, President Donald Trump introduced a ‘Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’ that will have wide-ranging consequences for all US tax payers.

    There has been much confusion surrounding the new bill and taxpayers have been keen to work out what the changes will mean for their pockets.

    Below we take a look at how the bill will affect the future tax obligations of US nonresidents. Most of the changes have taken effect from January, 2018 and will change methods of withholding and the way nonresidents will be taxed throughout 2018.

    It’s important to note that these amendments do not affect the 2017 tax return filing season.

    Continue reading “How the ‘Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’ affects every nonresident student in the US” »

  • How to maintain a valid F-1 visa status

    International student on F-1 visa

    Can I leave and return to the US on an F-1 visa?

    Am I entitled to work during the semester?

    How long can I stay in the country after my program is finished?

    To find out more about filing tax returns as an F-1 visa student, check out this guide.

    Continue reading “How to maintain a valid F-1 visa status” »

  • Smart Ways to Spend Your US Tax Refund

    save-or-spend-your tax-refund

    Wondering how to spend your tax refund from the IRS?

    About 13% of Americans will put their tax refund towards an amazing vacation and 39% will use it to pay down their debts, according to a study from 2015 conducted by the National Retail Federation.

    How will you spend yours?

    A big refund might feel like you’ve hit the jackpot, but it’s not always wise to spend it all at once. You might consider a more practical plan for your cash.

    Here are some tips on how to spend your tax refund wisely:

    Continue reading “Smart Ways to Spend Your US Tax Refund” »