Hello,

I just came to Atlanta, GA from Switzerland with a J-1 Visa on September 1, 2008 and must now file tax forms for those few months that I was training here. I was wondering if anyone could tell me which forms I needed to fill out? Also, what does the IRS consider me (non-resident)? Are there any cheap ways to fill these forms out or am I better off just doing it myself? I am a bit confused with this process. Also, the salary is $1,800 a month, in case that is important to know.

Finally, what state forms would I need to fill out? I was told that I can get all my taxes back, so I just want to make sure that I am doing everything possible as well as making sure I do everything correctly.

Thank you for your help.

On J1 you are exempt from residency for 2-years. You must file non-resident tax return and Form 8843.

Your income is not subject to FICA taxes
Read: Your U.S. Tax Return: U.S. Tax Filing Requirements for Non-Residents (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/03/us-tax-filing-requirements-for-non.html)

If your J-1 tour is expected to last LESS than one year, you can deduct your daily living expenses (rent, food, transportation, incidentals) as an itemized deduction, which probably will result in you getting ALL of your withheld taxes back when you file Form 1040NR with a Form 2106.

You also need to file a Georgia tax return as a part-year resident.

If you need help filing this return, contact me at taxexpert@<hidden>.