J-2 Dependent who earned U.S. income in 2007
You must file Form 1040NR-EZ or 1040NR in addition to Form 8843 if you had:
- You earned U.S.-based income in excess of $3,400*
- You received U.S.-based scholarship income in excess of tuition and fees
- You are due a refund of taxes.
Your bank interest is NOT considered taxable income
To file your tax forms you can choose one of the following methods:
- Use CINTAX tax software, available through OISS for free (see below)
- Prepare the tax forms yourself. Blank forms and instructions are available from www.irs.gov/formspubs The following website also provides step-by-step instructions for doing the forms yourself: http://www.utexas.edu/international/taxes/levelofhelp.html.
- Hire the services of a tax preparation service or tax accountant. Check the phone directory for contact information
Note: Even if you did not earn $3400 or more in wages you may be eligible for a refund of federal withholding tax. We recommend you use CINTAX to determine if you are eligible for a refund.
All international visitors are categorized as either tax “resident” or a tax “non-resident” by the Internal Revenue Service for tax purposes (not for visa or immigration matters). Determining which tax residency status you were in 2007 is necessary to know which tax form to file.
To assist you in the process of filing the proper forms, including determining your tax residency, OISS purchased an internet based tax software program called CINTAX which is provided for free to all WSU international students and scholars with WSU Network access.
How to Access CINTAX
For instructions for requesting assistance with operating CINTAX see OISS CINTAX Assistance.
Obtain a CINTAX access password
If CINTAX determines that you are a “tax resident,” then review information on the tax resident page to learn about which resources you can use to do your taxes.
Disclaimer: This information is obtained from a variety of sources as a starting point for you. The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) does not make any claim for accuracy, and will not be liable for any mistakes you may make in your return.
Page Updated: April 9, 2008
Helpful Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Tax Treaties
- Form 8843
- ITIN Information
- Definition of Terms
- Explanation of Forms