I am Japanese citizen, and I came to the U.S in 1997 to study.
I've never filed any form since I never made money in the U.S.
However, I recently heard that I should have filed "Form 8843" although I did not make any money.
Since Oct. 2005, I began to work in U.S as OPT(Optional Practical Training), and I have to file forms for 2005.
In this situation, what forms do I have to file?
(What I heard was "Form 1040" and "GA 500", is it right? And... I don't have to worry about filing Form 8843? )

KayKay:

You are supposed to file Form 8843 every year, but enforcement by the IRS is sporadic, so I would not worry about it.

If you file as a resident alien, then you should file Form 1040/1040A/1040EZ.

For GA, GA Form 500 or 500-EZ is the correct forms.

I can help you do this filing, since I practice in Atlanta, GA. E-mail me at [email protected] if you are interested for a rate quote.