Remember the Deadline to Submit 2024 Tax Forms is Tuesday, April 15th, 2025!
If you are in F-1 or J-1 status, you can be considered a resident alien for tax purposes. F-1/J-1 students who have been in the US for more than 5 tax years or a J-1 scholar who has been in the US for more than 2 out of the last 6 years are resident aliens for tax purposes. If you earned income, you need an ITIN or SSN to file your tax forms. If you have neither, please check these sites for more information on how to apply for a SSN or ITIN.
Non-Resident Tax Filing
Prior to becoming a resident alien for tax purposes, software like Sprintax is often used to complete and submit non-resident tax forms like the 8843 and the 1040NR. Since you are a resident alien for tax purposes, you should instead complete the 1040 if you earned income. Here are several options for tax filing for resident aliens for tax purposes:
- IRS Free file (free for those with Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) of $79,000 or less).
- Use paid tax preparation software like Turbotax, HR Block, and TaxAct (some of these software are free in the above IRS Free File link if AGI is below $79,000).
- Hire a tax preparer or certified public accountant.
- Complete tax forms on your own. Follow IRS guidance here.