Filing taxes in the United States can be a confusing and sometimes overwhelming task, especially for nonresidents. Many international students, scholars, teachers, and workers find themselves dealing with an unfamiliar tax system filled with new terminology, different forms, and strict deadlines. While this process may seem daunting at first, with the right guidance and documentation, it becomes much more manageable.
One of the most important steps in preparing to file your taxes as a nonresident is gathering the correct documents. Having the right paperwork on hand will save you time, reduce errors, and increase your chances of receiving a refund or avoiding penalties. In this guide, we will walk through all the documents you need, explain what they are, how to obtain them, and why they are required for tax filing purposes.
Understanding Your Residency Status for Tax Purposes
Before beginning the tax filing process, you must determine whether you are considered a nonresident or resident alien for tax purposes. This classification determines the forms you file, the deductions and credits available to you, and your overall tax obligations.
The Internal Revenue Service does not use immigration classifications alone to define residency for tax purposes. Instead, it uses two key tests: the Green Card Test and the Substantial Presence Test. If you do not meet the requirements of either, you are classified as a nonresident alien.
Most international students and scholars on F, J, M, or Q visas are considered nonresidents for a specific number of years, depending on the visa type. For example, F and J students are generally considered nonresidents for the first five calendar years they are in the United States. Scholars on J visas are typically nonresidents for the first two calendar years.
Understanding your status is essential, as nonresidents must file different tax forms than residents. Filing the wrong form or misrepresenting your status could result in penalties or delays in the visa and immigration processes.
The Role of Identification in Tax Filing
Your identity must be verified when you submit your tax return. In the United States, this verification is typically done through one of two forms of taxpayer identification: the Social Security Number or the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
Without one of these numbers, the IRS will not process your tax return, and you may not be able to claim certain tax benefits or receive a refund.
Your Passport
Your passport is one of the most important identification documents required during the tax filing process. It confirms your identity and citizenship and serves as your primary travel document. When preparing your tax return, you will use your passport to verify personal information and residency details. It is also a key piece of documentation when applying for a taxpayer identification number if you do not already have one.
Make sure your passport is valid and that you have copies of the main identification page and visa stamps for reference during the tax process.
US Entry and Exit Dates
Another essential component of your tax documentation is a detailed record of your entry and exit dates from the United States. These dates help determine your residency status for tax purposes and confirm whether you meet the requirements to file as a nonresident.
Keeping an accurate travel history is especially important if you have visited the United States multiple times or stayed for extended periods. You can use the I-94 travel record available through the US Customs and Border Protection website to access official records of your entries and exits.
This information is vital when completing certain tax forms and must be accurate to avoid errors in your tax status determination.
Visa and Immigration Status Documentation
Your visa and immigration documents are necessary to demonstrate your legal status in the United States. These records help determine your eligibility for certain exemptions and tax benefits, and they are often requested during the tax preparation process.
Depending on your visa type, you will need to refer to different forms:
Form I-20
Form I-20 is issued to international students on F or M visas. It certifies your eligibility to study in the United States and contains information such as your school, program of study, and duration of stay. You must retain a copy of this document, as it may be required when applying for a taxpayer identification number or completing your tax return.
Form DS-2019
Form DS-2019 is provided to exchange visitors on J or Q visas. Like the I-20, this form outlines the terms of your stay, including the purpose of your program, the sponsor, and the program dates. It plays a critical role in determining your residency status and tax obligations.
Be sure to keep a copy of this form and verify that all information is correct and up to date.
Social Security Number
The Social Security Number is the most commonly used taxpayer identification number in the United States. It is issued to individuals who are authorized to work and is used to report wages to the government, file tax returns, and access certain services.
If you are legally permitted to work in the United States, obtaining a Social Security Number should be one of your top priorities. To apply, you must visit a Social Security office and provide supporting documents such as your passport, visa, and work authorization.
Once issued, your SSN should be kept safe and used on all future tax documents. It is required on Forms W-2, 1042-S, and other income reports and must be included on your tax return.
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you will need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. The ITIN is issued by the IRS to individuals who are required to file taxes but do not qualify for an SSN.
This includes many international students, scholars, and dependents who may receive taxable income through scholarships, fellowships, or grants but do not have authorization to work in the United States.
To obtain an ITIN, you must submit Form W-7 along with a valid federal tax return. You will also need to provide proof of identity and foreign status, typically in the form of a passport. In some cases, additional documents may be requested.
Because the ITIN application process can take several weeks or even months, it is recommended to begin early. You can submit your application through the IRS or work with a certified acceptance agent to simplify the process.
When to Use an ITIN Instead of an SSN
The key difference between the SSN and the ITIN lies in work authorization. If you are authorized to work in the United States, you should apply for an SSN. If you are not authorized to work but still have tax filing obligations, such as receiving a taxable scholarship or fellowship, you should apply for an ITIN.
Do not apply for both numbers. If you already have an SSN, you do not need an ITIN. Submitting both numbers on different documents can confuse and delay your tax return processing.
Summary of Identification Requirements
In summary, before you begin filing your nonresident tax return, you should gather the following identification and immigration-related documents:
- Your valid passport with identification and visa pages
- A record of your US entry and exit dates, such as I-94 travel history
- Your Form I-20 (for F or M visa holders) or Form DS-2019 (for J or Q visa holders)
- Your Social Security Number if you are authorized to work in the United States
- Your Taxpayer Identification Number if you are not eligible for an SSN
Having these documents ready will make the tax filing process smoother and reduce the chances of errors or delays. They serve as the foundation of your tax identity and are required for most filing and reporting processes.
The Importance of Preparing in Advance
Many international visitors to the United States wait until tax season arrives before beginning to gather their documents. However, this often leads to unnecessary stress and delays. By organizing your records in advance, you will be better prepared to meet tax deadlines and avoid penalties.
This is particularly important when dealing with the ITIN application process, which can take several weeks to complete. Applying early ensures you have the necessary identification when it is time to file your tax return.
Form W-2
Form W-2, also known as the Wage and Tax Statement, is issued by employers to employees who work under a formal employer-employee relationship. If you held a job and received regular paychecks from a company or organization in the United States, you should receive a W-2 form.
This form reports your total wages or salary for the year, as well as the amount of federal, state, and other taxes withheld from your pay. It is one of the most important documents when filing your tax return, as it determines your total reported income and helps calculate whether you owe additional tax or are due a refund.
Your employer is legally required to provide your W-2 by January 31 of the following year. For example, if you worked during 2024, you should receive your W-2 by January 31, 2025. If you have not received it by this date, you should immediately contact your employer to request a copy.
Form W-2 includes several key pieces of information:
- Employer name, address, and employer identification number
- Employee name, address, and Social Security Number
- Total wages, tips, and other compensation earned during the year
- Total federal income tax withheld..
- Total Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld, if applicable.le
- Total state and local income tax withheld, if applicable
It is important to verify the accuracy of all information on the W-2. Any errors should be corrected by your employer before you submit your tax return.
When Nonresidents Receive Form W-2
Not all nonresidents are subject to Social Security and Medicare tax. Students and scholars on F, J, M, or Q visas are generally exempt from these taxes for a limited number of years. However, even if you are exempt, your employer may mistakenly withhold these taxes. If this happens, you may need to request a refund directly from the employer or submit a special refund request to the IRS.
If you received compensation as a regular employee, even as part-time or temporary work, you should receive a W-2. This applies to positions such as campus jobs, internships that pay wages, or jobs with private employers.
Do not assume that if your income was small or seasonal that no form will be issued. The IRS requires employers to report all eligible compensation, and you are still required to file a tax return even if your earnings were low.
Forms 1099
Form 1099 is a collection of several different forms used to report income received outside of traditional employment. If you worked as an independent contractor, received dividends from investments, earned interest on savi, ng, or received other miscellaneous income, you may receive one or more versions of Form 1099.
It is critical to understand the differences among the various types of 1099 forms because each one reflects a different type of income. The three most relevant forms for nonresident aliens are Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-DIV, and Form 1099-INT.
Form 1099-NEC
Form 1099-NEC is used to report nonemployee compensation. If you worked as an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual and received payments of at least 600 from a business or organization, you should receive this form.
The 1099-NEC includes your name, taxpayer identification number, the total amount paid to you during the year, and any withholding that may have occurred. Unlike employees, independent contractors are generally responsible for paying their taxes, including federal income tax and possibly self-employment tax. However, self-employment tax may not apply to nonresidents, depending on the tax treaty in place between your home country and the United States.
This form is typically issued by January 31. If you do not receive it by that date and you believe you should have, contact the organization that paid you to request a copy.
Keep in mind that working as an independent contractor without appropriate work authorization can violate visa terms and may have serious immigration consequences. You should always verify whether your visa allows self-employment before accepting freelance or contract work.
Form 1099-DIV
Form 1099-DIV is issued to report dividend income. If you earned money from investments that paid dividends, such as mutual funds, stocks, or exchange-traded funds, you may receive this form from your financial institution or broker.
This form provides details about the amount and type of dividends received. It distinguishes between ordinary dividends and qualified dividends, which may be taxed at different rates. For nonresident aliens, most dividend income is taxed at a flat rate and is not subject to graduated income tax brackets.
If you invested in US-based financial products and received distributions, be sure to review your 1099-DIV form for accuracy and include the income on your tax return. Even if you reinvested the dividends rather than receiving them as cash, the IRS still considers this taxable income.
You should receive this form by early February if applicable.
Form 1099-INT
Form 1099-INT is issued when you receive interest income from a bank account, savings account, certificate of deposit, or other interest-bearing account. This form will be sent to you by the financial institution where the account is held.
The form shows the total interest income paid to you during the tax year and any federal income tax withheld. In many cases, interest earned by nonresident aliens on deposits in US banks may be exempt from federal income tax, depending on the source and type of the interest. However, you are still required to report the income, and the form must be included with your tax documents.
Form 1099-INT should also be received by early February.
Reporting Investment and Miscellaneous Income
In some cases, you may also receive other types of 1099 forms, such as 1099-MISC, which reports miscellaneous income not covered by other forms. This could include rent, prizes, awards, or other types of payments.
Regardless of the form you receive, all income earned during the tax year must be reported. If you fail to report income shown on a 1099 form, the IRS may issue penalties or take enforcement actions.
If you are unsure whether a 1099 form applies to your situation, it is helpful to review all income sources during the year, including nontraditional earnings or investment income, and consult a tax advisor or service with experience in nonresident tax matters.
Form 1042-S
Form 1042-S is a specialized form used to report US-source income paid to nonresident aliens that is subject to withholding. This includes income types such as scholarships, fellowships, royalties, awards, and certain types of personal services.
Institutions such as universities, research organizations, and some employers use Form 1042-S to report these payments. It is also used to report income earned from treaty-exempt sources. The form details the type of income, the amount paid, any tax withheld, and the specific tax treaty article used to justify reduced withholding.
When You Might Receive Form 1042-S
If you received a scholarship or fellowship that included payment for living expenses, travel, or any portion not used for tuition and required fees, that amount is considered taxable income. The institution awarding the scholarship will report it on Form 1042-S.
If you provided services such as teaching, lecturing, or research and were paid by an organization, this income may also be reported on Form 1042-S. Additionally, payments from investment accounts or financial services to foreign individuals can also be reported using this form.
Institutions are required to send Form 1042-S to recipients by March 15. If you believe you should receive this form and do not have it by the deadline, you should contact the issuing institution.
It is important to retain a copy of the 1042-S for your tax records and submit it when preparing your tax return. This form is especially significant for those claiming treaty exemptions, as it provides documentation of the treaty article applied.
Differences Between Form W-2, Form 1099, and Form 1042-S
Each of these forms serves a distinct purpose and reports different types of income. Understanding the differences is crucial for accurately filing your tax return.
- Form W-2 reports wages and salaries from formal employment
- Form 1099-NEC reports payments from independent contract or freelance work
- Form 1099-DIV and 1099-INT report investment income, such as dividends and interest
- Form 1042-S reports taxable and treaty-exempt income paid to nonresidents
Some individuals may receive more than one form depending on the variety of income sources during the year. All of these forms must be reviewed for accuracy and included in your tax return to ensure compliance with IRS rules.
Importance of Timely Receipt of Income Documents
Receiving your income reporting documents on time is essential for preparing and submitting your tax return by the deadline. As a nonresident, you are generally required to file your federal tax return by April 15 of the year following the tax year. If you are due to receive one of the income forms listed above and have not received it by the expected date, you should contact the issuing organization immediately.
Delays in obtaining your forms can cause you to miss deadlines, resulting in penalties or loss of eligibility for refunds. Staying organized and following up early on missing documents will help you avoid these issues.
In some cases, you may be able to use your final pay stub or financial records to estimate your income if a form is delayed. However, it is best to wait until you receive the official form before filing your return, as the IRS will compare your return against forms it receives directly from employers and institutions.
Understanding the Role of the Social Security Number
The Social Security Number is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration. It is used for a wide range of purposes, including employment authorization, tax filing, and accessing public services. For tax purposes, it serves as your primary identification number and is required on forms such as the W-2 and 1040-NR.
You are eligible to apply for a Social Security Number if you are legally allowed to work in the United States. This typically applies to international students, scholars, or workers on visas such as F-1 with work authorization, J-1 with permission for practical training or employment, and H-1B visa holders.
Your employer cannot legally employ you or withhold taxes on your behalf unless you have a valid SSN. Likewise, you will not be able to file a federal tax return without this number unless you qualify for an alternative identification method, such as the ITIN.
How to Apply for a Social Security Number
To apply for a Social Security Number, you must submit an application in person at a local Social Security Administration office. Some universities and international offices may also help coordinate appointments or assist with documentation.
You will need the following documents:
- Your valid passport with a visa stamp
- Form I-94 showing your most recent entry to the United States
- Form DS-2019 for J visa holders or Form I-20 for F visa holders
- A letter of employment or job offer, if required by your visa type
- Completed Form SS-5, the official Social Security Number application
Once you submit your application, it may take up to two to four weeks for your SSN card to be mailed to your US address. Keep this card safe and never share your number unless necessary, as it can be used to access sensitive financial and personal information.
What to Do If You Already Have a Social Security Number
If you were previously issued a Social Security Number, even if you are not currently working, you should continue to use that number on all tax forms. Do not apply for a second SSN or an ITIN. The IRS tracks all tax returns through your SSN, and submitting a return with a different number can lead to processing delays, penalties, or even suspicion of fraud.
If you are unsure whether you have previously been assigned an SSN, check with the Social Security Administration or review your past tax filings and employment documents.
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service for individuals who are required to file a tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. This number is used exclusively for tax purposes and does not provide work authorization or eligibility for Social Security benefits.
You may need an ITIN if you fall into one of the following categories:
- You are a nonresident alien receiving a taxable scholarship or fellowship
- You are a dependent or spouse of a nonresident alien visa holder
- You are required to file a US tax return, but do not qualify for an SSN
ITINs are commonly used by international students on F, J, M, or Q visas who receive grants or scholarships that include funding for living expenses. Even if you are not working, you may still be required to report this income.
Applying for an ITIN
The application process for an ITIN involves submitting Form W-7 to the IRS along with supporting documentation. Unlike the SSN, the ITIN is processed by the IRS and must be filed with your tax return unless you qualify for an exception.
To apply for an ITIN, you must include the following:
- Form W-7 completed and signed
- Your original passport or a certified copy from the issuing agency
- A federal tax return showing your reportable income
- Any supporting visa documentation,, such as Form I-20 or DS-2019
Your ITIN application can be mailed directly to the IRS or submitted through an authorized acceptance agent. Some universities and international offices have staff certified to assist with ITIN applications.
The processing time can range from six to twelve week,, depending on the time of year. Because of this, it is important to apply early to avoid missing the tax filing deadline.
When to Apply for an ITIN
The best time to apply for an ITIN is early in the tax season. While you must include your tax return with your application in most cases, certain exceptions allow for early application. For example, if you are claiming a tax treaty exemption or need an ITIN for banking or educational purposes, you may be able to apply without a tax return.
Regardless of your specific reason, applying early allows time for corrections or additional documentation if the IRS requests it. Waiting until April or later can put you at risk of missing the tax deadline, which could result in penalties or disqualification from tax benefits.
ITIN Renewals and Expirations
ITINs do not last indefinitely. If you have not used your ITIN on a federal tax return in the past three consecutive tax years, it will expire. Additionally, certain ITINs with middle digits in specific ranges expire based on IRS guidelines.
If your ITIN is expired, you must renew it before filing your tax return. This involves submitting a new Form W-7 and updated documentation. The IRS provides renewal notices and maintains a public list of affected ITIN ranges.
Filing a tax return with an expired ITIN will result in delays in processing and any refund due. In some cases, credits or exemptions may be denied until the number is renewed.
Choosing Between SSN and ITIN
The key factor in choosing between the SSN and the ITIN is your eligibility to work in the United States. If your visa permits employment and you have a job or intend to work, you must obtain a Social Security Number. This number is required by employers and used to report your income to the IRS.
If you are not authorized to work but still receive taxable income, such as scholarships or grants, you should apply for an ITIN. This number allows you to meet your tax obligations without misrepresenting your employment status.
You should never apply for both an SSN and an ITIN. If you obtain an SSN after previously receiving an ITIN, you should stop using the ITIN and report the change to the IRS to avoid confusion.
Using SSN or ITIN on Tax Forms
When completing your federal tax return, you must include your SSN or ITIN at the top of the form. This number is used to match your tax return with your income records, any tax withheld, and any refund owed.
If you are using tax preparation software or a professional service, they will request this number at the beginning of the process. Without it, your return cannot be processed.
If you do not yet have an SSN or ITIN and are submitting your return with an application for a number, make sure the return and the application are attached and mailed to the correct address as specified by the IRS. This ensures your return will be processed once your number is issued.
Dependents and Spouses on Tax Returns
In some cases, you may need to include a spouse or dependent on your tax returnNonresidentnt aliens, dependents, and spouses must also have a valid taxpayer identification number.
If your spouse or child does not qualify for an SSN, you must apply for an ITIN for them using the same Form W-7. You may need to include documentation such as birth certificates, passports, and proof of residency to validate their relationship and identity.
There are specific rules about when dependents can be claimed on a nonresident tax return, and it often depends on the tax treaty between your country and the United States. In many cases, only residents of certain countries can claim dependents and receive related exemptions.
Filing Without a Taxpayer Identification Number
If you attempt to file a tax return without an SSN or ITIN, the IRS will reject your return. This can lead to missed deadlines, loss of refund eligibility, and complications with immigration status. It is important to ensure you have the correct number before filing, or include your application with your return.
In emergencies, you may be able to file an extension to delay your filing deadline while your SSN or ITIN is being processed. However, an extension to the filing does not delay the payment of any taxes owed. You must estimate your tax liability and pay by the normal due date to avoid penalties.
Protecting Your Taxpayer Identification Number
Whether you have an SSN or ITIN, protecting your number is essential. These numbers are sensitive pieces of personal information that can be used for identity theft, fraud, and unauthorized financial transactions.
Never share your SSN or ITIN unless necessary. Avoid sending it by email or storing it in unsecured locations. Be cautious of scams or fake IRS communications that ask for your identification number or personal data.
Understanding Tax Deadlines for Nonresidents
Just like US citizens and residents, nonresident aliens have a responsibility to file their taxes by specific deadlines each year. Failing to meet these deadlines can lead to interest charges, late penalties, and complications with future visa or immigration applications. Being aware of the relevant dates and planning accordingly is essential for staying compliant with US tax law.
For the majority of nonresident filers, the due date to file a federal tax return is April 15 of the following year. If April 15 falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline may be extended to the next business day. For example, the deadline to file a 2024 tax return is April 15, 2025.
If you are employed and receive a Form W-2 or 1099, this is your standard filing deadline. However, if you received no wages and are only required to submit Form 8843 (commonly the case for students or scholars with no income), your deadline may be June 15.
Consequences of Missing the Tax Deadline
If you owe tax and fail to file by the deadline, the IRS may charge both a late filing penalty and a late payment penalty. Interest will also accrue on any unpaid taxes. These penalties can increase quickly and significantly, especially if the balance due is large.
Failing to file on time can also impact your immigration status. For example, many US visa applications, including adjustment of status and green card applications, ask whether you have complied with US tax obligations. Being unable to prove that you filed your tax returns as required could delay or negatively impact those applications.
If you are expecting a refund and file late, you will not be penalized, but the longer you wait, the more difficult it may be to receive your refund. Refunds must be claimed within three years of the original deadline, or they will be forfeited.
Filing a Tax Extension
If you are unable to gather all required documents in time to file by the deadline, you may request an extension. Filing an extension gives you an additional six months, until October 15, to submit your completed return.
To request an extension, you must file Form 4868 before the original filing deadline. This form can be filed electronically or mailed to the IRS. It is important to remember that an extension to a file does not mean an extension to pay. If you owe tax, you must estimate the amount due and pay it by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest.
If you cannot file on time due to a delay in receiving forms such as your W-2 or 1042-S, an extension provides a useful buffer period to collect the missing documentation.
What to Do If Your Forms Are Missing or Delayed
During tax season, you should receive all necessary income documents by specific deadlines. For most forms, the issuer must send them to you by the following dates:
Form W-2: January 31
Forms 1099: January 31 or February 15, depending on the type
Form 1042-S: March 15
If you have not received these forms by the expected dates, take the following steps:
- Contact the employer, institution, or payer who is responsible for the form. Request that they issue a copy if it has not already been sent.
- Confirm that the address or email they have on file is current and correct.
- Check whether the form was delivered digitally through a payroll or financial portal.
- If you cannot obtain the form in time to file by April 15, consider requesting an extension.
- Keep a written record of all your attempts to request the missing documentation in case you need to demonstrate your efforts to the IRS.
In rare cases, if you are unable to obtain a required form, you may use a substitute form or estimate your income based on pay stubs or bank records. However, this should only be done when necessary, and it may delay the processing of your return.
Preparing to File Your Tax Return
Once you have collected all necessary documents, you can begin preparing your tax return. As a nonresident alien, you are required to file Form 1040-NR. This is the version of the federal income tax return specifically designated for nonresidents.
The form requires you to report your income, calculate your tax liability, report any tax withheld, and claim any treaty benefits or exemptions that apply to your situation. It is a more complex form than the standard resident return, so care must be taken to complete it accurately.
In addition to Form 1040-NR, you may also need to include:
- Form 8843 (required for most F, J, M, and Q visa holders, even with no income)
- Form W-7 (if applying for an ITIN with your return)
- Schedule NEC (used to report income not connected to a trade or business, such as investment income)
- Schedule OI (provides additional information such as your immigration status and US presence)
Filing State Tax Returns
Depending on where you lived or worked in the United States, you may also be required to file a state tax return. Each state has its own rules and forms, and some states do not collect income tax at all.
States that require a tax return will typically issue forms similar to the federal W-2 or 1099, and their filing deadlines usually align with the federal deadline. You must verify your residency status within that state, determine whether you earned income there, and follow the state’s filing instructions carefully.
Failure to file a required state return can result in state-level penalties and interest, even if you do not owe federal taxes.
Common Mistakes Nonresidents Make When Filing Taxes
Filing taxes as a nonresident is complex and easy to get wrong. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
- Filing the wrong tax form, such as using Form 1040 instead of Form 1040-NR
- Failing to file Form 8843 when required
- Claiming tax credits or deductions that are only available to residents, such as the Earned Income Credit or standard deduction (unless your treaty allows it)
- Omitting worldwide income if you later become a resident alien
- Applying for an ITIN when you already have an SSN or vice versa
- Not including all required income forms such as W-2, 1042-S, or 1099
- Missing the tax filing deadline or failing to pay owed taxes
These errors can delay your refund, result in penalties, and create issues with immigration applications. Always verify your residency status and use the correct forms based on your specific situation.
How to Get Help With Tax Preparation
Because of the complexity of nonresident tax rules, many international students and nonresident aliens seek assistance with preparing their tax returns. There are several options available:
- Use a tax preparation software designed for nonresidents. These tools guide you through Form 1040-NR and Form 8843 and help identify treaty benefits and exemptions that apply to your visa and country of residence.
- Consult with your school’s international office. Many universities provide workshops, webinars, or referral services for tax preparation, particularly during tax season.
- Hire a tax professional who specializes in nonresident returns. A qualified tax preparer familiar with international tax issues can ensure that your forms are accurate and compliant.
- Use online resources, tax guides, or community support forums focused on international taxation in the US.
When seeking help, always ensure that your preparer understands the distinction between resident and nonresident tax rules. Filing a resident return as a nonresident is a common and serious mistake.
Keeping Your Tax Records
After filing your tax return, it is essential to keep a copy of all documents for your records. You should retain:
- A copy of your federal and state tax returns
- Forms W-2, 1099, 1042-S, and any supporting documents
- Proof of tax payment or refund
- Correspondence with the IRS, if any
- Confirmation of your SSN or ITIN application
The IRS recommends that you keep tax records for at least three years. However, for visa and immigration purposes, it is a good idea to keep them even longer. Many future applications, including green card petitions or visa renewals, may require proof of tax compliance.
Final Thoughts
Filing taxes as a nonresident in the United States may feel intimidating at first, but once you understand the steps involved and the documents required, it becomes more manageable. The key is preparation, attention to deadlines, and ensuring that all information on your forms is accurate and complete.
By starting early, keeping good records, and seeking help when needed, you can navigate the tax system confidently. Staying compliant not only protects you legally but also builds a strong foundation for any plans you may have in the United States.