I'm filing my tax returns for 2007. I have one complication and need to know how to minimize my tax burden.

Chinese national
Came to the U.S.: Aug. 2005 (2 and a half years ago)
F1: 08/2005 - 06/2007, during which, OPT: 06/2006 - 06/2007
H1b: 06/2007 - today

As you can see, I was basically half year on OPT and half year (＞183 days) on H1b last year. I know I can just go ahead to file as a resident alien for the whole year. But I tried some of the online softwares, I don't get much deduction that way. I'm just wondering if I can split the year and claim for the treaty exempt for the first $5000 I made while I was on OPT and also claim the standard deductions (pro-rated maybe) while I was on H1b? I know spliting the year would be complicated and I will probably need to find a tax preparer to help me, but does the savings from spliting the year justify the efforts?

THANKS!!

Unles you are married, you MUST file a dual-status alien tax return, which CANNOT be filed on-line. It must be prepared manually and mailed!

If you need help, contact me at the email below.