Hello all

I was in US on F1 (including OPT) from Aug'04 to Aug'07. Since Oct'07 I have been on H1B.
I did get my taxes done from a professional and according to them, I can file as a dual status for 2007. Basically, they say that if I file in beginning of April, I will complete 183 days on H1, and that will make me a resident alien for tax purposes.

Given what experts have said on this forum and what I read on other websites, I am not too sure if that is the way to count days towards Substantial Presence Test.
Two questions -

1. Please let me know if I can file under dual-status for 2007.
2. Would I be eligible for the tax-rebate (as part of the economic stimulus package) from the IRS?

Thanks

Also please find out from the professional the advantanges of filing as Dual status.
If you are single, file nonresident tax return for 2007.

Even on Dual status you won't get stimulus tax rebate. If you don't get stimulus tax rebate based on your 2007 tax return, then you will get it when you file your 2008 tax.
Read: Your U.S. Tax Return: Are You Eligible for 2008 Stimulus Tax Rebate Payment? (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/02/are-you-eligible.html)