Embedded Files
ALL nonresident aliens, in F or J status, are required to complete Form 8843 with the IRS regardless of whether they received income. This also includes dependents in F-2 and J-2 status, regardless of age.
For nonresident aliens, in F or J status, that have been in the U.S. for less than five years, you must use the SDBOR tax software. If you do not, your taxes will be incorrect and can cause various issues later. Do NOT use another software. See the section on Non-Resident Alien for Tax Purposes for more information.
For nonresident aliens, in F or J status, that have been in the U.S. for more than five years, you CANNOT use the SDBOR tax software. You can use tax software such as Turbo Tax, H&R Block, etc. to file or you can do this on your own. See the section on Resident Alien for Tax Purposes ONLY for more information.
Unsure if you meet the five-year requirement? Use the IRS Substantial Presence Test
Filed but have not received your refund? Check THIS Site
Q: Do I have to file taxes?
International students and scholars who have been in the U.S. for any portion of a given year must file an annual tax report by the following year's tax filing deadline, even if they earned no U.S. income. For example: You arrived in the U.S. on July 31, 2019. You must file taxes in 2020.
International students and scholars will use an income tax software called GLACIER Tax Prep (GTP) to determine their tax filing requirements. If you have been here for more than five (5) years, you must file differently.
Q: What are the consequences of not filing?
If you are owed a refund, filing a tax return is the only way to receive it. Furthermore, payment of income tax due is not voluntary; it is required by law. One of the conditions of your visa is to comply with US law.
If you owe taxes and don't file, the IRS can assess penalties, interest, and seize U.S. bank assets for repayment. Fines and penalties can often amount to more than the original tax debt.
There can also be immigration consequences for failing to file taxes. Applicants for permanent residency or "green cards" are frequently asked to show proof of tax filing for previous years in the U.S.
Q: What if I didn't file my taxes last year?
Complying with U.S. tax law is part of maintaining your immigration status. You should file the previous year's taxes as soon as possible.
Non-Resident Alien for Tax Purposes
For persons who have been in the US for less than 5 years
Even if you did not earn an income, you still have to file a tax return.
If you have been in the US for less than five years, you will file your taxes through the South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) tax software. Glacier Tax Prep (GTP). You will receive a code for a free software license once it becomes available in February.
Do NOT use any software designed for Residents for tax purposes (Turbo Tax, etc.), or your filing will be incorrect and may result in penalties and fees.
If you had an internship or job on campus, you do not pay Social Security and Medicare taxes. You can direct your employer to the IRS website on NRA taxes for more information, or contact our office.
Resident Alien for Tax Purposes
For persons who have been in the US for more than 5 years
If you have been in the U.S. for more than five years (counting other statuses, or if you've been home and come back), then you are considered a Resident for Tax Purposes ONLY.
You CANNOT use the Glacier Tax Prep software.
There are a couple of sites that will help you with your taxes.
IRS Free File: Do your taxes for free - this is to do on your own
Free tax return preparation for qualifying taxpayers - this is for a tax expert to help you
Authorized IRS e-file Providers (there is a cost for these agencies)
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