mikec81

So it's tax time and I just wondered if anyone had any experience of filing taxes while here on a J visa? Does the J visa qualify for any special exemptions?
Also, I read in the literature provided by our employer (University of California) that Social Security taxes are recoverable for those on a J visa, anyone have any idea if this is correct???

Dan B

I was on a J for 2.5 years and I got screwed on my taxes. I "had" to file a 1040NR and you don't even get the exemptions that a resident gets. So, make sure you file a normal 1040. If you are in the US for less than 2 years, you don't have to pay any taxes.

I don't think you should be paying SS on a J1. I didn't.

mikec81

So, if I stay for more than 2 years, will I have to pay back the tax for the first two years I was here?

I am going to call the Social Security office tonight to find out about the SS. Been paying it for the last 6 months so might be due a refund, although I doubt my chances of actually seeing any cash back are too good...

Dan B

yeah, 1 minute over 2 years and you'll be liable for the previous 2 years.

what people where I work do, if they are undecided, will claim the tax treaty and put the equivalent in a high interest savings account if they do decide to stay.

Duncan Roberts

When I was on mine you were exempt from SS and medicare but had to pay state, federal and city. I got almost all the tax I paid back, but I was only here for 3 months and had no W-2!

mikec81

I am not entirely sure how long we plan to stay, although the idea to claim the tax treaty and then save it to possibly repay later sounds like a good idea.
On the Social Security side of things, looks like I need to start claim that back as soon as I can...

Duncan Roberts

You should be able to have your employer stop taking it out of your pay. I forget if there is a form you need to fill in but SS and medicare shouldn't be taken out.

nun

If you are in the US for long enough to be resident for tax purposes you have to pay tax. If you are on a J1 and are here for less than 2 years you don't have to pay FICA.

Dan B

yeah, I think it is part of the W4?