Hello,

I worked as an independent contractor for 2011, under OPT status. My wages were $55,045.

1) As a Singapore citizen, can I claim the standard $3,700 deduction? (Form 1040NR-EZ, Item #13)
2) Can I deduct my RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transport) bus passes that I use to go to work (and other purposes)? (Form 1040NR-EZ, Item #24a)
3) Can I deduct my laptop computer as a Section 179 expense since my company makes me use it for work? (Form 4562)
4) Are there other common deductions to be made?

Thanks!

1. Singapore does not have tax treaty with U.S. So you do not get any treaty deduction. You can not claim standard deduction.
2. Commuting miles or travel from home to office is not deductible. Where is Item #24a on 1040NR-EZ?
3. Did you get 1099-misc? You will report income and expenses on schedule C or C-EZ (Form 1040). If you have been filing nonresident tax return and did not complete 5 years of F1/OPT, you will not pay SE tax on this income.
Your U.S. Tax Return: Tax Filing by Self Employed Sole Proprietor or Independent Contractor (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/04/tax-filing-by-self-employed-sole.html)

Thanks!

1) Disappointed to hear that I can't even claim the standard deduction. Isn't that supposed to be for every taxpayer using the 1040NR?
2) I meant Item #24a on Schedule C. My bad.
3) Yep, I got a 1099-Misc. This was my first year of OPT - I graduated in December 2010. Are you saying I have to pay SE tax as well?