Hi,

I would like to know what kind of exemptions I am eligible to claim a refund.
If I am not wrong, I can get a refund in Medicare and social security. I am not sure if I get something in Federal tax also.

I could not find a answer for brazilian people with J1 at the forum

I could not find any tax treaty between US and Brazil.

J1 trainee is exempt from FICA taxes for two years but you must pay federal and state income taxes. Make sure to file your tax return. Read: http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/03/us-tax-filing-requirements-for-non.html

For income taxes, you will need to file Forms 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ plus the applicable state tax return. Note that some states (Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Washington) have NO income tax.

You ARE exempt from FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes, but many employers are not aware of that fact. If these taxes are being withheld, request that they be refunded immediately (it is NOT too late for the employer to get a refund of BOTH your and his contribution).

If the employer refuses to refund the FICA taxes, get the refusal in writing, preferably on company letterhead, then submit Form 843 to request a refund from the IRS.

I agree with the comments above. Also, there is no income tax treaty between the U.S. and Brazil.